Central
Central, Papua New Guinea, blends traditional village life with coastal and highland landscapes, offering a gateway to the country's capital and its surrounding natural beauty.
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About Central
Central Province surrounds Papua New Guinea's National Capital District and Port Moresby, making it the most accessible rural escape in the country. Its landscape rises from mangrove-lined coasts and sandy beaches to the forested Owen Stanley Range, with rivers, plateaus and island resorts only a short drive or boat ride from the capital.
The province is the homeland of the Motu people, whose historic Hiri trading voyages used large lakatoi sailing canoes to carry pots to Gulf Province and return with sago. That maritime tradition is celebrated through the Hiri Moale Festival, while World War II history remains visible along the Kokoda Track, which begins at Owers' Corner, and the recently reopened Kapa Kapa (Ghost Mountain) Trail in Rigo District.
Visitors can birdwatch in Varirata National Park near Sogeri, take in views of the coastline from the cool Sogeri Plateau, surf or kite at Hula village, and overnight in a 19th-century Carmelite convent on Yule Island. Coastal getaways such as Loloata Island Resort and village-run lodges at Boera offer diving, snorkelling and beach stays, while remote Goilala is reached by small aircraft and known for its highland walking routes.
Because Central Province wraps around Port Moresby, it serves as both a weekend getaway for residents and an extension of the capital for business travellers. Agriculture, fishing and betel nut trade support village economies, and planned township development at Bautama is intended to give the province its own administrative centre outside the National Capital District.
For leisure visitors, the province offers trekking, diving, birding and cultural experiences close to the international airport; for business travellers, it provides quick access to Port Moresby's offices, hotels and meeting venues while allowing an easy escape into the countryside.
Central Travel Guide
Best Time to Visit
The drier months from May to October are generally the most comfortable for travel in Central Province, with better conditions for driving, trekking the Kokoda Track and visiting coastal villages. The wet season from November to April brings heavy rain, especially in the mountains, but also lush scenery.
How to Get Around
Central Province is reached from Port Moresby via the Hiritano Highway to the west, the Magi Highway to the east and Sogeri Road to the north. Public motor vehicles (PMVs) and buses serve the main roads, while a 4WD vehicle or private transfer is more reliable for beaches, highland tracks and remote areas; small aircraft link Port Moresby with airstrips in the Goilala district.
Where to Stay
Port Moresby offers the widest choice of hotels for city-based stays, while the cooler Sogeri Plateau has lodges and motels such as Kokoda Trail Motel and Koitaki Country Club. Coastal options include Loloata Island Resort near Port Moresby and village-style stays around Boera and Yule Island.
Food & Drink
Central Province food centres on fresh fish, sago, taro, tropical fruit and garden produce, with busy village markets selling betel nut, vegetables and seafood. Port Moresby adds restaurants, cafés and hotel dining, while coastal villages and island resorts serve simple local and international meals.
Ground Transportation Services in Central
Airport Transfers
Arrange transfers between Port Moresby Jacksons International Airport and hotels, lodges and destinations across Central Province, including Sogeri, Boera, Hula and Yule Island.
Hourly Chauffeur
Book a private chauffeur by the hour for business meetings in Port Moresby, day trips to Sogeri and Varirata National Park, or flexible travel along the Hiritano and Magi highways.
Car Rental
Rent a 4WD or other vehicle in Port Moresby for independent travel around Central Province, including the Hiritano Highway, Magi Highway and Sogeri Road.
Bus & Group Transfers
Arrange minibuses or charter buses for groups, corporate travel, events, airport transfers, Kokoda Track support and tours across Central Province.
Airports in Central
Frequently Asked Questions
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