Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, isn’t exactly packed with tourist attractions, which makes the stilt villages of Port Moresby a standout highlight for those visiting the city.
Why Is There So Little to Do in Port Moresby?
Let’s be honest—Port Moresby, or “POM” as it’s locally known, has a bit of a reputation for being unsafe. This, more than anything, explains why there aren’t too many tourist hotspots. That said, the stilt villages offer an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience, making them a must-see for adventurous travelers.
What Are the Stilt Villages?
Port Moresby is a city full of contrasts, and one of the most intriguing features is its stilt villages. These unique communities, where homes are built on wooden stilts above the water, have been a part of the local landscape for generations. Despite the pressures of urbanization, the villages remain an enduring symbol of coastal life.
The houses, made from wood and palm thatch, stand above the Gulf of Papua, and as you walk through, the narrow bridges and wooden walkways give you a floating-world vibe. Life here is basic but vibrant. Fishermen pull in their daily catch, kids laugh and play along the walkways, and there’s a tangible sense of community. However, these villages face challenges—rising sea levels and a lack of infrastructure make life precarious at times.
Yet, despite these hardships, the stilt villages remain a vital part of Port Moresby’s cultural landscape, showing the resilience of its people. A visit here is a journey into a simpler, more traditional way of life. But it also serves as a stark reminder of PNG’s ongoing struggles, including its muddy political and economic situation.
You can read about the Lamana Hotel here.
What’s It Like Visiting the Stilt Villages?
If you’re looking for something more “tourist-friendly,” Hanuabada is the most famous of the stilt villages and caters to visitors, particularly those from the higher-end of the spectrum. It’s safe, well-maintained, but often feels like a bit of a Potemkin Village experience.
To read if Port Moresby is safe click here.
At Young Pioneer Tours, we prefer to take you to less commercialized, more authentic stilt villages. We’ve built relationships with these communities, and while these areas can be a bit rough around the edges, they provide a genuine experience. Of course, we ensure your safety with local security and only visit during the day.
What you’ll encounter here is real life—friendly faces, a warm welcome, and the unmistakable hospitality that Papua New Guinea is known for. The contrast between the luxurious hotels like Lamana or Hilton and the stilt villages is eye-opening, highlighting the vast income disparity in the city .
While our visits to these villages aren’t lengthy, they’re always a hit with our travelers, offering a true slice of Port Moresby’s unique culture . If you’re looking to get off the beaten track, join one of our Papua New Guinea tours and experience these incredible stilt villages for yourself .
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