Law and order remains poor or very poor in many parts of the country. Armed carjackings, assaults, robbery, shootings and serious sexual offences, including rape, are common. Travellers are advised to be extra vigilant whilst travelling in all cities, particularly during the hours of darkness. 

Outbreaks of tribal fighting may occur without warning in the Highland Provinces and in particular in the Southern and Western Highlands and Enga Provinces.

The tropical cyclone season in Papua New Guinea normally runs from November to May. The severe flood damage caused by Cyclone Guba in November 2007 continues to affect travel in and around the Oro Province.

On 1 August 2006, the Papua New Guinea government declared a state of emergency in the Southern Highlands Province. Public order support in the Southern Highlands is being provided by 700 police reinforcements, as well as soldiers from the PNG Defence Force. Travellers should exercise caution and avoid demonstrations and large crowds.

In the cities of Port Moresby, Lae and Mt Hagen armed carjackings, assaults, robbery, random shootings and serious sexual assaults are common. In particular, armed attacks are on the increase. All visitors are advised to be extra vigilant whilst travelling in these cities, particularly during the hours of darkness.

Travellers should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigners.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel