ABOUT EXPLORE PNG

Explore PNG was established by two Australians who kayaked from Australia to PNG in 2003, so the business has its roots in adventure. The tours are all about getting "out there" and experiencing the real beauty and wonder of PNG whilst ensuring the upmost of safety and comfort.

Explore PNG is based at the Alotau International Hotel and is approximately 20 minutes from the Gurney airport. The Alotau International Hotel is a four star hotel based in the township of Alotau, a safe, quiet, clean and friendly town located on the water front of the bay and surrounded by thick rainforest and mountains. Alotau is located on Papua New Guineas most eastern mainland point and offers a great launch point into the wonders of PNG's largest marine province. The area contains hundreds of miles of islands and reef that are known worldwide for their marine diversity, incredible diving, orchids, butterflies, birds, trekking and culture. Milne bay has recorded a third of the world's species of marine fish and is listed as a ecological hotspot with one of the greatest species biodiversities in the world. The province is home to everything from the tiny ghost pipe fish to the huge manta rays and killer whales. We have massive sponge coral, crinoids, the mimic octopus, great muck diving, tree kangaroos, cuscus, birds of paradise, green tree pythons, excellent fishing, superb kayaking and trekking through untouched rainforests.

For general information about Millne Bay province see Visit Milne Bay website.

Explore PNG also opens the traveler up to some great history, both old and new, with local stories from the clans about life before the arrival of missionaries in the late 1800's, to both sides of the story of World War 2, when the Japanese invaded the region and were stopped by the allied forces. See landing craft covered in rainforest, dive on ship wrecks and airplanes and hear the stories of cannibalism by warring clans whilst you paddle a traditional war canoe, the type that was used by the men in the village raids of old.

About PNG

OVERVIEW
VISAS
It is a simple matter to purchase a tourist Visa on arrival in PNG. The Visa costs 100 Kina and is valid for 60 days. Make sure that you have some Kina with you when you enter the country. You will also need to have 6 months validity on your passport.

AIRPORTS
When you arrive in Port Moresby you will clear customs at the international terminal. From the International terminal you need to walk the 100m to the domestic terminal to check into the domestic flight. The airport in Port Moresby is safe and easy to navigate so you will have no problems here.
Just to be on the safe side it is a good idea to carry all valuable (cameras etc) in your carry-on luggage.
If you have a lot of dive/ surf gear with you make sure that you contact the airline to let them know because some have a sporting equipment baggage allowance.

Health Considerations

MALARIA
Malaria is present in PNG and it is reccommended that you consult a doctor before visiting to obtain advice about malaria prophylaxis. Remember that some prophylaxis needs to be started before you enter a malaria area aswell as after you return! Make sure that you finish the full course.
The mosquitos are not particulary bad here, especially in the islands, but it is better to be safe than sorry. We also reccommend bringing some good insect repellant ('bushman' brand is good stuff).

1st AID
We carry a full 1st aid kit and have trained staff on hand. We will be in remote areas, so if there are any particular pharmaceuticals that you like to use then it is a good idea to bring them along.

Divers Alert Network (DAN)
It is an excellent idea for all SCUBA divers to join up with DAN if you are not already a member. For more information check out www.danasiapacific.org.

Handy Hints

A few extra things to consider:
- If you are diving don't forget your certification.
- Travel Insurance for the time you are in PNG is a smart idea
- Take some Kina (local currency) with you from Australia as you will need 100 Kina to purchase your VISA on arrival (unless you have obtained one from Australia)
- Hat, sunnies and sunscrean are a must. A long sleeved rashy top is a good idea too to keep the sun off you whilst swimming.
- Feel free to bring your favourite tunes on MP3 player or CD
- Pick up some duty free alcohol on the way through (better to do this in Australia)