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How to Get to New Britain

How to Get to New Britain

New Britain Island Provinces, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Flight Connections

Main Airports & Airlines

New Britain has two main airports serving its regions.

Airport Details

  • Tokua Airport (RAB): Serves East The Island of new britain (Kokopo, Rabaul).
  • Kimbe Airport (HKN): Serves West New Britain (Kimbe Bay dive sites).
  • Airlines: Air Niugini (national airline) and PNG Air.

International & Domestic Links

No direct international flights land in The Island of new britain.

Connecting Flights

  • All international flights arrive at Jacksons International Airport (POM) in Port Moresby.
  • From POM, take a domestic connection to Tokua (RAB) or Kimbe (HKN).
  • Flights remain available year-round, but prices fluctuate based on demand.

Airport Facilities

Tokua and Kimbe airports are small, offering basic amenities such as check-in and simple refreshment stands.

Airport Transfers

Many hotels and resorts provide pre-arranged transfers from Tokua (RAB) and Kimbe (HKN).

Price Fluctuations

Expect higher prices during peak dry season (May-Oct) and local festivals.

Travel Planning

Booking Advice

  • Reserve internal flights in advance; they fill up.
  • Consider flight deals from Dollar Flight Club.
  • Use Skyscanner for flight comparisons.
  • Plan international arrival and domestic departure timings carefully.

Ground Transfers

  • Arrange transfers with your accommodation before arrival for reliability.
  • Taxis and PMVs are available, but pre-arrangement is often safer.
  • Pre-arranged transport for first-time visitors is a more secure option.
  • DiscoverCars.com can support in car rental searches, though self-driving is not advised.

Airport Operations

International Hub

Port Moresby (POM) acts as the sole international gateway to PNG.

Connecting Flights

Domestic connections from POM to The Island of new britain's airports are routine.

On-Ground Services

Expect simple services upon arrival and departure at The Island of new britain's airports.

Local Ground Transport

Public Motor Vehicles PMVs

PMVs form the main way of inter-town land transport for locals. These are typically modified utility vehicles or small buses.

PMV Insights

  • PMVs operate on set routes between towns and villages, but without fixed timetables.
  • They offer an authentic, albeit sometimes crowded, local experience.
  • Fares are fixed for specific routes and generally low.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving is not generally recommended for tourists in New Britain.

Driving Advice

  • Roads outside of main towns can be unpaved, poorly maintained, and prone to damage.
  • Traffic rules may be loosely followed, and isolated incidents involving vehicles occur.
  • An International Driving Permit is needed if you drive.

Road Conditions & Safety

Road quality changes significantly. Main roads are generally sealed but may are potholed. Rural roads are often gravel or dirt.

Concerns

  • Safety concerns include poor driving practices by others.
  • A lack of street lighting in many areas.
  • Occasional security issues, especially in isolated spots.

Other Ground Transport

Other forms of land transport are not widely present for tourists.

Availability

  • No train services exist in Papua New Guinea, including New Britain.
  • Formal long-distance bus services are limited or non-existent.
  • Border crossing information does not apply, as New Britain is an island within PNG.

Safety Warnings for Land Travel

  • Hiring a vehicle with a local driver is a safer choice than self-driving.
  • Stick to established tourist routes and use reputable guides.
  • Rural areas, while generally safer from crime, can experience tribal disputes in isolated spots.
  • Avoid walking alone after dark in any area.
  • Exercise caution in less populated or remote areas.
  • Always consult locals or your accommodation about safe areas for travel.

Arrivals by Sea

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Sea travel mainly applies to cruise ship visits or local transfers.

Sea Travel Overview

  • Irregular cargo and passenger services connect New Britain to other parts of PNG.
  • These services are generally not used by tourists due to long travel times and uncertain schedules.
  • Rabaul's Simpson Harbour is a popular port of call for international cruise ships.

Immigration & Connections

Procedures for sea arrivals mirror airport immigration.

Port Details

  • For cruise ship passengers, immigration procedures are handled onboard or at the port terminal.
  • Independent travelers arriving by cargo vessel follow standard immigration procedures.
  • Cruise ports in Rabaul and Kimbe typically have local taxis and tour operators waiting for passengers.

Cruise Ship Access

Rabaul's Simpson Harbour is a standard port of call for international cruise ships, especially in the dry season.

Small Expedition Vessels

Kimbe occasionally receives smaller expedition cruise ships, offering immediate access to the marine wonders.

River Transport

New Britain does not feature significant navigable rivers for transportation, thus river transport options do not apply.

Departure Logistics

Exit Fees & Procedures

Departure tax is usually included in the airfare for flights abroad from Port Moresby.

Departure Guidelines

  • New Britain's domestic airports (Tokua & Kimbe) do not impose extra departure fees.
  • For domestic flights, arrive at least 1 to 1.5 hours prior to departure.
  • For international connections from Port Moresby, show UP 2.5 to 3 hours prior.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Departure facilities at Tokua and Kimbe airports are basic.

Amenities

  • They offer simple check-in areas.
  • A waiting lounge.
  • Minimal refreshment options.

International Connection Timing

Domestic Departure

Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for check-in and security at New Britain's domestic airports.

Port Moresby Connection

For international flights from POM, allow 2.5 to 3 hours prior to departure.

Buffer Time

This timing accounts for potential delays and international check-in processes.

Smooth Departure

Complete most errands before reaching the airport.