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Things to Do in New Britain

Things to Do in New Britain

New Britain Island Provinces, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

New Britain offers diverse outdoor adventures, from volcanic treks to world-superb diving.

Land Exploration

Mount Tavurvur Hike

This trek has moderate difficulty. It involves walking over ash and volcanic rock. A local guide accompanies for security and navigation across the volcanic terrain.

Jungle Treks

Various informal trails exist throughout the island, often leading to waterfalls or nearby villages. These treks range from easy strolls to challenging climbs. They often need a local guide due to unmarked paths and dense vegetation.

Terrestrial Wildlife

Terrestrial wildlife viewing is not a principal tourism-related activity or readily accessible. Focus on marine life.

Aquatic Activities

  • Scuba Diving: Kimbe Bay in West New Britain has world-class diving. Expect abundant coral, diverse fish species, and pelagic encounters. Simpson Harbour in Rabaul additionally provides good diving, with WWII wrecks.
  • Snorkeling: Excellent snorkeling opportunities await in Kimbe Bay plus around the Duke of York Islands. Pristine waters and rich marine life create rewarding experiences.
  • Kayaking/Paddleboarding: Some resorts feature kayaking and paddleboarding facilities for guests. These activities enable peaceful exploration of calm coastal waters.
  • Adventure sports and adrenaline experiences mainly focus on diving and potentially some challenging jungle treks. Specialized adrenaline activities are not common.

Kimbe Bay Diving

  • World's most biodiverse marine environments.
  • Called the 'coral capital of the world'.
  • Pristine coral reefs and abundant fish.
  • Pelagic fish and seasonal whale sightings.

WWII Wreck Diving

  • Simpson Harbour is equipped with good diving.
  • Unique exploring underwater opportunities.
  • Visible remnants of the comprehensive Japanese military presence.
  • Connects to the war's tangible history.

Duke of York Islands

  • Easily reachable by boat from Kokopo or Rabaul.
  • Boast pristine beaches and good snorkeling.
  • Insight into traditional island life.
  • Offers peaceful coastal exploration.

Safety Alert

Always follow local guides and authorities, especially near active volcanic areas and when engaging in water sports. Adhere to exclusion zones and environmental guidelines.

Cultural Immersion

New Britain offers powerful cultural experiences through classic shows and community interactions.

Authentic Performances

  • Baining Firedance: A powerful and unique nocturnal ceremony performed by the Baining people of East The Island of new britain. Dancers wear large masks and move through fire. You usually arrange this as a special tour. It represents a memorable cultural event.
  • Tolai Cultural Performances: The Tolai people of East New Britain possess rich traditions. These include the "Tolai Tubuan" and "Dukduk" masked dances, often seen at festivals or special events.
  • Community-based tourism initiatives: Emerging opportunities enable visitors to be accommodated in villages and experience daily life directly. These programs deliver deep cultural insights.
  • Language learning opportunities: Informal meeting residents enables you to pick up basic Tok Pisin phrases. This gesture is appreciated.

Workshops & Festivals

Workshops & Classes

Formal workshops are limited. Informal opportunities might arise for learning about local crafts or cooking if you stay in community-based accommodations. Inquire locally.

National Mask Festival

Usually held in July in Rabaul/Kokopo, this festival showcases traditional masks and dances from across Papua New Guinea, including the Baining Firedance. It is a major cultural event.

Kimbe Cutters Show

A smaller, regional celebration in Kimbe that celebrates local culture. Verify local timetables for dates.

Cultural Diversity

The Island of the island of new britain's cuisine mirrors the island's many ethnic groups and its abundant resources from nature. Limited outside influence means the dishes remains largely traditional and authentic.

Traditional Practices

Earth ovens, known as Mumu, stand as a traditional cooking technique for special occasions, usually cooked for particular events or heritage performances.

Engaging Locals

Community-community-based tourism initiatives are still developing but deliver deep cultural insights and engaging experiences.

Relaxation & Wellness

Opportunities for relaxation and wellness in New Britain mainly exist within resorts and scenic environments.

Wellness Options

  • Spa and wellness center recommendations: Options are limited to a few larger resorts that might feature basic massage treatments. Dedicated wellness centers do not commonly exist.
  • Hot springs and natural therapy options: Natural hot springs, like Garu Hot Springs and geothermal springs near Rabaul, deliver a rustic form of natural relaxation. They offer an unique opportunity to unwind in a natural setting.
  • Yoga and meditation retreats: These are not a common offering in New Britain.
  • Traditional healing practices: Traditional healing practices are not typically accessible or marketed to tourists.

Evening Pursuits

Live Music Venues

Some hotels or resorts may feature occasional live band performances for guests.

Theater & Performance

No venues are dedicated to mainstream theater. Cultural performances form the main type of live shows.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightlife options are very limited. Any existing venues mainly operate in larger towns and may not be safe for tourists. Resorts typically have a bar for guests. Bar districts and pub crawls do not apply to New Britain.

Resort Comforts

Private Beaches

Resorts often have pools and private beach access, creating comfortable spaces for relaxation and enjoying the tropical climate.

Resort Pools

Many resorts offer places to swim for guests to unwind and cool off in the tropical heat.

Evening Ambiance

Late-night entertainment options are limited to resort bars or quiet evenings spent at your accommodation.

Shopping & Markets

Explore local markets for authentic artisanal goods and fresh produce.

Market Experiences

  • Kokopo Market: This hub serves as a good location to observe local life and interact with vendors.
  • Kimbe Market: A similar, but smaller, market in Kimbe.
  • Artisan workshops and crafts: Local artisans produce wood carvings, Bilums (traditional string bags), shell money, and woven goods. Check local craft shops or ask at your accommodation for reputable sellers.
  • Souvenir recommendations: Small wood carvings, Bilums, shell jewelry, traditional shell money (Tabu), and mailcards make good souvenirs.

Shopping Considerations

Luxury Shopping

Luxury and boutique shopping encounters are not in The Island of new britain.

Ethical Guidelines

Purchase directly from local artisans or community cooperatives if possible. This supports local economies. Be mindful when purchasing items made from marine protected life, like certain shells or coral.

Shipping & Customs

Shipping items internationally from Papua New Guinea can be expensive and slow. Be aware of your home country's import rules regarding items like products from animals or cultural items.

Local Artistry

  • Local artisans produce intricate wood carvings.
  • Unique Bilums (traditional string bags).
  • Beautiful shell jewelry.
  • Woven goods are also available.

Cultural Keepsakes

  • Traditional shell money (Tabu).
  • Other heritage artifacts.
  • Postcards as mementos.
  • Reflect the island's rich heritage.

Markets

  • Kokopo and Kimbe markets.
  • Lively atmosphere for local life.
  • Fresh produce and seafood.
  • Locally cooked snacks.

Ethical & Practical Shopping

Ethical Guidelines
  • Purchase directly from local artisans or community cooperatives where possible.
  • This supports fair prices and local economies.
  • Be mindful when purchasing items made from protected marine life, like certain shells or coral.
Shipping & Customs
  • Shipping items internationally from Papua New Guinea can be expensive and slow.
  • Be familiar with customs regulations for your home country regarding items like animal products or cultural artifacts.
  • Plan for potential delays in international shipping.

Shopping Wisely

Always purchase directly from local artisans to help the community. Inquire about customs regulations for your home country before buying one-of-a-kind goods.

Activity Planning Summary

Experiences

  • World-class underwater diving in Kimbe Bay.
  • Hiking Mount Tavurvur with a native guide.
  • Witnessing the Baining Firedance ceremony.
  • Exploring local markets for crafts.

Things to Remember

  • Book dive resorts and flights well in advance.
  • Research local manners and customs.
  • Stay aware of local safety advisories.
  • Plan for restricted vegetarian/vegan options outside resorts.