Scuba Diving in

Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea, officially the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, is a sovereign state located in Oceania. It occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, the second largest island in the world, and its surrounding islands, including Bougainville, New Britain, and New Ireland. Papua New Guinea is a diverse country with a rich history, diverse cultures, and a stunning array of natural beauty.

Marine Species in

Papua New Guinea

Black-spotted goby – Istigobius nigroocellatus

Peacock wrasse – Iniistius pavo

Decorated goby – Istigobius decoratus

Celebes razorfish – Iniistius celebicus

Stony Coral – Isopora brueggemanni

Cookie cutter shark – Isistius brasiliensis

Rippled rockskipper – Istiblennius edentulus

Ornate goby – Istigobius ornatus

Bearded ghoul – Inimicus didactylus

Yellowpatch razorfish – Iniistius melanopus

All Species in Papua New Guinea

Dive Centres in

Papua New Guinea

All Dive Centers in Papua New Guinea

Geography

Papua New Guinea is a mountainous country with a varied and rugged terrain. The island of New Guinea is dominated by the Central Cordillera, a range of mountains that runs along its length. The highest peak in the country, Mount Wilhelm, reaches a height of 4,509 meters. Papua New Guinea also has extensive coastal lowlands, numerous rivers, and a vast network of islands, including the Bismarck Archipelago, the Solomon Islands, and the Louisiade Archipelago. The country has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and heavy rainfall throughout the year.

Population

Papua New Guinea has a population of approximately 9 million people. The country is home to over 800 different languages, making it one of the most linguistically diverse nations in the world. The majority of the population is Melanesian, with significant minorities of Papuan and Polynesian people. The capital city is Port Moresby, located on the south coast of the mainland.

Culture

Papua New Guinea is known for its rich and diverse culture. Traditional customs, rituals, and beliefs are deeply ingrained in the lives of many communities. The country's art, music, and dance are particularly renowned, reflecting the unique traditions and beliefs of each group. The country is also home to a wide range of indigenous languages, many of which are endangered.

Economy

Papua New Guinea's economy is largely based on agriculture, mining, and forestry. The country has significant deposits of gold, copper, and oil, which are important export commodities. Tourism is also a growing sector, particularly in areas with pristine beaches and diverse ecosystems.

History

The history of Papua New Guinea is long and complex, dating back thousands of years to the first arrival of human inhabitants. The country was colonized by Germany in the late 19th century and later by Australia. Papua New Guinea achieved independence in 1975.

Major Landmarks

Papua New Guinea is home to a number of notable landmarks, including:

  • Mount Wilhelm: The highest peak in Papua New Guinea
  • Kokoda Track: A historic hiking trail used during World War II
  • Sepik River: A major river known for its unique culture and art
  • Rabaul Volcano: An active volcano on the island of New Britain
  • Port Moresby: The capital city and largest urban center

Papua New Guinea is a country of extraordinary diversity and natural beauty. Its rich culture, diverse landscapes, and unique history make it a fascinating destination for visitors from around the world.