Madang: reefs, islands and an easy pace

Why visit Madang

Madang was a German colonial capital, flattened in the Second World War, and rebuilt as a quiet provincial town of rain trees, harbour views and fruit bats roosting in the trees at dusk. Its waters are among the most diverse in the Coral Triangle, and the town is safer and calmer than most PNG centres, though normal care is still needed.

Diving and snorkelling

Dive operators based at the main resorts run trips to reefs, drop offs and wrecks within minutes of town. Famous sites include the B25 Mitchell bomber, the Japanese cargo ship wrecks around the harbour and the coral gardens of Magic Passage. Snorkellers can see a great deal from the island shores, and visibility is often excellent from May to November.

Islands and villages

**Krangket Island** across the harbour has village guesthouses, a lagoon and easy snorkelling, reached by a short banana boat ride from the shore. **Siar Island** is another simple, friendly day trip. Further north, the volcanic islands of Karkar and Manam rise from the sea, Manam still active. Visit villages with someone who has arranged it with the community first.

Around town

Walk the waterfront to the **coastwatchers' memorial lighthouse**, a tribute to those who reported Japanese movements during the war. The **Madang market** is lively and a good place to buy fruit, betel nut and shell jewellery. The **Balek Wildlife Sanctuary**, south of town, has a sulphur spring creek with eels and turtles.

Day trips

The road north toward Bogia passes copra plantations, wartime relics and beaches. The road south links to Lae and the Highlands Highway, a long drive best done with a trusted driver and in daylight. Bird watchers head into the hills for birds of paradise.

Staying safe

Madang is relaxed by PNG standards, but bag snatching and occasional robberies happen. Use hotel transport after dark, keep valuables out of sight and take advice from your hotel about where to walk. PMV buses run in daylight, but many visitors prefer hotel arranged transport.

Plan your stay

See the places to visit list for resorts, dive shops and island guesthouses, and the free trip planner to pair Madang with the Highlands or New Britain.

A suggested three days

On day one, settle in and walk the waterfront to the lighthouse, ending at dusk to watch the fruit bats fly. Day two is for the water: two morning dives or a snorkelling trip, then a lazy afternoon. On day three, cross to Krangket Island for the lagoon and village, then visit the market in the late morning.

Practical tips

Bring reef safe sunscreen, a rash vest and your dive certification card. Most resorts can rent gear, but bring your own mask if you can. Book dives ahead in the busy months. Carry small notes for boat rides and island entry, which are usually paid to the landowning community. Respect village rules on dress and swimming, and ask before photographing children. Madang is hot and humid all year, so plan walks for early morning or late afternoon, drink plenty of water and take your antimalarials, as malaria is common on the coast.