Currency, Credit Cards and Changing Money in Papua New Guinea

If you're planning a holiday in Papua New Guinea, this is what you need to know about currency, cash and credit cards.

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Cash
Papua New Guinea’s official currency is the Kina. It is not possible to obtain Kina outside PNG and to get cash you will have to either change UK Pounds, or US Dollars, when you arrive in Port Moresby or use an ATM. It is most convenient to use an ATM at the international airport, where you can also find money changers. Otherwise ATMs are available in the larger towns and these accept most major western cards. However as you will mostly be spending time in remote areas please make sure that you take enough cash with you when you leave the capital Port Moresby. Do bear in mind that most ATMs will charge around 3% for cash withdrawals.

Best pre-paid cards in Papua New Guinea
Prepaid credit cards are now the safest way to travel with money, and are much more cost effective and convenient than Travellers Cheques (which are slowly becoming obsolete). We recommend the Caxton FX Global Traveller card which offers a fixed exchange rate at 2.75% below the prevailing interbank rate when spending overseas and withdrawing local currency from ATMs. Unlike credit cards the application process is straightforward, but you need to allow 7 days for delivery of the card.

Using credit cards in Papua New Guinea
If you travel regularly it will pay to apply for one of the specialist credit cards for travellers that offer excellent rates of exchange and charge zero “load” fees when purchasing items, or withdrawing local currency from ATMs whilst abroad. For up to date information on the best specialist credit cards for travellers we suggest visiting one of the price comparison websites.

Find out more about our tours in Papua New Guinea. To discuss your travel needs, you can complete an enquiry form or call our Asia experts on 020 7720 9285.