Things To Do
in Amau
Amau is a remote coastal village in Papua New Guinea, tucked between lush rainforest and clear turquoise waters. The community remains deeply rooted in traditional crafts, welcoming guests with warmth and storytelling. Access is limited and often involves boat transfers or light aircraft from larger towns, giving travelers a sense of discovery.
The surrounding reefs, mangroves, and tribal dances offer authentic Melanesian culture and unspoiled natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey in Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea, where you'll visit the National Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the country. Enjoy breakfast at a local café and take in the views of the Coral Sea. Wrap up your morning with a stroll along the waterfront, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the local markets, where you can interact with the vendors and sample traditional foods. Transition to the Adventure Park to enjoy thrilling zip lines and other activities surrounded by nature. As the sun begins to set, relax at a beach, listening to the waves and reflecting on your day's adventures.
Dine at a renowned restaurant offering a mix of local and international cuisines. After your meal, head to the nearby entertainment area for some live music showcasing local talent. Conclude the evening by soaking in the vibrant nightlife and mingling with the locals.
Catch an early flight to the lush Highlands, where you’ll get a first glimpse of the breathtaking landscapes and traditionally rich villages. After arriving in Tari, enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local guesthouse and prepare for an immersive cultural experience. Visit the Tari Basin to witness the unique yams and encounter local tribes.
Spend your afternoon exploring the stunning landscapes of the Highlands, including waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Participate in a traditional dance workshop with local villagers, learning the meaning behind the elaborate costumes and movements. Take plenty of photographs and perhaps even participate in a ceremonial feast.
Enjoy dinner at your accommodation, featuring traditional dishes such as mumu, a local delicacy prepared in an underground oven. For the evening, gather around a bonfire with the villagers to share stories, songs, and laughter. Experience the warmth of the Highlands hospitality, cementing unforgettable memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍜Local street food or market meal | $3-8 |
| 🚗Local transport short ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Guesthouse or basic lodge per night | $25-60 |
| 💊Basic medicine or pharmacy item | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unspoiled natural beauty and welcoming communities
- Rich cultural traditions and authentic village life
- Limited infrastructure and basic amenities
- Remote access can be weather-dependent and time-consuming
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tenkyu tru" - Thank you very much
- "Plis" - Please
- "Wher i maket?" - Where is the market?
- "Mi laik helpim yu" - I would like to help you
Places to Visit in Amau
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene jetty vantage point where fishing boats return at golden hour, perfect for silhouettes and seascape shots.
Boardwalk viewpoint through mangroves with reflections, bird life, and soft light filtering through canopy.
Dramatic coastal cave mouth with dramatic light contrasts; bring a flashlight and ask for permission before entering.
Capture authentic cultural performances and crafts with consent and respect for the performers.
Turquoise lagoon framed by palms and cliffs, ideal for wide-angle coastal landscapes.
Food in Amau
Amau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh reef fish cured in lime juice with coconut milk, chili, and herbs; a PNG classic often served with greens.
Must-Try!
An earth-oven dish where meat and root vegetables are wrapped, buried, and cooked in an underground pit; typically prepared for feasts or special occasions.
Slow-cooked sweet potato (kaukau) with leafy greens and coconut milk, a staple accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small stalls offering fresh fish, coconuts, yams, and seasonal produce; great for tasting simple street snacks and meeting residents.
Shorefront vendors selling fried plantains, cassava chips, and fresh coconut water; ideal for a quick bite after a boat trip.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with a smile and handshake; address elders with respect and observe local protocols when visiting homes.
Dress modestly in villages and avoid revealing clothing; ask before taking photos of people or homes.
Always seek permission before photographing people, performances, or interiors of homes or sacred spaces.
Small gifts or gestures are appreciated when visiting a family; presents related to everyday life (fruit, small crafts) are common.
Safety
Tipping in Amau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service but not always expected. Small tips to guides, hosts, and staff are common; carry small denominations in cash (PGK or USD) as cards may not be widely accepted in remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clearer skies and calmer seas make boat trips, snorkeling, and outdoor photography more reliable. Pack light clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent; evenings can be cooler near the coast.
Expect frequent showers and high humidity; trails can be muddy and seas may be rough. Rain brings lush scenery and dramatic skies, but plan for occasional travel delays.
Amau at Night
Hiking in Amau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 1–3 hour walk along the shoreline with mangroves, beaches, and coconut palms.
Canopy-view trail through coastal rainforest; expect humidity and muddy sections.
Easy circuit around a turquoise lagoon with birdlife and simple lookouts.
Airports
How to reach Amau by plane.
Nearest well-served airport in Milne Bay; provides domestic connections to Port Moresby and other PNG destinations.
Main international gateway; transfers to domestic flights that reach Milne Bay towns and airstrips.
Small regional airport on Misima Island; serviced by domestic PNG routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mosaic of languages and traditions; Tok Pisin is widely spoken alongside local languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Papua New Guinea with local clubs and matches in communities.
Widely played in schools and villages; informal matches are common in evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Amau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on root crops (yams, taro, sweet potatoes), greens, fruits, and coconut-based dishes. Communicate needs clearly in basic English or Tok Pisin; hosts are usually happy to adapt.