Things To Do
in Kerema
Kerema is a coastal town located in the Gulf Province of Papua New Guinea. It is known for its picturesque scenery, with beautiful beaches and lush rainforests. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional customs and practices still being celebrated.
Kerema is also a hub for fishing and agriculture, with its economy largely depending on these industries.
- "Mi likim yu" - I love you
- "Gutpela de" - Good day
- "Tenkyu" - Thank you
- "Sori" - Sorry
- "Yu stap gut?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the stunning Kerema Beach, where you can enjoy the sunrise and the sound of the waves. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore, soaking in the natural beauty of the area.
After lunch, explore the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and purchase handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly locals and learn about their traditions.
As evening falls, enjoy a traditional Papuan dinner at a local restaurant. Marvel at the sunset views over the ocean as you savor authentic flavors.
Embark on a guided hike to the nearby hills, discovering the rich flora and fauna of the region. The fresh morning air will invigorate you as you take in breathtaking views.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy midway through your hike, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Capture stunning photographs of the landscapes for lasting memories.
Return to Kerema in the evening and relax at your accommodation. Use this time to reflect on your day's adventures and prepare for tomorrow's activities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich natural beauty with stunning coastal scenery and lush landscapes.
- Cultural diversity with unique local traditions and practices.
- Opportunities for ecotourism and exploration of unspoiled areas.
- Potential for fishing and marine activities due to proximity to the ocean.
- Limited infrastructure and services, which can affect accessibility.
- Challenges with healthcare and education facilities.
- Vulnerability to natural disasters, including tropical cyclones.
- Economic challenges and high levels of poverty in the region.
Best Activities in Kerema
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life in the waters near Kerema. The clear waters provide excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
Enjoy the lush landscapes and diverse ecosystems of Papua New Guinea by taking guided hikes through nearby trails, which offer breathtaking views and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.
Experience the rich fishing heritage of the region by participating in fishing excursions in the coastal waters or local rivers, ideal for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Engage with the local communities by taking cultural tours that include traditional dances, crafts, and the chance to learn about the customs and daily lives of the people in Kerema.
Relax at the local beaches, enjoy sunbathing, picnicking, or engage in beach sports like volleyball and frisbee, taking in the natural beauty of the coastline.
Discover the incredible bird diversity in the region by participating in bird watching tours, which can attract both novice and experienced birders to witness unique species native to Papua New Guinea.
Places to Visit in Kerema
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic beach that offers stunning views of the coastline and vibrant sunsets, ideal for photography.
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and is a great spot for adventurous hikers.
The river offers picturesque views and opportunities to capture the natural beauty of the area, especially during the early morning or late afternoon.
A beautiful confluence of rivers and ocean, perfect for capturing unique landscape shots and wildlife.
A bustling local market where you can capture the vibrant culture and daily life of the town.
Offers expansive views of the ocean and distant islands, making it an excellent location for sunset photography.
Food in Kerema
Kerema Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A delightful dish featuring fresh fish cooked in a rich and aromatic coconut curry sauce. This popular dish can be savored at local eateries and food stalls throughout Kerema.
Must-Try!
Sago pancakes, made from sago flour, are a staple in Kerema. These delicious pancakes are often served with sweet or savory accompaniments and can be found at traditional food markets and street food vendors.
Roasted wild boar is a specialty in Kerema, offering a unique and flavorful experience for adventurous food enthusiasts. It is commonly prepared during cultural celebrations and festive occasions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kerema Central Market is a bustling hub of local food vendors, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and traditional dishes. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant market atmosphere and sample an assortment of authentic street foods.
The streets of Kerema are dotted with sago street food stalls, where visitors can indulge in various sago-based snacks and dishes such as sago pancakes, sago pudding, and sago crisps.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet the locals with a friendly smile and use both verbal greetings and a handshake. It's customary to address elders first in any social gathering as a sign of respect.
Wearing modest and conservative clothing is crucial in Kerema. Both men and women should avoid revealing attire, especially in public or village settings, to show respect for local customs.
In Kerema, elders hold a significant position in the community. Listening to their advice and seeking their permission when interacting in the community shows respect for cultural hierarchy.
Safety
Tipping in Kerema
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kerema, Papua New Guinea, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected in most service-related industries. However, in tourist areas or upscale establishments, guests may choose to offer a small tip to demonstrate appreciation for exceptional service.
Payment in Kerema is often conducted using cash, as access to banking services may be limited. The local currency is the Papua New Guinean kina (PGK). Some businesses may accept mobile payments or have card payment facilities, but cash remains the predominant form of transaction, especially in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is characterized by lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the coastal areas. Visitors can expect sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and vibrant local festivals.
The wet season brings higher humidity and frequent rain showers, particularly in January and February. While this season can make outdoor activities challenging, the landscape becomes lush and vibrant. Expect fewer tourists and the opportunity to experience the local culture and daily life more intimately.
Kerema at Night
Hiking in Kerema
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail located near Kerevat, this park offers lush landscapes and diverse wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts and hikers looking for a moderate challenge.
This coastal track provides breathtaking views of the ocean and unique coastal ecosystems. It's a longer hike that combines both beach and forest trails.
An adventurous hike that takes you to the summit of Mount Koiari, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas and a chance to experience the rich flora and fauna of Papua New Guinea.
Follow the Kikori River on this beautiful hiking path that showcases the stunning landscapes and local biodiversity, offering both leisure and exploration.
Although a bit further from Kerema, the trails around Lake Tufi offer spectacular walks with views of the lake and surrounding hills, ideal for those looking to enjoy a full-day hiking experience.
Aiports
How to reach Kerema by plane.
Located in Port Moresby, approximately 100 km from Kerema, this is the main international airport in Papua New Guinea.
Located in Lae, around 500 km from Kerema, this airport serves as a secondary international gateway to Papua New Guinea.
Situated in Madang, approximately 600 km from Kerema, this airport also facilitates international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group includes communities that often face economic hardships and social marginalization, particularly along the southern coastline of Papua New Guinea.
Kerema is home to several indigenous ethnic groups, each with its own distinct language and cultural practices.
Women and youth represent significant demographic segments in Kerema, often engaged in local governance and community development initiatives.
The elderly population in Kerema is respected, with many traditional customs that honor their wisdom and contribution to the community.
This group includes small-scale entrepreneurs across various sectors, such as trade, agriculture, and services, contributing to the local economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Kerema and across Papua New Guinea, rugby league is known for its passionate fanbase and competitive local and national leagues.
Soccer is widely played and enjoyed in Kerema, with many local clubs and community teams actively participating in competitions.
Netball is a favorite sport among women in Kerema, with many teams competing in local leagues and events.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, with many young people engaging in the sport and local tournaments being organized.
Although less popular than rugby league, rugby union still has a following in Kerema, contributing to the overall rugby culture in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kerema.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Kereman cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Kerema offer vegetarian and vegan options, including delicious vegetable curries, fresh salads, and plant-based snacks.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs can find suitable options at restaurants and food stalls, particularly dishes that feature locally sourced ingredients such as fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables.