Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Girua. Girua Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave PNP:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Papua New Guinea. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Girua takes about 30 minutes by Taxi/Shared Van. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is PGK. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Girua, here are two things worth checking out:
Popondetta Main Market is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Oro Province WWII Memorial is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PNP, check out Girua Airport Waiting Area or Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near PNP
For food in Girua, local travelers recommend Popondetta Lodge Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popondetta Market Food Stalls is another popular pick.
Back at PNP, Airport Refreshment Counter is the go-to. Grab-and-Go Snack Point rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Girua from PNP
From PNP, the Taxi/Shared Van gets you to Girua in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Shared Van offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Girua, budget roughly $27 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $11 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at PNP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Girua’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PNP is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Girua and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PNP, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Girua with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Girua may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.