Rabaul

Papua New Guinea, Oceania

Rabaul, located on New Britain island in Papua New Guinea, is famed for its stunning natural beauty, captivating history, and vibrant culture. Known for the imposing Tavurvur volcano, visitors can explore the remnants of the historic town destroyed by eruptions in the 1990s. The area is rich in World War II history with wreck dives and museum exhibits. Vibrant markets, traditional dances, and the stunning ocean views make Rabaul an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Nadzab

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Rabaul

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Rabaul Volcanological Observatory

Learn about the region's volcanic activity and history.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Rabaul War Museum

Discover artifacts from World War II in Rabaul.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Dive at the USS Sullivan Shipwreck

Explore a sunken WWII ship off the coast.

Booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Hike up Mt. Tavurvur

Trek to an active volcano for stunning views.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Rabaul's Hot Springs

Soak in natural thermal springs for relaxation.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Rabaul Botanical Gardens

Enjoy a variety of tropical plants and flowers.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Experience a Cultural Show

Witness traditional dancing and music performances.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Japanese Tunnels

Visit WWII tunnels carved into Rabaul's landscape.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the local markets

Shop for unique crafts and fresh produce.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour of Simpson Harbour

Explore beautiful waters and nearby islands.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Kina

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Mumu

Traditional earth oven dish. (National dish)

Kokoda Fish

Ceviche-style fish dish.

Kaukau

VE

Sweet potato, a staple food.

Sago

VE

Starchy food made from palm.

Dia

Savory dish made with meat and spices.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)