Don't Go to Papua – They Will Eat You

That’s what people said back in the day when I told them I was planning a trip to Port Moresby. Well, as you can guess, I survived.

Let me take you to a lovely place we visited many years ago, back in 2001.

Even after all this time, I still vividly remember the incredible diving at Loloata and the stunning beauty of Papua New Guinea’s nature and its people. This post is a tribute to that unforgettable journey.

Loloata

We spent our time at the Loloata Island Resort, a small yet enchanting retreat on a tiny island tucked away in the serene waters of Papua New Guinea. Just a short boat ride from Port Moresby, this place was an oasis of tranquility, a true sanctuary for travelers.

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Waking up to the gentle whispers of the ocean and watching the sun paint golden hues over turquoise waters was an experience that stays with you forever. The resort perfectly blended modern comforts with the charm of a secluded paradise, making it a dream destination for adventurers and relaxation-seekers alike.

We spent our days diving into vibrant coral reefs, exploring lush surroundings alive with exotic flora and fauna, and just soaking in the untouched beauty of the island. Every moment felt like an escape into a world where time slowed down, and the spirit of exploration came alive.

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For a traveler, Loloata is more than just a destination; it’s a journey into harmony and wonder—a place where the heart finds peace, and the soul rekindles its love for the extraordinary.

We truly enjoyed every moment.

Diving

With water right beneath our windows and a view of the ocean from our bed, diving was a must. And oh, what dives they were!

Suzie’s Bommie

One of the highlights was Suzie’s Bommie, a diver’s dream in Papua New Guinea. This coral pinnacle rises dramatically from a sandy bottom to within 10 meters of the surface, creating a haven for marine life. It was a vertical wonder teeming with schooling fish like Sweetlips, jacks, and Anthias. We even spotted a resident white-tip reef shark patrolling between the bommie and the reef wall.

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The adventure began at the mooring on the edge of the barrier reef, where we descended to about 8 meters, followed the reef wall, and swam 60 meters out to the bommie. The most spectacular marine life was concentrated between 10 and 20 meters, where the bommie came alive with color and motion. It’s a site best suited for experienced divers, as the depth ranges from 8 to 45 meters. Calm seas and an incoming tide made our dives unforgettable.

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Plane Wreck

Another surreal experience was diving around an old WWII Japanese bomber, the Nakajima Kate. Seeing this three-seater plane resting on the ocean floor was both eerie and awe-inspiring. It felt like stepping into a time capsule, surrounded by history and mystery.

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The dives were seamless thanks to Yoshi, the dive center manager, who had everything running like clockwork. From morning double-boat dives to night dives arranged on request, every dive was a well-organized adventure.

We were lucky with the weather and enjoyed every single dive.

About Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a hidden gem in the Pacific, offering diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unique wildlife. We traveled there for the untouched diving areas along its stunning coastline. See more at the Link from @Worldmappin to this post.

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Natural Beauty

PNG’s ecosystems are some of the most pristine in the world. From lush rainforests to towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. While the Kokoda Track is famous for trekking and historical WWII sites, we focused on exploring its underwater treasures.

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Cultural Richness

PNG is incredibly diverse, with over 800 languages spoken and numerous indigenous tribes. Traditional festivals like the Goroka and Mount Hagen shows highlight its vibrant culture through dance, music, and elaborate costumes.

Unique Wildlife

PNG is home to rare species like the tree kangaroo and the Queen Alexandra’s birdwing, the world’s largest butterfly. Birdwatchers will marvel at the variety of birds of paradise, with their stunning plumage and fascinating mating dances.

Great People

Papua New Guinea holds a special place in my heart. The warmth and hospitality of its people made us feel welcome and appreciated throughout our journey. With its incredible linguistic and cultural diversity, the country is a treasure trove of traditions and stories.

And no, no one tried to cook or eat us!

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We Will Be Back

Whenever we get the chance to visit PNG again, we’ll jump at it. Places like Loloata have a way of staying with you, calling you back even after years have passed. Until then, the memories of our 2001 trip will continue to bring a smile to my face.