Kokopo, Papua New Guinea

Volcano-view capital that replaced ruined Rabaul

The capital of East New Britain, with Tokua Airport and a harbor, which took over administrative roles after nearby Rabaul was buried by ash. It looks across a bay toward active volcanoes.

Kokopo grew rapidly after the 1994 eruptions devastated Rabaul town. The area preserves German-colonial and wartime history in local museums.

Frequently asked — Kokopo

When is the best time to visit Kokopo?

Best May–Oct (drier) · Hot/wet Nov–Apr — this reflects Papua New Guinea's seasonal weather and crowds.

Do I need a visa to visit Papua New Guinea?

Visa on arrival (60 days, many passports). Entry rules depend on your nationality and change often — always confirm with the official Papua New Guinea government or embassy before you travel.

What currency is used in Kokopo?

Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). You can convert USD to the live local rate right on this page.

What language do people speak in Kokopo?

English is the primary language in Papua New Guinea.

What is the emergency number in Papua New Guinea?

Dial 000 for emergencies in Papua New Guinea.

Can you drink the tap water in Kokopo?

Tap water here is generally rated "Avoid tap". When unsure, choose sealed bottled or filtered water.

What power plug type does Papua New Guinea use?

Type I. Bring a compatible adapter — you can build a full packing list for Kokopo on this page.

Is Kokopo safe for travellers?

Safety varies by neighbourhood and changes over time, so there's no one-word answer. The local emergency number is 000. Check SkyOSK's safety notes for Kokopo and your government's current travel advisory before you go.