Connectivity in Papua New Guinea: Limited WiFi availability, consider getting a local SIM card.

Exploring Internet Connectivity in Papua New Guinea: WiFi Availability and Local SIM Card Options

Papua New Guinea is a country located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is known for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife. However, when it comes to internet connectivity, the country has faced several challenges. In this article, we will explore the internet situation in Papua New Guinea, including WiFi availability and local SIM card options.

Connectivity: What’s the internet situation like?

Papua New Guinea has a relatively low internet penetration rate compared to other countries in the region. According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union, only 12.5% of the population had access to the internet in 2019. This is due to several factors, including the country’s rugged terrain, limited infrastructure, and high costs of internet services.

The internet situation in Papua New Guinea is further complicated by the fact that the country is made up of many small islands, making it difficult to provide reliable internet services to all areas. The government has been working to improve internet connectivity in the country, but progress has been slow.

Is it easy to find WiFi?

Finding WiFi in Papua New Guinea can be a challenge, especially in rural areas. Most hotels and restaurants in major cities like Port Moresby and Lae offer WiFi services, but the quality of the connection can vary. In some cases, the WiFi may be slow or unreliable, making it difficult to use for work or other purposes.

In addition to hotels and restaurants, there are also a few public WiFi hotspots in Papua New Guinea. These are usually located in public areas such as parks, libraries, and government buildings. However, the availability of these hotspots is limited, and they may not be accessible in all areas of the country.

Is it worth getting a local SIM card?

If you are planning to stay in Papua New Guinea for an extended period, getting a local SIM card can be a good option. This will allow you to access the internet on your mobile device and stay connected while on the go.

There are several mobile network operators in Papua New Guinea, including Digicel and Bmobile. Both companies offer prepaid SIM cards that can be purchased at their retail stores or from street vendors. The cost of a SIM card is relatively low, and you can top up your account with credit as needed.

One advantage of getting a local SIM card is that it can be used to make local calls and send text messages at a lower cost than using an international SIM card. This can be especially useful if you need to communicate with locals or make business calls while in the country.

Another advantage of getting a local SIM card is that it can provide access to mobile data services. This can be useful if you need to access the internet while on the go or if you are in an area where WiFi is not available. However, it is important to note that mobile data services in Papua New Guinea can be expensive, and the quality of the connection may not be as good as in other countries.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the internet situation in Papua New Guinea is still developing, and there are several challenges that need to be addressed. While WiFi is available in some areas, it can be unreliable, and finding a reliable connection can be a challenge. Getting a local SIM card can be a good option if you need to stay connected while in the country, but it is important to be aware of the costs and limitations of mobile data services. Overall, if you are planning to visit Papua New Guinea, it is important to be prepared for limited internet connectivity and plan accordingly.