Is it safe to withdraw cash in Papua New Guinea or not?
Cash is still widely used, and ATM access is limited outside major towns. Even in cities, power outages or card compatibility issues are common. Plan ahead and always withdraw when there’s daylight and people around.
Found an ANZ ATM inside a supermarket in Mt Hagen, but by 7 PM the area felt deserted. I didn’t go through with the withdrawal. The machine might have worked, but I didn’t want to take the chance.
My guesthouse in Lae warned me not to use outdoor ATMs after sundown. I took their advice and withdrew cash during the day at a branch with security. Even locals are cautious, which says a lot.
In Port Moresby, I used a BSP ATM inside Vision City Mall around 6:30 PM. Staff were still around, but I wouldn’t risk any later. Withdrawing money after dark in Papua New Guinea is generally discouraged - stick to guarded or indoor locations.