Karkar Island

Karkar Island is a volcanic island in Madang Province, Papua New Guinea, rising steeply from the Bismarck Sea and dominated by a central volcanic cone.

The island supports dispersed coastal villages and intensive smallholder agriculture, notably coconut and garden crops grown on the fertile volcanic soils. Shorelines include fringing reef and mangrove in places, and local culture and village governance are important aspects of life on the island.

Karkar is separated from the mainland by a narrow strait off the north coast of Papua New Guinea and is accessed by boat and by occasional light aircraft services that link it with Madang and other regional centres.

• Volcanic island: The island is volcanic in origin and the central cone remains a prominent landscape feature, giving the island fertile soils for agriculture.

What to See#

• Volcanic cone: Central volcanic cone area that dominates the island landscape and is the origin of the island’s fertile soils and local streams.
• Coastal villages and agriculture: Coastal villages, coconut plantations and shoreline gardens that form the majority of inhabited areas and local economy.

Access is by scheduled or charter boat from Madang or small domestic air services to Karkar’s airstrips when operating; check local schedules and weather advisories before travel.

• Karkar Island is an active volcanic island - check advisories before travelling and respect local evacuation protocols.
• Hire local guides for inland treks; roads are limited and weather can make travel difficult.