Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN LAE
Planning a bike-friendly adventure in Lae? This tropical gateway to Papua New Guinea offers scenic coastal rides, rainforest detours, and charming rural loops. Whether you're cruising along the Huon Gulf or exploring inland routes surrounded by lush greenery, Lae delivers a unique mix of culture, nature, and local flair. Ideal for adventurous tourists with a love for two wheels, Lae’s best bike routes combine smooth roads, village views, and a healthy dose of tropical freedom.
Lae to Situm coastal ride
Scenic seaside touring with local charm
One of the most relaxing yet visually rewarding routes from Lae is the coastal ride out to Situm village. Stretching roughly 30 kilometres one way, this route hugs the coastline of the Huon Gulf, offering beautiful sea breezes, palm-lined roads, and passing glimpses of local village life. It’s a relatively flat ride with mostly paved roads, making it perfect for touring bikes or even hybrid setups.
Along the way, you’ll pass through small communities like Butibam and Tent City, where friendly locals often wave and greet cyclists with a smile. Expect light traffic in the early mornings, but things can get busy with PMVs (public motor vehicles) during mid-day hours. For the best experience, hit the road just after sunrise when the temperature is cooler and the light casts a golden hue across the gulf.
Distance: ~60 km round-trip
Route type: Out-and-back coastal ride
Surface: Sealed roads with some rough patches
Highlights: Ocean views, local villages, cultural encounters
Best for: Touring cyclists, leisure riders, culture lovers
Situm itself has a quiet, rural vibe and is known for its role in WWII history. You can stop at local stores to grab a cold drink or snack before looping back to Lae. If you want to turn this into a longer day trip, consider packing a picnic and stopping at a beachside spot on the way for a break.
This route is ideal for getting a feel of the Lae countryside while sticking close to the ocean. Just bring water, sun protection, and a sense of adventure – the ride is straightforward but offers plenty to soak in.
Backroad to Nadzab
Rural riding with historic flair
Looking for a longer challenge? The ride from Lae to Nadzab Airport takes you through the heart of Morobe Province’s backcountry. This route is approximately 45 kilometres one way, with a good mix of sealed and gravel roads that make it ideal for touring setups or gravel bikes.
Departing from Lae’s main road, you’ll cycle past the Markham Bridge and into a landscape of wide open plains, banana plantations, and roadside markets. The terrain is rolling but manageable, and the traffic thins out dramatically once you leave the city. Expect heat, so starting early and taking breaks is key. You’ll also find water and food stops along the way – simple roadside stalls sell fresh fruit, peanuts, and occasionally cold drinks.
Distance: ~90 km round-trip
Route type: Out-and-back with optional detours
Surface: Mix of sealed and unsealed road
Highlights: Open fields, rural PNG, historic airport site
Best for: Endurance riders, bikepackers, history buffs
Once at Nadzab, take a moment to appreciate the airstrip’s WWII significance – it was a major Allied base during the Pacific campaign. The flat, open terrain around the airport makes for easy riding, and you can even explore nearby side roads to villages if you’re feeling adventurous.
This ride is great for those looking to stretch their legs and explore PNG’s rural beauty on two wheels. Bring tools and spares – you’ll be off-grid enough that bike shops are far between.
Rainforest ride to Wau junction
Adventure ride through lush terrain
For those looking for a wild and memorable ride, the route heading inland toward Wau Junction is pure tropical adventure. This road snakes through misty valleys and lush rainforest hills, with a mix of challenging gradients and serene descents. It’s not for the faint of heart – the route can be rough, muddy, and includes some steep climbs – but the rewards are spectacular views and a true sense of exploration.
Starting from the outskirts of Lae, you’ll pass through areas like Yalu and then into denser forest regions. The road quality varies, with long stretches of unsealed track that are best tackled with a mountain bike or a well-rigged tourer. Expect wildlife sightings, rushing rivers, and the occasional landslide zone (be cautious in the rainy season).
Distance: ~50–70 km one-way depending on route
Route type: Remote, rugged out-and-back
Surface: Mixed terrain – gravel, dirt, forest paths
Highlights: Jungle scenery, remote villages, true adventure
Best for: Experienced tourers, MTB riders, off-grid explorers
There aren’t many shops or stops along this route, so stock up on water, food, and essential supplies before heading out. If you plan to go further toward Wau township, make it an overnight trip and coordinate with locals about accommodation – guesthouses and mission stations may be available.
This ride is Lae’s version of an off-the-beaten-path epic. It’s not about speed – it’s about soaking in the sights, surviving the challenges, and coming back with stories few tourists get to tell.
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