Papua is located in the eastern reaches of the Lost Lands, one of only two towns in that area and as such is a popular jumping off point for adventures in that region. It is surrounded by a vast swamp which is a habitat of giant frogs, alligators and other marshland denizens.

The architecture of Papua consists mainly of rattan, woven walls with thatched roofing. Among the interesting or unique sites are the shipwright, which features a ship seemingly perpetually under construction, a stable with horse dung and a mage shop where players can traverse to Moonglow via a teleporter. To use the teleporter, stand on it and say the magic word recsu. Players wishing to return to Papua from Moonglow should stand on the opposite teleporter there and utter recdu.

Far to the north of Papua is the Lighthouse.