Things to Do in Papua New Guinea in December

December weather, activities, events & insider tips

December Weather in Papua New Guinea

High Temp

Low Temp

Rainfall

% Humidity

Is December Right for You?

Advantages

Lush tropical landscapes at their most spectacular - waterfalls flow at maximum volume and highland valleys turn emerald green from December rains
Cultural festival season peaks with traditional sing-sings and tribal gatherings, as many Highland communities celebrate after harvest time
Fewer international tourists mean more authentic interactions with locals and better availability at guesthouses (though some remote lodges close)
Bird watching reaches its prime with breeding season bringing vibrant plumage displays - Birds of Paradise are most active during morning courtship rituals

Considerations

Heavy afternoon rains (typically 2-4 hours daily) can cancel domestic flights and make mountain trekking dangerous on muddy trails
High humidity at 85% makes physical activities exhausting, especially in the Highlands where altitude compounds the effect
Many remote eco-lodges and diving operators in Milne Bay close during wet season, limiting accommodation options

Best Activities in December

Sepik River Village Tours

December's high water levels make the Sepik River ideal for accessing remote villages that become unreachable during dry season. Traditional crocodile ceremonies often occur during this period, and the river's tributaries are fully navigable. Morning departures (6-10am) avoid afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Book 3-4 weeks ahead through Port Moresby operators. Tours typically cost K2,800-4,200 ($800-1,200) for 3-4 days including meals and village fees. Look for operators with covered boats and flexible scheduling for weather delays.

Highland Cultural Festivals and Sing-Sings

December marks peak season for traditional celebrations in Mount Hagen and the Western Highlands. Post-harvest festivities bring elaborate headdresses, traditional dancing, and pig-killing ceremonies. Cooler highland temperatures (18-24°C/64-75°F) make December more comfortable than dry season heat.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours typically cost K1,500-2,800 ($430-800) for 2-3 days. Book through Mount Hagen operators at least 2 weeks ahead. Many festivals are spontaneous, so build flexibility into itineraries.

Tari Basin Bird Watching

December breeding season brings Birds of Paradise courtship displays at their most spectacular. King Bird of Paradise and Raggiana perform elaborate mating dances from 5:30-8:30am. Wet season also attracts migratory species from Australia making this the year's best birding window.

Booking Tip: Birding guides typically charge K800-1,200 ($230-340) per day. Book local guides through Tari guesthouses rather than Port Moresby operators. Early morning starts (5am) are essential before afternoon rains begin.

Rabaul Volcano and Hot Springs

December's rainy season creates dramatic volcanic landscapes around Rabaul with steam rising from hot springs and lush vegetation covering old lava flows. Tavurvur volcano is typically more active during wet season, creating spectacular photo opportunities (from safe distances).

Booking Tip: Day tours typically cost K600-900 ($170-260) including transport and guide. Book through Kokopo operators who monitor volcanic activity daily. Afternoon tours work well as volcanic activity often increases with barometric pressure changes.

Madang Province Coral Reef Diving

While other regions close, Madang's protected waters remain diveable in December with excellent visibility (20-25m/65-82ft) and calmer conditions than exposed areas. Coral spawning occurs during December full moons, creating underwater snowstorm effects that advanced divers seek.

Booking Tip: Diving packages typically cost K1,200-1,800 ($340-510) for 3 dives. Book 10-14 days ahead with operators who have covered boats and flexible scheduling. Certification required - no discover scuba options during wet season.

Kokoda Track Preparation Hikes

While the full Kokoda Track closes during wet season, shorter sections near Owers Corner remain accessible for day hikes. December training builds fitness for dry season attempts while experiencing the jungle at its most challenging - exactly what serious trekkers need for preparation.

Booking Tip: Day hikes typically cost K400-600 ($115-170) with local guides. Only attempt with experienced local guides who know current trail conditions. Bring leech socks and waterproof everything - trails become rivers during afternoon storms.

December Events & Festivals

Mid to Late December

Western Highlands Pig Festivals

Traditional moka ceremonies where clans exchange pigs, shells, and other valuables to maintain social relationships. These elaborate multi-day events feature traditional dress, dancing, and feasting. The largest celebrations occur in Hagen, Wabag, and surrounding villages.

Late December

Christmas Celebrations in Villages

Papua New Guinea's unique blend of Christian and traditional customs creates fascinating Christmas celebrations. Villages combine church services with traditional sing-sings, and many communities welcome respectful visitors to observe or participate in communal meals.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots rated for mud - trails become slippery clay rivers during December's 180mm (7.1 inches) of monthly rainfall

Quick-dry synthetic clothing only - cotton stays wet for days in 85% humidity and becomes breeding ground for skin infections

SPF 50+ reef-safe sunscreen - UV index reaches 12 even on cloudy days, and reflection off wet surfaces intensifies exposure

Leech socks or gaiters - essential for any jungle hiking as December rains bring leeches out in massive numbers

Waterproof phone case and dry bags - afternoon storms dump 50-80mm (2-3 inches) in 2-3 hours regularly

Antifungal powder and treatments - hot, humid conditions cause rapid development of fungal infections, especially feet

Insect repellent with 30%+ DEET - mosquito activity peaks during wet season, increasing malaria and dengue risk

Lightweight rain poncho - umbrella useless in tropical downpours with wind, but ponchos allow continued hiking

Electrolyte replacement tablets - sweating in 85% humidity while hiking causes rapid salt depletion and cramping

Headlamp with extra batteries - afternoon storms create darkness by 2pm, and power outages are common in remote areas

Insider Knowledge

Local airlines (Air Niugini, PNG Air) cancel 30-40% of domestic flights during December storms - always book refundable tickets and build 2-3 buffer days into itineraries

ATMs frequently run out of cash during December festivities, especially in Highland towns - carry enough kina for entire trip as credit cards rarely work outside Port Moresby

Village guesthouses often close during December rains but families still welcome guests for informal stays - bring small gifts (batteries, soap, school supplies) as payment is often refused

December is sago palm harvesting season - join villagers in this traditional food preparation process for authentic cultural immersion not available other months