Things to Do in Papuanewguinea in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Papuanewguinea
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Stunning waterfalls at peak flow - February rains create spectacular cascades at Kisiwa Falls (2-hour trek) and Morobe Falls that are reduced to trickles during dry months
- Exceptional birdwatching conditions with migrating species active in wet season - over 780 species including Birds of Paradise performing mating displays in highland forests around Mount Hagen
- Lower accommodation rates in coastal areas - beachfront lodges typically 30-40% cheaper than dry season pricing (May-October)
- Lush rainforest trekking with maximum biodiversity - Kokoda Track and highland trails showcase vibrant green landscapes impossible to see during dry months
Considerations
- Daily torrential rainfall makes remote area access extremely difficult - many highland roads become impassable requiring expensive helicopter transfers costing K2,500-4,500 (US$650-1,200) per person
- Peak malaria and dengue season with standing water everywhere - medical facilities outside Port Moresby and Mount Hagen are extremely limited
- Domestic flight cancellations average 40% due to weather - PNG Air and Airlines PNG frequently cancel routes to remote airstrips, stranding travelers for days
Best Activities in February
Sepik River Cultural Tours
February's high water levels make the Sepik River fully navigable to remote villages normally inaccessible during dry season. Traditional crocodile scarification ceremonies happen during wet months, and sago palm harvesting is at its peak. River levels are 3-4m (10-13 ft) higher than dry season, allowing access to tributary villages.
Highland Coffee Plantation Visits
February is harvest season in Western Highlands coffee plantations around Mount Hagen. Experience picking ripe coffee cherries and traditional processing methods while enjoying cooler temperatures of 18-25°C (64-77°F) at 1,500m (4,920 ft) elevation. Wet season creates ideal growing conditions and maximum flavor profiles.
Port Moresby Cultural Festival Tours
February coincides with university cultural weeks and pre-Easter preparations. National Museum and Parliament House area showcase traditional performances from all 22 provinces. Cooler morning temperatures of 24-26°C (75-79°F) make city walking tours comfortable before daily afternoon deluges.
Rabaul Volcano and Hot Springs Tours
Wet season creates dramatic steam effects at Tavurvur Volcano and natural hot springs reach optimal temperatures. February's cloud cover provides spectacular volcano photography opportunities with diffused lighting. Cooler wet season temperatures make the 45-minute volcano hike more manageable.
Madang Coral Garden Snorkeling
February's consistent rainfall reduces boat traffic, creating pristine snorkeling conditions at Madang's coral gardens. Water visibility averages 25-30m (82-98 ft) between rain showers. Coral spawning occurs during wet season, attracting maximum fish diversity including schools of barracuda and reef sharks.
Western Province Fly River Fishing
February's high water levels create premium barramundi fishing conditions in Fly River system. Traditional fishing with local Gogodala people becomes accessible as flooded grasslands allow boat access to remote lagoons. Water temperatures of 28-30°C (82-86°F) increase fish activity.
February Events & Festivals
Mount Hagen Coffee Festival
Celebrates peak coffee harvest season with traditional sing-sings, coffee cupping competitions, and highland cultural displays. Over 50 tribes participate in traditional dress competitions while showcasing PNG's world-renowned Arabica coffee varieties.
University of PNG Cultural Week
Students from across PNG's 22 provinces perform traditional dances, music, and storytelling at Waigani campus in Port Moresby. One of the few opportunities to see authentic cultural presentations from remote provinces without extensive travel.