When to Visit Papua New Guinea
Climate guide & best times to travel
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Year-Round Essentials
Wet Season (Dec-Mar)
Dry Season (May-Oct)
Shoulder Season (Apr & Nov)
Highland Specific (Year-round)
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Month-by-Month Guide
January
Peak wet season across most of PNG, with the northwest monsoon bringing heavy afternoon downpours, particularly to the northern coast and islands. Port Moresby stays relatively drier but humid. The highlands can be misty and cool, with muddy conditions making some trekking routes challenging. Coastal diving visibility might be reduced due to runoff.
February
Wet season continues with high humidity throughout the country. Expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms in coastal areas like Madang and Rabaul. The Sepik River region sees high water levels, which actually makes river travel easier. Highland festivals are rare this month as communities focus on gardens and crops. Sea conditions can be rougher around the islands.
March
Transitional month as rainfall begins to ease slightly, though you'll still see substantial precipitation across most regions. The highlands start to dry out a bit, making road conditions marginally better. Coastal areas remain humid and warm. This is when dive operators in Milne Bay start seeing improved underwater visibility as runoff decreases.
April
Weather patterns shift as the southeast trade winds begin to establish themselves. Rainfall decreases noticeably, especially in Port Moresby and southern coastal areas. The highlands become more accessible for trekking, though trails can still be muddy from previous months. Temperatures remain consistently warm with slightly lower humidity levels starting to appear.
May
The dry season properly establishes itself, making this an excellent time for highland exploration and the start of Kokoda Track season. Port Moresby becomes quite dry and pleasant. Northern coastal areas still see occasional showers, but nothing like the wet season intensity. Visibility for diving around Milne Bay and Kimbe Bay improves significantly.
June
Peak dry season conditions across most of PNG, with the southeast trade winds bringing cooler, drier air. The highlands can actually get chilly at night, especially around Tari and Mount Hagen. Coastal areas enjoy warm days with less humidity. This is prime time for diving, with calm seas and excellent visibility. Tourist numbers increase for outdoor activities.
July
Arguably the best weather month in PNG—dry, clear skies in the highlands perfect for photography and cultural festivals. The Kokoda Track sees peak traffic from Australian trekkers. Coastal diving conditions are superb around Tufi, Milne Bay, and the Trobriand Islands. Evenings in the highlands require warm layers as temperatures drop notably.
August
The Mount Hagen Cultural Show dominates the highlands calendar, drawing visitors from around the world. Weather remains dry and stable, though morning fog in highland valleys is common. Coastal areas enjoy pleasant conditions with minimal rainfall. This is peak season for birdwatching in the highlands and lowland forests. Accommodation books up early, especially around cultural festival locations.
September
The Goroka Show takes center stage mid-month, showcasing highland tribal cultures. Weather remains dry and favorable for travel, though the first hints of the wet season might appear in far northern coastal areas. Still excellent conditions for the Kokoda Track and highland trekking. Sea conditions remain calm for island hopping in Milne Bay Province.
October
Transitional month as the wet season begins to build—you'll notice increasing humidity and more frequent afternoon showers, particularly in northern coastal regions. The highlands start to see more cloud cover and occasional rain. Still decent for trekking if you don't mind getting wet. Diving conditions remain good, though visibility might start decreasing slightly by month's end.
November
Wet season establishes itself with increasing rainfall across the country. The northwest monsoon begins affecting northern coastal areas and the islands. Highland roads become challenging as mud returns. Port Moresby remains the driest major center. This is when tourist numbers drop significantly, though diving is still possible between weather systems if you're flexible with scheduling.
December
Full wet season conditions with heavy rainfall, high humidity, and frequent thunderstorms. The Sepik River rises, making some villages accessible only by boat. Highland trekking becomes quite challenging with muddy, slippery trails. That said, the landscape is lush and green, and you'll have tourist sites largely to yourself. Coastal diving can be hit-or-miss depending on daily weather patterns.