Diving is popular in Papua New Guinea due to its amazing reefs and abundance of colourful fish to discover. You can dive throughout the year, with clear waters for fabulous visibility. Explore the fjords for sponge gardens or head to the outer reefs near Tufi to discover black and white tip sharks, as well as hammerheads, manta and eagle rays. For the more experienced, dive WWII wrecks like the Dutch’s Jacob or the aircraft B-17F Black Jack Flying Fortress.
The best time to visit Papua New Guinea
Papua New Guinea is equatorial and is therefore warm and humid throughout the year. Between May and September is the dry season, making it a great time to visit.
Information & Highlights
Explore the best time to visit
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Visiting Papua New Guinea in January
January is the start of the rainy season, and the warmest month meaning it is a great time for diving around Tufi and Milne Bay.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in February
The peak of the rainy season and the wettest month. Not a good time to visit.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in March
The rainy season continues, especially in the Highlands, as humidity and high temperatures prevail.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in April
The rain subsides and becomes sporadic, but the heat and humidity remain. The seas flatten and visibility improves for snorkelling, especially around Milne Bay and Tufi.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in May
The start of the dry season, bringing cooler temperatures. Great time for diving and snorkelling around Milne Bay and Tufi.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in June
Peak season starts as visitor numbers increase. The country generally continues to dry out and cool slightly, with excellent snorkelling and diving conditions.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in July
This is the driest and most popular month to visit. Accommodation may cost a little more than usual, with festivals happening. It is the best time to hike in the highlands.
National Mask & Warwagira Festival
Explore this cultural tribute to the people of East New Britain – the Tolai, Baining and Pomio. Experience four days of dancing cultural rituals, stories, art, crafts and of course plenty of masks. The dramatic costumes, colours and rhythm of Rabaul’s annual Mask Festival are not to be missed.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in August
The coolest month, with night frosts above 2,000 metres. A great time for hiking, and snorkelling is still possible in most regions.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in September
A quieter time starts after the European and Australasian school holidays. Easier to find accommodation, and it starts to be a good time for snorkelling around Milne Bay again.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in October
The end of the dry season, as temperatures and rainfall increase gradually. Good snorkelling conditions right across the country.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in November
The start of the wet season, with rainfall common, especially in the Highlands. Visitor numbers remain low.
Visiting Papua New Guinea in December
The wet season is picking up pace, with the Highlands getting rain showers most days and roads becoming impassable. The coastal weather off Milne Bay is better so it is best to stick to the coast.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.
Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?
Featured in the press
