Papua New Guinea, located south of the Equator, has a Tropical climate. The northwest monsoon brings rain between December and March, the southeast monsoon dry weather between May and October. Port Moresby and other towns along the coast are hot and humid during the summer months, the highlands, naturally, will be cooler. There’s great variation throughout Papua New Guinea. In Lae and Alotau, for example, May to October is the wet season. The islands, New Britain, New Ireland and Bougainville, have rainfall patterns that differ to those on the mainland.
There’s a great air network in Papua New Guinea. Jacksons International Airport is the major airport. From there, travellers can connect to more than 100 airports around the country.
The road network is good between the Northern zone and the Highlands, but there’s no road link between the Northern zone and Port Moresby due to the terrain.
There are taxis and local buses in the cities, bus services also operate around the country.
Boats and ferries ply the waters – river cruises and ferries to the islands.
What is good to know if travelling to Papua New Guinea?- Tips are not expected or encouraged by visitors to Papua New Guinea.
- The Kokoda Track is the must-do, but there are other trails available. The Lark Force Trek covers the Bainings Mountain ranges in the East New Britain Province. This one is named for the Australian military garrison that fought against the Japanese Army in 1942. This trek includes meeting the local people, fishing and rafting. The Black Cat Track is a “newish” trail – for visitors, that is. It traverses some of the least-explored parts of Papua New Guinea from Salamaua to Wau, in the Morobe Province.
- New Ireland is a beautiful island with amazing diving. The Eastern Fields is another wonderful dive spot. They are about 170km south west of Port Moresby.
- Cruising, in smaller vessels that carry about 100 passengers, is the perfect way of getting around Papua New Guinea.
- Tunnung Island, north of New Hanover in the Three Island Harbour area, is a veritable Eden. Pristine waters and awesome diving.