Wet Season (December-March)
The low season in Papua New Guinea coincides with the rainy season. Travel is less popular from December to March, and many tour groups and trekking trips are unavailable. With high temperatures and heavy humidity, these are the rainiest months. Although the highlands are usually cooler, temperatures can reach 90 degrees. The heavy rains cause washed-out roads in the Highlands, making travel uncomfortable and difficult. If you enjoy surfing, though, the wet season delivers the most delicate waves to the north coast and islands.
Shoulder Seasons (April & November)
For those searching for a decent discount on flights and lodgings, the shoulder months of April and November are an intelligent choice. These are transitional months with less rain than the rainy season. However, the weather remains hot and humid, with unexpected showers. The diving conditions are excellent all year, with superb visibility and pleasant seas. Milne Bay is the lone exception, with the best visibility from September to January and April to June.
Dry Season (May-October)
The dry season is the most fantastic time to visit Papua New Guinea because it is the country’s peak travel season. Because the nation has a tropical climate, it is hot and humid throughout the year. However, temperatures near the coast and in the lowlands decrease significantly during the dry season, reaching low 80s rather than high 90s. July is the coldest month, and the highlands see severe cooling. Even though it is dubbed the dry season, the climate is never arid. I was pretty lucky to have a stretch of sunny days throughout my trip in September. However, rain showers grew increasingly regular as I progressed through my journey. Now is an excellent time to trek the Kokoda Trail or go animal watching. Another reason for the popularity of the dry season is that it is when most festivities occur.