Climate Overview
Papua New Guinea has a highly diverse climate, with major differences between regions. Annual temperatures range from lows of -13°C in the coldest regions to highs of 36°C in the warmest areas. Annual precipitation ranges from 121mm in drier regions to 381mm in wetter parts of the country. Some regions receive significant snowfall, with up to 364cm annually, while other areas see little to none. The warmest areas are hot year-round while the coldest regions remain very cold, making Papua New Guinea a country of sharp climate contrasts.
Temperature by Region
Temperature patterns across Papua New Guinea vary by region, with distinct differences between areas. The Southeast is the warmest part of the country, with peak temperatures reaching 36°C and an annual average of 25°C. Cooler conditions are found in the Southeast, where winter lows drop to -13°C and an annual average of -8°C. This 34°C difference in annual averages between regions means travellers can experience vastly different conditions depending on which part of Papua New Guinea they visit. Regional temperature differences remain relatively consistent across seasons, with around 36°C of variation in both summer and winter. For example, Port Moresby in the National Capital District averages 25°C annually, while Alotau in the Milne Bay Province averages -8°C.
Precipitation by Region
Papua New Guinea sees notable variation in rainfall across its regions, ranging from 121mm to 381mm per year. The Southeast receives the most rainfall, at approximately 381mm annually. The Northeast is the driest, with around 121mm per year. Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly across the seasons, with no strong wet or dry period in most regions. The Southeast sees the most snowfall, with up to 364cm annually, while other parts of the country receive little to none. Visitors heading to wetter areas can expect more frequent rain than those staying in drier parts of the country.
