Port Moresby Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit

Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Port Moresby.

Climate overview of Port Moresby

Port Moresby is the capital of Papua New Guinea, located in the southeastern part of the island of New Guinea. It is the country's largest city, with a population of over 300,000.

The city has a tropical savanna climate, with a drier season from mid-May to November and a wet season from December to mid-April. Temperatures and sunshine hours remain fairly consistent throughout the year. Afternoon highs typically range between 30°C (86°F)31°C (88°F), gradually dropping to 22°C (72°F)24°C (75°F) after sunset. Relative humidity is high year-round, peaking during the wet season, when conditions can feel particularly muggy.

Port Moresby Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Port Moresby - and find the best time to visit.

Monthly Temperature in Port Moresby

The temperature in Port Moresby remains steady throughout the year, providing a consistently very warm climate. On average, daytime temperatures range from a very warm 31°C (88°F) in December to a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July.

Nighttime temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) in December to 23°C (73°F) in July.

Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.

Temperature ranges by month

Rainfall in Port Moresby

Port Moresby has a relatively rainy climate with high precipitation levels, averaging 1719 mm (68 in) of rainfall annually. The seasons in Port Moresby bring significant changes in precipitation. The wettest month, March, receives heavy rainfall, with an average of 294 mm (12 in) of precipitation. This rainfall is distributed across 19 rainy days.

In contrast, the driest month, July, experiences much less rainfall, totaling 42 mm (1.7 in) over 7 rainy days. These distinct seasonal differences provide diverse experiences throughout the year. For more details, please visit our Port Moresby Precipitation page.

The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow

Sunshine Hours in Port Moresby

Port Moresby enjoys sunny spells year-round. November sees up to 8.1 hours of daily sunshine, perfect for a sunny trip. February, the least sunny month, still offers a generous 5.2 hours of sun despite this cloudier time of the year.

Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.

Monthly hours of sunshine

Daily hours of sunshine

Water Temperature in Port Moresby

The mean water temperature over the year ranges from 26°C (79°F) in July to 29°C (84°F) in January.

Water temperature over the year

Humidity in Port Moresby by Month

Best Time to Visit Port Moresby

Port Moresby is at its best in July and August, offering the year's most agreeable weather for a visit. January, February, March, April and December are typically the least favourable.

Each month is rated for comfortable sightseeing weather — mild temperatures and low rainfall. Tap a month for its full averages; your ideal time may differ for a beach or winter trip (see below).

  • Best overall: July and August
  • Warmest weather: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December
  • Most sunshine: October and November
  • Fewer rainy days: June, July, August, September and October
  • Best for swimming: any time of year — the sea stays pleasantly warm year-round.
  • Wettest period: January, February, March, April and December, when rainfall peaks.
  • Climate seasons: a distinct rainy season from December to April

Frequently asked questions about the climate in Port Moresby

What is the best time to visit Port Moresby?

July and August typically offer the most optimal weather in Port Moresby. In contrast, January, February, March, April and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Port Moresby has a distinct rainy season from December to April.

What temperatures can I expect in Port Moresby?

Daytime highs range from 29°C (84°F) in July to 31°C (88°F) in December. Nighttime lows range from 23°C (73°F) to 24°C (75°F). Temperatures stay relatively stable year-round.

How much rain does Port Moresby get?

Annual rainfall is around 1719 mm (68 in). March is the wettest month with 294 mm (12 in), while July is the driest with 42 mm (1.7 in).

How sunny is Port Moresby?

Port Moresby receives around 2,484 hours of sunshine per year. November is the sunniest month with 244 hours, while February is the cloudiest with just 157 hours. Overall, Port Moresby enjoys abundant sunshine.

Port Moresby 3-Day Forecast

Port Moresby 3-Day Forecast

Port Moresby on the map

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Popular this month

Where to go in July - average daytime high across popular destinations.