Kadovar
Island Small volcanic island in Bismarck Sea with active eruptions
A small volcanic island off Papua New Guinea’s north coast noted for an eruption in 2018 that prompted evacuation. Access is by boat; volcanologists and specialized expedition groups visit to study vents, ash deposits and nearby reef systems.
Kadovar is a small, steep-sided volcanic island in East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea, and an active volcano with a recorded eruption in 2018.
A remote maritime landmark rather than a developed tourist site - the island is notable for ongoing fumarolic and eruptive activity and for its steep cliffs and volcanic terrain. There are no visitor facilities and landings are occasional and weather-dependent.
The island is a volcanic edifice formed by repeated eruptions; it produced a notable explosive event in 2018 that forced evacuation of its inhabitants and drew international attention to local volcanic hazards.
Kadovar sits in the Bismarck Sea off the northern coast of mainland Papua New Guinea within East Sepik Province. The island is isolated from major ports and is reached only by boat.
- 2018 eruption and evacuation: The island experienced a volcanic eruption in 2018 that led to the evacuation of its residents; there are no regular tourist facilities or services on the island.
- Access and safety: Access is by private boat only and visits are typically restricted because of ongoing volcanic activity and safety concerns.
How to Get to Kadovar #
Kadovar is reached by boat from mainland towns in Papua New Guinea (Wewak is a regional hub). Any approach requires coordination with local authorities and experienced skippers; landing may be impossible during periods of volcanic unrest and is often restricted for safety reasons.
Tips for Visiting Kadovar #
- There are no commercial facilities on Kadovar; plan to bring all supplies and arrange transport in advance with a local operator in Wewak or Vanimo.
- If planning to view volcanic activity, use only experienced guides with up-to-date safety information - eruptions and gas emissions can change rapidly.
Best Time to Visit Kadovar #
Visit in the local dry season for calmer seas; approach only with experienced skippers and current volcanic advice.
Weather & Climate near Kadovar #
Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 21°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2369 mm/year), wettest in December.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. Heavy rain (224 mm).
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February
February is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (227 mm).
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March
March is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (248 mm).
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April
April is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (237 mm).
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May
May is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (191 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (147 mm).
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July
July is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (140 mm).
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August
August is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 21°C. Significant rainfall (128 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (136 mm).
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October
October is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Significant rainfall (192 mm).
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November
November is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. Heavy rain (245 mm).
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December
December is warm with highs of 30°C and lows of 22°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (254 mm).