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Sadalmelik CC BY-SA 4.0 Wikimedia Commons

Kadovar

Island

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.

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Kadovar essentials

Address: Kadovar Island, Bismarck Sea, East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea

About Kadovar

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.
When to Go

Best Time to Visit Kadovar

Visit in the local dry season for calmer seas; approach only with experienced skippers and current volcanic advice.

Dry season
May-October · 24-30°C
Easier sea conditions and clearer weather for boat approaches; the most practical time for landing attempts.
Wet season
November-April · 25-31°C
Rougher seas and heavy rains make access difficult and potentially unsafe.

Weather & Climate near Kadovar

Climate

Tropical climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 21°C to 31°C. Heavy rainfall (2369 mm/year), wettest in December.

Air Quality: AQI 37 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
31°
Warmest Month
21°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 23° - 31° 27° 224 mm - - 2.5 m/s - -
February - 23° - 30° 26° 227 mm - - 2.6 m/s - -
March - 22° - 30° 26° 248 mm - - 2.3 m/s - -
April - 22° - 30° 26° 237 mm - - 1.9 m/s - -
May - 22° - 31° 26° 191 mm - - 2.1 m/s - -
June - 22° - 30° 26° 147 mm - - 2.4 m/s - -
July - 21° - 30° 26° 140 mm - - 2.7 m/s - -
August - 21° - 30° 26° 128 mm - - 2.8 m/s - -
September - 22° - 31° 26° 136 mm - - 2.6 m/s - -
October - 22° - 31° 27° 192 mm - - 2.1 m/s - -
November - 22° - 31° 26° 245 mm - - 1.9 m/s - -
December - 23° - 30° 26° 254 mm - - 2.1 m/s - -
Getting There & Around

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.