Mount Lamington
Volcano Stratovolcano known for its catastrophic 1951 eruption
A volcano on Papua New Guinea’s Oro coast, Mount Lamington is remembered for its catastrophic 1951 eruption; today it draws historians, researchers and adventurous trekkers to remote trails and montane forests.
Mount Lamington is a steep-walled stratovolcano in Oro Province, Papua New Guinea, that produced a catastrophic eruption in 1951. The eruption was one of the most deadly volcanic disasters in the region’s modern history.
The volcano’s 1951 eruption produced pyroclastic flows and widespread ashfall that destroyed villages on the surrounding slopes and caused extensive loss of life and infrastructure. Since that event the volcano has been the subject of study and ongoing monitoring for volcanic hazards.
Mount Lamington rises from near the coastal plains of Oro Province and is accessed from nearby provincial centers; its steep slopes and tropical rainforest cover make travel challenging in many areas.
- 1951 eruption: A major explosive eruption in 1951 caused widespread destruction and thousands of fatalities, transforming local settlement patterns and prompting extensive relief efforts.
What to See #
- 1951 eruption zone: The area devastated by the 1951 eruption contains broad pyroclastic-flow deposits and altered slopes that remain a conspicuous part of the mountain's profile.
How to Get to Mount Lamington #
Access involves regional flights to nearby airstrips and then overland transfers; local transport and coordination with provincial authorities are necessary. Due to its remoteness, organize logistics through experienced local operators.
Tips for Visiting Mount Lamington #
- Lamington is an active volcanic dome; avoid approach during heavy rain or increased fumarolic activity.
- Coordinate with local villages and provincial authorities for safe access and up-to-date advisories.
- Bring layered clothing-the coastal lowlands are hot, but highland winds on the flanks can be cool.
Best Time to Visit Mount Lamington #
Plan visits for the drier months when road and trail access are more reliable.
Weather & Climate near Mount Lamington #
Mount Lamington's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 14°C to 26°C. Heavy rainfall (2909 mm/year), wettest in January.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (318 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (306 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (309 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (283 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (265 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (180 mm).
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July
July is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (178 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (164 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (189 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (224 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C. Heavy rain (210 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 16°C. Heavy rain (283 mm).
