December is typically part of the wet season with heavy rainfall in coastal and lowland regions and high humidity. Many remote tracks and boat routes are unreliable, and domestic flight schedules can be affected.
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Average daily low and high (°C) and monthly rainfall. The badge shows how it feels, allowing for humidity.
Average temperature across Papua New Guinea in December.
Mount Hagen, Goroka, Mt. Wilhelm
December is the wettest month for many highland pockets - warm daytime temps with heavy, sometimes all-day rain in the higher catchments, and strong mist that can hide trails. Rivers can flood quickly and remote lodges sometimes limit guest numbers; flights will be disrupted by low cloud. If visiting, allow long transit windows, keep spare clothing, and prioritize nearby village experiences rather than attempting high summits.
Papuan Gulf, Gulf Province
December returns to the wet pattern with warm, humid days and often heavy, sustained rainfall in the afternoons and evenings; flooding is possible in low-lying coastal settlements near the Fly and Kikori estuaries. Holiday travel can be slower and some rural roads may be impassable-plan extra time if you must move between provinces. If diving, check operators’ advisories for reef conditions and avoid exposed passages during storms.
Fly River, Western Province, Trans‑Fly
December is often very wet, with heavy storms and persistent inundation across low-lying parts of Western Province and the Fly catchment; day trips by land can become lengthy and river travel takes over. Flights to remote airstrips are vulnerable to cancellations from low cloud and storms, and some lodges close seasonally. Arrange travel with operators who monitor river gauges and pack durable waterproofs and medical supplies.
Madang, Wewak, Sepik River
Heavy squalls and high humidity dominate December along the northern coast and Sepik-daytime rains are frequent and river transport often becomes the only practical movement between settlements. Festive holiday travel can increase local traffic on the river and strain air services to the coast, so expect congestion in hubs like Wewak. Waterproof everything and be prepared for rapid changes in plans as creeks and tracks become impassable.
New Britain, New Ireland, Manus, Bougainville
December often brings heavy, humid conditions and rough sea swells across the archipelago; Christmas and holiday travel increases local boat and flight traffic, compounding any weather-related delays. Some resorts and dive operators close for the wet season or run on limited schedules, so confirm availability well ahead. If travelling, bring storm-ready gear, keep full wet-weather protective cases for kit and expect slower inter-island connections.
There are no major festivals or events in Papua New Guinea during December to be aware of.
See how December compares with the rest of the year, then read the full guide.