Ulawun
Volcano One of Papua New Guinea's most active volcanoes
Ulawun on New Britain is an active stratovolcano; it draws volcanologists, photographers and adventurous trekkers to nearby settlements when activity and access permit.
Ulawun is a prominent stratovolcano on New Britain island in Papua New Guinea and is among the country’s most volcanically active peaks. It rises steeply from near sea level to a summit over 2,300 metres and is part of the Bismarck volcanic arc.
The volcano’s flanks are steep and heavily vegetated where not covered by recent lava or ash, and access is limited by rugged terrain and the risk of volcanic activity. Scientific teams and local authorities monitor emissions and activity because eruptions can generate ash plumes and pyroclastic flows that affect nearby communities.
Ulawun has produced repeated eruptions in the 20th and 21st centuries; significant explosive events have occurred in recent decades that prompted evacuations and ashfall over surrounding areas. Its activity is driven by subduction-related volcanism along the regional arc.
Ulawun is located on the north coast of New Britain island in East New Britain Province, Papua New Guinea, rising from near the coastal plain into a high volcanic cone.
- Elevation and activity: One of Papua New Guinea's most active stratovolcanoes with a steep profile and a summit elevation of about 2,334 metres.
Tips for Visiting Ulawun #
- Ulawun is an active volcano-check the Papua New Guinea Volcano Observatory notices and local authorities for current activity levels before planning any approach or viewing trips.
- Use Kimbe/Hoskins (Kimbe is the main West New Britain hub) as your staging point for guided day trips or boat trips that view Ulawun from a safe distance rather than attempting independent approaches.
- Never attempt to climb or get close during periods of unrest; ashfall, gas, and sudden eruptions are risks-follow guidance from local authorities and licensed guides at all times.
Best Time to Visit Ulawun #
If visiting the volcano area, choose the drier months (roughly June-September) for easier access - but always verify current volcanic activity and local safety notices first.
Weather & Climate near Ulawun #
Ulawun's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 13°C to 23°C. Heavy rainfall (2956 mm/year), wettest in March.
January
January is the warmest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (310 mm).
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February
February is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (280 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (329 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (266 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (193 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Significant rainfall (182 mm).
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (235 mm).
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August
August is the coolest month with highs of 21°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (231 mm).
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September
September is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Heavy rain (202 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Significant rainfall (194 mm).
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November
November is mild with highs of 22°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (234 mm).
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December
December is the warmest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Heavy rain (300 mm).
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