Ulawun

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.

• 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.