Port Moresby in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Port Moresby

31°C (88°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season finale with minimal rainfall - only 0.0mm (0.0 inches) of rain making it ideal for outdoor exploration and walking tours around the city
Perfect harbor conditions for boat trips to nearby islands with calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkeling at Loloata and Fisherman's Island
Shoulder season pricing before May tourist influx - accommodation rates 15-20% lower than peak months with better availability at quality guesthouses
Comfortable evening temperatures of 23°C (74°F) make night markets and outdoor dining at Ela Beach particularly enjoyable after 6pm

Considerations

High humidity at 70% combined with 31°C (88°F) daytime temperatures creates uncomfortable midday conditions requiring frequent shade breaks and hydration
Variable weather patterns mean unpredictable afternoon cloud cover that can quickly shift from sunny to overcast, affecting outdoor photography plans
Increasing tourist numbers as dry season ends means popular spots like this destination become crowded on weekends between 10am-2pm

Best Activities in April

Port Moresby Harbor Island Hopping

April's calm seas and excellent visibility make this the ideal month for day trips to Loloata Island and Fisherman's Island. Water temperatures reach 28°C (82°F) with minimal wind, creating perfect snorkeling conditions. The dry weather means reliable boat schedules without weather cancellations that plague the wet season.

Booking Tip: Book island tours 7-10 days ahead through hotel concierges or waterfront operators. Day trips typically range PGK 180-280 ($50-80) per person including snorkeling gear. Look for operators with covered boats and safety equipment. Check current island tour options in the booking widget below.

PNG National Museum and Cultural Center Visits

April's variable weather makes indoor cultural experiences essential backup plans. The museum's air conditioning provides relief from 70% humidity, while the outdoor sections are best visited early morning (8-10am) when temperatures are still manageable at 25°C (77°F). Traditional performances happen more frequently in April as cultural groups prepare for May festivals.

Booking Tip: Entry fees around PGK 15-25 ($4-7) per person. Visit weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities. Guided cultural tours typically cost PGK 120-200 ($35-55) and include transportation. See current cultural tour options in the booking section below.

Varirata National Park Hiking

The final month of dry conditions makes April perfect for exploring PNG's only national park near the capital. Trails are at their driest and most accessible, with minimal mud and clear mountain views. Early morning hikes (6-9am) avoid the midday heat while offering the best wildlife spotting opportunities as temperatures rise from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).

Booking Tip: Park entry typically PGK 20-30 ($6-8) per person. Guided nature walks cost PGK 150-250 ($40-70) including transportation from city center. Book midweek to avoid weekend crowds. Most tours depart 6am to beat the heat. Check current hiking tour availability in the booking widget below.

Traditional Market and Food Experiences

April's warm evenings and dry weather create ideal conditions for exploring Port Moresby's markets and street food scene. Gordons Market is most comfortable after 4pm when temperatures drop to 26°C (79°F). The dry season means fresh produce is at its peak, with local fruits like rambutan and mangoes in abundance.

Booking Tip: Market visits are free but budget PGK 20-50 ($6-14) for food tastings. Food walking tours typically cost PGK 100-180 ($28-50) per person for 3-4 hour experiences. Evening food tours (5-8pm) are most comfortable in April's weather. See current food tour options in booking section below.

WWII Historical Site Tours

Dry April conditions provide excellent access to outdoor historical sites around Port Moresby. Clear skies offer better photography at Bomana War Cemetery and other WWII locations. The comfortable morning temperatures of 23-27°C (73-81°F) make walking tours more enjoyable before midday humidity becomes oppressive.

Booking Tip: Historical site tours typically range PGK 200-350 ($55-95) for half-day experiences including transportation. Book through licensed guides who provide detailed wartime context. Morning tours (8am-12pm) offer the most comfortable conditions. Current historical tour options available in booking widget below.

Adventure Park and Nature Activities

this destination is at its most accessible in April's dry conditions. Wildlife viewing is optimal in early morning hours when temperatures are cooler and animals more active. The park's walking trails are in excellent condition without wet season mud, making it perfect for families and photography enthusiasts.

Booking Tip: Nature Park entry around PGK 35-45 ($10-12) per adult. Best visited 8am-11am or after 3pm to avoid peak heat. Guided wildlife tours cost PGK 80-140 ($22-38) additional. Weekend crowds peak 10am-2pm, so weekday visits recommended. Check current nature tour availability below.

April Events & Festivals

Throughout April

Hiri Moale Festival Preparations

While the main festival occurs in September, April marks the beginning of traditional preparation activities. Local communities start canoe building demonstrations and cultural practice sessions that visitors can observe, offering authentic cultural insights without tourist crowds.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity as it traps moisture and becomes uncomfortable

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen for UV index 8 - reapply every 90 minutes during outdoor activities

Quick-dry hiking shorts and moisture-wicking shirts for nature park visits and island hopping

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip for boat transfers and wet surfaces at harbors

Light rain jacket or packable umbrella - April has 10 rainy days with brief but intense afternoon showers

Wide-brimmed hat or cap essential for midday sun protection during market visits and outdoor tours

Insect repellent with DEET for early morning and evening activities when mosquitoes are most active

Reusable water bottle (2-liter capacity) - dehydration happens quickly in 31°C (88°F) temperatures with high humidity

Waterproof phone case for boat trips and potential afternoon rain showers

Comfortable closed-toe shoes for hiking Varirata National Park's 15km (9.3 miles) of trails

Insider Knowledge

Local PMVs (public motor vehicles) run most efficiently 6-8am and 4-6pm when temperatures are cooler - avoid midday travel when vehicles become uncomfortably hot without air conditioning

Ela Beach foreshore is where locals gather after 5pm for exercise and socializing - join the evening walking groups for authentic cultural interaction and safety in numbers

Money changers at Jacksons Airport offer better rates than city center locations, but bring Australian dollars as USD exchange rates are less favorable in Port Moresby

Book accommodations in Boroko or Downtown areas for walking access to markets and cultural sites - avoid staying near the airport as transport costs PGK 60-100 ($17-28) each way

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when temperatures peak at 31°C (88°F) with oppressive humidity - plan indoor attractions during these hours instead

Underestimating hydration needs - most visitors require 3-4 liters of water daily in April's warm, humid conditions but only pack single water bottles

Wearing dark colors that absorb heat rather than light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that reflect sun and allow air circulation in the tropical climate