Port Moresby in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March 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 March Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season prime time - March marks the peak of Port Moresby's dry season with zero average rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and clear harbor views
Perfect diving conditions at Bootless Bay - water visibility reaches 20-25 m (65-82 ft) in March with calm seas and minimal runoff from rivers
Traditional singsing (cultural festival) season - many villages hold their annual celebrations during March's favorable weather, offering authentic cultural experiences
Comfortable evening temperatures around 23°C (74°F) make night markets and waterfront dining particularly enjoyable without the oppressive heat of later dry season months

Considerations

High UV intensity (index 8) requires constant sun protection and limits midday outdoor activities between 11am-3pm when temperatures feel like 35°C+ (95°F+)
Tourist accommodation prices peak in March as it's considered the best weather month, with hotels charging 20-30% more than wet season rates
Limited afternoon cloud cover means less natural shade and higher heat stress during walking tours of downtown areas

Best Activities in March

Coral reef snorkeling and diving expeditions

March offers the year's best underwater visibility at Port Moresby's nearby reefs. Water temperatures sit at a comfortable 27°C (81°F) with minimal rainfall runoff clouding the water. The calm seas make boat transfers comfortable even for beginners. Early morning departures (7am-8am) avoid the intense midday sun while maximizing underwater time.

Booking Tip: Book 14-21 days ahead through certified PADI operators. Full-day trips typically cost K250-400 (US$70-110) including equipment and lunch. Look for operators with proper insurance and emergency oxygen. Check current availability in booking section below.

Cultural village tours and traditional singsing experiences

March coincides with singsing season when many villages hold their annual cultural celebrations. The dry weather makes access to highland villages much easier via unsealed roads that become impassable during wet season. Village tours typically run 6-8 hours including traditional cooking demonstrations and bilum (string bag) weaving workshops.

Booking Tip: Community-based tours range K150-300 (US$40-85) per person. Book through village tourism cooperatives at least 10 days ahead as group sizes are limited. Transport to villages 50-80 km (31-50 miles) outside the city requires 4WD vehicles.

Nature park hiking and bird watching

March's dry conditions make trail access optimal at Varirata National Park, just 42 km (26 miles) from the city. Morning temperatures around 25°C (77°F) are perfect for the 3-5 hour hiking circuits. This is prime bird watching season with over 100 species active during cooler morning hours. The park's elevated position at 800 m (2,625 ft) provides relief from coastal humidity.

Booking Tip: Park entry costs K20 per person, guided walks K80-120 additional. Start before 7am to avoid afternoon heat. Bring 2-3 liters (0.5-0.8 gallons) of water per person. Book guides through park headquarters 3-5 days ahead.

Harbor island hopping and beach picnics

March's calm harbor conditions make day trips to nearby islands like Loloata and Motupore ideal. Water temperatures of 27°C (81°F) are perfect for swimming, while consistent trade winds provide natural cooling. The dry season means beaches are at their most pristine without storm debris.

Booking Tip: Island transfers typically cost K100-200 (US$28-55) return per person. Private boat charters for groups of 6-8 people range K800-1200 (US$220-330) full day. Book through registered marine operators with proper safety equipment and local knowledge.

Historical WWII site tours

March's excellent weather conditions make visiting outdoor historical sites comfortable. The Bomana War Cemetery and various crash sites around the city are best explored during this dry period when access roads are in good condition. Early morning tours (8am-11am) avoid the peak UV exposure while providing optimal photography lighting.

Booking Tip: Historical tours cost K120-250 (US$35-70) for half-day experiences. Look for guides with historical expertise and proper vehicle insurance. Book 7-10 days ahead as knowledgeable historical guides are limited. See current tour options in booking section below.

Traditional market and food tours

March's dry weather makes exploring outdoor markets like Gordons Market much more comfortable. The reduced humidity means produce is fresher and stall conditions are more pleasant. Morning market tours (6am-9am) showcase the best selection while avoiding midday heat. Local food preparation demonstrations work better in dry conditions.

Booking Tip: Food tours typically cost K80-150 (US$22-42) for 3-4 hour experiences including tastings. Book with guides who have local market relationships and food safety knowledge. Groups are usually limited to 6-8 people for manageable market navigation.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March

Independence preparation festivities

March marks the beginning of preparations for PNG's September Independence Day, with various cultural groups practicing traditional dances and preparing costumes. Many suburban communities hold practice singsings that visitors can observe, offering authentic cultural experiences without the crowds of the main September celebration.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc stick - UV index 8 means burns occur within 15-20 minutes without protection

Lightweight long-sleeved shirts in light colors - better sun protection than repeated sunscreen applications in 31°C (88°F) heat

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - essential for outdoor activities with minimal natural shade available

Breathable hiking boots - many attractions require walking on uneven coral-based surfaces and volcanic rock

Quick-dry pants in neutral colors - suitable for both cultural sites requiring modesty and outdoor activities

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - while drier than wet season, evening mosquitoes are still active around water sources

Electrolyte replacement tablets or powder - 70% humidity combined with high temperatures leads to significant fluid loss

Lightweight rain jacket - despite being dry season, short afternoon showers occur on about 10 days in March

Quality sunglasses with UV protection - glare from harbor water and coral surfaces is intense during midday hours

Reef-safe sunscreen for water activities - many dive operators now require environmentally safe products

Insider Knowledge

Shop at Vision City Megamall during midday heat (11am-3pm) when outdoor activities are uncomfortable - it's when locals do their shopping and the food court offers authentic local cuisine in air conditioning

Book domestic flights to other PNG destinations for early morning departures - March's clear weather means fewer flight delays, but afternoon thermal activity can cause bumpy rides on small aircraft

Hire guides through the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority office in downtown Port Moresby - they maintain a register of certified guides with insurance and cultural knowledge that backpacker-oriented operators often lack

Exchange money at Bank of PNG branches rather than hotels - March's high tourist season means hotel exchange rates are particularly poor, sometimes 15-20% below bank rates

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating sun exposure impact - many visitors get severe sunburn on their first day thinking tropical sun is similar to temperate climates, but UV intensity at 9°S latitude is extreme

Scheduling too many midday outdoor activities - locals avoid being outside between 11am-3pm for good reason, plan indoor cultural sites or shopping during these hours

Not bringing enough water for day trips - 70% humidity means you'll sweat more than expected, bring at least 3 liters (0.8 gallons) per person for full-day outdoor activities