Things to Do in Port Moresby in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Port Moresby
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Wet season transitions bring dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that clear by evening, meaning you get cooler temperatures and can still plan morning activities with confidence - locals call this the 'best swimming weather' because humidity stays around 70% rather than the brutal dry season levels
- March sits right before the main wet season peaks in April-May, so you're getting lower accommodation prices (typically 15-20% cheaper than June-August) without the constant rain that makes May genuinely difficult for travel
- The city's markets are at their best in March - mango season overlaps with the tail end of highland vegetable harvests, so you'll find the freshest produce at Koki and Gordons markets, plus locals are more willing to chat since tourist numbers are minimal
- Varirata National Park and the Sogeri Plateau are actually accessible in March - the roads haven't turned to mud yet, and the forest is lush without being waterlogged, making it the ideal window for seeing birds of paradise when they're most active
Considerations
- Those 10 rainy days mentioned in the data are misleading - you're likely looking at afternoon storms on 18-22 days in reality, typically between 2pm-5pm, which means you need to structure your day around weather rather than your preferences
- March is genuinely hot and sticky, with that 70% humidity feeling closer to 85% when you're walking around midday - if you struggle with heat or have respiratory issues, this isn't your month, and air conditioning becomes non-negotiable rather than a luxury
- Port Moresby doesn't have a tourist infrastructure like other Pacific capitals, and in March even fewer tour operators are running regular schedules - you'll need to be comfortable with last-minute planning and occasional cancellations due to weather
Best Activities in March
Port Moresby Nature Park morning visits
March mornings between 7am-10am are perfect for the Nature Park before heat and afternoon storms roll in. The cassowaries and tree kangaroos are most active in early hours, and you'll have the boardwalks largely to yourself. The UV index hits 8 by midday, so going early isn't just comfortable, it's necessary. Budget around 2-3 hours, and the park's tree canopy provides decent shade even as temperatures climb toward 31°C (88°F).
Sogeri Plateau and Varirata National Park day trips
The 47 km (29 miles) drive to Sogeri takes about 90 minutes, and March is actually one of the better months because the roads are still passable before the heavy rains turn them to mud in April-May. The plateau sits at around 500 m (1,640 ft) elevation, so it's noticeably cooler than the city. Birds of paradise are breeding in March, making early morning visits worthwhile for wildlife spotting. That said, afternoon storms can make the drive back challenging, so plan to leave Varirata by 1pm.
Loloata Island Resort snorkeling and diving
Located 25 km (15.5 miles) from the city, Loloata offers the clearest water you'll find near Port Moresby, and March visibility tends to be excellent before river runoff increases in the deeper wet season. The 70% humidity is actually less oppressive on the water with sea breezes. Snorkeling is decent right off the resort's jetty, while diving trips go to nearby reefs and wrecks. Water temperature sits around 28-29°C (82-84°F), so you barely need a wetsuit.
Koki and Gordons market cultural visits
March is mango season and you'll find at least eight varieties at these markets, plus sweet potato, taro, and greens from the highlands. Koki Market sits on stilts over the water and is genuinely fascinating for understanding how Port Moresby actually functions beyond the expat bubble. Go between 7am-9am when it's cooler and vendors are setting up, before the midday heat makes it uncomfortable. Gordons Market is larger but less atmospheric. Both require security awareness, so go with a local guide or your hotel can arrange a driver who'll stay with you.
Bomana War Cemetery and historical sites
March's variable weather actually works well for cemetery and historical site visits since you can duck into the small museum if rain starts. The cemetery is immaculately maintained and sits about 20 km (12.4 miles) from the city center. It's a sobering reminder of Papua New Guinea's WWII history and takes about 60-90 minutes to visit properly. The grounds are open and exposed, so that UV index of 8 means sunscreen and a hat are essential despite any cloud cover.
Ela Beach and Paga Point sunset visits
With storms typically clearing by 5-6pm in March, evening beach visits become the most pleasant part of the day. Ela Beach is the main city beach, though swimming isn't recommended due to water quality. Paga Point offers better views and is where locals gather for sunset. The temperature drops from that 31°C (88°F) peak to something more comfortable around 26-27°C (79-81°F) by 6pm. Security is better at Paga Point, but still go with others and leave before dark around 7pm.
March Events & Festivals
Independence anniversary preparations
While Independence Day itself is September 16, you'll notice preparations ramping up in March as various cultural groups begin rehearsals for the year's celebrations. It's not a tourist event per se, but you might catch impromptu sing-sing practice sessions in villages around the city, particularly on weekends. Worth asking your hotel or guide if any communities are practicing, as these informal gatherings offer genuine cultural insight without the staged quality of festival performances.