Port Moresby in October

October weather, activities, events & insider tips

October Weather in Port Moresby

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is October Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season conditions - October marks the end of the dry season with minimal rainfall (0 mm total) making it ideal for outdoor activities and island excursions
Perfect temperatures for hiking - Daily highs of 32°C (89°F) and overnight lows of 23°C (74°F) create comfortable conditions for the Papua New Guinea day walks and Mount Wilhelm approaches
Optimal visibility for diving - The dry season delivers crystal-clear water visibility of 25-30 m (82-98 ft) around Loloata Island and Bootless Bay, with calm seas perfect for snorkeling
Festival season timing - October coincides with several cultural celebrations including village sing-sings and the lead-up to Independence preparations, offering authentic cultural experiences

Considerations

Approaching wet season transition - While October is technically dry, sporadic afternoon thunderstorms begin appearing (10 rainy days total), requiring flexible daily planning
Peak tourist pricing - As the last month of dry season, accommodation rates are 30-40% higher than wet season prices, and popular tours book out 2-3 weeks in advance
Intense UV exposure - With clear skies and UV index of 8, sun protection becomes critical, especially for outdoor activities between 10am-3pm when temperatures feel like 37°C (98°F) due to 70% humidity

Best Activities in October

Kokoda Track Day Sections

October offers the last reliable dry weather window for tackling sections of the historic Papua New Guinea. Morning temperatures of 23°C (74°F) are perfect for starting early, while the 32°C (89°F) afternoon heat makes shorter day sections ideal. The track conditions are at their best - firm underfoot with minimal mud, unlike the treacherous wet season months. Clear weather provides impressive views across the Owen Stanley Ranges.

Booking Tip: Book guided day walks 2-3 weeks ahead through licensed operators (typically PGK 850-1,200 per person). Look for operators with traditional owner partnerships and proper insurance. Early morning starts (5:30am) are essential to avoid afternoon heat.

Loloata Island Marine Activities

October delivers the year's best diving and snorkeling conditions around Loloata Island, just 45 minutes from Port Moresby. Water temperatures hover at perfect 28°C (82°F) with virtually no rainfall affecting visibility. The dry season means calm seas and excellent underwater visibility of 25-30 m (82-98 ft). This is when you'll spot the most marine life including reef sharks, barracuda schools, and pristine coral formations.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost PGK 450-650 including equipment and lunch. Book 10-14 days ahead as October is peak season for marine activities. Look for operators offering multiple dive sites and PADI certification. Morning departures avoid afternoon weather build-up.

Port Moresby Cultural Village Tours

October timing coincides with increased cultural activity as communities prepare for Independence celebrations in September spillover events. Village visits showcase traditional dances, bilum bag weaving, and ancestral storytelling. The dry weather allows access to highland village communities typically unreachable during wet season. Morning temperatures of 23-28°C (73-82°F) make walking tours comfortable.

Booking Tip: Cultural tours range PGK 280-450 per person for half-day experiences. Book through community-approved operators who share profits with villages. Morning tours (7am-11am) avoid peak heat and afternoon storms. Ensure operators provide cultural briefings and appropriate protocols.

Varirata National Park Birdwatching

October marks peak birdwatching season as migratory species join resident populations before wet season breeding. Early morning temperatures of 23°C (74°F) and clear skies create ideal conditions for spotting Birds of great destination, Raggiana, and King Parrots. The 1,000 m (3,280 ft) elevation provides relief from coastal humidity, with crisp mountain air perfect for dawn wildlife walks.

Booking Tip: Guided birdwatching tours cost PGK 320-520 per person for 4-5 hour experiences. Book guides with ornithology knowledge at least 1 week ahead. 5:30am starts are essential for peak bird activity. Look for operators providing binoculars and species identification guides.

Bomana War Cemetery and Historical Sites

October's comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall make it ideal for exploring Port Moresby's WWII historical sites. The weather allows for extended outdoor walking tours without the exhausting heat-humidity combination of other months. Clear skies provide excellent photography conditions for documenting memorials and learning about Papua New Guinea's wartime history.

Booking Tip: Historical tours typically cost PGK 180-320 per person for half-day programs. Self-guided visits are free, but guided tours provide essential historical context. Book 3-5 days ahead for group tours. Morning visits (8am-11am) offer best weather conditions and respectful quiet atmosphere.

Ela Beach and Waterfront Precinct

October evenings are perfect for experiencing Port Moresby's revitalized waterfront area. Afternoon temperatures drop to comfortable 28°C (82°F) by 5pm, with gentle sea breezes reducing humidity. The dry weather means outdoor dining and walking are pleasant, while clear skies create impressive sunset views over Fairfax Harbour. Local families gather here during October's comfortable evenings.

Booking Tip: Waterfront dining ranges PGK 45-120 per meal. Evening food markets operate 4pm-8pm with local specialties for PGK 15-35 per dish. No advance booking needed for casual visits, but restaurant reservations recommended for weekend evenings during peak season.

October Events & Festivals

Mid to Late October

Hiri Moale Festival Preparations

October sees communities across Central Province preparing for traditional celebrations, with practice sessions for cultural dances and canoe displays. While the main festival varies yearly, October preparation activities offer authentic glimpses of Motuan maritime traditions and trade ceremonies.

Mid October

University of Papua New Guinea Cultural Week

UPNG hosts annual cultural celebrations featuring student performances representing PNG's 800+ language groups. Traditional dress competitions, string band performances, and regional food displays create an authentic cultural immersion experience accessible to visitors.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or poncho - October's 10 rainy days bring intense but brief 20-30 minute downpours, usually in late afternoon

SPF 50+ sunscreen and reapplication schedule - UV index of 8 combined with equatorial sun requires protection every 2 hours, especially during 10am-3pm peak exposure

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - Avoid polyester and synthetic fabrics that trap moisture in 70% humidity conditions

Sturdy hiking boots for day walks - Essential for Kokoda sections and Varirata trails, with ankle support for uneven terrain

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - Despite dry conditions, mosquitoes remain active during evening hours around urban areas

Quick-dry towel and swimwear - Multiple water activities and afternoon showers make fast-drying materials essential

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - Strong UV exposure and occasional afternoon winds require secure sun protection

Portable water bottle (2+ liters) - Dehydration occurs rapidly in 32°C (89°F) heat with high humidity during outdoor activities

Long pants and covered shoulders for cultural sites - Village visits and traditional ceremonies require respectful modest dress

Waterproof bag for electronics - Protect cameras and phones during boat trips and unexpected afternoon storms

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early August - October is peak dry season with limited hotel inventory, prices jump 40% if booking last-minute versus advance planning

Start outdoor activities at 6am - Locals begin hiking and diving early to avoid 11am-3pm heat peak when temperature feels like 37°C (98°F) due to humidity

Carry cash in small denominations - Many cultural tour operators and village visits require PGK payment, ATMs can be unreliable outside main city center

Learn basic Tok Pisin greetings - Simple phrases like 'Gud morning' and 'Tenkyu tru' create immediate positive connections with locals, especially in village settings

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating afternoon storm intensity - October storms are brief but violent with heavy rain and lightning, requiring solid indoor shelter not just umbrellas

Scheduling consecutive outdoor days - The heat-humidity combination (feels like 37°C/98°F) is exhausting; alternate adventure days with cultural indoor activities

Assuming dry season means no rain gear needed - Those 10 rainy days produce intense downpours that can soak through regular clothing in minutes