Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

A large caldera lake on the Willaumez Peninsula of New Britain, this WMA protects the unique lake ecosystem and surrounding rainforests. It's important...

Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area at a Glance

Location
Bismarck Archipelago, Papua New Guinea, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
-5.000000, 149.900000
Area
100 km²
IUCN Category
VI
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate

Getting to Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

Nearest airport: Tokua Airport (Rabaul) (RAB), 284 km away.

Weather & Climate in Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

The warmest temperatures in Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area occur in May, averaging 25.4°C (up to 26.3°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 24.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in July with average rainfall of 126.9mm. Average humidity: 75.8%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 24.9°C (rainfall: 469.5mm)
  • February: 24.7°C (rainfall: 499.2mm)
  • March: 24.9°C (rainfall: 339.1mm)
  • April: 25.0°C (rainfall: 318.7mm)
  • May: 25.4°C (rainfall: 246.8mm)
  • June: 25.2°C (rainfall: 133.1mm)
  • July: 25.3°C (rainfall: 126.9mm)
  • August: 25.1°C (rainfall: 127.9mm)
  • September: 25.2°C (rainfall: 144.5mm)
  • October: 25.3°C (rainfall: 221.0mm)
  • November: 25.3°C (rainfall: 253.4mm)
  • December: 24.9°C (rainfall: 410.8mm)

Best Time to Visit Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

The best months to visit Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area are June, July, September, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 24.89°C, rainfall 469.5mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 80%
  • February: Good, temperature 24.74°C, rainfall 499.2mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 80.9%
  • March: Good, temperature 24.95°C, rainfall 339.1mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 24.99°C, rainfall 318.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 78.7%
  • May: Good, temperature 25.38°C, rainfall 246.8mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • June: Great, temperature 25.19°C, rainfall 133.1mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 76.7%
  • July: Great, temperature 25.25°C, rainfall 126.9mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 75.8%
  • August: Good, temperature 25.14°C, rainfall 127.9mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 75.4%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.17°C, rainfall 144.5mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 75.7%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.28°C, rainfall 221mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 75.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 25.25°C, rainfall 253.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 76.4%
  • December: Good, temperature 24.86°C, rainfall 410.8mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 79.8%

Wildlife in Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

Home to 1 recorded species including 1 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

Based on average temperature of 25.1°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 25°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Bismarck Archipelago

Visitor Tips - Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area

Lake Dakataua offers an unparalleled glimpse into Papua New Guinea's wild heart, where ancient volcanic landscapes meet vibrant rainforests. We love the profound sense of remoteness and the opportunity to connect with nature and local communities on a deeply personal level. The lake's serene waters, teeming with unique birdlife, provide a truly unforgettable experience that feels both ancient and alive.

Gate Times

Access to Lake Dakataua WMA is not through traditional gates; rather, it is managed by local communities. We strongly recommend coordinating all visits through a reputable, locally-based tour operator or directly with the community-based management committee well in advance. Permits are essential and are typically arranged as part of your pre-booked package. Expect activities to run during daylight hours, generally from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with flexibility for early morning birding or sunset viewing on the lake.

Tipping

Tipping is a gesture of appreciation for good service, though not strictly mandatory. For local guides, we suggest 50-100 PGK per guest per day, depending on the quality of service and the duration of your stay. For boat operators or porters, 20-50 PGK per day is appropriate. We recommend tipping in local currency and discreetly, perhaps at the end of your time with them.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Papua New Guinea

Travel advisory for Papua New Guinea

Lake Dakataua Wildlife Management Area FAQs

When is the best time to visit Lake Dakataua WMA for wildlife viewing and comfortable travel?

The optimal time to visit Lake Dakataua WMA is during Papua New Guinea's dry season, typically from May to October. This period offers clearer skies and less rainfall, making rainforest treks more comfortable and improving visibility for birdwatching around the caldera lake. The calmer lake conditions also enhance opportunities for boat excursions to spot endemic fish species.

What unique wildlife can I expect to see at Lake Dakataua, and what activities are available beyond just viewing?

Lake Dakataua is renowned for its unique limnological ecosystem, hosting several species of endemic fish found nowhere else, which can often be observed during boat trips or snorkeling. Beyond these fascinating aquatic inhabitants, the surrounding rainforests are a haven for diverse birdlife, including various species of parrots, hornbills, and birds of paradise, best spotted on guided nature walks. Visitors can also engage with local communities, learning about their sustainable practices and cultural connection to the lake.

How do I get to Lake Dakataua WMA, and what kind of accommodation should I expect in such a remote area?

Accessing Lake Dakataua WMA typically involves flying into Hoskins Airport (WASA) or Kimbe on New Britain Island, followed by a combination of road and potentially boat transfers to reach the remote caldera. Due to its uncrowded nature and isolated location, visitors should expect basic but comfortable eco-lodge or guesthouse accommodations, often run by local communities, rather than luxury resorts. It's advisable to arrange travel and lodging through a specialized tour operator familiar with the region.

What specific safety precautions, beyond malaria, should I take when visiting Lake Dakataua WMA in Papua New Guinea?

While a moderate malaria risk exists, visitors to Lake Dakataua WMA should also prioritize general travel safety in remote Papua New Guinea. Always travel with experienced local guides, especially when undertaking rainforest treks or lake excursions, and inform someone of your itinerary. It's crucial to stay hydrated, protect against sun exposure, and ensure all drinking water is purified or bottled, as medical facilities are extremely limited in this isolated region.

What is the typical cost range for a multi-day visit to Lake Dakataua WMA, considering its remote location and unique experience?

A multi-day visit to Lake Dakataua WMA, given its remote location in Papua New Guinea, is generally not a budget-friendly trip. Costs can range from approximately $300-$600 USD per person per day, depending on the duration, level of accommodation, and inclusions like guided tours, park fees, and transfers from Hoskins or Kimbe. It's recommended to budget for comprehensive travel insurance and to book through reputable operators who can provide transparent pricing for this unique eco-tourism experience.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.