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No. 5334 · Papua New Guinea · Oceania

Wau

7.34°S 146.72°E · 1,080 m

Chart 5334 Atlas coordinate chart

Overview

Wau is a small highland town at 1,100m elevation in Morobe Province, Papua New Guinea. It was the site of a gold rush during the 1920s-1930s and saw fierce fighting during the Battle of Wau in January 1943.

Day Trips · History · Nature · Trekking

Before you go

Accommodation

Only the Wau Motel exists but appears dilapidated. Most visitors stay in villages along trekking routes.

Connectivity

Limited or no telecommunications infrastructure. Visitors should arrange communication before departure.

Food

No restaurants exist. General stores and open-air shacks provide basic supplies. Bring your own food.

Safety

WWII unexploded ordnance remains along trails. Hire local guides and use extreme caution when trekking.

Transport

PMVs run between Lae and Wau taking about 5 hours. North Coast Aviation flies one weekly Islander flight from Lae as of 2017.