Things To Do
in Wau
Wau is a remote highland town in Papua New Guinea's Morobe Province, set in a lush valley at high elevation. Surrounded by pine forests and rugged ridges, it has a storied past tied to tin mining and World War II history. Today it serves as a gateway to nearby natural attractions, while retaining a laid-back village atmosphere.
Visitors encounter warm hospitality, striking panoramas of the Papua New Guinean highlands, and a sense of stepping back in time from modern city life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Wau History Museum, where you can learn about the gold rush era that transformed the region. Guided tours will provide insights into the artifacts and stories of the early miners. Enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, sampling traditional Papua New Guinean dishes.
Spend the afternoon walking the trails around the museum, taking in the lush scenery and spotting local wildlife. You can opt for a guided hike to the nearby waterfalls, which will be a perfect photo opportunity amidst nature. Don't forget to engage with locals along your journey to learn about their way of life.
As the sun sets, settle in at a local eatery for dinner, enjoying fresh catch of the day or a hearty stew. Spend the remainder of the evening at a lodge, where you can chat with fellow travelers or locals about their experiences in this unique region. The cool evening breeze and the sounds of nature will create a perfect end to your first day.
Begin your morning with a visit to a nearby village to witness traditional dance and music performances. This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to connect with the culture and heritage of the local people. You may also have a chance to participate in a weaving workshop or learn about local handicrafts.
After lunch, continue your exploration by visiting local markets where you can find handmade crafts and fresh produce. Interact with artisans and vendors, gaining more insight into daily life in Wau. Join a cooking class to learn how to prepare a traditional meal, enhancing your culinary skills and appreciation for local cuisine.
As dusk falls, return to the lodge for a cultural night featuring storytelling from local elders. Gather around a bonfire where you can share your experiences with other guests while savoring a delicious meal. This intimate setting fosters connections and leaves you with a deeper understanding of Papua New Guinean culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚕Local transportation (short ride) | $5-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget lodging per night | $25-40 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning highland scenery and panoramic photography opportunities
- Warm, welcoming communities and a slower pace of life
- Limited infrastructure and healthcare facilities compared with major cities
- Remote location with occasionally challenging travel logistics
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Olsem wanem?" - How are you?
- "Tenkyu tru" - Thank you very much
- "Mi save tok Tok Pisin" - I can speak a little Tok Pisin
Places to Visit in Wau
Visit one of these nice places.
A vantage point that offers sweeping panoramas of the surrounding highland valley and forested ridges, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
A quiet memorial site with remnants from World War II era; soft light and sparse crowds create a contemplative atmosphere for photography.
Colorful stalls and first-light reflections on produce and woven goods make for vibrant street photography.
Food in Wau
Wau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional underground-pit meal where pork, yam, taro leaves, and other ingredients are steamed in an earth oven for a smoky, communal dining experience.
Must-Try!
A ceviche-inspired dish of citrus-cured fish in coconut milk with a touch of chili; refreshing and popular near coastal and market areas.
Sweet potato (kaukau) cooked with leafy greens and coconut milk, a comforting staple in highland homes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh produce, yams, taro, sweet potatoes, and prepared snacks from numerous stalls.
Small kiosks and vendors along town lanes serving grilled fish, cassava chips, roasted plantains, and other simple snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; greet elders with respect and use local titles where appropriate.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas; shoulders and knees should be covered in many village settings.
Always ask permission before photographing people, particularly in villages or private spaces; be sensitive to cultural norms.
Safety
Tipping in Wau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is modest in PNG. Round up for guides, drivers, and service staff; cash gifts are often appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash in Papua New Guinean Kina is the most reliable method. Some larger lodges and shops may accept cards, but always carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies, good visibility, and comfortable daytime temperatures. Ideal for hiking and outdoor photography; evenings can be cool.
Frequent rain and damp conditions; trails may be muddy and some viewpoints obscured by clouds. Pack a waterproof layer and protect gear.
Wau at Night
Hiking in Wau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ridgeline hike offering expansive views of the highland valley and forested slopes.
A moderate hike around a nearby crater area with viewpoints over green valleys and pine forests.
Airports
How to reach Wau by plane.
A small domestic airport serving Wau and surrounding communities; transfers to larger hubs can be limited and may require regional connections.
Relatively larger regional airport near Lae with more flight options, useful for connections to Port Moresby and other centers.
The main international gateway to Papua New Guinea; connects to international and domestic destinations, with onward travel possibilities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of ethnic groups and languages typical of the highland and lowland interface, with local customs shaping daily life.
Historical influence from tin mining and associated migrant communities contributing to the town’s cultural mosaic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across PNG, with local matches and informal games in towns and villages.
Widely played and watched, especially among youth and community clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In rural PNG areas, communicate clearly about avoiding meat broth and fish stocks. Request vegetable dishes, boiled yams, taro, greens, beans, lentils, or nuts when available. When dining with locals, be prepared for fish or meat dishes to appear; specify preferences ahead of time.