Wau & Bulolo

Introducing Wau & Bulolo

In the 1920s and ’30s New Guinea’s gold rush made the mining towns of Wau (pronounced ‘wow’) and Bulolo thriving centres of industry. Not anymore. The nicest thing about these towns today is the welcome change from the stifling heat and humidity of the coast. At an altitude of about 1300m, the abundant pines give a refreshing slant on equatorial vegetation.

Unemployment is sky-high and local people still work small claims in the area. Gold traders advertise with signs saying: Salim Gol Long Hia (Sell Your Gold Here). Only one old dredge remains in Wau from the glory days, rusting in the creek bed downstream from town. There are seven others in the area, mostly near Bulolo.

A gold mine discovered a few years ago at nearby Hidden Valley is bringing some hope to the area and helping Wau and Bulolo move on from its former ‘cowboy’ town reputation. These days both towns are far safer and friendlier than Lae down the road.

If you make it up here, your best bet is to contact Tim Vincent of the soon to be launched Wau Adventures (474 6210; vincententerrises@global.net.pg; www.wauadventures.com.pg). Tim will be able to coordinate everything from accommodation to meals, trekking guides to local tours.

Donna’s Stoa (474 6210; Wau) is where the PMVs stop in the centre of town.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009