Salamaua
Morobe
Salamaua is a small town located on a narrow isthmus along the northeastern coastline of Papua New Guinea in Morobe Province. It is geographically notable for being situated between the coast and inland mountains, creating a unique natural setting. Historically, Salamaua served as a key staging post in the 1920s for gold miners heading to the inland goldfields around Wau via the challenging Black Cat Track. Though briefly considered as the capital of the Territory of New Guinea in 1937, this plan was reversed in favor of Lae. During World War II, Salamaua was occupied by Japanese forces in March 1942 and later recaptured by Australian and United States troops in September 1943 during the Salamaua–Lae campaign. The town was destroyed during its recapture, and today the area is occupied by the villages of Kela and Lagui, as well as holiday homes primarily owned by expatriates from Lae. Salamaua's rich history and scenic coastal location make it a place of interest for visitors intrigued by wartime history and the natural environment of Papua New Guinea.
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Tip: Visitors should plan to reach Salamaua by boat from Lae, as it is the only direct access route. The best time to visit is during the dry season to avoid heavy rains that can affect travel and outdoor activities. Booking local guides familiar with the history and terrain can enrich the experience, especially for exploring WWII sites and the surrounding natural landscape. Although the original town was destroyed, the current villages and holiday houses offer insight into local culture and a peaceful coastal retreat.
Interesting facts
- •Salamaua was once considered as the capital of the Territory of New Guinea after the 1937 eruption of Rabaul's caldera.
- •The town was a critical staging post for gold miners traveling the challenging Black Cat Track to the goldfields at Wau.
- •Salamaua was captured by Japanese forces in March 1942 and recaptured by Allied forces in September 1943 during a major WWII campaign.
- •The original town was destroyed during WWII and is no longer inhabited as a town; current settlements are villages and holiday homes.
History
Salamaua developed as a strategic staging post in the 1920s for gold miners exploring the nearby goldfields of Wau.
In 1937, it was briefly considered as the capital of the Territory of New Guinea after volcanic damage to Rabaul, but Lae was ultimately chosen instead.
During World War II, Japanese forces captured Salamaua in March 1942, and it was retaken by Allied forces in September 1943 during a significant military campaign.
The town was destroyed in the fighting and never fully rebuilt, with the area now occupied by smaller villages and holiday homes.
