In response to the defeat in South of New Guinea, the Japanese resolved to strengthen their hold in their remaining territory.  In January 1943, 3000 Japanese troops set out from Mubo along winding jungle tracks to seize Wau airfield from the Australians.

The last Japanese offensive to gain new ground in New Guinea was stopped by the Australians but they did not have the strength to go onto the offensive. The Australian units in the Wau-Bulolo area were completely dependent on air support for reinforcements as well as supplies at that time.

Morobe Highlands offers a wide variety of interests for visitors, including a five day white water rafting trip down the Watut River. The Watut tumbles from the 3000 metre Kuper Range to sea level at the rate of 20 metres a kilometre, rushing through 150 rapids.

Other attractions in Morobe include the Research Institution, the Wau Ecology Institute, which is a privately funded centre dedicated to soil regeneration and the investigation of seed dispersal by birds. The institute also has a museum and zoo, open to the public.

There are numerous walking tracks in Morobe, especially in the Wau area. Old gold mining routes reveal interesting relics and wartime fighter planes can still be seen in the jungle. Experienced guides are sometimes necessary on the more difficult walks.