The adventure-of-a-lifetime begins today as we board our international flight to Papua New Guinea. Upon arrival in Port Moresby, we are greeted by our local guide and transferred to our hotel. After check-in, you will have ample time to settle in to your new surrounds, rest or take a dip in the swimming pool before we gather together in the evening for our first trip briefing. We will then retire to bed early in preparation for our first big day of trekking tomorrow!
Today, we rise early to meet airline requirements for our scheduled flight over the Owen Stanley Ranges to Kokoda—or a flight into Popondetta, before continuing by private vehicle to Kokoda (flight destination is weather dependent). On both journeys, we will fly high above the lavish mountain scenery of Papua New Guinea. Upon arrival, we will explore the Kokoda battle site and museum with our guide who will give us local insights into the history of the region. After lunch, we will take a short acclimatising walk to our first campsite in the beautiful village of Hoi. Our only objective today is to relax, acclimatise and reach our first night's campsite before dark.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Today we rise early and set a slow and steady pace for our first full day of trekking. We begin with a steep ascent (lucky we all trained hard), giving us the opportunity to admire the breathtaking views en route to the original wartime village of Deniki. This is the site of the 39th Militia Battalion’s first defensive position after withdrawing from Kokoda. We will then stop for a late lunch at the Isurava battle site war memorial, with ample time to explore the area thoroughly. Here, we will learn about the legendary four-day Battle of Isurava—for which the 2/14th Infantry Battalion was sent to support the 39th Militia Battalion—where the legend of ‘The Ragged Bloody Heroes’ was born. From Isurava, we take a short walk to our campsite in Alolo Village. This village was the major logistics support base and first aid post during the Isurava battle.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This morning after breakfast, we begin our trek with a short descent, followed by a long, gradual ascent to Eora Creek battle site. We leave our packs on the main trail and climb a short side trail to a Japanese forest fort, which is commonly referred to as ‘The Lost Battlefield’. The fort covers part of a high ridge with a commanding position overlooking Eora Creek. Here we will have ample time to take photos while we learn about the fort’s defensive significance and how the battle here unfolded. Many Australian soldiers lost their lives at this site before the Japanese fled, and by being here, you will begin to understand what they may have encountered. Entrance to this sacred site is by donation to the landowners from Alolo Village, and assists the people of the village, while helping to also preserve the site for future trekkers. We then continue through verdant jungle terrain to our creekside campsite at Templeton’s Crossing 2 (1,700m).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This morning after breakfast, we begin our adventure with a steep climb and a descent that brings us to Templeton’s Crossing 1 (1,850m), followed by an extended climb on slippery trails to our highest point on Mount Bellamy (2,190m). We then continue to traverse along a beautiful forest trail, which offers occasional glimpses of the sweeping panorama beyond the trees. If time permits, we will take a short excursion to Myola Lakes, the site of a major Australian Army supply depot and evacuation point at various times during the Kokoda campaign. Tonight in the village of Naduri, we will be welcomed as guests of honour with a traditional village ‘Sing Sing’ (celebration).
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
After breakfast, you will be guided around Naduri, a great insight into village life. The afternoon is a great time to catch up on washing clothes and preparing to commence the second half of our trek. After sunset tonight, you will enjoy a small concert before bunking down for a good night’s rest.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Stunning views await us again today as we begin the demanding ascent of Brigade Hill via Mission Ridge. When we reach the summit, we will conduct a small ceremony in honour of the soldiers who fought here and in remembrance of their bravery. We will then begin the long descent to our campsite in Menari Village. Menari is a famous site where the 39th Battalion were withdrawn from the campaign on the eve of the battle at Brigade Hill, while the remaining ‘Ragged Bloody Heroes’ returned to Port Moresby, exhausted and on the brink of total collapse.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This morning after breakfast, we battle through varying terrain, crossing swampy flatlands and the Brown River, motivating and encouraging each other on in the increasing heat. We then begin our ascent up the Maguli Range. While this is not an easy trek, we are rewarded with the incredible view of the sun sinking below the horizon as we reach Nauro Village.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This morning after breakfast, we trek to the top of the Maguli Range, before descending to Ofi Creek via a former major Japanese campsite. After a refreshing swim in the creek, we cross Ioribaiwa Ridge to examine the various sites that mark the furthermost point of the Japanese advance. It was here, with Port Moresby nearly in sight, that the order was received to withdraw. Half starved and facing major weapon shortages, the Japanese army retreated with the Australians in hot pursuit. While the Kokoda Campaign was far from over, it was the beginning of the end for the Japanese forces. In the afternoon, we crisscross our way along the Track to Ua Ule creek and our campsite. Tonight, we camp completely surrounded by high trees, forming a perfect frame for the star-filled night sky.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
This is it, our final day on the Kokoda Track! After breakfast, we take an initial steep ascent before we descend to Imita Ridge. En route, we will pass what was once known as the ‘Golden Staircase’, which consisted of some 2,000-timber steps cut into the mountainside. After we cross the Goldie River, it’s a sharp 40-minute hike to Ower’s Corner where we are greeted with a cold drink and a tasty lunch. Congratulations! You have trekked the Kokoda Track. Before we head back to Port Moresby, we stop at Bomana War Cemetery to reflect on our adventure and the poignancy of the Kokoda Campaign.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
This morning after breakfast, we bid farewell to Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby and our incredible Kokoda adventure as we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Australia. From fundraising to finishing, your dedication as part of this adventure has made a real difference to a worthwhile cause.
Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary is indicative and subject to change