Trek through 96 kilometres of rugged mountain terrain, tropical rainforest and unspoiled villages on the legendary Kokoda Track.

1942 saw the Kokoda Track as a scene of bitter fighting when the Australian Army fought to defend Port Moresby from advancing Japanese forces. Today, walking that same track has become an iconic pilgrimage for those wanting to honour the ANZAC spirit.

Regarded as one of the world’s greatest treks, the Kokoda Track links the south and north coast of Papua New Guinea across 96 kilometres of rocky mountain terrain, tropical rainforest and pristine villages.

On this inspiring adventure, you will trek the track by day, open to the unforgiving and inspiring beauty of Papua New Guinea’s tropical rainforest. As nightfall descends, you will stay in isolated camps, swapping stories with local Koiari and Orokaiva people and falling asleep to the nocturnal sounds of the jungle.

Retrace the footsteps of Australian soldiers

Fast Facts

  • Recommended fundraising target: $4,000 (excludes travel)
  • Registration fee & travel cost: On request (subject to change)
  • Trip duration: 11 days
  • Challenge duration: 9 days
  • Challenge grade: 5/5
  • Accommodation: Twin-share in 4-star hotel and comfortable camping
  • Minimum age: 18 (younger ages considered on application)
  • Departure months: April to May, September to November

Day 1: Depart Australia

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!

Day 2: Port Moresby – Kokoda – Hoi

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

Day 3: Alolo Village

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

Day 4: Templeton’s Crossing and the Japanese Forest Fort

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

Day 5: Naduri Village

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

Day 6: Naduri Village (Sabbath Rest Day)

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

Day 7: Menari Village

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

Day 8: Nauro Village

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

Day 9: Ua Ule Creek

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

Day 10: Port Moresby

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

Day 11: Depart Papua New Guinea

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

Walk in the footsteps of Australian soldiers and learn about the history of the battle sites along the Track.

Package Inclusions

  • Flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta as per itinerary
  • All land transfers as per itinerary in private vehicles
  • Twin-share accommodation in a 4-star hotel
  • Comfortable camping with single occupancy
  • Professional Australian trek leader
  • Local head guide and trekking crew
  • All camping gear (excluding sleeping bag, sleep mat and pillow), including tents (individual)
  • Emergency equipment, VHF radios and satellite phone linked 24 hours to Port Moresby
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Water on trekking days
  • All entrance fees and permits as per itinerary

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Package Exclusions

  • International airfares (can be arranged at additional cost)
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visa
  • Vaccinations
  • Personal guide cost and backpack
  • Meals and drinks (excluding water) not mentioned in itinerary
  • Services, excursions or activities not mentioned in itinerary
  • Laundry, telephone calls and expenditure of a personal nature
  • Tips and gratuities

Discover the villages of the Papua New Guinea highlands, meet locals and experience firsthand the extraordinary cultures of this region.

Updated November 2020 © Inspired Adventures.