01 Arrival - Port Moresby

Welcome to Port Moresby (POM)! Upon your arrival at Port Moresby International Airport, you'll slowly pass through customs and be greeted by our friendly team in the arrivals hall. We'll guide you to the currency exchange, ensuring you’re prepared with Papua New Guinea Kina.

Transfer to your hotel through the streets of POM, where you can recharge and settle in. Enjoy dinner then gather for an informative briefing session with your guide. Here, you'll finalise your Kokoda preparations, setting the stage for the adventure of a lifetime and retire early for a restful night's sleep.

Port Moresby is generally a big shift from what people are used to. It is still considered a developing region (3rd world) by the United Nations (UN), defined by it's Human Development Index (HDI).

02 Port Moresby - Deniki

Our adventure begins with an early 30min flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta. Using the same road the Japanese Imperial Force used, our 3 hour transit will take us across the incredible wide Kumusi River, finally reaching the heart of Kokoda Village.

We'll pause for a quick lunch, then immerse yourself in history at the informative onsite war museum, followed by a reflective walk across the sacred grounds of the Kokoda battlefield. Meet our expert guide and expedition support team. These professionals are dedicated to setting up camp, managing logistics, and carrying our essential supplies, such as food, tents, and safety equipment ensuring ensuring your trek is both secure and memorable.

Visible from Kokoda village Deniki awaits. Just a 3hr walk, you will pass through rubber plantations via the charming village of Hoi, before a challenging 45-minute ascent to Deniki. Refresh with a shower, have dinner, and retire early under the stars.

03 Deniki - Alola

With the new days light, we break camp post a nourishing breakfast and head towards Alola. Our path leads us to the sacred grounds of the Isurava Battlefield, a site of profound historical significance, where we will take a pause for lunch and pay respects at the Memorial. 

The Battle Of Isurava occurred between August 26-31, 1942 and was a pivotal conflict in the broader Kokoda Track Campaign. It was this location where Private Bruce Kingsbury was killed and later awarded the Victoria Cross posthumously for his actions.

In remembrance of the 60th anniversary, the memorial was inaugurated in August 2002, marking the fierce four-day conflict that this serene landscape once witnessed. The Isurava Memorial, commanding a view over the valley, stands out with its four granite pillars, embodying the attributes of Courage, Endurance, Mateship, and Sacrifice—tenets that capture the spirit of those who fought on this terrain.

The journey continues with a descents and ascents out of, as we traverse the Abuari valley. Our path meanders us up to the village of Alola. This vantage point offers a magnificent view, directly across the valley to Abuari Village.

04 Alola - Templetons

Embracing the day's challenge, we rise before dawn to take advantage of the cooler morning temperatures. Our path leads us through Alola village, where the day's early light breaks across the valley.

Traversing the valley in awe, the Kokoda Track unveils its spectacular views, as we pass a procession of stunning waterfalls. These natural wonders direct us down narrow winding paths, to the bottom of the valley, where we pause and replenish water bottles.

Kokoda is a rhythm of ascents mirroring each descent. We spend most of the day climbing at a steady pace, finally reaching Templeton's Crossing, (also known as Dump 1) situated at the base of Mt. Bellamy.

More than physical exertion; this sector is rich in biodiversity, steeped in history, with countless points of interest. There's also ample opportunity to forge connections with your fellow trekkers and the porter team, whose stories and support are as integral to this trek as the steps we take.

05 Templetons - Kagi

The morning air is crisp and invigorating, as we vigorous ascent out of the enchanting Templeton's Crossing. We ready ourselves for the challenge of climbing to the summit of Mt. Bellamy, reaching an elevation of 2,190 meters. 

As we rise through the terrain, if the fog canopy lifts in time, we might be afforded the breath-taking view across the Kokoda Gap. Take a moment to marvel at the sweeping beauty of the landscape, an awe inspiring vista that affirms the grandeur of Papua New Guinea's natural environment.

Veering slightly from the Kokoda Trail, our expedition leads us to Myola 1. This natural wonder, set amidst the dense rainforest, holds both ecological marvel and historical significance, a site where nature and time converge.

The remainder of our hike is marked by a gradual descent along the mountain's ridge lines, with intermittent pauses, taking in the breathtaking scenery. These pauses in our journey not only offer respite but also allow us to pinpoint the location of Kagi in the distance.

Our descent will see us navigating down ridge lines, with opportunities to pause and take in the spectacular views. The sight of Kagi's gardens signals our approach's end, as we are warmly welcomed in the heart of the village. 

06 Sabbath Rest Day

Honouring the sacred Sabbath Day reflects our deep respect for the spiritual and cultural practices of our Kokoda porter team. Out of respect and cultural exchange, you'll be invited to join a village church service in the morning. This is a profound opportunity to witness their devotional practices, to be moved by their harmonious, angelic singing—an enriching experience that we highly recommend and one that offers insight into the heart of their community.

As the day unfolds, the Kagi village becomes a vibrant hub of connection. You'll have the delightful opportunity to mingle with the local people, engage in friendly games with exuberant children. You’ll also have the opportunity to venture on an excursion to a spectacular Kokoda Trail natural wonder nearby, a refreshing escape to witness the beauty that nature has sculpted here.

Alternatively, embrace the leisurely pace of the day. Utilise the pause in our journey for personal reflection, tend to any trek necessities, and to recharge your spirit. This respite is an ideal time to recharge both physically and mentally, ensuring you are fully prepared for the adventures that lie ahead on the Kokoda Track.

07 Kagi - Menari

We bid farewell to Kagi and descend to the creek bed. A strenuous climb up we reach reach the twin villages of Efogi 1 and Efogi 2. Take the opportunity to sample and purchase fresh, local fruit—a sweet, juicy reprieve.

Our passage through the Efogi villages gives way to what seems a relentless ascent up a sun-drenched ridge-line, with the humidity settling upon us like an unwelcome companion. 

We soon reach the historic site of Brigade Hill. It was here that the poignant Battle of Mission Ridge-Brigade Hill unfolded from September 6-9, 1942. As part of the Kokoda Campaign, this location bore witness to intense combat and each fallen Australian is remembered by a stick adorned with a poppy.

In this contemplative space, we take a moment to honor the past, to learn of the harrowing events that transpired, and to reflect on the sacrifices made. Leaving Brigade Hill, we carry with us a profound respect and a heightened sense of gratitude. We soon arrive in Menari for the night.

08 Menari - Nauro

As we move off, our path weaves through the community, crossing quaint streams, the gentle elevation provides an excellent warm-up.

The true test of the Kokoda Track soon makes its presence known as we face a steep ascent out of Menari. Calculated, deliberate steps are the key to success for the climb, finally the saddle. Its hard not to feel a sense of achievement as everyones pulses race. 

Descending the saddle presents its own set of challenges, compared to the climb. Our journey leads us to the Brown River, offering a short respite where the adventurous can indulge in a bit of river surfing.

Pressing on, the Kokoda Trail biodiversity continues to unfold. A vast swamp waits, with its complex network of wetlands. We navigate this delicate ecosystem, traversing over bridges, logs, and additional rivers.

The final approach to Nauro Village can feel like an eternity, with numerous false peaks playing tricks on your determination. But as the distinctive orange hue of the earth begins to dominate the landscape, we arrive at Nauro Village.

09 Nauro - Wa-ule Creek

The day's trek begins with an immediate ascent. With each step, we're introduced to a tapestry of geological wonders—from the open grasslands to the rugged reaches of the Maguli Range summit. The diversity underfoot is as striking as the vistas that surround us.

The echoes of history resonate deeply here as we come across remnants of the Kokoda Campaign—trenches and foxholes, silent witnesses to the intense battles fought over 75 years ago. These scars on the landscape offer a poignant reminder of the tenacity and struggles of the soldiers.

Navigating the descent to Ofi Creek demands our utmost attention. Careful foot placement brings us to a well-earned lunch break, a pause in the shadows of history.

Departing Ofi Creek with renewed vigor. Our route crisscrosses the same river up to a dozen times, leading us to the enchanting Wa-Ule Creek campsite. Take up natural invitation to refresh in the waterholes. Enjoy your last Kokoda Trail dinner as you witness the delicate dance of fireflies.

Fire Flies

10 Wa-ule - Owers' Corner

Our Kokoda Trail adventure reaches its climax on this final day of trekking. We continue to navigate river crossings, each step bringing us closer to the daunting base of the infamous Imita Ridge. Here, we pause, readying ourselves for the arduous climb. Take a breath, set your pace, and ascend to the crest, where a plaque recounts the poignant history of this place.

The descent on the other side is a foray through mud, retracing the steps of history down the storied Golden Stairs. Our path leads to the majestic Goldie River. Here, we embrace the water—wading through the currents, waist-deep or more, our clothes authenticating your Kokoda Experience.

The final ascent is a testament to the Kokoda transformative power. We weave through a canopy offering brief respite, gathering ourselves for the last sun-drenched push to the finish. As we step through the Kokoda Track arches at Owers Corner, a surge of elation mixes with a kaleidoscope of emotions—a triumphant finale to an epic passage.

A celebratory quick lunch and refreshing cold drink await, shared with the entire team, cementing the bonds formed over the trek. An evening of camaraderie, laughter, and shared stories, a fitting end to our remarkable journey together on the Kokoda Track.

11 Forward Travel

Trip Extensions

Here are some additional travel options available for those who have extra time and are seeking additional unique travel experiences:

• Port Moresby Nature Park
• Loloata Island Resort - Private Indulgence
• Tufi Resort
• Kavieng
• Rabaul

Speak to our staff should you wish to add any of these trip extensions to your Kokoda Trail experience.