Join us on this emotional journey commemorating the heroic feats of our young soldiers during the Kokoda Track Campaign. As you trek along the 96 kilometres of mud and mountain range that is the Kokoda Track, you will go beyond the history books and experience the terrain and perhaps the conditions in which they fought.
We will recall the bravery of our diggers at Brigade Hill and the losses incurred at the magnificent Isurava Memorial. Many Australians died fighting for our security at both of these places, and you will have the opportunity to honour as we pause to reflect on their courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice.
‘We are here today, because they were here before us.’
10 Day Kokoda Experience Itinerary – South/North
Day 1: Port Moresby
Upon arrival in Port Moresby you will be met and transferred to our hotel. There will be a pre-trip briefing this evening to discuss your upcoming trek and to meet your fellow trekkers and our carriers. Following the briefing we will enjoy our first group dinner. Overnight: Port Moresby.
Day 2: Kokoda / Deniki
Following breakfast at the hotel, we take the early morning flight to Kokoda. Our trek begins through the rubber plantation so vividly described in the war time records. Here, friend and foe were entangled due to heavy fog. Australians were caught behind the enemy lines and, bravely and stealthily, made their way through the Japanese to rejoin their mates. We follow the flat track until Hoi where we cross a small stream before the gradual and unrelenting climb towards Isurava. Overnight: Deniki.
Day 3: Allolo
We start with a gradual climb that winds its way through vast “choko” fields. After a rest at Isurava (new) we continue on to the “Battlefield Memorial” and the site of a major battle. We reflect on the gallantry, courage and sacrifice of our soldiers as we pause for a memorial service. It was here that Private Bruce Kingsbury received the first Victoria Cross (post humously) of the South Pacific campaign. We then move on to the village of Allolo where we make camp for the night. Overnight: Allolo.
Day 4: Templetons 1
After a steep descent, we make our way to Eora Creek, the site of another major battle during the Australian advance. The remnants of a Japanese mountain gun and mortar position can be seen high on the ridge overlooking the Australian positions. A steep climb passing numerous “foxholes” takes us past a forest of giant trees on our way to Templetons 2. We continue on following the high ridge line along Eora Creek. Overnight: Templetons 1.
Day 5: Efogi 2
We start with a very steep climb over the Kokoda gap and Mt Bellamy (at approx 2170m) many “diggers” thought this section to be the hardest of the track. They were often battle weary, wounded, sick and had little nourishment. Think of them as we climb our way up what seems an endless section. You are rewarded as we climb over Mt Bellamy as we pass through ancient forests of Antarctic Beach trees and giant Pandanus. Phosphorescent fungi light up the night track and provided the soldiers with an eerie environment.
As we pass through Naduri, we may have the opportunity to visit one of the last Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels (If his health permits) Naduri often has a supply of Mandarins and Bananas. After a steep descent followed by an equally steep ascent, we arrive at Efogi 2 ( Efogi Nth). Overnight: Efogi 2.
Day 6: Menari
Our trek today takes us over through Efogi 1 and onto Brigade or Butchers Hill; the site of an epic battle where many lives from both side were lost. Bayonet charges and hand to hand fighting characterised the battle here. We pause for a service and give you time to reflect on the terrible scenes that occurred here. The track then follows a steep ridge line down to the village of Manari, a large village where you will have time to mingle with the locals and take a swim in the creek. Overnight: Manari.
Day 7: Ofi Creek
A long day today as we head through the Manari gap and cross the Nauro swamp, before ascending the many false peaks of the Maguli Range. We cross the Brown River before climbing up the steep ridge to the new village of Nauro. The swamp area has many tales of lost soldiers who spent sleepless nights up to their waist in water. The Kokoda campaign was fought during one some the wettest months on record. The views from Nauro are spectacular and the people warm and friendly. Overnight: Nauro.
Day 8: Goldie Camp
As we climb over the Iorabaiwa range, we take time to visit the many Japanese trenches that extend along the ridge. It was here the Japanese were told to retreat, much to the dismay of many soldiers who had lost friends and believed they had Port Moresby in sight. The track takes us down a steep spur to the Ule-Ule Creek, which we cross many times before heading up to Imita Ridge. The Southern side of Imita Ridge is the sight of the famed “Golden Staircase”, where 4000 steps once lined the ridge, providing a supposedly easier climb for the “diggers” heading to the front. Overnight: Goldie River.
Day 9: Port Moresby
An early morning start to beat the hot sun, we climb up to Owers Cnr to complete our trek. After spending some time at the memorial, our PMV will take us to Bomana Cemetery, where we hold a small service to remember all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. We head back to our hotel where a hot shower awaits. Our final dinner is the opportunity to reflect on what for many will have been the experience of a lifetime.
Day 10: Depart for home
Today you farewell Papua New Guinea and head for home. The hotel will arrange a shuttle bus to take you to the airport.
