Kokoda Trail Expeditions FAQ

The Kokoda Trail and Trekking Routes

Which trek option is right for me?

The correct length of the trek that you take depends largely on your interest and fitness levels. Kokoda Trail Expeditions offers a choice of 9 and 10 day treks in both directions and all options can be lead by either local PNG or Australian guides. You may opt for either a Military History Trek that focuses exclusively on the battles and military history of the Kokoda Trail or an Eco-Tourism Trek that also explores the unique cultures and ecology of Papua New Guinea.

We also offer shorter three-day tours of the famous beachheads of Gona, Buna and Sanananda that can serve as stand-alone tours or can be combined with our 9 or 10 day Kokoda Trail trek for a truly epic adventure!

What is the best direction to trek?

The Kokoda Trail is traditionally done from the Port Moresby side of the Owen Stanley Range to Kokoda, as this was the route taken by the Australian troops during World War II when they marched to face the invading Japanese army. Kokoda Trail Expeditions also offers each of our popular trekking options done in the reverse, from Kokoda to Owers Corner, and these require an additional flight from Port Moresby to Kokoda before the first day of the trek. Both directions offer an incredible glimpse into the culture of local communities and the stunning scenery of Papua New Guinea and are equally challenging.

How long will I be trekking each day?

Each day’s trek will range from 9 km – 10 km through challenging and often very hilly terrain.

Do we trek at night?

No, Kokoda Trail Expeditions plans each day’s route carefully to ensure that the night’s campsite is reached in the mid to late afternoon with plenty of time before the sun goes down to relax and explore.

What is the best time of year to trek in Papua New Guinea?

Although the best weather in Papua New Guinea is during the Dry Season which runs from late May through late October this is also when the Kokoda Trail is most crowded. Kokoda Trail Expeditions runs set-departure treks from February through November and even in the wetter periods our clients are safe, comfortable and, most importantly, well prepared.

How fit do I need to be?

The Kokoda Trail is a world-class trek through extremely challenging terrain and should not be underestimated. Our ten day option has a slower pace and is suitable for families and older trekkers while our nine day options are fairly fast-paced and recommended only for fit or well-trained individuals and groups. We recommend at least ten weeks of training before undertaking the trek and can provide an electronic version of the Trek Fitness Program - Kokoda Edition for each of our clients at the time of booking.

What sort of physical training and preparation do I need?

Kokoda Trail Expeditions highly recommends a training program that combines aerobic activity with daily walks, ideally in a hilly environment, to prepare for the trek. All trekkers should receive a full medical check-up prior to deciding to hike the Kokoda Trail and should be prepared for a very challenging but equally rewarding experience.

Do I need to carry my own backpack?

All of our trekking groups use porters to carry group supplies (one porter per trekker) and there are personal porters available to carry your backpack for an additional fee. It is recommended that you make use of a personal porter throughout your trek if you have any doubts regarding your ability to carry a fully-loaded pack for the duration of the trek. Not only does the use of a porter lighten your load to a small day or hydration pack but it also helps to support the communities that live along the Kokoda Trail and rely on tourism as a source of income.

What is the typical group size?

Kokoda Trail Expeditions can create custom treks for groups of any size but our set-departures range from 3 – 40 trekkers with an average group size of 3 - 15. We feel very strongly that smaller group sizes are much more enjoyable and interactive in addition to being safer for our clients and less destructive to the environment.

Do you work with the Kokoda Track Authority?

Absolutely. Each Kokoda Trail Expedition trek is registered with the KTA and includes the purchase of necessary permits. KTA Rangers are aware of the location of our groups and are an integral part of our safety plans in case of emergency.

Kokoda Trail Safety and Security

Is the Kokoda Trail Safe?

The Kokoda Trail is a world-class trek through challenging terrain but has been safely completed by tens of thousands of people of all ages and backgrounds. The safest way to attempt the Kokoda Trail is with a reputable trekking company with experienced guides, well developed emergency preparedness and evacuation plans and the proper safety equipment including both VHF radios, mobile and satellite phones.

Does Kokoda Trail Expeditions have General and Public Liability Insurance?

Yes, we carry General and Public Liability Insurance with Liberty International Underwriters that covers our trekkers completing the Kokoda Trail treks. This includes the Buna, Gona and Sanananda tours. Our limit of indemnity is $10,000,000.00 AUD on any one occurrence. To view our Currency Certificate click here. 

Do I need personal travel insurance?

Yes, Kokoda Trail Expeditions requires each of our clients to take out an individual policy with QBE Insurance that covers hospitalization and immediate medical evacuation and repatriation in case of an emergency.

What safety precautions does Kokoda Trail Expeditions take during treks?

Client safety during our treks is our primary concern. Our head guides and lead porters are very experienced, trained in First Aid and carry both VHF radios, mobile and satellite phones on each trek. We have also developed emergency preparedness strategies that include evacuation plans using designated helipads and airstrips along the Kokoda Trail and in the Buna, Gona and Sanananda areas in case of an emergency and keep in close contact with the Kokoda Trail Authority during each trek.

Is Port Moresby safe?

In general Port Moresby is a safe city with friendly locals. As an added precaution all Kokoda Trail Expeditions trekking groups are joined by highly trained security guards in civilian clothing that act as escorts both to and from the city.

Is Kokoda Trail Expeditions licensed?

Yes, we are a licensed tour operator in both Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Kokoda Trail Food and Lodging

What sort of food and drinks are provided?

Kokoda Trail Expeditions always ensures that there is plenty of food and fresh water for each member of our trekking groups. We use daily rations supplied by OzKokoda Rations of Australia and bring a variety of different food and menu options. We supplement the rations as much as possible with fresh tropical fruits, potatoes, vegetables and pork purchased from local communities during the trek.

Do I need to bring any additional food?

You are welcome to bring additional supplies although our meals are very nutritious and filling. We recommend energy, granola and protein bars, lollies, treats and trail mix as good options.

Is alcohol allowed on the trek?

No, Kokoda Trail Expeditions does not allow alcohol or drugs of any kind on our treks.

Do we camp in village guesthouses or tents?

Accommodation throughout your trek will include both village guesthouses and jungle campsites. Porters will assist with setting up tents at campsites and arranging your bed for the night at guesthouses. All campsites and guesthouses have toilets, a fireplace and water for washing and cooking.

Where will I stay in Port Moresby?

Before and after the trek you’ll spend the night in a good quality 4-star hotel with television and an internet connection. The cost of the hotels in Port Moresby and airport transfers are included in the trek price.

Booking and Payment

How long in advance should I book my trek?

It is recommended that you book your trek at least two months prior to departure so that you will have ample time to train. Kokoda Trail Expeditions can provide an electronic version of the Trek Fitness Program - Kokoda Edition for each of our clients at the time of booking to assist with your personal training program.

What does the trek cost and what’s included?

Our trek pricing varies depending on the length of the trek and the type of guide. Visit our Prices and Inclusions  pages for more information.

How do I book my trek?

You can book your trek directly through our website or by calling our office and speaking to one of our Kokoda specialists at 043 848 3789.

Sustainability

Are you an environmentally friendly company?

Yes, Kokoda Trail Expeditions operates in both an environmentally and culturally sensitive way. We are honoured to be working in one of the most beautiful and exotic locations in the world and take our commitment to Papua New Guinea and her people very seriously.

How do you dispose of rubbish along the Track?

All of the rubbish that is generated during our Kokoda Trail treks is packed out and responsibly disposed of. Kokoda Trail Expeditions practices Leave No Trace principles on each of our Papua New Guinea treks and encourages all other tour operators to do the same.

Does Kokoda Trail Expeditions assist the local villages in any way?

Yes, our interaction with the villages along the trek is a very important part of the experience and we not only hire our porters and guides from PNG but also source as much of our food and supplies as possible so that local income is generated.

Do you work with any local organizations?

Yes, Kokoda Trail Expeditions donates funds to the Kokoda Track Foundation to repay the selfless help given by the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels to Australians during the Kokoda Campaign and to ensure the environmental health of the Kokoda Trail region of Papua New Guinea. In an effort to improve the health and medical conditions of people in third world countries, we financially support the work of Save the Children Australia, an Australian charitable organization that helps children in developing countries including Papua New Guinea. We also support the work of the Red Cross.

Book your Kokoda Trail Trek now!

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