From exploring significant wartime sites to experiencing the warmth and hospitality of local villages, each day brings a new adventure. This section provides a detailed day-by-day breakdown of your trek, ensuring you know what to expect and can prepare accordingly. Join us for an unforgettable journey that honours the past while celebrating the resilience of the human spirit.
Upon arrival at Jackson International Airport, you will be transferred to your accommodation at the luxurious 5-star Stanley Hotel, Port Moresby.
In the evening, meet your fellow Kokoda Trek participants for a warm welcome and a detailed safety briefing conducted by your experienced Australian Kokoda Trek Guide. This session will provide an opportunity to address any last-minute questions or concerns before your adventure begins.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out. We’ll then take you on a guided tour of the historic Bomana War Cemetery, paying homage to those who sacrificed their lives during the Kokoda Campaign.
Following the tour, we’ll transfer you to Owers Corner, the starting point of your Kokoda Trek. Along the way, we’ll stop at key landmarks such as Sogeri and McDonald’s Corner.
Upon arrival at Owers Corner, enjoy lunch and participate in a final pre-trek briefing, where you’ll meet the Porter Team who will accompany you throughout your journey.
Your trek begins with a descent to Goldie River, where you’ll cross the river and pass by the abandoned village of Uberi. From there, you’ll walk through the site of Dump 66 before arriving at the foot of Imita Ridge. Here, you’ll settle in for the night at the Goodwater Campsite.
Night 1 on the Track:
Goodwater Campsite
Approximate Walk Time:
3 hours
Today marks your first full day on the Kokoda Track. Rising early to avoid the midday heat, you’ll begin with an ascent of the historic Imita Ridge. After reaching the top, you’ll descend to the site of the Salvation Army Camp, being a site of respite along the track.
The journey continues with a series of 22 creek crossings along the Ua-Ule Creek, offering scenic views and moments of tranquillity amidst the challenging trek. You’ll conclude the day at Ioribaiwa Village Campsite, where you’ll spend your second night on the track.
Night 2 on the Track: Ioribaiwa Village Campsite
Approximate Walk Time: 7 hours
An early start ensures we make the most of the cooler morning hours. The day begins with an ascent to the top of Ioribaiwa Ridge, where you’ll encounter a series of historic Australian and Japanese trenches, offering a glimpse into the intense battles fought here.
Key points of interest along the route include the Ofi Creek ambush site and the challenging Japanese Ladder, a steep section of the track that leads to the village of Nauro.
From Nauro, the trek takes you through a swampy area before crossing the Brown River. Once across, you’ll follow the riverbank to reach Agulogo Village Campsite, where you’ll rest for the night.
Night 3 on the Track:
Agulogo Village Campsite
Approximate Walk Time:
9 hours
By now, you’ll have established a daily trekking routine, starting early to take advantage of the cooler hours. The day begins with a challenging ascent up "The Wall," offering spectacular views of Brigade Hill.
From there, you’ll descend to Menari Village, where we’ll honour and pay tribute to the brave soldiers of the 39th Battalion. Continuing onward, the trek takes you to the base of Brigade Hill, where we’ll pause to remember Australian war photographer Damien Parer and his contributions.
Next, prepare for a three-hour climb to Brigade Hill Headquarters and then onward to Brigade Hill itself, where we will conduct a solemn memorial service to reflect on the history and sacrifices made in this area.
Weather and time permitting, the journey continues to Efogi Village. Along the way, we’ll stop at Nishimura’s Tree to learn about the fascinating story of the "Bone Man of Kokoda." At Efogi Village, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with the local community, explore the Efogi Community Museum, and gain a deeper appreciation of their culture and heritage.
Night 4 on the Track:
Brigade Hill or Efogi Village Campsite
Approximate Walk Time:
10 hours
The day begins with another early start to make the most of the cooler morning hours. From Efogi 1, you’ll embark on a steep ascent to Efogi 2, followed by a challenging descent and climb to Naduri.
From Naduri, the trek continues with a climb towards the mossy forest of Mount Bellamy, a mystical and serene section of the track. Along the way, you’ll have the option to branch off towards Myola, a unique and tranquil location. Highlights of the day include visiting a B25 bomber crash site, a poignant reminder of the Kokoda Campaign's history.
Upon arriving at Myola, there may even be an opportunity for trout fishing in this peaceful and picturesque setting.
Night 5 on the Track:
Myola Campsite or Camp 1900
Approximate Walk Time:
8 hours
Today’s trek takes you through the highest point of the Kokoda Track, reaching heights of 2,200m and an immersive experience in the stunning natural forest surroundings. You’ll walk through forests of pandanus and beech trees, passing through mossy terrain. If you're lucky, you may hear the unique calls of the machine gun bird or the rifle bird echoing through the forest.
The route includes traversing “The Gap” before descending to Templeton’s Crossing 1 and Templeton’s Crossing 2. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore remnants of wartime history, including weapon pits and ammunition caches. Templeton’s Crossing is also notable for being a site of recent war grave exploration, adding a deep historical significance to your journey.
Night 6 on the Track: Templeton’s Crossing Campsite
Approximate Walk Time: 8 hours
The day begins with a crossing of Eora Creek, followed by an ascent to Alola, where you’ll walk through lush choko vines. From Alola, you’ll enjoy spectacular views across the valley to Abuarai.
At Alola, you’ll have the chance to interact with the local community and visit the Alola Community Village Museum, gaining insight into the region's history and culture. After a rest stop, the journey continues towards the iconic Isurava Battlefield.
Key sights along the way include the Alola Community Village Museum, the historic Cons Rock, and the Isurava Memorial, a powerful and emotional highlight of the Kokoda Track that commemorates the courage and sacrifice of Australian soldiers.
Night 7 on the Track: Isurava Battlefield Memorial Campsite
Approximate Walk Time: 8 hours
The day begins with a heartfelt memorial service at the Isurava Battlefield, honouring the courage and sacrifices of those who fought there. After the service, you’ll commence the trek, heading towards Isurava Guesthouse Village and then onwards to Deniki.
At Deniki, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Kokoda Airfield and the expansive Kokoda Plateau, offering a sense of achievement as the journey nears its end. After a short stop at Deniki, the trail descends through lush choko vines to the picturesque village of Hoi.
Hoi provides the perfect rest stop, where you can refresh yourself in its beautiful cascading waters and enjoy a peaceful lunch surrounded by butterflies. This is also an opportunity to engage with the friendly locals and soak in the serene atmosphere.
From Hoi, the trek continues to Kovello, where you’ll spend your final night on the track.
Night 8 on the Track: Kovello Village Campsite
Approximate Walk Time: 8 hours
Today marks the final leg of your Kokoda journey. A short one-hour walk will bring you to the iconic arches of Kokoda, where we’ll celebrate your incredible achievement. At the Kokoda Plateau, you’ll have time to reflect on your journey and the profound experiences of the trek.
After the celebration, preparations will be made for your return flight to Port Moresby. Upon arrival, you’ll be transported to the luxurious 5-star Stanley Hotel, where you can unwind, enjoy a refreshing hot shower, and reset by washing your clothes in preparation for your return home.
The afternoon offers a chance to relax and reflect on your adventure, while the evening provides an opportunity to celebrate your successful completion of the Kokoda Trail with your trek family and team—a fitting end to this extraordinary journey.
After a final breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to prepare for your onward journey home. We’ll transport you to Port Moresby International Airport, where we’ll bid you farewell.
While it’s always hard to say goodbye, after sharing such a transformative experience and making lifelong friendships, we won’t say goodbye—we’ll simply say, “See you later.”
You will then depart for your home destination from Port Moresby, taking with you unforgettable memories and the spirit of the Kokoda journey.