Things to Do in Kokoda Track, Papuanewguinea

The Kokoda Track (or Trail) is one of the world's most challenging and historically significant trekking routes, stretching 96 kilometers through the rugged Owen Stanley Range in Papua New Guinea. This legendary path follows the route taken by Australian and Papua New Guinean forces during World War II as they fought against Japanese troops in 1942, making it not just a physical challenge but a profound pilgrimage through living history. The track winds through dense tropical rainforest, across rushing rivers, over steep mountain ridges, and through remote villages where descendants of the original carriers and guides still live today. The trek typically takes 8-10 days to complete and is considered one of the most demanding multi-day hikes in the world, with extreme humidity, challenging terrain, river crossings, and steep ascents and descents. However, the reward is immense - trekkers experience breathtaking mountain vistas, encounter unique wildlife, interact with local communities, and walk in the footsteps of the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels and Diggers who fought and died along this route. The track has become a pilgrimage for Australians and history enthusiasts worldwide, offering a powerful combination of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical reflection.

Top Things to Do in Kokoda Track

Complete the Full Kokoda Track Trek

Undertake the complete 96-kilometer trek from Owers Corner to Kokoda village (or vice versa), following the historic wartime route through dense jungle, over mountain passes, and across numerous river crossings. This 8-10 day journey takes you through significant battle sites including Imita Ridge, Brigade Hill, and Isurava, while experiencing the same challenging terrain faced by WWII soldiers.

Booking Tip: Book with reputable operators 6-12 months in advance, especially for ANZAC Day period. Costs range from $3,000-5,000 AUD including flights, permits, guides, and meals. Look for operators with experienced local guides, good safety records, and cultural sensitivity training.

Visit WWII Battle Sites and Memorials

Explore the numerous battle sites, memorials, and remnants of war scattered along the track, including the Isurava Memorial, Brigade Hill, and various crash sites. Each location offers insight into specific battles and allows for reflection on the sacrifices made by both Allied forces and local Papua New Guineans during the campaign.

Booking Tip: Most battle sites are included in guided trek packages. Independent visits require local guides and permits. Dawn services are held at major memorials on ANZAC Day (April 25) - book well in advance as this is peak season.

Cultural Village Experiences

Stay overnight in traditional villages along the track such as Alola, Efogi, and Menari, experiencing local customs, traditional cooking, and hearing stories passed down from the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels who assisted Allied forces. These interactions provide deep cultural insights and support local communities economically.

Booking Tip: Village stays are typically included in organized treks. Bring small gifts like school supplies or medical items for villages. Respect local customs and ask permission before photographing people. Village accommodation is basic - sleeping bags and mosquito nets essential.

Wildlife and Nature Observation

Experience the incredible biodiversity of the Owen Stanley Range, including exotic birds like Birds of Paradise, cassowaries, tree kangaroos, and hundreds of butterfly species. The pristine rainforest environment offers opportunities for wildlife photography and nature study in one of the world's most biodiverse regions.

Booking Tip: Best wildlife viewing is early morning and late afternoon. Bring quality binoculars and camera with telephoto lens. Wet season (December-March) offers more active wildlife but more challenging trekking conditions. Hire local guides who know animal behavior and locations.

River Crossings and Swimming

Navigate and experience the numerous river crossings along the track, including major rivers like the Eora Creek and various smaller streams. Many rivers offer opportunities for refreshing swims and washing, providing welcome relief from the intense heat and humidity of the jungle trek.

Booking Tip: River levels vary dramatically with rainfall - wet season crossings can be dangerous. Always cross with experienced guides and use proper techniques. Pack waterproof bags for electronics and important documents. Quick-dry clothing and water shoes are essential.

Getting There

Access to the Kokoda Track typically begins with flights to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea's capital, served by Air Niugini, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia from major Australian cities. From Port Moresby, travelers usually take a domestic flight to Popondetta (for Kokoda village start) or drive to Owers Corner (for southern start). Most trekkers arrange transportation through their tour operators, as independent travel requires significant local knowledge and permits. The drive to Owers Corner takes about 2-3 hours from Port Moresby on partly sealed roads, while flights to Popondetta are weather-dependent and can be delayed during wet season.

Getting Around

Transportation along the Kokoda Track is entirely on foot, with the trek being the primary means of moving between points along the 96-kilometer route. Local villages are connected by the track and smaller bush paths, with no roads or vehicles accessible once on the trail. Porter services are available and recommended for carrying heavy gear, allowing trekkers to focus on the challenging terrain with lighter day packs. Emergency evacuation is possible via helicopter in serious situations, though this is expensive and weather-dependent. Some tour operators provide satellite communication devices for safety.

Where to Stay

Port Moresby hotels (pre/post trek)

Village guesthouses along track

Camping at designated sites

Kokoda village accommodation

Popondetta guesthouses

Bush camping with guides

Food & Dining

Dining along the Kokoda Track consists primarily of camp meals prepared by guides and porters, typically featuring rice, tinned meat, vegetables, and local fruits when available. Villages along the route may offer simple local dishes including sweet potato, taro, sago, and tropical fruits, providing insight into traditional Papua New Guinean cuisine. Most organized treks include all meals, but food can be basic and repetitive - bringing favorite snacks, energy bars, and supplements is recommended. Water must be treated or boiled, and many trekkers bring purification tablets or portable filters. In Port Moresby before or after the trek, international cuisine and local seafood restaurants are available at hotels and shopping centers.

When to Visit

The dry season from May to October offers the best trekking conditions with less rainfall, clearer mountain views, and more manageable river crossings, though temperatures and humidity remain high year-round. July to September is considered optimal with the most stable weather patterns. The wet season from November to April brings heavy rainfall, muddy conditions, swollen rivers, and increased risk of landslides, making the trek more challenging and potentially dangerous. ANZAC Day (April 25) is a popular but crowded time with special commemorative services. Avoid December to February when rainfall is heaviest and some sections may be impassable.

Insider Tips

Train for at least 6 months beforehand with hill walking, stair climbing, and cardio - the trek is extremely physically demanding

Pack light but bring quality gear including waterproof everything, multiple pairs of hiking boots, and comprehensive first aid supplies

Respect local customs and the historical significance of the track - this is sacred ground for many Australians and Papua New Guineans, not just an adventure trek

Things to Do in Kokoda Track