11 Day Kokoda Trek Australian and Local Guides

We will pick you up from the airport and take you to the Hilton Hotel. That evening we will have a briefing by your Guide.

Our journey begins with a 7:00 am flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta (approx. 30 minutes). From there, we travel along the same rugged track once used by the Japanese Imperial Forces during WWII—a bumpy, unforgettable ride affectionately known as the “Chiropractic Express.” Along the way, we cross the mighty Kumusi River, the very place where Japanese Major General Horii met his end, and stop to explore a small but poignant war museum before stepping onto the cigar-shaped battlefield of Kokoda. Here we meet our expert guide and local support team—our companions for the trek ahead. They’ll carry the tents, food, and safety gear, set up camp, and ensure our journey is safe, enriching, and enjoyable. After introductions, we set off on foot toward Deniki, covering 7.5 km with a total ascent of 352 metres. The trail meanders through lush plantations and the charming village of Hoi before a challenging final 45-minute climb to camp. (B, L, D)

After a nourishing breakfast, we break camp and begin our trek toward Alola, passing through one of the most moving sites along the Kokoda Track—the Isurava Battlefield Memorial. Opened in August 2002, the memorial honours the 60th anniversary of the fierce four-day battle fought here in 1942, a defining moment in the Kokoda campaign. Surrounded by misty mountains and rainforest, it's a place of quiet reflection and tribute to extraordinary courage. We’ll stop here for lunch before continuing on. The trail undulates through a series of steep ascents and descents before we reach Alola, perched high on the ridge with commanding views across the valley to the remote village of Abuari. (B, L, D)

Today’s trek takes us from Alola to Templeton’s Crossing 1 (also known as Dump 1), nestled at the base of Mt Bellamy, via the historic site of Eora Creek. This is one of the longer days on the track, but also one of the most rewarding—rich with wartime history and surrounded by the raw beauty of the Owen Stanley Ranges. We follow the footsteps of soldiers through dense rainforest, past battle sites and waterways that played a vital role in the Kokoda campaign. (B, L, D)

We begin our journey from Templeton’s Crossing 1 with a steady ascent to the highest point on the Kokoda Track—Mt Bellamy at 2,190 metres. The climb is challenging but rewarding, with the Kokoda Gap offering sweeping views across the jungle-clad ranges when the weather is clear. We take a short detour to the peaceful grasslands of Myola 1, once used as a supply drop zone during the war, before descending into the welcoming village of Kagi—our home for the night. Here, we’ll be greeted by friendly locals and enjoy a well-earned meal. Accommodation is in village guesthouses or tents. (B, L, D)

Today is the local Sabbath, observed by the Seventh-day Adventist community. You're warmly invited to attend a church service if you wish—an opportunity to hear their beautiful singing and experience a deeply personal part of village life. Later, we’ll take a gentle walk to a nearby natural wonder, giving our legs a rest and soaking in the calm before tomorrow’s trek. (B, L, D)

Today’s journey takes us from Kagi to the village of Menari, with a memorable ascent of Brigade Hill in the morning—one of the most significant sites along the track, both historically and physically. From the summit, we begin a long, steep descent into Menari, a test for the legs but deeply rewarding. By day’s end, most find a deep and well-earned sleep. Overnight in Menari. (B, L, D)

Today we trek from Menari to the village of Nauro. A steep climb over the saddle kicks off the day, followed by a descent into the lowlands where we navigate through swampy terrain and make several river crossings en route to Naoro. If conditions allow, there’s even the chance to enjoy a bit of river surfing down the Brown River—a fun and refreshing highlight. (B, L, D)

Today’s trek takes us from Nauro to our campsite at Wa-ule Creek. We begin with a steady climb through open grasslands, ascending the Maguli Range. From the top, a long and steep descent leads us through dense jungle to Ofi Creek and on to our campsite at Wa-ule Creek. (B, L, D)

Our final day on the track takes us from Wa-ule Creek to Owers’ Corner. We begin with several river crossings before tackling the long, steep ascent of Imita Ridge—one last challenge before our journey’s end. On the other side lies the descent known as the Golden Stairs, which winds its way down to the Goldie River. After a refreshing wade across, we make a final push up to Owers’ Corner, where the Kokoda Track officially concludes. Arriving in the early afternoon, we’ll be greeted with a well-earned picnic lunch and cold drinks, shared with our guides and local team in celebration. That evening, we return to Port Moresby and enjoy a final dinner together, reminiscing with the friends we've made along the way. (B, L, D)

After breakfast you will head home after your amazing trek.