How difficult is the Kokoda Trail?

Whilst it is well worth the effort, trekking the Kokoda Track is a difficult physical challenge. This expedition is considered difficult as there are long walks over elevated terrain with ascents and descents along narrow jungle trails. Some days are long hauls of seven to ten hours through difficult terrain.

How long does it take to trek Kokoda?

between four and twelve days
Despite the challenge posed it is a popular hike that takes between four and twelve days (depending on fitness). Locals have been known to hike the route in three days. Download your copy of the Kokoda Trail map and view our flyover video.

How fit do you need to be to walk Kokoda?

Your training needs to include extensive walking, preferably in a hilly-area, carrying a weighted pack. In the last month of your training you need to be capable of walking at least 10 km daily, carrying 3 to 5 kg more than the weight you expect to carry on your trek.

Is it Kokoda Track or trail?

The current official gazetted place name is Kokoda Trail. This is used by the Papua New Guinea Government, the Australian Army and the Australian War Memorial. Before and during the War the route was variously called track, trail and road, and so there seemed no standardised name at the time.

How do you train for the Kokoda Trail?

Walk on the nature strip, not the pavement; this gives increased resistance and the unevenness is good preparation. Increase your distance walked each week till you’re walking at least 12 km/day, preferably every day for the last month; It’s also a good idea to train with a pack, carrying more than you will on Kokoda.

How old do you have to be to do Kokoda?

Minimum Age Recommendations

Can you still walk the Kokoda Track?

You can trek the Kokoda Track either on your own or with a tour operator. The KTA does not encourage trekkers to walk without a tour operator, due to safety concerns. Solo travellers also bring little benefit to the local communities. All trekkers must carry comprehensive medical and travel insurance.

Why is the Kokoda Trail so important?

The Kokoda Track marks the course of one of the most important battles for Australians in the Second World War. Between 21 July and 16 November 1942, the Australian Army halted the furthermost southward advance by Japanese forces in Papua New Guinea and then pushed the enemy back across the mountains.

Do you sleep on the Kokoda Challenge?

We also won’t get to sleep until we are finished. The 96km course represents the length of the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, where our Aussie soldiers fought to defend our country in 1942. The time limit of 39 hours is to honour the 39th Battalion, who were the first troops to defend Australia on the Kokoda Track.

Is the Kokoda Track a good place to trek?

The Kokoda track was the setting for a famous event in Australian history, one which still resonates in the national consciousness today. Kokoda Trekking organises and offers set trekking itineraries as well as custom made treks to satisfy your needs.

Where is the Kokoda Trail in Papua New Guinea?

Trek with Kokoda Trekking & have an adventure of a lifetime. The Kokoda Trail is one of the world’s great treks, linking the southern and northern coast of Papua New Guinea, it is a challenge to be enjoyed by the fit bushwalker.

Who is the tour leader for Kokoda Track?

Trekking the Kokoda track has been a bucket list item for me for a long time and Kokoda Trekking Australia delivered an amazing experience. The company is very professional from the time of booking through to the completion of our adventure. We trekked with Tour leader Pat and his 2IC Clement.

What should I wear before my trek to Kokoda?

Trek sandals or reef walkers are essential for water crossings where you want to remove your boots and socks to keep them dry. You also need to wear them when you bathe in rivers and creeks and for walking around the campsite at the end of the day’s trekking.