Port Moresby - Kokoda - Deniki

This morning take a short, spectacularly scenic chartered flight over the jungle canopies and craggy peaks of the Owen Stanley Range to the landing strip of Kokoda station. Kokoda, situated at 340 metres above sea level, is a hot and humid place, but there’s a nearby river to cool off in if we need. There is free time explore and visit the Kokoda Memorial and War Museum this morning before the trek begins, where we’ll learn a little more about Kokoda station. This spot held importance during WWII due to having the only airfield along the track, and the opening stages of the Kokoda Track campaign saw two battles take place in and around the village. Australian forces reoccupied Kokoda in November 1942 as the Japanese retreated to the north coast. After lunch, lace up and set off for the village of Deniki (4–5 hours). Begin with a flat walk through rows of palm oil and rubber tree plantations, passing through Kovelo and Hoi villages before the first steep ascent up the Owen Stanley Range. Deniki village is
a historically significant location where the 39th Battalion first regrouped when Japanese forces occupied Kokoda. At 900 metres above sea level, we’ll be greeted with incredible views across the Kokoda Valley upon arrival, giving us the chance to pause and reflect on all that occurred here.

Deniki - Isrrava Village - Alola

Today will be our first full-day trek with an early start towards Isurava village. Pass through choko gardens planted by local villagers and by water holes where we can fill up our bottles. We will arrive at Isurava (1350 metres), a village relocated several times since WWII which now sits in a tranquil location with good access to water and sunshine. We continue to the famous Isurava battlefield and stop for a break to learn about the significance of the site. A powerful memorial built by the Australian Government features four pillars, reading ‘Courage, Sacrifice, Mateship and Endurance’, words we are sure to carry with us for the rest of our journey. Hear the story of the heroic Private Kingsbury, a real estate agent from Melbourne enlisted to fight in New Guinea. Kingsbury gallantly volunteered to clear a path through the enemy, allowing the Australian troops to regain their control, only to lose his life to a sniper’s bullet. Private Kingsbury’s courage earned him a posthumous Victoria Cross, and is one of many stories of unbelievable tragedy and bravery we will encounter on your journey. We continue to the village of Alola (at 1400 metres), which overlooks the Iora Valley and Auberi village, which is where we will spend the night.

Menari - Ioribaiwa - Uaule Creek

This morning we begin by tackling the Nine False Peaks to the top of Maguli Range (1350 metres). This involves roughly 3 hours of serious uphill trekking. From the top of the ridge, make the first of many descents today with a rest stop at Jap’s Ladder. Take another break at Ofi Creek and continue on to historic Ioribaiwa, situated at approximately 650 metres. It was here that the Japanese troops fought their final victorious battle against the Australians before withdrawing. From Ioribaiwa continue down a steep slope that leads to Uaule Creek. At the base of the Ioribaiwa Ridge make our way across a myriad of river and creek crossings (nine in total) until we reach Uaule Creek and set up camp for the night.

Uaule Creek - Owers Corner - Port Moresby

Our journey today starts across multiple river crossings along Uaule Creek. Come prepared with sandals or expect wet boots. Continue with a trek up the back of Imita Ridge for about 1.5 hours. From here, trek down a trail once known as the Golden Staircase, built by Australian troops during the war to transport artillery and supplies from Port Moresby. Take a break at the summit of Imita Ridge then descend to Goodwater. Continue to Goldie River (3 hours), then make the final climb to Owers Corner. Congratulations! We can now officially say we have completed the Kokoda Track! We will meet with our driver and transfer back to Port Moresby, stopping en route to visit Bomana War Cemetery, where 3600 Australian soldiers were laid to rest. This evening perhaps grab a well-deserved drink with your team and fellow trekkers. Cheers!

Our adventure has come to an end. Check out of the hotel is at 11 am and transfer to the airport can be organised on request. Just let us know your flight details 30 days prior to adventure departure date.