Kokoda – Non Trekking Tour

Overview

Kokoda and the Beach Head battle sites (6 DAYS, 5 NIGHTS)

This is a tour for those interested in the Kokoda Campaign and the final battles of Gona, Buna, and Sanananda on the northern shoreline. It is a non-trekking tour for those keen in the history and significance of these campaigns, without the need for trekking the trail.

This is a 6 day tour that provides historical information and visits to places vitally important to Australia and our war efforts in WW2 in the PNG arena.

The tour includes both ends of the Kokoda Trail (Owers’ Corner and Kokoda Village) and the Northern Beaches sites of Gona, Buna and Sanananda.

You will receive history briefs along the tour, visit battle sites, and pay your respects at a number of memorials and cemeteries.

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For more detailed information on each trek view the individual trek page on the web site. Contact us for more information.

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Itinerary
  • Itinerary
  • Inclusions
  • Exclusions
  • Costs
Itinerary
Day 1

Arrive Port Moresby. Transfer to 5 star Stanley Hotel Port Moresby. Pre-tour briefing and dinner.

Day 2

Transport to Bomana cemetery. Transport to Owers corner (the start of the Kokoda Trail). Transport to airport and fly to Popondetta. Visit Popondetta memorial and cemetery. Transfer to basic Hotel.

Day 3

Transport to 1951 site of Mt Lamington eruption where 3000 locals perished. Visit site of old missionary where missionaries May Hayman and Mavis Parkinson were murdered. Visit Soputa where the Australian base was established for the Northern Beaches campaign. Travel to Buna, Huggins road block and battle sites, and overnight Buna Village.

Day 4

Transport to Awala where the first shots were fired in the PNG campaign. Visit battle sites at Gorari and Oivi. Visit Wairopi and the Kumusi River crossing. Continue to Kokoda and visit battle sites, memorials and Kokoda Station monuments. Overnight at Kokoda.

Day 5

Visit the start of the Kokoda Trail. Helicopter pick up at Kokoda, transport to the Isurava Battlesite. Tour of the Battlesite and the Australian Memorial. Helicopter to Port Moresby. Transfer to hotel.

Day 6

Transfer provided to International terminal and home.

Inclusions
  • Hotel accommodation (twin share) at 5-star Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby on day 1 and day 5
  • Breakfast & Dinner at Hilton Hotel on day 1 and day 5
  • All airport transfers
  • Airfares Port Moresby to Popondetta
  • Helicopter pick up from Kokoda to Isurava, and onward to Port Moresby
  • All transport in PNG, including Owers Corner, Kokoda, Popondetta, Buna etc.
  • All meals on tour (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Accommodation at basic guest houses in Popondetta, Buna, Kokoda
  • History briefs at each location
Exclusions
  • Flights to/from Port Moresby
  • Personal spending and personal snacks and drinks
  • Travel Insurance
Costs

Costs

  • $5000

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You can send your enquiry via the form below.

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    FAQ

    How high is Kokoda?

    The village of Kokoda itself sits at an elevation of around 370 meters (1,214 feet) above sea level. However, the highest point on the Kokoda Trail is Mount Bellamy, which reaches 2,490 meters (8,170 feet).

    What time of year is best for Kokoda?

    The best time to visit Kokoda is during Papua New Guinea’s dry season, which runs from April to November. This period offers more favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall and more manageable river crossings. The wet season, from December to March, can make travel difficult due to heavy rains and muddy terrain

    How long does the Kokoda 1000 steps take?

    The Kokoda 1000 Steps Memorial Walk in the Dandenong Ranges near Melbourne typically takes between 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. It’s a steep climb with approximately 1000 steps, designed to commemorate the soldiers who fought along the Kokoda Trail during World War II.

    How long does it take to train for Kokoda Trail?

    Training for the Kokoda Trail generally requires at least 3 to 6 months of preparation, depending on your current fitness level. A good training regimen should include hill walks, endurance training, and strength exercises to prepare for the steep and rugged terrain of the trail5. If you’re short on time, a focused 5-week training program can also help build up your fitness.

    What do you wear to the Kokoda Track?

    For trekking the Kokoda Track, it’s essential to wear lightweight and moisture-wicking clothing due to the hot and humid conditions. Key items include:

    • Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
    • Quick-dry shirts and pants
    • A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection
    • Rain gear such as a waterproof jacket
    • Comfortable hiking socks

    It’s also important to pack layers as temperatures can drop at higher elevations.

    Can kids do Kokoda?

    Yes, children can trek the Kokoda Trail, but it is recommended that they be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Many trekking companies suggest a minimum age of around 12 years, though younger children have completed the trek with proper support. It’s important that kids are physically fit and mentally prepared for such a challenging adventure.