Trekking PNG‚Äôs Kokoda Track

In 1942 Australia found World War II on the doorstep for the very first time, as the Japanese invasion took place at Rabaul in Papua New Guinea. As most of Australia’s forces were tied up in the Middle East, a group of young, inexperienced militia soldiers were tasked with intercepting the Japanese before they took Port Moresby from the north.

Mostly teenagers, they were outnumbered, undertrained and ill equipped. Victory looked unlikely, if not for the courage of the Diggers and their indispensable alliance with Papua New Guinea nationals, fondly named the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels. Over four arduous months, the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels helped secure an Australian victory by forming a human supply chain along the Kokoda track, moving food, ammunition and wounded soldiers to and from the front line.

By 22 January 1943, the Diggers had successfully warded off the advance; with less than 10% of the 14,000 strong Japanese force returning to their homeland. In total, 2165 Diggers died honorably, and 3,533 were wounded in battle.

Since then, Kokoda has resonated with many Australians, and to replicate the Diggers’ journey has become an essential rite of passage.

The trek is physically, mentally and spiritually tough. It remains a powerful reminder of Australia and PNG’s shared history, teaching Australians young and old the true meaning of courage, endurance, mateship and sacrifice. Importantly, it reaffirms our responsibility to the descendants of the PNG nationals who played such a crucial role in the Kokoda Campaign.

The Kokoda track region today appears much as it did back in 1942 and all along the track, trenches and rusted weapons can still be seen. The facilities are limited, no electricity, no shops, and each madly rushing stream is crossed by means of a simple log bridge.

The 96-kilometre Kokoda track wanders along narrow crests offering spectacular views, and falls into deep dark gorges where the thick green vegetation blocks out the daylight. The Australian and Papua New Guinea governments are considering seeking a World Heritage listing to continue to preserve this remarkably beautiful, pristine and historic environment.

Today, thousands of Australia’s visit Papua New Guinea to walk in the footsteps of those in 1942. Kokoda is different for everyone who does it, so finding a trusted and professional tour operator who suits your particular needs is crucial to make your Kokoda experience as fulfilling as possible. A list providing information about different operators, their experience, offerings and the type of trekkers they cater to can be found at www.dokokoda.com/tour-operators.

For more information on Trekking Kokoda Track visit www.dokokoda.com

"Trekkers.jpg"

"IMG_0070.JPG"

"IMGP0343.JPG"

"Picture-260.jpg"

Photos: Kokoda Initiative

Advertise with us

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

destination kokoda papua new guinea trekking