“Culturally, I think Getaway Trekking goes out of their way to expose you to the culture of PNG and for this I thank them. It is a country rich in culture, but it has a side that I wasn’t expecting to see. It only enhanced the overall experience”.
Beyond the battlefield
Renowned for its World War II history, the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea has long been a ‘must-do’ for those seeking to make a military pilgrimage. Beyond the battlefields though, many of our trekkers are pleasantly surprised by the exposure to the PNG culture, villages and people.
During this rugged, and often muddy, 96km track, our Kokoda Trek passes through many villages, each with their own story and traditions to share. And while we trek, our loyal carriers, who themselves come from Buna and Sanananda, reinforce the cultural exchange by imparting local stories, language and jokes as we traverse the terrain.
Warm village welcomes and genuine hospitality
Getaway Trekking has been working with Papua New Guinean communities and carriers for decades, and their warmth and hospitality have no boundaries. From the very first step along the Kokoda Track, you’ll quickly realise just how incredibly welcoming villagers are.
From children rushing out to meet our latest group of trekkers, to being ushered into a village with joyous singing and dancing, trekkers are greeted as friends, not as strangers.
Language is rarely a barrier, with many children learning basic English, many of whom are eager to practice a few words or phrases. But even where language is a hurdle, that’s nothing a few games of soccer (football) or frisbee can’t fix. Meanwhile, village elders will offer smiles and waves, or perhaps even a warm “monin tru” (Good Morning), ensuring you feel at ease.
And when the going gets tough, our carriers may even bring out the guitar and sing a traditional song or two to lift your spirits. Demonstrating that even on days outside of the villages, the hospitality along the track is out of this world.
Connecting with faith
Music serves as the heartbeat of village culture, and this is beautifully showcased when the harmonious voices of the church choir rise up in song. For many villagers, who are devout Christians, attending a church service is a cherished experience where faith comes to life.
During these services, you might hear a blend of traditional hymns and lively gospel songs sung in either English or Tok Pisin. Although the villagers are usually softly spoken in conversation, the passion and harmony they bring to their singing will undoubtedly surprise you.
Immerse yourself in PNG life
Many of the remote villages we visit live very traditional lives. When you arrive at a village you’ll witness what everyday life looks like for many of these communities. From women carrying bilums (string bags), smoke rising from cooking hits, to preparing dinner using a ‘mumu’ (traditional oven).
And while you can observe, it’s so much better to get amongst it. Many of our past trekkers have enjoyed fishing with the locals, participated in weaving demonstrations, or visited the local school.
One thing is for sure, you’ll get to know the villagers, see first-hand what life is like and be exposed to local customs and traditions.
And if you want to support the locals, you can choose to purchase some fruit, twisties or even your own bilum to take home as a memento.
Be ready to expect more from your Kokoda 2026 tour
As you plan your Kokoda adventure, it is true that the battlefields and war memories are etched deeply into the origins of this trek. However, it’s also about people – past, present and future. The cultural encounters along the way will likely leave a lasting impression on your soul, long after the trek has ended.
As a culturally sensitive and socially responsible Kokoda trek operator, we have always taken steps to build relationships and friendships with the villagers and couriers who trust us. In return, they give us and our trekkers an out-of-this-world experience.
“I particularly commend Getaway Trekking for the manner in which they treat their local employees. It was evident as we interacted with other porters along the track that the Buna boys were the most content, most resourced and most respected. They genuinely enjoyed their jobs – singing, dancing, storytelling, sharing jokes and teaching us language.“
“Our carriers were all from two villages on the northern beaches of the main PNG island – Buna and Sanananda and after spending 8 days in close contact getting to know these men on the Track, we were able to spend two days in their villages meeting their families, fishing with them, visiting the school, walking their beaches, playing with the children. A wonderful highlight that made the cultural exchange come to life”.
If you’re seeking a trek steeped in history (and mud), brimming with culture and warmth, then perhaps a Kokoda Trek in 2026 is the one for you: https://getawaytrekking.com.au/tour/papua-new-guinea/kokoda-track-trek/