Papua New Guinea is known for its stunning natural beauty, with dramatic mountains, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. It’s also home to where transformative Kokoda Track is.
Trekking the Kokoda Track is a life-changing experience. The journey challenges both body and mind, but with the right preparation, it’s entirely achievable.
This is the ultimate guide to get you ready to take on the rugged terrain and tropical climate of Papua New Guinea. Here’s how you can prepare for the Kokoda Track.
Step 1: Build Your Physical Conditioning
The Kokoda Track isn’t just a walk in the park – it’s 8 days of steep climbs, descents, and long distances.
To prepare your body for this challenge, start a training regimen at least 3 months before your trek. Include cardio, strength training, and endurance exercises.
Start with 5km walks carrying a daypack, gradually increasing to 15km. And remember, your mental toughness is just as important. Stay positive and focused, take it one day at a time.
How fit do I need to be? With some training and preparation, anyone can complete the Kokoda Track. If you have a health condition that worries you, contact us now. We can provide our best recommendations.
We offer monthly group training walks in Melbourne.
Step 2: Gear and Packing Essentials
Having the right gear for the Kokoda Track is incredibly important.
When you walk the Kokoda Track with Getaway Trekking, porters will help carry your backpacks. However, you still need to plan ahead.
We will provide all trekkers with a detailed breakdown of what they will need. However, here are some of the essentials:
- Ensure you have light, quick-drying, trek-appropriate clothes.
- Lightweight and comfortable hiking boots or shoes. Don’t forget to break them in before your trek.
- An appropriate day pack. Adjustable and with a rain cover.
- A poncho is also helpful as the rain can still be heavy, even in the dry season.
- Tropical insect repellent, hand sanitiser and sunscreen are also essential.
- Place all your important documents in waterproof bags.
Step 3: Gather Important Documentation
Before heading to Papua New Guinea, there’s planning and preparation that needs to take place to ensure a smooth journey. All visitors to Papua New Guinea require a Tourist Visa, which is valid for 30 or 60 days. To receive this Visa, you need to have the following:
- Your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your return date to Australia.
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay.
- An onward airline ticket with confirmed bookings.
It’s important to follow health guidelines to stay healthy and safe during the trip. This includes getting the right vaccinations and taking preventive measures.
Step 4: Adapt and Hydrate
The tropical climate of Papua New Guinea can be unforgiving, especially in the first few days of the walking track. Hydrate regularly and use electrolyte tablets to replace the fluids lost through sweat.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are prepared fresh daily with our tour, but we recommend bringing a small snack pack with carbohydrate-rich snacks. This will keep your energy levels up.
Step 5: Honour the History
As you prepare to walk the Kokoda Track, understanding its historical depth will enhance your experience. The track is a powerful tribute to bravery and sacrifice.
Managed by the Kokoda Track Authority, the track stretches from Port Moresby through the Owen Stanley Ranges to the village of Kokoda.
We will hear many stories of bravery and hardships that our heroic “diggers” endured during the campaign.
Choose a tour that offers expert Australian trek leaders who are well-versed in the track’s history and can share insightful stories. Getaway Trekking’s approach is both culturally and ecologically sensitive, ensuring a respectful journey. You will also have the chance to join memorial services at important sites like Isurava Battlefield and Brigade Hill.
Our experienced local ground crew will support you throughout, providing a deeper connection to the track’s legacy. Choosing a tour with these features will help you truly honour the history of the Kokoda Track.
Discover more about the Kokoda Track here: Getaway Trekking Kokoda Track Trek