Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea Travel Guide

Explore the Kokoda Track: a historic WWII trail in Papua New Guinea, offering a challenging trek through breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural encounters.

The Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea is a world-renowned trekking route that combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich historical significance. Stretching approximately 96 kilometers through rugged terrain, dense rainforests, and steep mountain ranges, the track offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for adventure seekers and history enthusiasts alike. The Kokoda Track is famous for its role in World War II, where it became the site of intense battles between Japanese and Allied forces. Walking the track today, visitors can encounter numerous war relics, memorials, and artifacts that tell the story of the brave soldiers who fought here. The track is not just a walk through history; it is also a spiritual journey that pays homage to the courage and resilience of those who defended Papua New Guinea. Beyond its historical significance, the Kokoda Track offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in Papua New Guinea's stunning natural environment. The track traverses through diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests teeming with exotic wildlife to high-altitude plains offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Trekkers will also have the chance to interact with the local communities along the way, experiencing the rich culture and warm hospitality of the Papua New Guinean people.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kokoda Track.

Best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October.
Train well in advance to prepare for the physical demands of the trek.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and culture.
Pack light but include essentials like water purification tablets and insect repellent.
Respect local customs and ask for permission before taking photographs of local people.

Explore Kokoda Track: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kokoda Track

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Port Moresby Nature Park

Explore the stunning Port Moresby Nature Park, a vibrant fusion of botanical gardens and wildlife experiences in the heart of Papua New Guinea.

4.3

Papua New Guinea National Museum and Art Gallery

Explore the cultural treasures of Papua New Guinea at its National Museum and Art Gallery, showcasing rich heritage and diverse traditions.

4.3

Adventure Park PNG

Discover the joy of Adventure Park PNG, a thrilling theme park in Central Province with rides, relaxation, and beautiful landscapes for everyone.

4.3

Kouderika Beach

Explore the enchanting Kouderika Beach in Papua New Guinea - a serene paradise with stunning views, vibrant marine life, and rich local culture.

4.1

Best landmarks in Kokoda Track

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Kokoda Arch

Explore the Kokoda Arch, a significant historical landmark that honors the courageous soldiers of World War II amidst the stunning landscapes of Papua New Guinea.

5.0

Kovelo

Explore the rich historical heritage of Kovelo, a captivating site in Papua New Guinea's Northern Province that tells the stories of its vibrant past.

5.0

Alola

Explore Alola, a historic jewel on the Kokoda Track, where nature meets the poignant stories of World War II and adventure awaits every traveler.

5.0

Naduri

Discover the Kokoda Track, an iconic historical site in Papua New Guinea that blends challenging treks with rich World War II history and stunning natural beauty.

5.0

Best restaurants in Kokoda Track

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Dynasty Seafood Restaurant

Discover fresh seafood delights at Dynasty Seafood Restaurant in Port Moresby’s Vision City Mega Mall – where local flavors meet vibrant dining.

3.9

Daikoku Japanese Steak House

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Daikoku Japanese Steak House in Port Moresby – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

4.0

Edge Cafe Port Moresby

Experience delicious brunches at Edge Cafe Port Moresby - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a warm atmosphere.

4.2

Alibi Bar & Grill

Discover culinary delights at Alibi Bar & Grill in Port Moresby – where local flavors meet international cuisine in a stunning waterfront setting.

4.2

Best bars in Kokoda Track

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Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Jackson's Bar Restaurant & Gaming, where delicious cuisine meets exciting gaming in Port Moresby.

4.1

Ozzie’s Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ozzie’s Bar at Ela Beach, offering a diverse drink selection and stunning coastal views in Port Moresby.

3.7

Red Rock Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors and atmosphere of Red Rock Bar, a premier grill destination in Port Moresby, perfect for food lovers and social butterflies alike.

3.8

KUNDU CLUB

Discover the lively Kundu Club in Port Moresby, where local drinks and entertainment create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

3.7

Best nightclubs in Kokoda Track

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The Gold Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at The Gold Club in Port Moresby, where music and dance create an unforgettable experience.

4.0

Club Illusion PNG

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Port Moresby at Club Illusion PNG, where music and dance intertwine for an unforgettable experience.

3.3

BlackOut Night Club

Discover the electrifying nightlife at BlackOut Night Club in Port Moresby, where the beats keep you dancing and the atmosphere is always vibrant.

4.0

Club Regal

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Club Regal in Port Moresby, where great music, lively atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences await.

3.7

Best shops in Kokoda Track

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Stop and Shop Waigani Central

Experience the essence of Port Moresby at Stop and Shop Waigani Central, your go-to destination for groceries and local treats.

4.0

Jack's of PNG

Experience the vibrant culture of Papua New Guinea through unique clothing and accessories at Jack's of PNG in Port Moresby.

3.9

Cool Stuf Ltd / Smart Shopper Ltd

Explore Cool Stuf Ltd in Port Moresby for the latest electronics, unique accessories, and a vibrant shopping experience in Papua New Guinea.

4.0

Mayapu clothing

Explore Port Moresby's hidden gem for second-hand fashion at Mayapu Clothing - a unique shopping experience on your travel journey.

3.9

Explore Kokoda Track on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kokoda Track, mapped for you.

Kokoda Track Essentials

The Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea is most commonly accessed via Port Moresby, the capital city. Jacksons International Airport in Port Moresby is the main entry point for international travelers. From Port Moresby, you can take a domestic flight to either Popondetta or Kokoda. Once in Kokoda, local guides and tour operators can help you start your trek.
Transportation options in Papua New Guinea are limited. Most travelers rely on domestic flights to reach the starting point of the Kokoda Track. Once at Kokoda, trekking is the primary mode of transportation. It is advisable to hire a local guide for navigation and safety. Porters are also available to help carry gear. In Port Moresby, you can use taxis and hotel shuttles for getting around. Public transport is generally not recommended due to safety concerns.
The official currency in Papua New Guinea is the Papua New Guinean Kina (PGK). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some restaurants in Port Moresby, but cash is essential for most transactions, especially in rural areas like Kokoda. ATMs are available in Port Moresby, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash when heading out to the track. Currency exchange services are also available at the airport and in major hotels.
While the Kokoda Track is generally safe, travelers should exercise caution. Port Moresby has areas with high crime rates, particularly targeting tourists, so it is important to stay in well-secured accommodations and avoid walking alone at night. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings. On the track, follow your guide's instructions carefully and avoid straying from the group.
In case of emergency, dial 111 for immediate assistance in Papua New Guinea. Medical facilities in Port Moresby are available, but services may be limited in rural areas. It is crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. On the Kokoda Track, guides are trained in basic first aid and can assist until professional help arrives. Always carry a basic first aid kit and know the locations of the nearest medical posts along the track.
Fashion: Do wear lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing suitable for tropical climates. Sturdy hiking boots are a must. Avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. Public Transport: Do use registered taxis or hotel shuttles for travel in Port Moresby. Avoid using public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning.' A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods but ensure they are well-cooked. Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne diseases.
To experience the Kokoda Track like a local, engage with your guides and porters who can share insights about the area's history and culture. Visit local villages along the track to learn about the traditional way of life. Participate in local ceremonies and try local foods offered by villagers. Always be respectful and show genuine interest in their stories and customs.

When is the best time to visit Kokoda Track?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kokoda Track

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kokoda Track. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloGutpela dei
  [goot-peh-lah deh]
- GoodbyeGudbai
  [good-bye]
- YesYes
  [yes]
- NoNogat
  [noh-gaht]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [ten-kyoo]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Yu orait?
  [yoo oh-ryeht]
- Fine. And you?Mi orait. Na yu?
  [mee oh-ryeht. nah yoo]
- Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk lawng ing-gleesh]
- I don't understandMi no save long tok
  [mee noh sah-veh lawng tohk]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi laik lukim menu, plis
  [mee like look-eem meh-noo, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi no kaik abus
  [mee noh kaik ah-boos]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi laik baim, plis
  [mee like bah-eem, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go lusim!
  [go loo-seem]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [koh-leem poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [koh-leem dohk-tah]
- I'm lostMi les
  [mee lehs]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi laik baim...
  [mee like bah-eem...]
- I'm just lookingMi tasol lukim
  [mee tah-sol loo-keem]
- How much is it?Em i stap long hamas?
  [ehm ee stahp lawng hah-mahs]
- That's too expensiveEm i skelim tumas
  [ehm ee skeh-leem too-mahs]
- Can you lower the price?Yu ken lukaem prais?
  [yoo kehn loo-kah-em prah-eess]
- What time is it?Em i taim nau?
  [ehm ee tah-eem now]
- It's one o'clockEm i wan taim
  [ehm ee wahn tah-eem]
- Half past (10)Haus past (10)
  [hows past (10)]
- MorningMornin
  [mawr-neen]
- AfternoonApinun
  [ah-pee-noon]
- EveningEvenin
  [eh-veh-neen]
- YesterdayStapdei
  [stahp-deh]
- TodayTudei
  [too-deh]
- TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-moh-roh]
- 1Wan
  [wahn]
- 2Tu
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Fo
  [foh]
- 5Faiv
  [fah-eve]
- 6Sikis
  [see-kees]
- 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
- 8Eit
  [ayt]
- 9Nain
  [nayn]
- 10Ten
  [tehn]
- Where's a/the...?Em i stap long...
  [ehm ee stahp lawng...]
- What's the address?Em i adres?
  [ehm ee ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu ken soim mi (long map)?
  [yoo kehn soy-mee mee (lawng map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Taim bai naispela (bus) i kam?
  [tah-eem by nai-speh-lah (boos) ee kahm]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht (lawng ....)]

History of Kokoda Track

Before European contact, the region surrounding the Kokoda Track was home to various indigenous tribes. These tribes had their own unique cultures, languages, and traditions. The dense jungle terrain made it difficult for different groups to interact, leading to a rich tapestry of distinct communities.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, European explorers and missionaries began to make their way into the interior of Papua New Guinea. They established missions and outposts, introducing Western religion and education to the local population. The Kokoda Track itself was used as a path for these early explorers and missionaries.
One of the most significant events in the history of the Kokoda Track was the World War II campaign fought between July and November 1942. The Japanese forces aimed to capture Port Moresby via the Kokoda Track, but were met with fierce resistance from Australian troops. This grueling conflict was characterized by brutal jungle warfare and extreme conditions. The successful defense of the track by the Australians is considered a pivotal moment in the Pacific War.
During the Battle of Kokoda, local Papua New Guinean villagers, affectionately known as the 'Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels,' played a crucial role in assisting the Australian soldiers. They carried supplies, evacuated the wounded, and provided invaluable knowledge of the terrain. Their contribution was essential to the Australian war effort and is remembered with great respect and gratitude.
After World War II, the Kokoda Track became a symbol of sacrifice and endurance. Memorials and plaques were erected along the track to commemorate those who fought and died there. Each year, many Australians and international visitors trek the Kokoda Track to honor the memory of the soldiers and to experience the historical significance of the location.
Today, the Kokoda Track is not only a historical site but also a cultural one. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the indigenous cultures of Papua New Guinea. Visitors can engage with local villagers, participate in traditional ceremonies, and gain an appreciation for the way of life that has persisted for centuries. The track serves as a bridge between the past and the present, providing insight into both the historical events and the enduring cultural traditions of the region.