Kokoda Track

Information

Distance

96.0 km

Duration

8–12 days

Max elevation

2,190 m

Country

Papua New Guinea (PG)

Difficulty

Very strenuous — relentless steep muddy climbs, extreme tropical forest humidity, river crossings, slippery roots and rocks; considered one of the toughest treks in the Asia-Pacific

Best Season

April–November (relative dry season)

Permits & Fees

A permit from the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) is required; a licensed operator and local porters are mandatory; payment of the porter contribution is required

Description

The Kokoda Track is a 96 km wilderness trek through Papua New Guinea's Owen Stanley Range, linking Owers' Corner (50 km east of Port Moresby) with the village of Kokoda over 8–12 days. The track reaches approximately 2,190 m near the summit of Mount Bellamy, threading through dense tropical rainforest on relentlessly steep, muddy, and humid terrain — routinely described as one of the most physically demanding multi-day hikes in the Asia-Pacific region. Its global reputation stems equally from its WWII history: in 1942, Australian and Papuan infantry fought a grueling campaign against Japanese forces along this same route, and war memorials, battle sites, and village cemeteries line the track throughout, giving every stage profound historical weight. All trekkers require a permit from the Kokoda Track Authority (KTA) and must hire licensed guides and local porters, who provide critical logistical, safety, and cultural support throughout the journey.

Trail Highlights

The 1942 WWII battle sites (Australia vs Japan), war memorials and cemeteries along the trail, the tropical rainforest of the Owen Stanley Range, Kokoda Village as the historic endpoint, the Isurava ridge and Brigade Hill, and views from the Kokoda Gap