Kokoda Track (9 Days)

Overview

The Kokoda Track, located in the Owen Stanley Ranges of Papua New Guinea, is one of the most historically significant trekking routes in the world. The track became famous during World War II as the site of fierce fighting between Australian forces and the Imperial Japanese Army in 1942. It was part of a strategic campaign to defend Australia against Japanese expansion in the Pacific.

The track spans about 96 kilometers (60 miles), connecting the village of Kokoda to Owers' Corner near Port Moresby. The journey is known for its steep inclines, dense jungles, and rugged terrain, which made it a significant challenge for soldiers, who faced extreme weather conditions, illness, and exhaustion. Over the course of the campaign, nearly 600 Australians lost their lives, and the Kokoda campaign is seen as a defining moment in Australia's history.

Today, the track is a popular hiking destination, drawing trekkers from all over the world to experience the harsh conditions that soldiers endured and to pay homage to those who fought during the war.

Duration: 9 Days (Optional 5-Day Black Cat Trail Extension)
Start & End: Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
Difficulty Level: Challenging

Day 1: Arrival in Port Moresby
  • Arrive in Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea.

  • Transfer to hotel, meet the trekking team, and attend a detailed briefing.

  • Visit Bomana War Cemetery, where many Australian soldiers from the Kokoda Campaign are buried.

  • Explore the National Museum & Art Gallery to understand the history of the Kokoda Track.

  • Dinner and overnight stay in Port Moresby.

Day 2: Flight to Popondetta – Kokoda Village
  • Morning flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta.

  • Drive through lush landscapes to Kokoda Village, the start of the trek.

  • Visit the Kokoda War Memorial and Museum.

  • Meet local guides and porters, final gear check.

  • Overnight in Kokoda Village campsite.

Day 3: Kokoda to Isurava Memorial (11 km)
  • Begin trek through dense jungle terrain.

  • Visit the site of the first Kokoda battle.

  • Arrive at Isurava Memorial, a significant battlefield site.

  • Sunset reflection at the Isurava War Memorial.

  • Overnight camping in Isurava.

Day 4: Isurava to Templeton’s Crossing (12 km)
  • Trek through mountain ridges and jungle trails.

  • Pass Eora Creek, a key supply route during the war.

  • Explore wartime relics and hidden bunkers.

  • Reach Templeton’s Crossing, an old supply dump location.

  • Overnight camping near the river.

Day 5: Templeton’s Crossing to Efogi (16 km)
  • Challenging uphill trek to Mount Bellamy (2,190m), the highest point on the trail.

  • Pass through Digger’s Camp and Myola Lakes.

  • Descend to Efogi Village, meet local villagers.

  • Overnight stay in the village guesthouse.

Day 6: Efogi to Menari (14 km)
  • Trek through open grasslands and river crossings.

  • Visit Brigade Hill, site of a fierce battle.

  • Arrive in Menari Village, cultural interaction with locals.

  • Traditional welcome ceremony.

  • Overnight camping in Menari.

Day 7: Menari to Ioribaiwa (15 km)
  • Descend to Nauro Village, known for its swamps.

  • Cross the Brown River, one of the toughest sections.

  • Reach Ioribaiwa Ridge, the furthest point Japanese forces advanced.

  • Overnight camping near Ioribaiwa Village.

Day 8: Ioribaiwa to Owers’ Corner (10 km) – Return to Port Moresby
  • Final descent through dense rainforest.

  • Cross Goldie River, the last major obstacle.

  • Arrive at Owers’ Corner, where Australian troops began their counteroffensive.

  • Transfer back to Port Moresby by vehicle.

  • Celebration dinner and certificate presentation.

  • Overnight stay in Port Moresby.

Day 9: Departure or Optional Black Cat Trail Extension
  • Free time for shopping or sightseeing.

  • Departure transfer to the airport.

Black Cat Trail (5-7 Days)

Overview

The Black Cat Trail is another significant WWII-era trekking route in Papua New Guinea, located in the Huon Peninsula of the Morobe Province. The trail is named after the infamous Black Cat Battalion of the Australian Army, which used this path to mount attacks on Japanese positions in the Salamaua–Lae area during the war.

The trail spans about 70 kilometers (43 miles), running from the Wau Valley to Salamaua. The route takes trekkers through dense jungle, steep ridges, and historical battlefields, where remnants of war, such as foxholes, rusted equipment, and abandoned bunkers, can still be found. The Black Cat Trail was used to cut off Japanese supply routes and played a significant role in the Allied victory in the region. Today, it's known for its rugged beauty and offers a chance to explore a more isolated and challenging part of Papua New Guinea’s wartime history.

Overview of Tour

This 5-day expedition follows the historic Black Cat Trail, one of Papua New Guinea’s toughest treks, known for its WWII battlefields, dense jungle, steep ridges, and coastal scenery. The trail ends in Salamaua, a former Japanese stronghold, before returning to Lae by boat.

Trek Type: Guided Adventure Expedition
Difficulty Level: Challenging (Experienced Trekkers Only)
Best Time to Trek: April – October (Dry Season)

📍 Itinerary Details & Logistics
Day 1: Arrival in Lae – WWII History Tour

📍 Port Moresby → Lae (Flight) → Lae War Cemetery & WWII Sites
✈️ Morning:

  • Flight from Port Moresby (POM) to Lae (Nadzab Airport)

  • Meet & greet at the airport, transfer to hotel/lodge.

🕰️ Midday:

  • Visit Lae War Cemetery (Australian & Allied soldiers' resting place).

  • Explore Lae WWII sites:

    • Old Lae Airfield (Amelia Earhart’s last stop).

    • Japanese war tunnels & bunkers.

🏡 Accommodation: Hotel/Lodge in Lae
🍽️ Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Wau to Black Cat Trail (Start of Trek)

📍 Drive to Wau → Jungle Trek Begins

🚙 Morning:

  • Drive 3–4 hours to Wau, a historic gold-mining town.

  • Final trek preparations and safety briefing.

🥾 Trek Begins:

  • Enter the Black Cat Trail, crossing dense jungle, rivers, and ridges.

  • The trail is slippery, steep, and physically demanding.

🏕️ Overnight: Jungle Camp in Local Village
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Mubo & Komiatum Ridge – Key WWII Battlefields

📍 Trek Through Mubo & Komiatum Ridge

🥾 Morning:

  • Trek past Mubo, where Australian & Japanese forces clashed in WWII.

  • Explore old trenches, foxholes, and war relics.

⛰️ Afternoon:

  • Ascend Komiatum Ridge, a Japanese defensive position.

  • Challenging steep uphill climb but with breathtaking views of the jungle.

🏕️ Overnight: Camp near Komiatum Village
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Reach Salamaua – WWII Relics & Beachfront

📍 Trek to Salamaua Coastal Town

🌿 Morning:

  • Final jungle trek as we descend towards Salamaua Peninsula.

  • Explore Japanese bunkers, old airstrips, and wartime artifacts.

🏖️ Afternoon:

  • Relax on Salamaua’s scenic beachfront.

  • Optional snorkeling/swimming in crystal-clear waters.

🏡 Accommodation: Guesthouse or Beach Camp in Salamaua
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Boat Transfer to Lae – Flight to Port Moresby

📍 Salamaua → Lae (Boat) → Port Moresby (Flight)

🛶 Morning:

  • Boat transfer from Salamaua to Lae (approx. 1-hour ride).

  • Scenic views of Papua New Guinea’s coastline.

✈️ Afternoon:

  • Transfer to Lae Airport for flight back to Port Moresby.

🏡 Accommodation: End of trip (own arrangements or extension available)
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast

💰 Package Cost Breakdown
Estimated Cost per Person: {Enquire}

(Based on group size of 4–6 trekkers. Costs may vary for private treks.)

🏕️ Inclusions

✔️ Domestic flights (Port Moresby – Lae – Port Moresby)
✔️ Airport Transfers (Lae)
✔️ Hotel Accommodation in Lae (1 Night)
✔️ Guesthouse/Jungle Camp Stays (4 Nights)
✔️ All Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✔️ Trekking Permits & Conservation Fees
✔️ Local Guides & Porters (carry gear, assist on tough sections)
✔️ Boat Transfer from Salamaua to Lae
✔️ WWII Historical Site Tours (Lae, Mubo, Salamaua)
✔️ Safety & First Aid Support

❌ Exclusions

International Flights to Papua New Guinea
Travel & Medical Insurance (Mandatory)
Personal Trekking Gear (boots, backpack, sleeping bag, etc.)
Alcoholic Beverages & Personal Expenses
Tips for Guides & Porters (Optional, Recommended PGK 50–100)

EXT1. Mt. Giluwe 5-Day Trek (Papua New Guinea's Highest Volcanic Peak - 4,367m)
Overview

Mount Giluwe is the second-highest mountain in Papua New Guinea, rising to 4,368 meters (14,331 feet). Located in the Southern Highlands, it is part of the Bismarck Range. Mount Giluwe is often overlooked in favor of Mt. Wilhelm but is no less significant and is a popular climb for experienced trekkers.

The mountain is notable for its volcanic origins, and it is considered one of the easiest high-altitude climbs in Papua New Guinea due to the relatively straightforward nature of its ascent. Unlike Mt. Wilhelm, which is typically cold and covered in snow at the summit, Giluwe’s summit offers unique views of the highland plateaus and neighboring peaks. The mountain is also culturally important to the Melpa people, the indigenous group that inhabits the surrounding areas.

Route

📍 Route: Port Moresby → Mt. Hagen → Base Camp → Summit → Return

Day 1: Port Moresby → Mt. Hagen → Kilip Lodge
  • Morning: Flight from Port Moresby to Mt. Hagen

  • Arrival at Kagamuga Airport, transfer to Kilip Lodge near Tambul

  • Acclimatization trek and cultural experience with local tribes

  • Overnight at Kilip Lodge

Day 2: Trek to Base Camp
  • Breakfast at lodge

  • Drive to Mt. Giluwe trailhead (1.5-hour drive)

  • Trek through montane forests and grasslands (5–6 hours)

  • Set up camp at 3,200m

  • Dinner and overnight camping

Day 3: Summit Day
  • Early morning start (3 AM) for the summit push

  • Trek through alpine meadows and volcanic ridges (4–5 hours)

  • Summit at sunrise (4,367m) – breathtaking views of PNG’s Highlands

  • Descend to Base Camp, rest and lunch

  • Continue trek down to Kilip Lodge

  • Overnight at Kilip Lodge

Day 4: Cultural Exploration & Return to Mt. Hagen
  • Visit local villages, meet the Huli Wigmen

  • Explore Mt. Hagen town and markets

  • Overnight at a guesthouse or hotel in Mt. Hagen

Day 5: Mt. Hagen → Port Moresby
  • Flight back to Port Moresby

  • Tour Ends

EXT2. Mt. Wilhelm 5-Day Trek (PNG’s Highest Mountain - 4,509m)
Overview

Mount Wilhelm is the highest peak in Papua New Guinea, standing at 4,509 meters (14,793 feet). Located in the Bismarck Range of the Central Highlands, the mountain is a popular climbing destination and is known for its breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems.

The first recorded ascent of Mt. Wilhelm was in 1938 by a party led by Sir Hubert Wilkins, a famous Arctic explorer. For the indigenous Kuman people who live in the region, Mt. Wilhelm holds spiritual significance, and many believe it is the home of the ancestral spirits. The trek to the summit is challenging and can take several days, passing through lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and snow-capped ridges. The summit offers stunning panoramas of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a rewarding destination for adventure seekers.

Route

📍 Route: Port Moresby → Mt. Hagen → Kegsugl → Base Camp → Summit

Day 1: Port Moresby → Mt. Hagen → Kegsugl Village
  • Morning flight from Port Moresby to Mt. Hagen

  • Drive to Kegsugl Village (3–4 hours)

  • Dinner and overnight at Kegsugl Lodge (2,900m)

Day 2: Trek to Base Camp (3,600m)
  • Breakfast and trek through rainforest, waterfalls, and alpine valleys

  • Arrive at Mt. Wilhelm Base Camp (Lake Piunde & Lake Aunde)

  • Dinner and overnight at Base Camp Lodge

Day 3: Summit Day (4,509m)
  • Early start (2 AM) for summit push

  • Reach summit at sunrise, panoramic views of PNG

  • Descend to Base Camp for rest

  • Overnight at Base Camp

Day 4: Descend to Kegsugl & Return to Mt. Hagen
  • Breakfast and trek back to Kegsugl Village

  • Drive to Mt. Hagen for overnight stay

Day 5: Mt. Hagen → Port Moresby
  • Morning flight back to Port Moresby

  • Tour Ends

EXT3. Mt. Tavurvur 5-Day Volcano & WWII History Adventure
Overview

Rabaul is a historic port town located on the Gazelle Peninsula in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea. Once the capital of the New Guinea Islands, Rabaul was a thriving colonial and commercial center until it was almost destroyed by a series of volcanic eruptions in 1994.

The town lies beneath the towering Mt. Tavurvur, an active stratovolcano that has erupted several times in the past century. The most significant eruption occurred in 1994, when Mt. Tavurvur and the nearby Vulcan Volcano erupted simultaneously, causing extensive damage to Rabaul. Today, Rabaul remains an intriguing tourist destination for those interested in exploring its volcanic history, abandoned ruins, and unique landscapes shaped by volcanic activity.

Visitors can hike up Mt. Tavurvur to see the active crater or explore the volcanic hot springs. Rabaul is also a gateway to some of the best diving sites in Papua New Guinea, where visitors can explore WWII wrecks and vibrant coral reefs. The surrounding bays and islands are known for their underwater biodiversity, making Rabaul a popular destination for marine enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Route

📍 Route: Port Moresby → Rabaul → Volcano Trek → WWII Sites → Return

Day 1: Port Moresby → Rabaul (East New Britain)
  • Morning flight from Port Moresby to Rabaul (Tokua Airport)

  • Visit Rabaul Volcano Observatory & Hot Springs

  • Check-in at Rabaul/Kokopo Lodge

Day 2: Hike Mt. Tavurvur Volcano (688m)
  • Early morning trek to summit for lava fields & sunrise views

  • Descend to hot springs for soothing soak

  • Overnight in Rabaul

Day 3: WWII Historical Tour
  • Explore Japanese tunnels, wreckage sites, and Admiral Yamamoto’s Bunker

  • Visit Rabaul Museum & Kokopo War Museum

  • Sunset at Submarine Base

  • Overnight in Rabaul

Day 4: Beach & Island Excursion
  • Boat trip to Duke of York Islands

  • Snorkeling & village visits

  • Overnight in Rabaul

Day 5: Rabaul → Port Moresby
  • Morning flight back to Port Moresby

  • Tour Ends

EXT4. Tufi Diving & Cultural Adventure (5 Days in Paradise)
Overview

The Tufi Fiords, located in the Oro Province of Papua New Guinea, are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and world-class diving opportunities. The fiords are characterized by towering cliffs, deep coves, and clear blue waters, making them a haven for marine life and divers.

The area is part of the Papua New Guinea Coral Triangle, a hotspot for marine biodiversity. Divers can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and WWII wrecks. The region’s rich marine life includes turtles, sharks, barracuda, and a variety of tropical fish. The Tufi Fiords are also famous for mangrove swamps, which are unique in the region.

For visitors looking to experience both culture and nature, the Tufi region offers an incredible combination of tribal traditions, rainforest hikes, and diving adventures. The fiords are accessible by boat and are a perfect destination for eco-tourism.

Route

📍 Route: Port Moresby → Popondetta → Tufi → Return

Day 1: Port Moresby → Popondetta → Tufi Resort
  • Flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta

  • Boat transfer to Tufi Dive Resort

  • Relax at resort & explore fjords

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 2: Reef Diving & Snorkeling
  • Morning: Two-tank dive on WWII wrecks & coral reefs

  • Afternoon: Snorkeling & kayaking in Tufi Fjords

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 3: Village Tour & Cultural Experience
  • Visit traditional Oro Province villages

  • Learn tattooing customs & sago making

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 4: Waterfalls & Fishing Expedition
  • Boat ride to waterfall hikes & hidden beaches

  • Optional: Fishing trip for tuna & marlin

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 5: Tufi → Popondetta → Port Moresby
  • Morning transfer to Popondetta Airport

  • Flight to Port Moresby

  • Tour Ends

EXT4. Tufi Diving & Cultural Adventure (5 Days in Paradise)
Overview

The Tufi Fiords, located in the Oro Province of Papua New Guinea, are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and world-class diving opportunities. The fiords are characterized by towering cliffs, deep coves, and clear blue waters, making them a haven for marine life and divers.

The area is part of the Papua New Guinea Coral Triangle, a hotspot for marine biodiversity. Divers can explore coral reefs, underwater caves, and WWII wrecks. The region’s rich marine life includes turtles, sharks, barracuda, and a variety of tropical fish. The Tufi Fiords are also famous for mangrove swamps, which are unique in the region.

For visitors looking to experience both culture and nature, the Tufi region offers an incredible combination of tribal traditions, rainforest hikes, and diving adventures. The fiords are accessible by boat and are a perfect destination for eco-tourism.

Route

📍 Route: Port Moresby → Popondetta → Tufi → Return

Day 1: Port Moresby → Popondetta → Tufi Resort
  • Flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta

  • Boat transfer to Tufi Dive Resort

  • Relax at resort & explore fjords

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 2: Reef Diving & Snorkeling
  • Morning: Two-tank dive on WWII wrecks & coral reefs

  • Afternoon: Snorkeling & kayaking in Tufi Fjords

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 3: Village Tour & Cultural Experience
  • Visit traditional Oro Province villages

  • Learn tattooing customs & sago making

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 4: Waterfalls & Fishing Expedition
  • Boat ride to waterfall hikes & hidden beaches

  • Optional: Fishing trip for tuna & marlin

  • Overnight at Tufi Resort

Day 5: Tufi → Popondetta → Port Moresby
  • Morning transfer to Popondetta Airport

  • Flight to Port Moresby

  • Tour Ends

SHT4. Port Moresby City Tour Itnerary -1 Day
1-Day Port Moresby City Tour Itinerary

Trip Type: Guided City Tour
Duration: ~7-8 hours
Difficulty Level: Easy (suitable for all ages)
Transport: Air-conditioned vehicle

Itinerary

8:00 AM – Pick-Up & Introduction
  • Hotel pick-up in Port Moresby or meet at a designated location.

  • Brief introduction by your expert local guide.

  • Overview of the day's itinerary and key sites.

8:30 AM – Visit the National Museum & Art Gallery
  • Explore Papua New Guinea’s cultural heritage.

  • View exhibits on tribal artifacts, ancient carvings, traditional art, and WWII history.

9:30 AM – Parliament House
  • Visit the iconic National Parliament built in traditional Sepik-style architecture.

  • Learn about PNG’s political history and governance.

10:30 AM – Bomana War Cemetery
  • Pay respects at the largest WWII war cemetery in the Pacific.

  • Learn about Australian and Allied soldiers who fought in PNG.

11:30 AM – Port Moresby Nature Park
  • Walk through PNG’s best wildlife conservation park.

  • See native animals like tree kangaroos, cassowaries, and birds of paradise.

  • Learn about PNG’s unique biodiversity and conservation efforts.

12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
  • Enjoy a delicious local or international meal (options for seafood, BBQ, or traditional dishes).

1:30 PM – Visit Paga Hill & Ela Beach
  • Scenic stop at Paga Hill Lookout, offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.

  • Drive along Ela Beach, Port Moresby’s popular coastal area.

2:30 PM – Local Market or Craft Shopping (Optional)
  • Visit a local craft market or Vision City Mall to buy souvenirs, carvings, and handicrafts.

3:30 PM – Return to Hotel / End of Tour
  • Drop-off at your hotel or preferred location.

  • End of the tour.

Tour Price Per Person: {Enquire}

Includes:
✅ Hotel pick-up & drop-off
✅ Professional local guide
✅ Entrance fees to all attractions
✅ Air-conditioned transport
✅ Bottled water

Excludes:
❌ Lunch & personal expenses
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guide & driver (optional)

What to Bring:

✔️ Comfortable clothing & walking shoes
✔️ Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
✔️ Camera for photos
✔️ Extra cash for souvenirs

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