the adventure of a lifetime!
Transcription
the adventure of a lifetime!
the adventure of a lifetime! welcome to kokoda trekking Thank you for your enquiry about trekking on the Kokoda Trail. We have developed a package of information that will help you to determine the right trek for you and to prepare you sufficiently prior to your arrival. We invite you to read through the information provided which should help to answer some of your many questions about the adventure of a lifetime. If you have further questions and would like further information you are encouraged to contact us via the contact page and or the numbers provided. Please feel free to join our Forums where trekkers have supplied some of there insights and knowledge of the Kokoda Trail. kokoda trail the WALK IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF HEROES The Kokoda Trail was the scene of some of the bloodiest battles of World War II and still carries the scars of a fierce campaign. The Kokoda Trail is the site where the advancing Japanese forces lost their campaign to claim Port Moresby from the ‘back door’ in their ultimate goal to capture Australia. For those who lost family members from a previous generation in WWII this walk can be an intensely emotional and spiritual experience and indeed for all trekkers the sheer beauty of the terrain and spectacular scenery is unforgettable. To walk the trail is by far the most popular trek in Papua New Guinea and takes between 6-8 days to walk as you ascend and descend a range of simply stunning but unbelievably challenging terrain including endless river crossings and rain forests. Conditions are usually wet and slippery and rain can be expected most days. Temperatures range from 24 - 30c degrees in the day and 15 - 24c degrees at night. POPPENDETTA AIRPORT KOKODA OWEN STANLEY ALOLA ISURAVA TEMPLETON’S CROSSING RANGE MT BELLAMY MYOLA JUNCTION MYOLA NADULI EFOGI MENARI MAGULI RANGE CORAL SEA IMITA CREEK CHARTER FLIGHT KAGI BRIGADE HILL NAURO VA ULE CREEK OWERS CORNER WALK/TREK OVERNIGHT CAMPSITES PORT MORESBY THE KOKODA TRACK “ An amazing experience. I found it physically and mentally challenging but came through with the help of the ‘A’ team. David, Ross, David and Dominic have been amazing and have made the trip more worthwhile. One of the best experience of my life! Adam Forde, Trek 301 ” suggested treks “ An absolutely inspirational and unbelievable experience. Words can’t describe the joy and happiness I will take away from this trek. Peter Mundey, Trek 294 ” CHOOSING YOUR TREK Kokoda Trekking offers several different packages ranging from a (6 day / 5 night) trek to (9 days / 8 nights). We have Papua New Guinean led treks as well as Australian/ Historian led treks. A trek on the Kokoda Trail can be done either from the Port Moresby (Sogeri) side of the Owen Stanley Range to Kokoda, which is the most preferred option and historically correct route. Alternatively to start the trek from Kokoda, you will need to take a 30 minute flight to Kokoda from Port Moresby which is included within the trekking costs. Trekkers are welcome to join our scheduled treks or we can create a trek to suit. These can be set up as a “Private Trek” or an “Open Trek”. The Open trek allows others to join your group whereas a Private trek will just be for your group of trekkers alone and will incur an additional cost depending upon numbers booked. trek options Kokoda Trekking organises and offers set trekking itineraries as well as custom made treks to satisfy your needs. Custom treks also available. Gona / Buna Extensions. Short Treks Available. 10 Day 9 Night Trek (Kokoda - Owers’ Corner) 9 Day 8 Night Trek (Kokoda - Owers’ Corner) 8 Day 7 Night Trek (Kokoda - Owers’ Corner) 6 Day 5 Night Trek (Kokoda – Owers’ Corner) Alternate directions of the above available DAY 1: OWERS’ CORNER - UA-ULE CREEK - trekking itinerary 9 Day 8 Night Trek Owers’ Corner – Kokoda Example Itinerary Day 1 begins when we collect you from your Hotel. We then drive everyone to Bomana War Cemetery where you will be given time to pay your respects and to take some photographs. We continue our journey along snake road up to Sogeri Monument where we again stop for photographs. Now the fun begins as we travel via dirt road for approximately 45 min to Owers’ Corner Weather permitting. The trek continues with your first descent down to Goldie River. We cross over Goldie River and commence our first climb to Imita Ridge “Golden Stairs which is no longer there”. Upon reaching the top it is another long descent down to Ua-Ule Creek where you will spend your first night out on the track. Please bear in mind that we do not run a boot camp and this may change based on the time of departure from Owers’ Corner; condition of trekkers or weather. DAY 2: UA-ULE CREEK - NAURO This morning we will leave our campsite for Nauro where we will be crossing numerous creek crossings. We then climb up loribaiwa Ridge, half way up your climb you will reach loribaiwa village. We continue trekking until we reach the top of Ioribaiwa Ridge. This is the point during World War 2 where the Japanese retreated. It is now a steep descent down to Ofi Creek where you will enjoy your first lunch break and swim. You will then refill your water bottles for a steep couple of hours climb up Maguli Range to your Destination of Nauro. DAY 3: NAURO - MENARI Today will be an easy walk down Brown River where you will cross with care as the river may be high due to rainfall. You will then continue your trek onto the next creek where you will refill your water bottles for your climb to the top of Menari Lookout. From the lookout you will enjoy the views of your next camp site in Menari. DAY 4: MENARI - EFOGI At a glance Trek Highlights DAY 1: OWERS’ CORNER - UA-ULE CREEK Bomana War Cemetery Visit Sogeri Monument Isurava Monument Kokoda War Museum Historical Memorials Fantastic Scenery Kokoda History Cultural Experience Oro Haven Retreat (Kokoda) Battle Sites DAY 2: UA-ULE CREEK - NAURO DAY 3: NAURO - MENARI DAY 4: MENARI - EFOGI DAY 5: EFOGI - TEMPLETON’S CROSSING DAY 6: TEMPLETON’S CROSSING - IORA CREEK DAY 7: IORA CREEK - ISURAVA DAY 8: ISURAVA - KOKODA DAY 9: KOKODA – PORT MORESBY Day 4 will have you start your morning with walking past the Menari airstrip where you will then continue onto your first creek crossing of the day. You will refill your water bottles for your next climb up Brigade Hill. At the top of Brigade Hill you will have a chance to take in some of the scenery from the lookout. After your short break you will then descend down to EFOGI Village where you will overnight ready for Day 5. Most trekkers refer to EFOGI as the best guest house on the trail “5 Star”. DAY 5: EFOGI - TEMPLETON’S CROSSING Day 5 will begin with your first climb of the day up to Efogi 2 which is another small village. You will then have a steep climb down to the first creek crossing of the day. After another climb up to Kagi Village you will get to enjoy your lunch for this day. You then continue again to 1900 Camp Site where you will camp for the night. DAY 6: TEMPLETON’S CROSSING - IORA CREEK From 1900 Campsite you will start day 6 with another climb up to Mt Bellamy. This is the highest peak of the entire track. Weather permitting you will be able to look down as far as Kokoda Station. Once you have taken your first break you will then trek down to Templeton’s Crossing 1, once you cross this creek you will the make another climb with a short descent after your climb down to Templeton’s Crossing 2 where you will enjoy your lunch break. You will then start yet another climb and then descent down to your campsite of Iora Creek. DAY 7: IORA CREEK - ISURAVA You begin day 7 by passing Alola village. The next step is a climb to Isurava Monument. You will then have a lunch break before moving onto Isurava Village campsite where you will overnight. DAY 8: ISURAVA - KOKODA Today is your last day of trekking. You will have a few short Climbs and Descents before descending down to Hoi Village for a short flat walk to Kokoda Village. Once in Kokoda you will have the chance to take a break at Kokoda Station and take in a range of must see attractions including the War Museum and other historical memorials, the local hospital, the library, and other attractions in and around the local area. You will then spend your last night out on the track at our accommodation referred to as ‘OroHaven’ Retreat. DAY 9: KOKODA - PORT MORESBY Today is your last day in Kokoda where you will then be transported back into Port Moresby DAY 1: KOKODA - ISURAVA trekking itinerary 6 Day 5 Night Trek Owers’ Corner – Kokoda Example Itinerary You will arrive in Kokoda from Port Moresby after a short 20 minute flight. You will walk from airstrip straight to the Kokoda Station and take in a range of must see attractions including the War Museum and other historical memorials, the local hospital, the library, and other attractions in and around the local area. This is where we commence our trek, and after just an hour on foot, you will arrive at your first Kokoda village – the village of Kovelo. After a short stop, we will embark on another hour’s walk and soon arrive at the well structured and organised village of Hoi. It is in Hoi that you will begin to realise just how challenging this trek will really be. This part of the Kokoda Trail is not easy and presets you with a tough, steep climb in the beginning. But don’t be disheartened – this is just a test to get you in the mood, if you are not already raring to go. Another five hours on from here you will arrive in Isurava. Isurava is home to a magnificent war memorial – opened by Australian Prime Minister John Howard in 2002 - and was the site of a significant World War II battle. Isurava is now regarded as one of the most sacred sites along the trail and is made all the more special by panoramic views of the Kokoda and Yodda valleys along the way. To rest your weary limbs after day one, you will stay overnight at the local guest house. DAY 2: ISURAVA - TEMPLETON’S CROSSING After a restful evening, we set off early in the day, for our next destination – the village of Alola, and then move on to Iora Creek. Faced with a challenging and steep climb, and then a sharp descent, we finally reach Templeton’s Crossing which is where we spend the night. Imagine spending the evening under the forest canopy and falling asleep to the gentle voice of the Iora Creek splashing against the rocks? That will be you. And if you bring a line, you can also try your hand at trout fishing. DAY 3: TEMPLETON’S CROSSING - EFOGI At a glance DAY 1: KOKODA - ISURAVA DAY 2: ISURAVA - TEMPLETON’S CROSSING DAY 3: TEMPLETON’S CROSSING - EFOGI DAY 4: EFOGI - NAURO DAY 5: NAURO – UA’ULE CREEK DAY 6: UA’ULE CREEK - OWERS’ CORNER Trek Highlights Bomana War Cemetery Visit Sogeri Monument Isurava Monument Kokoda War Museum Historical Memorials Fantastic Scenery Kokoda History Cultural Experience Oro Haven Retreat (Kokoda) Battle Sites Day Three sees your trek begin with another steep climb and descent – much like day two. With another crossing of Iora Creek, you will then climb to the top of Mt Bellamy, the highest point of the Kokoda Trail and take in the panoramic views of the area. You will be treated to a wonderful reward here - an enjoyable walk through a carpet of moss, which will take you to the junction of Myola and Kagi, which is land marked by an aircraft propeller. It is here that we will take a right turn, make a climb, and then descend to the splendorous village of Kagi. Kagi quite simply, commands spectacular views of villages along the Kokoda Trail and is a must see for trekkers to the area. We will continue with a walk to the airstrip, regarded as the steepest walk in the world, where we will descend to the creek, and then ascend to Efogi No. 2 village. If we turn back and look you will be able to see your trekking path from Kagi and it is at this point that we begin to make our descent into Efogi, where we stop for the evening and collect our food and supplies thanks to a prearranged food drop. DAY 4: EFOGI - NAURO Up early again and you will begin the day with a refreshing and challenging climb up to Brigade Hill. Brigade Hill, along with Isurava is one of the most sacred sites along the Kokoda Trail and having taken in this most beautiful area, you will then begin your descent to the village of Menari. As you continue along and then begin a further climb up a steep hill you will be taken in by summit as it presents you with fine views of Menari. Following this breathtaking moment you will make a muddy, swampy, and at times leech-infested (if you are lucky!) trek to the Brown River, which must be crossed with great care, especially if the River is in flood. Next take a walk onto the village of Nauro where we stop for the night to eat and rest, ready for day five. DAY 5: NAURO – UA’ULE CREEK We begin our day by climbing the heartbreaking false peaks of Maguli Ridge (where you will even have time to count them yourself ). After descending to Ofi Creek for a well deserved break, we will then make another climb to Ioribaiwa Ridge, and a subsequent descent to Ua’Ule Creek for our last night together on the Kokoda track. DAY 6: UA’ULE CREEK - OWERS’ CORNER With one final push for day six, we do the hard graft to reach Imita Ridge, and then descend the ‘Golden Stairs’ and the Goldie River. As a reward, we take one last refreshing dip in the River before climbing up to Owers’ Corner. Congratulations! You and your fellow trekkers have just completed one of the world’s toughest treks. Along the trail, you have climbed nearly 5,500 meters (18,000 feet) and descended almost the same amount as you weaved in and out of some of the worlds most picturesque areas. “ It has been 5 weeks since my return from Kokoda and there is not a day that goes by that I don’t stop and think of the experience. It is my every thought. A journey that has made me want to go back again and again. As I said to you Gail on the night of our debriefing I have never felt such a sense of empowerment than that of the final night in Kokoda and how I learned camaraderie still exists between fellow country men of all walks of life and race. Kristi, Trek 423 communication In order to communicate and coordinate our treks with the trek leaders, we utilise the local radio network & Satellite Phone. This is how we keep all trek leaders, guides and trekkers up to date with the latest developments on the Kokoda Trail. A two way radio is carried for this purpose. A satellite phone is also carried for use in emergencies and for daily briefings with Head Office in Port Moresby. The official language of Papua New Guinea is English and the other two most commonly used languages are Hiri Motu (commonly spoken on the track) and Tok Pisin. Most guides and porters speak fluent English, Motu, Pisin and one other (local) language. We encourage all trekkers to ask their guide or porter if they are unsure about what is being communicated. ” g n i h t o l c t n e m p i &equ What do you need to bring? During the day you will get quite hot and dirty so we encourage you to bring one set of lightweight trekking clothes for day use, and a another set of clothes that you can change into after you have bathed in a local creek of crystal, clear mountain water for night use. Always think lightweight when you are thinking about what day and night options to bring. Most camping stores offer quick drying clothes which are suitable for walking the Kokoda Trail. You will need a sturdy 75-80ltr backpack that can be adjusted so that 2/3 of the weight sits on your hips and 1/3 on your shoulders. Also ensure it has a well padded belt to avoid chaffing. You will need a light sleeping bag, a good set of thermal underwear (optional if you feel the cold), a self inflating sleeping mat, personal tent, plate, canteen/cup and eating utensils. Also think about grabbing a couple of plastic zip type bags that will protect your spare clothing and other items inside your backpack, just in case it rains while you are trekking. One rimmed Hat or Peak Cap Two shirts, one short sleeve & one long sleeve Three pairs of lightweight camping shorts One thermal top One lightweight track suit One or two man tent (free tent hire available) Tarpaulin ground sheet to lay tent on in case of rain One pair of bush walking boots (with good grip) One pair of sneakers One towel (the chamois sports towels) One 70-85 litre back pack (free pack hire available) One light sleeping bag Pack Cover for when it rains Whistle for attention Camel pack (at least 2 litre capacity for water) 2 smaller water bottles to mix energy/ electrolyte drink One pair of gaiters One bandana for sweat Four pair of good quality thick camping socks One pair of thin socks Two sets of underwear One poncho style rain jacket or rain coat One pair of lycra gym shorts. (optional) One day pack One sleeping mat/thermarest Mosquito Net – only if you plan on staying in a guesthouse Sunglasses Head light & spare batteries or small torch Spoon/cup/bowl/utensils Zip-lock plastic bags for packing wet or dry clothes, camera, etc. Plastic garbage bags A couple of clothes pegs to hang up your washing the adventure of a lifetime! Trek Packages & Inclusions Local Guided Trek Packages 1 & 2 Local Guided Trekking Inclusions Kokoda Adventure Trek: • Kokoda Track Authority Licensed Tour Operator • Accommodation 2 nights (1 night pre-trek) (1 night Orohaven Kokoda Retreat) • Internal Transport - (Accommodation Transfers on arrival in PNG) (Road and Flight transfers to begin and or end the Trek) • Emergency Support System (24 hour Trek Support & Communication | Australia & Port Moresby Offices) • Expert Local Guide • Expert Assistant Guide • First Aid & Wilderness first aid trained staff • Food Porters (Carry food for trek) • Equipment Porters • Kokoda Track Authority Trekking Permit • Local Trail fees • Guest house accommodation fees • Village campsite fees • Food for entire Trek • Kokoda Trekking Iphone Application • We utilise Satellite Phone’s with all Trek’s • Satelite TrekTraka system • Kokoda Trekking Detailed Preparation & Information Package • Kokoda Training Programs • Kokoda Trekking quick dry shirt • Exclusive access to Fit4Treks online Training Programs. (Fit4Treks is the only Kokoda Trek Training Program of its kind) • Certificate of Completion • Bomana War Cemetery (Visit) • Liability Insurance ($20 Million) • Tent hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Backpack hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Accommodation Orohaven Kokoda Retreat - Location Kokoda airstrip. Orohaven provides good quality accommodation, shower; flushing toilet; pizza’s; hot food and cold soft drinks and beer. Visit www.orohaven.com for more details. Please note that pizza is included in this package for the main meal prior to starting or finishing your trek, while drinks and beer are purchased by trekkers. • Treknology • • • • • • • • • Local Staff Inclusion: Proffessionally Trained Flight inclusions for trek Internal Transport inclusions Staff Uniforms Staff Equipment Staff Food for trek Staff Wages Track & Village Camping Fees Accommodation Prior to Trek Departure Australian Guided Trek Package Trekking Inclusions: • Kokoda Track Authority Licensed Tour Operator • Accommodation 2 nights (1 night pre-trek) (1 night Orohaven Kokoda Retreat) • Internal Transport - (Accommodation Transfers on arrival in PNG) (Road and Flight transfers to begin and or end the Trek) • Emergency Support System (24 hour Trek Support & Communication | Australia & Port Moresby Offices) • Australian Guide • Expert Assistant Guide • First Aid & Wilderness first aid trained staff • Food Porters (Carry food for trek) • Equipment Porters • Kokoda Track Authority Trekking Permit • Local Trail fees • Guest house accommodation fees • Village campsite fees • Food for entire Trek • Kokoda Trekking Iphone Application • We utilise Satellite Phone’s with all Trek’s • Satelite TrekTraka system • Kokoda Trekking Detailed Preparation & Information Package • Kokoda Training Programs • Kokoda Trekking quick dry shirt • Exclusive access to Fit4Treks online Training Programs. (Fit4Treks is the only Kokoda Trek Training Program of its kind) • Certificate of Completion • Bomana War Cemetery (Visit) • Liability Insurance ($20 Million) • Tent hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Backpack hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Accommodation Orohaven Kokoda Retreat - Location Kokoda airstrip. Orohaven provides good quality accommodation, shower; flushing toilet; pizza’s; hot food and cold soft drinks and beer. Visit www.orohaven.com for more details. Please note that pizza is included in this package for the main meal prior to starting or finishing your trek, while drinks and beer are purchased by trekkers. • Treknology Local Staff Inclusion: • Proffessionally Trained • Flight inclusions for trek • Internal Transport inclusions • Staff Uniforms • Staff Equipment • Staff Food for trek • Staff Wages • Track & Village Camping Fees • Accommodation Prior to Trek Departure Local Guided Trek Price 2015 Anzac Australian Guided Trek Price 2015 Anzac Cost per Trekker $2895 $2990 Cost per Trekker $3450 $3550 To hire a personal porter (optional) $650 $680 To hire a personal porter (optional) $580 $650 Trek Packages & Inclusions Local Guided Trek Package 4: Kakoda & Myola Local Guided Trek Package 5: Sanananda, Gona & Buna Extension Local Guided Trekking Inclusions Kokoda Adventure Trek: • Kokoda Track Authority Licensed Tour Operator • Accommodation 2 nights (1 night pre-trek) (1 night Orohaven Kokoda Retreat) • Internal Transport - (Accommodation Transfers on arrival in PNG) (Road and Flight transfers to begin and or end the Trek) • Emergency Support System (24 hour Trek Support & Communication | Australia & Port Moresby Offices) • Expert Local Guide • Expert Assistant Guide • First Aid & Wilderness first aid trained staff • Food Porters (Carry food for trek) • Equipment Porters • Kokoda Track Authority Trekking Permit • Local Trail fees • Guest house accommodation fees • Village campsite fees • Food for entire Trek • Kokoda Trekking Iphone Application • We utilise Satellite Phone’s with all Trek’s • Satelite TrekTraka system • Kokoda Trekking Detailed Preparation & Information Package • Kokoda Training Programs • Kokoda Trekking quick dry shirt • Exclusive access to Fit4Treks online Training Programs. (Fit4Treks is the only Kokoda Trek Training Program of its kind) • Certificate of Completion • Bomana War Cemetery (Visit) • Liability Insurance ($20 Million) • Tent hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Backpack hire (inclusive within trekking cost) • Accommodation Orohaven Kokoda Retreat - Location Kokoda airstrip. Orohaven provides good quality accommodation, shower; flushing toilet; pizza’s; hot food and cold soft drinks and beer. Visit www.orohaven.com for more details. Please note that pizza is included in this package for the main meal prior to starting or finishing your trek, while drinks and beer are purchased by trekkers. • Treknology An Optional: • 2 Day extension to any of the packages available on the trekking schedule. The extension can be undertaken either prior to trek’s departing from (Kokoda) or at the end of trek’s beginning from (Ower’s Corner). • Trekker’s will visit Sanananda, Gona & Buna Historical sites and locations. • Minimum of 4 trekker’s required to extend the trip. • The trekking costs include: • Accommodation, Sanananda, Buna • PNG Local Guide • Village fees • Food • Internal flight and road transfers • Food and equipment porters • Satellite Trek Tracking System (Mapping) Free Iphone App & Android App Download Local Staff Inclusion: • Proffessionally Trained • Flight inclusions for trek • Internal Transport inclusions • Staff Uniforms • Staff Equipment • Staff Food for trek • Staff Wages • Track & Village Camping Fees • Accommodation Prior to Trek Departure Free Iphone App & Android App Download Package 4 Package 5 Cost per Trekker $2950 To hire a personal porter (optional) $580 Cost per Trekker $1000 experienced guides & porters small personalised groups We employ local guides to provide you with a rich cultural as well as historical experience. We also offer Australian guides and historians if you prefer. In the past six years over 3,500 trekkers have completed the Kokoda Trail with us – with many coming back for a second (or third) time. We keep our groups small so that you get easy access to guides and can appreciate the spectacular scenery along the track. On most treks the average group size is six to nine trekkers – ensuring you receive the best personalised experience. guaranteed year round departures Our treks are guaranteed to depart with a minimum of one person, so you don’t have to worry about any last minute cancellations once you’ve booked. Visit our trekking schedule at www.kokodatrail.com.au/schedule for upcoming treks. quality packages at competitive prices Our _trekking packages <http://www. kokodatrail.com.au/packages.html>_ include fresh local village food, high quality ration packs, and accommodation in Kokoda at our own OroHaven Kokoda Retreat. We are one of the few trekking companies to have our own vehicles to get you on and off the track, making the process efficient and reliable. If you are a member of a sporting club, group of friends, or are trekking for a special occasion, consider one of our _private treks_ or _custom treks_ that can be tailored to suit your group’s needs. advice on how to prepare for the trek All trekkers receive an introductory pack which includes a DVD of the trek, a book on Kokoda by Bill James and checklists www.kokodatrail.com.au/images/ Checklist.pdf of what to bring. This ensures you can adequately prepare for the trek so you get the most out of the adventure. online updates for loved ones Loved ones back home can stay up-to-date with your progress by visiting our website forum www.kokodatrail.com.au/forums We can post replies back to them from you so they know you are travelling well, and so they feel they are sharing the adventure with you. australian owned & operated We are a local Australian business with a strong relationship with Papua New Guinea. We abide by the Kokoda Track Authority rules and regulations, and have valid work permits for PNG. We are also fully insured in both Australia and PNG, giving you peace of mind as you prepare for your trek. contact details Contact: Phone: Mobile: Email: Nathan Thomas (07) 3201 0017 0415 499 495 [email protected] Please join our Online Community on the website and Facebook where you can meet past / new trekkers. Website URL: www.kokodatrail.com.au/forums/ Facbook URL: http://www.facebook.com/KokodaTrekking If you would like to view the trekking schedule for upcoming treks please visit the schedule section of the site. Website URL: www.kokodatrail.com.au/schedule.html If you would like to make a booking please visit the booking section of the site. Book Now Section: www.kokodatrail.com.au/booking.html If you have other questions please contact us or visit the FAQ section of the site. Frequently Asked Question: www.kokodatrail.com.au/faq.html