IS THERE AN EASIER DIRECTION TO TREK KOKODA?

There is no easy way to trek Kokoda! Both directions have their challenges. Trekking north to south from Kokoda to Owers’ Corner follows the direction of the Japanese invasion and the Australians fighting withdrawal along the Kokoda Trail.

This is the direction of the famous 39th Battalions courageous delaying tactics and the brilliant fighting withdrawal of the 2/16th, 2/14th and the 2/27th Battalions during the Battle of Isurava and Brigade Hill back to Imita Ridge.

Trekking Owers’ Corner to Kokoda also follows the original direction that the Australian 39th Battalion originally walked in early July 1942 to engage the Japanese near Awala north of Kokoda.

Trekking south to north from Owers’ Corner to Kokoda is the direction of the Australian offensive as we chased and fought to clear the Japanese from their defensive positions along the Kokoda Trail. This phase of the campaign took place from mid to late September through to mid-November.

There is something pretty special walking into Kokoda after completing your trek knowing that you have just walked the same way as the Australians as they raised the Australian flag again in Kokoda after defeating the Japanese.

Whichever way you choose to walk the Kokoda Trail you will be walking in the footsteps of heroes.
https://www.kokodaspirit.com.au/all-trek-dates/

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TREK KOKODA?

WHEN ARE THE BEST CONDITIONS TO TREK KOKODA?

The conditions on the Kokoda Track vary due to the changes in the season. The seasons are broken up into the dry season and the wet season. These seasons also have sub seasons which fringe the wet and dry season.

The dry season is normally from late May to late October. Good conditions can still be expected in April and November. It is possible to get rain and consequently mud on the Kokoda Track during any season or month. Late November, December, January, February and March can be wet and muddy.

The temperature will range from 24-28 degrees under the canopy and up to 32 degrees out in the open areas. The night-time temperature will range from 18 degrees in the lower sections down to 4 (or lower) degrees in the higher areas like Mt Bellamy. Humidity will range 80% – 95%
https://www.kokodaspirit.com.au/all-trek-dates/

HOW HARD IS KOKODA?

HOW FIT DO YOU HAVE TO BE TO WALK KOKODA?

While you do not need to be an Olympic athlete to trek Kokoda, you do need to be in great physical condition, with good endurance and stamina. You need to be able to walk up to 10 hours per day in hot and humid conditions. The terrain over the Kokoda Track is tough and very steep. You need a strong heart, lungs, quads, calves and a strong and positive attitude. A dedicated training program is required.

There is usually 5-10-minute breaks every 30 mins or so along the Kokoda track and depending on the size of the hill more often and a stop for morning tea and lunch.

The walking pace is best described as the ‘Kokoda Shuffle’, which is a consistent but reasonably steady pace. This can vary depending on the terrain and group and itinerary.

Each walking day will vary between 5 to 10 hours with 7 to 8 hours being the average. On average arrival times in the camps and villages are around 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

Contact your fitness professional or contact our office for our Kokoda training program.

We recommend you consult your medical practitioner before undertaking any new training program.

Please Note: All Kokoda trekkers need to be aware that being well above your healthy weight range seriously impacts on your ability to complete the Kokoda Track. Should you fall into this category we highly recommend that you concentrate your training on an intensive weight loss/fitness program. You may like to consider hiring a personal trainer to assist you with your fitness goals.

Once again, we recommend you consult your medical practitioner before undertaking any new training program.