Kokoda Trail is one of the World’s Great Treks. Linking the
southern coast of Papua to the north coast of New Guinea.
It is a challenge for all fit bush walkers and not for the faint
hearted. The 96 km Trail cuts across knife edged ridges and
over teasing mountains. Trek through constantly changing
terrain of rainforest, jungles of ferns, orchids and towering
trees entwined with creepers. Mountain streams, bridged by
vine lashed logs, tumble into steep valleys. Rest in villages
that welcome visitors with warm smiles and fresh fruit.
The Track passes over the battlegrounds of one of the most
crucial and bloody campaigns of World War II. Over a seven
month period in 1942, three thousand Japanese and six
hundred Diggers died as the Australians foiled the Japanese
Army’s last attempt to capture Port Moresby. For both sides, it
was the Trail that proved unconquerable as neither side could
maintain a supply line over its length.
These days the Trail is a peaceful place, although there is
much evidence of the war. Relics including “Bren” guns,
helmets and ammunition are still found in the bush, and
village elders delight in telling stories of the ‘Big Fight’. The
friendly people, sounds of the jungle, log crossings over
rivers and the exhilaration of conquering each hill, provide
vivid memories that will remain with you long after the Trek.
Every step you take over this historical Trail pays homage to
the WWII heroes who fought so bravely to protect Australia
and in particular, to the “fuzzy wuzzy angels” who provided
invaluable support to the allies.
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