10 Amazing Things to Do on the Kokoda Track, Papua New Guinea
The Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea is one of the most challenging and rewarding treks in the world. It is a 96-kilometer long trail that runs from the north coast of Papua New Guinea, across the Owen Stanley Range, to the south coast. It was the site of a major battle between Australian and Japanese forces in World War II, and is now a popular tourist destination. Here are 10 amazing things to do on the Kokoda Track.
1. Visit the War Sites: The Kokoda Track was the site of a major battle between Australian and Japanese forces during World War II, and there are many war sites along the track. You can visit the sites of major battles, such as Isurava and Brigade Hill, and pay your respects to the brave soldiers who fought and died there.
2. Trek the Track: The Kokoda Track is a challenging but rewarding trek, and is a great way to experience the rugged beauty of the Owen Stanley Range. The trek usually takes around 8 days, and you will need to be fit and prepared for the challenging conditions.
3. Visit the Local Villages: Along the Kokoda Track, you will pass through many small villages. Here you can experience the local culture, meet the friendly locals, and learn about their way of life.
4. Go Bird Watching: Papua New Guinea is home to an incredible variety of bird species, and the Kokoda Track is a great place to go bird watching. Keep an eye out for the rare and endemic birds of New Guinea, such as the Red-bellied Pitta, the Yellow-billed Kingfisher, and the Papuan Frogmouth.
5. Visit the Waterfalls: The Owen Stanley Range is home to many spectacular waterfalls, and there are some great places to go swimming and relax. The most popular waterfall is the Maguli Falls, which is the highest waterfall in Papua New Guinea.
6. Go Fishing: The rivers and streams along the Kokoda Track are home to an abundance of fish, including the iconic Barramundi. Fishing is a great way to relax and take in the stunning scenery of the Owen Stanley Range.
7. Go Canyoning: The rivers and streams of the Owen Stanley Range are perfect for canyoning. You can explore the rugged terrain and experience the thrill of jumping into deep pools and sliding down waterfalls.
8. Visit the Memorials: Along the Kokoda Track, there are several memorials that commemorate the brave soldiers who fought and died during World War II. These memorials are a great way to pay your respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom.
9. Visit the Hot Springs: The Owen Stanley Range is home to many natural hot springs, which are a great way to relax and soothe your aching muscles after a long day of trekking.
10. Enjoy the Views: The Kokoda Track is a great place to take in the stunning views of the Owen Stanley Range. From the top of the mountains, you can see the lush rainforest, the rugged terrain, and the distant horizon.
The Kokoda Track is an amazing place to visit, and there are plenty of things to do. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a chance to reflect on history, the Kokoda Track has something for everyone.