kokoda-track-comemorative-trek-and-chopper-support (13 days)
- Key Dates - Book NOW
- Pricing
- Booking Info
- Journey
- The Adventure
- Inclusions
- Airfares & Accommodation
- Exclusions
- Leaders & Guides
- History
- Trek Itinerary
- Training & Preparation
- Testimonials
- Considerations
Key Dates - BOOK NOW!
| Feb 2025 | Registrations Open |
| From Feb 25 | Purchase recommended trekking equipment from our shop |
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Trek Itinerary WALKERS AND CHOPPERER's Phase 1: Trek Commencement
Trekking Schedule
Phase 2: Non-Trekker Experience (Chopperer) (We acknowledge that everyone, irrespective of physical capacity, should have an opportunity to experience “our history.”)
Phase 3: Completing the Journey
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Kokoda Track Comemorative Trek
Experience the Spirit of Kokoda—For Everyone
For nearly 30 years, we have witnessed the profound emotional, mental, and physical benefits that come from taking on the challenge of Kokoda. The history of Kokoda belongs to everyone, and we believe it should be accessible to all—regardless of age or ability.
That’s why we’ve created this unique experience, allowing those who may not be able to walk the track to still connect with its legacy. Whether it’s an elderly family member flying in by chopper to Isurava to meet loved ones who have trekked, or a wounded soldier or first responder reuniting with a mate at the battlefield, this journey ensures that no one is left behind.
We’ve brought together the best of Kokoda—expert historians, experienced guides, veterans, a counsellor, an exercise physiologist, and a doctor—alongside the people of Papua New Guinea, to provide unparalleled support. Together, we are committed to making Kokoda’s history accessible to all.
Why Join This Trek?
- Commemorate: Honour key moments of Kokoda’s history at significant battle sites.
- Challenge Yourself: Experience the mental and physical resilience needed to conquer the track.
- Connect: Walk in the footsteps of Australian soldiers while sharing this profound experience with like-minded individuals.
- Learn: Gain insights from expert guides, historians, and veterans along the way.
- Experience History: Participate in this journey, irrespective of physical capacity.
Experience the highs and lows of the treacherous Kokoda Track with a sense of courage, endurance and mateship without the ultimate sacrifice that our diggers made before us. At the end of the trek, stand proud at the Bomana Cemetery to pay tribute to those famous Diggers who fought to save Australia from invasion in 1942.
Our Spirit would like to acknowledge and thank all contributors, participants and supporters who have ensured the success, integrity and longevity of the Kokoda program.
Now it’s your opportunity to join this multi layered Kokoda Trek in comemoration of the Kokoda Campaign, in which Australian Diggers fought to save our land from foreign invasion.
Our adventure package includes a pre-trek training program, international and PNG domestic airfares, hotel accommodation and trek meals, trekking fees, chopper hire and much more. Please refer to each of the tabs for full details on our inclusions, exclusions and pricing for this adventure.
In most cases, this adventure is tax effective (confirm with your accountant) for service personnel as it encompasses team building, representation at the Bomana .
BOOK NOW as places are strictly limited!
The Kokoda Adventure
The Kokoda Trail or known to the diggers as the Kokoda Track, is more than a just bushwalk, it's a trekking adventure you'll never forget! The 96 (as the crow flies) kilometre Kokoda Track still bears its battle scars in the shape of scattered ammunition, guns, helmets and stirring campfire stories. Trekking the Original Kokoda War Track is a rite of passage all Australians should aspire to achieve. There are steep rugged mountains, treacherous ridges, jungle terrain, unforgiving rivers and rainforests with giant trees that will tower over you and look down, mocking you, at every opportunity. Walk the Kokoda Track with Our Spirit on a PNG Adventure that embraces the local culture and experience nature at it's wildest - just as our diggers did in 1942.
Our Spirit's adventure walk is the ultimate Kokoda trekking experience. Discover yourself through the history of our diggers on this physical and emotional journey. If you cant walk then you have the option to fly by chopper.
Guided by experienced Australian leaders with comprehensive local knowledge and customs and an unwavering passion for the Kokoda history, hidden battle sites, treasures and most importantly its legacy. Our clients are given the opportunity to experience the highs and lows of the treacherous Kokoda Track with a sense of courage, endurance and mateship without the ultimate sacrifice that our diggers made before us.
Participants as young as 14 years and as old as 81 years have successfully completed the Kokoda Track with Our Spirit. We strongly believe, pre-trek Kokoda Track preparation is the key to our success. In fact, Our Spirit's safety and success record over the past 29 years is unrivalled by any other Kokoda trek operator. Our passion for the history is second to none and we personalise your experience by including detailed information for relatives of the diggers who fought on the Kokoda Track or elsewhere in the "Pacific campaigns".
We are especially keen to hear from you if you have a relative who fought anywhere in PNG during the war.
Adventure Package Inclusions
Our comprehensive adventure package includes:
- Exclusive approved group members
- 3 Month training and preparation program
- TREKKERS. International airfares ex BRIS and 2 nights' hotel accommodation and meals (refer to tab for details)
- CHOPPER. (non walkers) International airfares ex BRIS and 3 nights' hotel accommodation and trek meals, chopper hire (refer to tab for details)
- Australian leadership and medical staff (refer to Leaders & Guides tab for details)
- Pre-trek briefing at the hotel followed by daily briefings on the track
- Vehicle transfers to/from:
- Airport to hotel
- The start/finish of the Kokoda Track
- Hotel to Bomana Cemetery
- Kokoda Track Authority - licence fees and trekking permits
- Village Fees
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Personal Porterage Service:
To maximise your trekking enjoyment, hire the services of one of our PNG local legends who will carry either your own backpack - Adventure accommodation - guesthouses/tents (twin share)
- Group expedition equipment (carried by the legends) including:
- Tents; cooking equipment; ropes; safety equipment; communication equipment (including satellite phone, Epirb, VHF, Weather station); etc
- eXtreme Cuisine (TM) nutritionally balanced, energy appropriate trekking meals and snacks
- Our Spirit provides all trek meals pre-packed for the group from Australia, including breakfast, lunch and dinner which are prepared on the track. Breakfast and evening meals are supplemented with local fresh vegetables and fruit, when available. Our ability to adequately cater for preferential diets, such as Vegan, Vegetarian, Gluten free etc is limited however, we are happy to discuss options for medically related dietary requirements, upon request.
- Trekkers receive a history reference booklet to take on the Kokoda Track and keep as a memento
- Certificate of completion
- Access to the GPS Spot tracking system to enable family and friends to follow trekkers progress along the Kokoda Track (regularity of transmission is subject to weather and environmental conditions)
Airfares & Accommodation
Our adventure package includes:
- International return economy class airfare Ex-Brisbane to Port Moresby
- Pre-paid departure taxes from Australia and PNG
- Airport/accommodation transfers in PNG
- PNG domestic flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta
- Chopper Hire (as per adventure)
- Package travel insurance/refund to the value of $240 (individual coverage subject to approval)
- 2 nights twin share accommodation in Port Moresby for trekkers (refer to key dates for details)
- 3 nights twin share accommodation in Port Moresby for Chopperer's (refer to key dates for details)
Adventure Package Exclusions
The following personal items and expenses are not included in this adventure package.
- Travel Expenses:
- Passport
- Personal expenses in Port Moresby (including meals on first and last day of the trip)
- Airline charges for excess baggage (limit of 17kg personal luggage allowance)
Note: a comprehensive equipment checklist is provided to participants, upon receipt of the deposit and prior to commencing the training program.
- Trekking Equipment:
- Backpack
- Waterpack/bladder
- Head torch
- Sleeping Bag and Mat
- Personal items:
- trekking boots and premium trekking socks
- appropriate clothing, footwear and hat
- eating utensils (bowl, cup, knife, fork, spoon)
- toiletries and towel
- Basic personal first-aid kit, including insect repellent and pharmaceutical items
- Medical Expenses:
- Pre trek preparation and associated medical costs (including, but not limited to obtaining medical clearance, required prior to commencing the training program)
- Malarial medication and any prescription medications recommended by your doctor
- Other Expenses:
- Subject to availability, additional fresh fruit and drinks can be purchased from local villagers along the track, if desired
- Handmade crafts and souvenirs can also be purchased from numerous villages along the track
Pricing
Our Kokoda Track Comemorative adventure package is valued at $5700 (including international and PNG domestic travel, accommodation, preparation, trek supplies and equipment etc). Please refer to the "Inclusions" and "Exclusions" tabs for full details on what is and isn't included in this package.
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Singles Supplement:
Our singles supplement is available for clients who want a hotel room to themselves on the first and last night of the trip. Additionally, they will be given their own tent to use for the duration of the trek. A surcharge of $360* is applied at the time of booking, if this option is selected.
* Subject to change in exchange rates between Australia and PNG.
Leaders & Guides
Our Spirit have the most experienced Australian Trek Leaders, doctors and qualified medics on the Kokoda Track. They ensure participant safety and deliver an experiential journey based on mateship, courage, endurance and sacrifice by:
- Providing individual motivation and encouragement (including pre-trek training advice)
- Creating opportunities for team cohesion
- Presenting the most passionate and comprehensive historical briefings along the Kokoda Track (supported by various battalions from the Australian Military campaign. Eg. 2/16th and 2/14th battalions).
- Guiding participants to significant battle sites on and off the Kokoda Track including the original wartime track (approved by Bert Kienzle and Stan Bisset 2/14th battalion)
- Informing participants of cultural etiquette and educate participants on basic Motu (local Papuan language)
- Arranging ceremonial welcomes into villages
- Hosting a tour of the Bomana Cemetery
- Hosting a Dawn service at Isurava Village
- Recognising and rewarding individual achievements on completion (including certificate of completion)
Our PNG Support Crew are Kokoda Legends are an essential part of our team and include:
- Group Guides - provide essential local knowledge and safe passage across the Kokoda Track
- General Crew - carry our food supplies and the group expedition equipment
- Group Cook - prepares all trek meals and assists with general crew duties
Important: Unlike other trek operators, Our Spirit PNG support crew ratio is 1 additional local legend for every 2 trekkers, which enables us to ensure your safe direction and provide you with the best cultural experience on the Kokoda Track. Additionally, our package fees include all meals and airfares (to/from village of origin) for our local guides and support crew.
History
The Kokoda Trail or known to the diggers as the Kokoda Track, is more than a just bushwalk, it's a trekking adventure you'll never forget!
This 96 kilometre track (as the crow flies) still bears its battle scars in the shape of scattered ammunition, guns, helmets and stirring campfire stories. Trekking the Original Kokoda War Track is a rite of passage all Australians should aspire to achieve. There are steep rugged mountains, treacherous ridges, jungle terrain, unforgiving rivers and rainforests with giant trees that will tower over you and look down, mocking you, at every opportunity.
Walk the Kokoda Track with Our Spirit on an adventure that embraces the local PNG culture and experience nature at its wildest - just as our diggers did in 1942.
If you're keen to know more about the history of the Kokoda Track and its significance to Australia, we have a wealth of resources and information that we'd love to share with anyone who is genuinely interested.
Trek Itinerary
The following itinerary is recommended as a guide only. Track and weather conditions will inevitably determine the final journey of each trek. To maintain our unblemished safety record, all trekking is done during daylight hours only. Trekking at night on cliff faces and across raging rivers increases the risk of injury and should only be attempted by experienced trekkers when absolutely necessary. As many of our Aussie Diggers will attest, the journey across the Kokoda Track is one of respect to those who endured unthinkable conditions during the war in 1942.
Please click on the image below to display a full size/printable version of this sample itinerary.
Trek Itinerary WALKERS AND CHOPPERER's
Phase 1: Trek Commencement
- 20 Aug 2025 – Depart BRISBANE to PORT MORESBY. Trekkers arrive in Port Moresby and stay overnight at a Hotel.
- 21 Aug 2025 – Travel to Owers Corner and begin the trek.
Trekking Schedule
- 21 Aug: Owers Corner – Imita Base (Overnight at Imita Base)
- 22 Aug: Imita Base – Ofi Creek (Overnight at Ofi Creek)
- 23 Aug: Ofi Creek – Agulogo (Overnight at Agulogo)
- 24 Aug: Agulogo – Efogi (Overnight at Efogi)
- 25 Aug: Efogi – Diggers Camp (Overnight at Diggers)
- 26 Aug: Diggers – Bombers Camp via P40 at Myola (Overnight at Bombers)
- 27 Aug: Bombers – Templetons Crossing (Overnight at Templetons Crossing)
- 28 Aug: Templetons Crossing – Isurava (Overnight at Isurava)
- 29 Aug: Isurava – Kokoda (Overnight at Kokoda)
Optional Extension: Continue to Gorari – Oivi and the Northern Beaches for an additional night before returning to Port Moresby.
Phase 2: Non-Trekker Experience (Chopperer)
(We acknowledge that everyone, irrespective of physical capacity, should have an opportunity to experience “our history.”)
- 26 Aug 2025: Non-trekkers arrive in Port Moresby, staying overnight in a motel.
- 27 Aug 2025: Helicopter transport to Isurava to overnight and experience the battle site and local culture.
- 28 Aug 2025: Meet trekkers upon arrival.
- Battlefield exploration, including Isurava Memorial, B Coy position, and Kingsbury’s Rock.
- Evening battlefield briefing by Aidan and Scott, including discussions on PTSD and mental resilience.
- Group dinner and overnight stay at Isurava.
- 29 Aug 2025: Dawn Service at Isurava Memorial before returning to Port Moresby via helicopter (weather dependent).
- 30 Aug 2025: Visit all relevant WWII sites, including MacDuih, Bootless Bay, sites of the 2/33rd Air disaster, and more. (Details to be confirmed.)
- 31 Aug 2025: Meet up with the trek group for dinner.
Phase 3: Completing the Journey
- 29 Aug 2025: Trekkers continue to Kokoda, staying one additional night.
- 30 Aug 2025: Possible extension to Gorari, Oivi, Awala, and the Northern Beaches.
- 31 Aug 2025: Flight from Popondetta to Port Moresby.
- Group meets non-trekkers at the airport before visiting Bomana War Cemetery.
- Explore Port Moresby and attend a formal closing function.
- 1 Sep 2025: Departure from Port Moresby.
Training & Preparation
Our Spirit have the best safety and success record of any operator on the Kokoda Track. We attribute much of our unrivalled track record to our pre-trek training and preparation program, which includes:
- Kokoda specific exercise program and nutrition advice - designed and monitored by our team of qualified exercise physiologists
- Personal equipment and training advice
- Quality trekking equipment available from our online shop
- Recommended training bushwalks throughout Australia
- Clear instructions, travel advice, supporting documentation and timely communication leading up to the event
Testimonials
Our Spirit is proud to share with you genuine testimonials and Facebook reviews from clients who have participated in our expeditions. Beyond the standard written testimonials we have received over the years, a number of people have been interviewed independently by Creative Arts Director, David McIntosh and given their permission for Our Spirit to share their experience.
Considerations
Our Spirit holds current public liability insurance and maintains comprehensive risk management procedures for all our adventures as part of our standard business practice. Our experience, safety and success record on the Kokoda Track is unsurpassed by any other trek operator, however there are still some things which you should take into consideration prior to booking.
- It is recommended that each person joining the party be physically prepared by the time of departure. An exercise program, including training walks and nutritional advice are included in the program.
- There are several sessions within the program that require training with full packs, (that is the backpack and all equipment you intend to use on the trek). By wearing or breaking in your hiking boots (aided by our specifically designed premium trekking socks), you will minimise the risk of blisters and unnecessary sweat problems if they can be addressed prior to commencing the trek.
Booking Information
Registrations will close 31 June 2025. Bookings must be finalised by then to ensure all participants have adequate time for the physical preparation that is required.
During the booking process, you will be required to submit your contact details as well as personal information about your health, any conditions or prescribed medications you take; your current fitness levels (including your height, weight, activity) and your emergency contact person's details. THis information is confidential and is encryped to ensure its safe storage until after the event.
Additionally, you will be required to check all items on the terms and conditions section of the booking form. If you are under 18 years of age, you will also be required to enter the details of a consenting adult who will receive a copy of the form.
A non-refundable deposit of 10% is then required to secure your place. Payment of the deposit can be made at the time of booking, via credit card. Alternatively, if you exit the payment process, an invoice will be sent to you with direct deposit details, which must be paid within 14 days to retain your booking.
An invoice for the balance of the trek, plus any additional services selected will be emailed to participants 6 weeks prior to departure. Payment of the final invoice is due on or before 9 July 2025 to ensure all international services are secured (including airline and accommodation reservations).
Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you an email, which contains all the instructions and important information that you will need to prepare for this adventure. Alternatively, please let us know if you prefer to receive the preparatory documents on a USB stick and we will post them to you.
How will I know if im fit enough??
At OS, we pride ourselves on our success levels and are pretty sure it's far better than most because of our physiology qualifications, experience and integrity. We now present further opportunities through specific fitness camps for you to be the best prepared you can, for your adventure. These camps are suitable for all ages.
For more info re our Unique training camps visit here
https://www.ourspirit.com.au/training-camp