The trek along the Kokoda Track is tough and physically demanding. Read, and act upon, our recommendations regarding Equipment and Medical Supplies elsewhere on this website. If you are in any doubt about any aspect of your preparation, call Lore and Tim on 0455 031 700 and ask for advice.
It is essential that you prepare adequately for your trek along the Kokoda Track. Lack of preparation on your part will result in a less enjoyable experience for you (and potentially for your fellow trekkers), and could result in your trek ending early if you are unable to cope with the level of physical exertion.
The Team has developed these recommendations in line with their experience of the Kokoda Track.
Training
Unless you are an experienced bushwalker and you are already very fit, it is essential that you undergo a suitable training programme before tackling the Kokoda Track. Your training routine should include long walks with both uphill and downhill slopes – the steeper the better. During the course of an eight day trek along the Track, you will average 12 km per day over difficult terrain, and you should bear this in mind when planning your training. Care should be taken when training on public roads.
Take a backpack when you are walking so that your body gets used to carrying the load. As your training progresses, add more weight to your backpack, starting after the first one to two weeks of initial training. When training, wear the same boots that you will wear for the trek. This gets your feet used to the boots and will make it more comfortable for you when you walk the Track. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
Backpacks and Porters
The amount of clothing and equipment you take depends on whether you intend using a personal porter (either shared or individual). A porter is expected to carry no more than 22kg in total, which includes a 8kg allowance for his own essentials. This means that you can transfer up to 14 kg of your own equipment to your porter. You should decide at an early stage whether or not you will be carrying all your own equipment. Merv manages to keep the weight of his backpack below 14 kg, including some extra items such as small presents for children along the way (but excluding water) and a sat phone.
Toiletries
Bring your usual personal toiletries as there are none available on the track. There are environmentally friendly soaps and shampoos available at most camping stores in Australia and we encourage you to buy these to take with you. If you are taking any form of personal medication, ensure you pack enough for the duration of your trip.
Pocket Money
It is a good idea to carry some pocket money during the trek – perhaps around 100 to 150 Kina in small notes of K5 and K10. Often, villagers will offer to sell you locally grown fruits and produce which you might like to have for lunch or dinner during the trek.
