Kokoda

A small village in Central Province famous as the starting point of the Kokoda Track, one of PNG's most challenging and historically significant trekking routes. History enthusiasts and trekkers visit to undertake the demanding multi-day walk through rainforest and mountains, retracing World War II battlefields.

Things to do

• Kokoda Track Trek — Undertake the legendary 96 km multi-day walk from Kokoda to Owers' Corner, passing through rainforest, mountains, and World War II battle sites over 8-10 days.
• Kokoda War Museum — Visit the local museum displaying artifacts, photographs, and accounts from the 1942 Kokoda Campaign, including weapons and personal items from fallen soldiers.
• Isurava Battle Site — Explore the first major engagement site of the campaign located at the northern end of the track, with remnants and memorials marking the fierce fighting between Australian and Japanese forces.
• Village Cultural Walk — Take a guided walk through Kokoda village with local guides to learn about traditional life, customs, and how the community has preserved its heritage alongside the trekking route.
• War Grave Sites and Memorials — Pay respects at commemorative sites and cemeteries scattered along the track and near the village, honoring soldiers from both sides of the conflict.

Food to try

• Sago with Fish — A staple regional dish combining boiled sago (starch from palm) with freshwater fish caught locally from rivers, often prepared with coconut milk and simple seasonings.
• Taro Root Vegetables — Boiled or roasted taro and sweet potato, traditional root crops grown in local gardens and served as a filling carbohydrate-rich side dish.
• Betel Nut (Buai) — A mildly stimulating preparation combining areca nut, betel leaf, and lime that is chewed socially throughout Papua New Guinea and available in the village.
• Coconut Rice — Rice cooked with fresh grated coconut and coconut milk, a common comfort food in the region that provides energy for trekkers before and after the track.
• Local River Fish (Barramundi or Catfish) — Fresh freshwater fish grilled or steamed with minimal seasoning, sourced from nearby rivers and often the centerpiece of evening meals in village homestays.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect War History Sensitivity — Approach all World War II sites, graves, and memorials with solemnity and reverence, as the 1942 campaign remains deeply significant to both Australian and Papuan communities.
• Engage Local Guides — Hire local guides for the trek and village visits to support the community, gain authentic insights, and ensure respectful interaction with residents and sacred sites.
• Simple Living Expectations — Accommodation and facilities are basic throughout Kokoda and the track; bring patience, respect local homestay customs, and understand that modern amenities are limited.
• Language and Greetings — Learn basic Pidgin English phrases like 'Gutpela moning' (good morning) and 'Tenk yu' (thank you) to show respect and build rapport with locals who speak English as a second language.

Nearby

• Popondetta (Eastern) — 15 km
• Varirata National Park — 69 km
• Morata Beach — 76 km
• Buna and Gona Beaches (Eastern) — 81 km