Trekking in Papua New Guinea
WALK ACROSS THE BACKBONE OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA, SUMMIT THE COUNTRY’S HIGHEST PEAK, AND EXPLORE WILDERNESS TRACKS IN VOLCANO COUNTRY.
Though our main towns are not completely connected by road, you can get anywhere in Papua New Guinea on foot. Our magnificent trails and tributaries offer a range of intensities for you to tackle at your own pace making this an ideal destination for trekking and bushwalking. From just a few hours’ hike to eight plus days of trekking in the jungle, Papua New Guinea has something for every level of fitness.
THE TRIPLE-THREAT TREKS
The Kokoda Track
Known as one of the world’s most spectacular and challenging treks, the Kokoda Track is one to take on as the experience of a lifetime. Renowned as the location of the World War II battle between Japanese and Australian forces in 1942, this 96km track will take you from Kokoda village through the rugged mountainous terrain of the Owen Stanley ranges to Owers’ Corner.
The eight to ten day Kokoda Track has become a pilgrimage for many trekkers, connecting with the land and paying respect to the soldiers who fought and died here. Delve deep into the dark history of the area and immerse yourself in the customs and culture along the track.
Mount Wilhelm
The Highlands region is famous for its tall mountains, with scores of readily accessible peaks. Mt Wilhelm, at 4,509m, is the most popular target for mountain climbers in Papua New Guinea with good road access to Kegsugl village from Kundiawa and National Park huts for climbers to stay in. Though it’s easy to access, Mt Wilhelm is far from an easy climb, and you should always use a guide, which can be arranged through your hostel or the PNG Trekking Association.
Lark Force Wilderness Track
If you’re looking for a great, uncrowded adventure, trek though a pristine jungle environment along the Lark Force Wilderness Track in East New Britain province. The Track is regarded as one of the most accessible in Papua New Guinea, but don’t let that fool you. It contains significant challenges on its four-day 60km trek from Arabam to Tol Memorial at the Tol Plantation. You’ll set up camp in villages along the way, including at Lamingi and Adler Bay, and experience the local culture and learn about the area’s fascinating World War II history. The track memorialises the Australian Army’s escape route when invading Japanese forces outnumbered them in 1941.