Kokoda Trail

Papua New Guinea has long been a popular destination for trekking, mountain climbing and bushwalking. With largely unspoilt mountains, rivers and forest, as well as having been the focus for attention in World War 2 and the vast cultural and social resources, Papua New Guinea is an ideal place for both the fit trekking enthusiast or weekend bushwalker to visit.

Both full scale, professional standard treks and scenic bush walks of a few hours duration are available. Being largely unserviced by the tourism industry, the trekking, bushwalking and adventure market in Papua New Guinea has great potential. Most centres in PNG can produce treks and bushwalks of undeniable world class quality and beauty.

The Highlands region is famous for its tall mountains with scores of readily accessible peaks. Mt Wilhelm at 4509 metres, is the most popular target for mountain climbers with good road access to Kegsugl village from Kundiawa and National Parks huts for climbers to stay in. Recently the focus of PNG Tourism Promotion Authority sponsored guide training activities, the Mt. Wilhelm region is becoming the focus for individual and guided trekkers. Whilst being accessible, Mt Wilhelm is not easy and guides should be taken to assist climbers.

From the central Highlands city of Mt. Hagen, the towering peaks of Mt. Giluwe and Mt. Ialibu (both volcanic plugs), Mt. Hagen, Mt Ongo, Mt Kubor and Mt Kine Kaino Ku are all accessible. The Bismarck and Kubor Range both offer great trekking. Fifteen days hard trekking would see an expedition walk from the highlands town of Kompiam in Enga province to the Yuat River in East Sepik province where canoes would take the expedition on to Angoram. Several tour companies exist in Mt. Hagen which can assist the trekker. Goroka is the centre for several good climbs with Mt. Michael and Mt. Gahavisuka being accessible.

For more information about treking in PNG, click here to go to the Tour Operators list and check for detailed information.