The growing number of Australians setting out on the challenging Kokoda Track has prompted the release of a new one-stop-shop website, to ensure trekkers are well informed about conditions and regulations. More than 5000 Aussies a year are now attempting the demanding trek in Papua New Guinea and four Australians died while undertaking the hike last year.
The new website, www.kokodatrackauthority.org, offers reliable and regularly updated information on the track and conditions, as well as information on planning a trek and suitable fitness training. It also has a focus on responsible trekking and provides contact details for all tour operators licensed to operate on the track (trekkers can also do the trek on their own, so long as they apply for a trek permit).
The Kokoda Track is considered to be one of the world’s most challenging treks and runs for 96 kilometres through wet and often treacherous jungle terrain. It can take anything from four to 10 days to complete and trekkers can find themselves spending much of the time wet and muddy.
The Kokoda Track played a major role in the World War II battle between Australian and Japanese forces in 1942 and holds great significance for many Australians.
This article is an excerpt from Jane E. Fraser’s weekly travel column in The Sun Herald, Sydney
