Trekking Towards Kokoda

• Enjoy trekking with an experienced Kokoda Guide and learn the skills you need for a successful Kokoda crossing
• Take some time to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend time in nature trekking through the stunning Australian Bush
• It’s the perfect introduction to multi-day trekking. Overpack? Uncomfortable boots? No big deal, it’s only a couple of days! A great chance to test your gear, and the perfect stepping stone to solo multi-day treks

Have you always wanted to trek Kokoda but weren't 100% sure that it was the right expedition for you? Whether you are questioning your fitness, your tolerance for camping, or even how you will go in a group environment the best way to test the waters is our three-day Trekking Towards Kokoda expedition, right here in Victoria.

Over these three days and two nights, you will take part in a training weekend that will get you excited and ready for Kokoda, as well as providing you with the opportunity to ask all your questions to an experienced Kokoda guide who knows exactly what is required to make it across the Track.

The really great thing about this training weekend is that you can test everything out; from trialling your water bladder to walking with a full pack, to testing methods of keeping your feet blister-free. 

To top it all off you will be trekking with like-minded people who love getting out into the great outdoors as much as you do, who knows you might even find a buddy to trek Kokoda with.

Who is this trip for?

Anyone who has booked to trek Kokoda and would like to do a test run close to home

If you are considering trekking Kokoda but want to make sure it is the right expedition for you before committing

Hikers who are new to multi-day trekking and would gain a lot from a guided trek to learn what is required for solo multi-days trek

Trekkers who love the Australian outdoors and enjoy making new friends 

Other Australian Trips We Offer

Yarra Valley Traipsing and Tasting: Four Day Wining and Dining Experience

Grampians Sip and Scramble: Four Day Hiking and Dining Experience

Grampians Peak Trail: Three Day Camping Adventure

High Country Peddle and Pinot: Four Day Cycling, Hiking, and Dining Experience

Epic Victorian Traverse: Seven Day Trekking Adventure (not for the faint-hearted!)

As part of our risk mitigation plan, all domestic Australian group sizes have been capped at 8 guests, and New Zealand at 10.  

If you'd prefer a private group with family or friends, don't hesitate to contact us to discuss

Home to some of the best outdoor activities in Victoria is the town of Warburton. You can spend a weekend in Warburton hitting the cycling tracks, paddling along the river, or hiking one of its many tracks.

The area we will be exploring during our Trekking Towards Kokoda weekend is the Yarra Ranges National Park which is part of the traditional country of the Wurundjeri People.

The training weekend begins by overnighting at the Warburton Lodge where the group gets the chance to have dinner together and have a briefing from their guide.

On Saturday morning you are transferred to Powelltown Picnic area, which is where you begin the overnight adventure. The terrain is steep and tough and there are many obstacles, which makes this perfect training conditions for Kokoda. This is the time to test out your hiking poles and to figure out if one pole, two poles, or no poles works best for you. Everyone is an individual, what works for you may not work for your friend. This is a long day of hiking as we are heading towards Starling Gap, which is 24km away and it will take approximately 8.5 hours of trekking to reach our campsite.

This is a tough day of trekking and you are highly encouraged to ask many questions. The purpose of this expedition is to set you up for the most enjoyable Kokoda trekking experience possible. Doing the hard work pre-Kokoda (or in prep for any outdoor excursion you may have on the horizon), means that you will be able to get the most out of it when the time comes

Saturday evening will be spent camping at Starling Gap where you will get a feel for campfire meals and long drop toilets.

Don't be surprised if you are a little stiff and sore on Sunday, from both trekking and from camping. Today's trek is a much more reasonable 14km and the purpose is to get your legs used to back to back days of hard trekking. This is also training for your mind to push through adversity if you are feeling sore and tired. You will make your way all the way back to Warburton Town Centre today, passing through Big Pats Creek.

Day 1 Friday: Arrive at Warburton
Day 2 Saturday: Trek to Starlings Gap Campsite (B, L, D)
Day 3 Sunday: Trek to Big Pats Creek and Warburton (B, L)

Please note itinerary and night stays may change without notice due to the availability of accommodation.

Day 1 Friday: Arrive in Warburton from 3pm. Dinner tonight at the Warburton Hotel. Overnight at the Warburton Lodge.

Day 2 Saturday: Transfer to Powelltown Picnic Area and trek to Starlings Gap campsite (24km) (B, L, D)

Day 3 Sunday: Morning hike to Big Pats Creek and then to Warburton (14km) (B, L)

Note: Accommodation on Friday night is at the cozy and comfortable Warburton Lodge night. There are spectacular views surrounding the lodge and it is a short walk into the town centre.

PROUDLY SUPPORTING THESE LOCAL BUSINESSES

• Warburton Lodge

• Two days guided trek through the Yarra Ranges National Park
• One night accommodation at the Warburton Lodge 
• Meals as noted (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)

• Dinner on Day 1 
• Transport to and from Warburton
• Snacks