Preliminaries

The Story So Far. Presently, Jeffrey and David plan to go on 10th September 2005 during the PNG dry season. This timeframe coincides with the Queensland September School Holidays and is planned that way to minimise disruption to families. We want to firm up on our choices and book and pay a deposit by mid May. Any extra starters can make a decision any time in the next month or so. Essentially, any late decision should allow for at least 12 weeks of fitness work to get to the required levels. We have reviewed a total of eight travel companies for the best-priced value for money package to suit our needs. The choice will be made without compromising safety, reliability, and experience especially in the context of PNG. Websites visited and reviewed are as listed: - http://www.executiveexcellence.com.au/ http://www.peregrineadventures.com/ http://www.dcxp.com/kokoda.html/ http://www.worldexpeditions.com.au/ http://www.nghols.com/ http://www.pngholidays.com/ http://www.kokodatrail.com.au/ http://www.kokodatreks.com/ The main criteria for selection were: - International airfares Ex BNE – POM – BNE and airport transfers. Accommodation and meals in POM before and after the Trek. Required Public Liability Insurances, etc. Experienced Trek Guide with communication and safety equipment. The right number and combination of group / shared / personal porters. All land content included – internal airfare from Port Moresby to Kokoda, trek fees and charges, trek food, trek accommodation, ground transport, etc. Major equipment supplied – backpacks and camping equipment including tents, tarps, sleeping bags, sleeping mats, group cooking equipment, etc. Visit to Bomana War Cemetery where nearly 4000 WW2 Australian Soldiers are buried. Access to the relevant Militarily significant sites along the trail. We have locked in on a tour operator, Adventure Kokoda run by Major Charlie Lynn, and a package Premium Self Guided Trek at a cost of $2945. Importantly compared to other treks, the price is ex Brisbane and includes all major equipment supplied. Visit Adventure Kokoda website http://www.kokodatreks.com/ where there is a lot more information and requirements listed. Take a look at the Self Guided Treks, Planning and History sections. The (photo) Gallery section will also give you a good idea of what it will be like on the Kokoda Trail.