Personally, I recommend a pack cover! I took a "one planet" backpack, also fully lined and water proof, but the rain is torrential at times. I borrowed a pack cover and it made all the difference. The best part was that when I took my pack off at the end of the day, it didn't drip a big wet puddle into my tent the way it had when I had no cover. I…[Read more]

I agree, health issues must not be compromised however lets get serious about acknowledging the current situation on the Kokoda Track.1.Amenities along the Track are not "5 Star" not even "1 star". Perhaps minus 5 maybe an accurate rating!2.The great bulk (95%)of tolieting facilities along the track are of the squat variety. I not sure how…[Read more]

I agree, health issues must not be compromised however lets get serious about acknowledging the current situation on the Kokoda Track.1.Amenities along the Track are not "5 Star" not even "1 star". Perhaps minus 5 maybe an accurate rating!2.The great bulk (95%)of tolieting facilities along the track are of the squat variety. I not sure how…[Read more]

I think disposable toilet seat cover is imperative when you trvelling. This is a good way to solve the health problem.

I think disposable toilet seat cover is imperative when you trvelling. This is a good way to solve the health problem.

Hi Phil,I have emphsised in many of my previous posts that it is important that if Kokoda is to be your first seriuos hiking experience you must prepare thoroughly which should include extended overnight hiking in the Australian outdoors. A major benefit of this will be that you are able to find out what works best for you.With the Macpac pack you…[Read more]

Brian, Boss Meri & Fluppy,Thanks for your replies. I really appreciate it I think it was more of a curiousity then concern. I'm looking forward to doing the walk!thanks

Thanks guys for all your support. I have discovered much over the last few days breaking my boots & feet in. I found the problem with my toe (rather my boot) was that the tongue on the left boot was more bulged at the bottom than the right boot. Some gentle stretching and manipulating of the tongue fixed this.Now however, that same tongue is…[Read more]

Hi Fluppy,If you are getting sore on the tops of your toes, you might want to try what worked for me, have the laces comfortably loose along the top of your foot, then pull them fairly tight around the two hooks around the ankle, and then do them up to the top of the boot, i was told this stops your foot from moving forward especially going down…[Read more]

Hi Gail, Thanks so much for all of that information, I think we will just be looking for somewhere to sleep that is safe and not too far from the Gateway, I will definitely investigate the Granville as well. All your help is greatly appreciated. RegardsTegs

I can understand where you are coming from Mozero – but I think you will be well accepted and have not a thing to worry about. The 'Fuzzy Wuzzy's' really are angels and I believe they will take good care of you with no predjudice. Although the Australian's fought against the Japanese and vice-versa, they all still fought. All three sides (PNG…[Read more]

Mozero, Hi. I just noticed your post and wish to advise that we have taken out quite a few Japanese trekkers and they have all had a great time. On one particular occasion we had a Japanese guy approach us to see if he could join a particular trek with around 10 Australians. I informed him I would write and ask them.This I did and got lots of…[Read more]

Hi Tegs, as the Hideway is not the same quality hotel as the Lamana it should be around the K120 mark or $60 per night. If all you are looking for is a place to sleep without all the bells and whistles, then its more than ok. It has a swimming pool/restaurant/bar but the rooms are not as modern.I would rate them a 2 + star compared to the Lamana…[Read more]

Hi Anthea, Myself and my brother are also booked onto the 492 trek in April and are staying in Port Moresby on the nights of the 16th and 25th of April. We tried to get into the gateway but as I'm sure your aware its unfortunatly fully booked, our travel agents is recommending the Lamana hotel, but I was just wondering if you don't mind me asking…[Read more]

Hi MozeroI trekked with KTL who have previously taken Japanese along with other natonalities, mostly Australians, trekking along the Kokoda track all no matter what nationality are treated with the same courtesy.I actually asked my porter and guide what they felt about doing so neither mentioned anything that gave me the opinion that you would be…[Read more]

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HiNot wanting to "reinvent the wheel" I got the following from the Paddy Pallin site as is generally what I have always followed when buying new or "running in" new boots at 70 I have been through a few pairs.Fitting footwear Once you have narrowed down the options to a handful of boots or shoes, the best way to decide between them is to try them…[Read more]

Hi Anthea, had a guy phone today asking to share accommodation around the same time if you are interested per your earlier post.If so, please get back to me.rgdsGail

Hi there, I guess with boots its all about trial and error as what works for some does not work for others. In my case I too wore 'Scarpa boots' with thick socks purchased from a camping store but found the souls of my feet gave me problems. Someone suggested purchasing a pair of inserts from a chemist and a pair of ankle straps for added…[Read more]