Port Moresby isn’t just Papua New Guinea’s capital; it’s a hub for authentic, hands-on experiences that bring history, adventure, and local culture directly to your doorstep. Whether you’re eager to walk through history along the legendary Kokoda Trail or explore the city’s vibrant sights with a knowledgeable guide, this city offers plenty of options. We especially love the Adventure Kokoda treks, like the 10-Day Premium Kokoda Campaign Trek, which combines deep historical immersion with physical challenge. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive, guided expedition following the original WWII trail.
If city sightseeing is more your style, the Private Port Moresby City Tour delivers an engaging snapshot of local life, history, and culture in a single day. For those with limited time or a tight budget, the 8-Day Kokoda Trail Trek offers a shorter but no less authentic experience. Below, we detail each of these exciting options to help you decide what fits your travel style.
1. ADVENTURE KOKODA 10-Day Premium Kokoda Campaign Trek Australian Led
At number one is the Adventure Kokoda 10-Day Premium Campaign Trek. This tour offers an all-encompassing journey through the WWII sites along the original Kokoda Trail. The trek’s detailed itinerary includes visits to key battlefield sites like battle of Imita Ridge, Patrol Tracks, and fire support bases such as Lake Myola. What makes this trek stand out is the two nights spent at Bombers Campsite, giving you a full day to explore Myola Lakes and inspect the wreckage of the American P-40 Kittyhawk fighter aircraft.
Led by experienced guides, the tour covers the complete wartime route, including historic battles and logistical areas. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 with 66 reviews, which speaks to its quality and the depth of experience offered. The trek is physically demanding but rewarding, especially for history lovers who want a detailed, guided immersion. The inclusion of visits to significant military sites, plus the chance to walk the same paths soldiers did, makes this a profound and memorable experience. The tour lasts about 12 days, with a focus on authenticity and comfort, making it ideal for serious trekkers.
Bottom line: This is the best choice if you want a deep, guided history lesson combined with a challenging trek. The $3,443 price reflects a premium experience, including all major WWII sites and local guides.
2. ADVENTURE KOKODA 8 Day Kokoda Trail Trek
For those who want a shorter but equally compelling experience, the 8 Day Kokoda Trail Trek is a fantastic option. Costing around $3,048 per person, it offers an immersive walk along the original wartime route over roughly ten days, focusing on the most historically significant sections. Led by local guides, this trek emphasizes authentic trail walking and includes visits to battle sites, logistical areas, and battlefield memorials.
While the guides are expert in navigating the terrain, they’re not battlefield strategists — a good thing if you’re just looking to experience the trail physically and culturally. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5.0 from 8 travelers, who praise the guides’ knowledge and the authentic experience. The itinerary includes walking from Port Moresby through key points like Owers’ Corner and Imita Ridge, with nights spent camping along the trail.
This tour is best suited for active travelers with a sense of adventure who want to walk the trail in a manageable timeframe. The emphasis on the physical challenge makes it ideal for trekkers willing to push themselves while soaking in history. Since it’s slightly shorter and less intensive than the 10-day, it offers great value for those with limited time.
Bottom line: An excellent, well-reviewed choice for active travelers wanting an authentic, shorter Kokoda experience with a focus on WWII history.
3. 11 Day Kokoda Trek Australian and Local Guides
At number three, the 11 Day Kokoda Trek combines thorough historical exploration with culture. This trip is ideal for those wanting a detailed understanding of WWII battles and local life. Guided by both Australian and local guides, the itinerary includes a flight from Port Moresby to Popondetta, then trekking through rugged terrain, with stops at iconic sites like Isurava Battlefield, Eora Creek, and Templeton’s Crossing.
The tour includes engaging activities like visiting local villages, experiencing traditional culture, and sharing stories around campfires. The guides are experienced, and the trip features a mix of physical challenge and cultural insight. The itinerary culminates in a visit to the Ioribaiwa Ridges and the Isurava Memorial, with well-paced days blending history and local interaction.
Rated a perfect 5.0 from 4 reviews, this trek suits travelers looking for a comprehensive experience, blending physical challenge with cultural depth. It’s a longer trip—around 11 days—offering a detailed walk through the entire campaign, with plenty of opportunities for reflection and learning.
Bottom line: This tour appeals to history enthusiasts craving a deep dive into WWII history, combined with local cultural encounters, making it a well-rounded adventure.
4. Private Port Moresby City Tour
If city life is more your speed, the Private Port Moresby City Tour offers a 7-hour exploration led by experienced local guides. For $350 per person, you’ll visit key sights such as the Parliament House, National Museum, Port Moresby Port, and the Orchid Gardens. The guide will customize the experience based on your interests, ensuring you get a personalized look at the city.
While some reviews mention the price as high for a day trip, many appreciate the guide’s knowledge and ability to cover diverse topics, from local markets to historical landmarks. Travelers have enjoyed visits to markets, the port area, and the national park, often gaining insights into PNG’s rich culture and natural beauty.
This tour is best suited for visitors with limited time or those interested in a relaxed, informative overview of Port Moresby. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with urban life and history without the physical demands of a trek.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a flexible, guided city tour, especially if you prefer a private experience tailored to your interests.
5. 11 Day Kokoda Trek From Port Moresby
Rounding out the list is the 11 Day Kokoda Trek From Port Moresby, which offers a detailed war trail experience with added cultural highlights. This tour follows the original WWII route, visiting historic sites like Hood Campsite, Isurava Memorial, and Lake Myola, with camp stays at Bombers Campsite, noted for its hot showers — a rare luxury on these treks.
Led by local guides and carrying out a solemn Dawn Service at the Isurava Memorial, this trip emphasizes respectful remembrance. The itinerary includes crossing the Eora Creek area, and exploring the eastern side of the range, with a mix of physical challenge and cultural engagement. The tour has a solid 4.5 rating from three reviews, praised for its authenticity and meaningful commemoration.
The cost is slightly higher at around $3,809 per person, reflecting its comprehensive nature. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a deep, respectful journey into WWII history, combined with opportunities to connect with local communities.
Bottom line: This is a respectful, well-rounded trek suited to history buffs willing to invest in a profound experience focusing on remembrance.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When choosing between these experiences, consider your fitness level, interest in WWII history, and available time. If you crave a comprehensive, guided history immersion with all the WWII sites, the 10-Day Premium Kokoda Campaign Trek is unbeatable. For a shorter, physically demanding adventure, the 8-Day Kokoda Trail Trek provides a more manageable yet authentic experience.
If city sightseeing appeals more, the Private Port Moresby City Tour offers a flexible way to see highlights without the physical challenge. Meanwhile, the 11 Day Kokoda Trek combines history, culture, and a solemn memorial service for those wanting a respectful, meaningful journey.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the popular Kokoda treks, which fill quickly during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level, interest in WWII history, and whether you prefer a guided city experience or an immersive trek when making your decision.
Final Thoughts
Port Moresby offers a remarkable mix of historical adventures and urban exploration. For those eager to trace the footsteps of WWII soldiers, the three Kokoda treks provide profound insights into history and endurance. If you prefer a cultural overview or a city break, the private tour offers a personalized glimpse into PNG’s capital.
Two standout options are the Premium Kokoda Campaign Trek for history and challenge, and the City Tour for a relaxed but enriching day. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you secure your spot for these unique experiences. Papua New Guinea’s landscape and stories are waiting—don’t miss the chance to experience them firsthand.