Kokoda Trek — Safety & Security

Safety Starts Before We Depart

Preparing properly is one of the most important parts of staying safe on the Kokoda Track. Our trek information pack outlines the fitness standards, recommended training approach, essential gear list, and practical safety advice to help you arrive confident, capable, and ready for the challenge.

• Fitness preparation expectations
• Packing and gear checks (boots, socks, hydration, rain protection)
• Nutrition and hydration planning
• Common track issues (blisters, gastro, heat stress, fatigue)
• Confidential discussion of injuries, medications and medical history

Safety Starts Before You Fly

Early intervention beats "pushing through". A key part of staying safe on Kokoda is addressing small issues early — hotspots, strains, dehydration, infection risk, poor sleep, and stress.

• Controlled pace and regroup points
• Hydration and nutrition prompts
• Foot care and blister prevention routines
• Weather and track-condition adjustments
• Regular wellbeing check-ins and clear communication

Daily Safety — Medical Response & Readiness

Kokoda is remote. Our safety systems are designed around prevention, early detection, and clear escalation decisions based on the situation and conditions on the ground.

• Dedicated medical oversight while trekking
• Clear response pathway for illness or injury
• Group safety maintained while supporting individuals
• Decisions guided by conditions, capability and wellbeing

What Makes Kokoda Courage Different

Emergency Services Leadership

Our team is made up of experienced emergency services professionals including police, fire, and military personnel, who bring real-world critical response skills to every trek. A key point of difference is the inclusion of a dedicated Critical Care Medic on every trek.

• Leadership from trained police, fire and military critical-response personnel
• A dedicated Critical Care Medic on every trek
• Proactive risk management and decision-making in remote conditions

What We Ask of You

Kokoda is achieved together. While our leadership team manages the structure, safety systems and decision-making, every trekker plays an important role in the overall wellbeing of the group.

• Train appropriately before departure
• Share relevant medical information confidentially
• Follow guide instructions around pace and footing
• Speak up early if something feels off
• Support each other — Kokoda is a team experience

Hygiene, Water & Wellbeing

Proper hydration, consistent hygiene practices and active fatigue management are essential to maintaining health and resilience in the demanding conditions of the Kokoda Track.

• Structured hydration routines and regular refill checks
• Daily monitoring of energy levels and recovery
• Proactive foot care to prevent minor issues becoming major setbacks