DAY 1 - PORT MORESBY TO DENIKI

Friday 03 April

After a long day of travel yesterday, the trekkers arrived in Port Moresby and were transported the 15min drive back to the 5-star Hilton Hotel. A few enjoyed a swim before gathering for a pre trek briefing, then had a great dinner, before back to their room to unpack, repack, unpack, and repack.

There was a mix of nerves and excitement as the trekkers were up this morning for a hot breakfast before heading back to the airport for a 30 minute light to Popondetta. The flight was delayed however, they eventually got going as they flew over the Owen Stanley ranges and the Kokoda track, before landing in Popondetta. Here they boarded a troop carrier for a short 15 minute ride into the town to pick up some supplies and then they were back on the troop carrier as they made the journey to Kokoda station.

Upon arriving in Kokoda they visited the museum, Kokoda plateau and discussed the beginning of the Kokoda campaign. They gathered under the famous Kokoda arches for a group photo and it was then off into the PNG jungle where they spend the next 8 days. They hiked pass the village of Kovelo, had a short break at Hoi and then started the first of the hills on their way to Deniki and as always, the first hill tested a few of the group.

Although it was overcast for most of the day, the track was dry until the group hit the village of Hoi and the it turned a little wet and muddy from previous days rain. The boys are all in great spirits as they arrived in camp 6:10pm PNG time and they are now awaiting their dinner and contemplating what tomorrow has in store for them.