DAY 6 - MENARI TO NAURO
Wednesday 14 October
It was only a half-day of trekking, but it proved no less challenging than a full day on the Kokoda Track.
The group set out from Menari in the cool of the morning, with the first light filtering through the forest canopy. After just 20 minutes, they crossed a small wooden bridge spanning a narrow stream—a brief, cheerful landmark that reminded everyone how far they had already come. That sense of progress was short-lived, however. They continued for another 30 minutes along rocky, root-strewn trails before reaching a small clearing, where they stopped for their first brief rest and topped up their water bottles.
Soon afterwards, the first significant climb of the day began. The ascent to the Menari Lookout was steep in places and demanded careful footing, but the effort was rewarded with sweeping views of the village below. From the lookout, the group could see the thatched roofs and scattered gardens of Menari, where they had camped the previous night. They lingered for a while, some taking photographs and others simply pausing to enjoy the clear air and the view.
The descent from the ridge took approximately 45 minutes and tested different muscles. What had been difficult going uphill became a steady exercise in balance and control as the trekkers negotiated narrow, uneven sections of track. At the bottom, they paused beside a spring to refill their bottles and rest their tired legs.
Reinvigorated, the group continued across a broad stretch of swampy ground. Fortunately, the conditions were good, although the uneven terrain still required concentration and careful foot placement. The track eventually led them to the Brown River, where several trekkers took the opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim. They slipped into the clear water, washing away the sweat and dust of the morning and laughing as the cool current soothed their tired legs.
After the swim, the group resumed the track with renewed energy. A short, easy 15-minute walk brought them to Amaduri Village, where they stopped for morning tea. The villagers offered a warm welcome, and the trekkers purchased Twisties and fresh fruit. Some also took the opportunity to ask about the false peaks that lay ahead.
Refreshed, the group re-entered the swamp for another 30 minutes of walking. The track wound through dense foliage, and the trekkers settled into a quiet rhythm. Gradually, the terrain changed as they reached the base of a series of false peaks—climbs that appeared to promise the summit, only to reveal another rise beyond. The group stopped for a longer rest before beginning the next stage.
What followed was an extended and steady climb up the seemingly endless slopes of the range. The gradient was relentless in places, while loose soil made the footing uncertain and required a slower, more deliberate pace. Conversation dwindled to a low murmur as concentration increased, but the effort remained communal, with words of encouragement helping to maintain morale.
Eventually, the group crested the higher slopes and began the descent towards New Nauro Village. They arrived early in camp, tired but satisfied, and settled in for the night.
The early finish allowed plenty of time for rest and recovery. Tents were pitched, lunch was served, and several trekkers used the opportunity to wash muddy gear. Others relaxed in the hut, while some, exhausted by the climbs and humidity, took restorative afternoon naps. The atmosphere in camp was relaxed and cheerful—a fitting end to a demanding but rewarding half-day trek.
