When we talk about the Kokoda Trail, there is one PTM that has not only done the trail, but she is woven into who she is. We caught up with PTM Suzanne Kienzle to find out about the trail, the history and the infamous Owen Stanley ranges in Papua New Guinea.
There are holidays… and then there’s the Kokoda Trail with 96 kms of rough terrain over the infamous Owen Stanley ranges in Papua New Guinea. One involves poolside cocktails and excess luggage, the other involves mud, sweat, self-reflection and questioning every life decision which smacks you hard on day three!
Trekking the Kokoda Trail is not just a hike. It is one of Australia’s most meaningful trekking experiences. It challenges your body, steadies your mind, humbles your ego and leaves a mark long after the blisters heal. It is also something you want to get right the first time.
For my family, Kokoda has never been a bucket list adventure. It is woven into who I am. I grew up surrounded by stories of the trail, wartime history, and deep connections to Papua New Guinea, even sleeping with samurai swords under the bed.
My father Soc Kienzle was born and raised along the Trail. It was his backyard, and from an early age, I understood that Kokoda is not simply a physical challenge. It is sacred ground.
If you are contemplating taking on the trail, one book I urge you to read is “The Architect of Kokoda by my mother, Robyn Kienzle. You feel the history beneath your boots, so much so, you are stepping in the footsteps of the diggers. The steep climbs, the dense jungle and the tropical humidity quickly grounds you.
The jungle does not care how fit you think you are and what your mental load is. You need all the P’s (prepare, plan, prioritise, practice) to do this trek. 80% mental 20% fitness.
Kokoda begins long before your boots touch the Track ideally 12 – 6 months out depending on your current fitness level.
It begins with training, researching, and learning of the trail, history & the terrain itself. The gear you need, the fitness, the mental strength to prepare.
After years working behind the scenes supporting Kokoda treks and having completed the original war trail over 120kms with my father, I have learned that a successful experience is built just as much off the Track as it is on it. The walking may be physical, but the planning is strategic. People tend to do this trip once, so you need to get it right.
Things to think about that we can help you navigate:
Almost everyone returns from Kokoda changed. Some gain perspective. Some form lifelong friendships. Most gain a deep appreciation for dry socks and a good mattress.
However, beyond the physical achievement, Kokoda offers something rare in modern travel. It connects you to history, to community and to your own resilience.
Reaching the Kokoda archway is not simply about completing a trek. It is about honouring the diggers fallen, those who have fought for our freedom & those family members they left behind.
I urge every Australian to take it on and of course ANZAC day means so much more after you’ve personally tackled the Kokoda Trail.
By Suzanne Kienzle, Personal Travel Manager.
If the Kokoda Trail is on your bucket-list, talk to our Personal Travel Managers who can guide you every step of the way.
TravelManagers respects and honours the Traditional Custodians of the land and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on the lands where we work and gather, and those we visit.
