Join Where Wild Things Roam with Intrepid Travel and South Sea Horizons on this Kokoda Expedition. Papua New Guinea has endured a colourful and, at times, bloody history. The Kokoda Track/Trail was once a village track that existed long before, and Westerners or foreigners came to Papua New Guinea. The Japanese decided to use this track to attack Port Moresby during World War II and use this trail to launch an attack by foot and by sea.
On this Kokoda expedition, we set out to explore the complete route of the campaign, starting from Kokoda to Owers Corner. By taking on this expedition, we will trek across the Owen Stanley Ranges. We will see all the main Kokoda battle sites and appreciate the rugged beauty of the region, as exemplified by the Owen Stanley Ranges. The Kokoda is a tough but rewarding journey that will last in your memories forever.
The Kokoda Trail has been a place of pilgrimage for Australians, and others, for many decades. A place of ANZAC reverence and of personal challenge. South Sea Horizons has been leading groups along the Kokoda Track since 2008 with an exceptional trek completion rate of 99%.
And there are many reasons that help us deliver such a high success rate. These include:
- We are PNG-owned and operated. This land is our home and our passion.
- We only practise responsible tourism that gives back to the communities we interact with
- We only employ local Papua New Guineans as porters, historians and cooks. Indigenous to this land who know it better than any other.
- Our GM – Alan Manning – splits his time between PNG and Australia. He has great empathy and understanding of what ‘Aussies’ are looking for from their Kokoda Trail experience.
- We provide a personal porter for each trekker. That’s right. A ratio of 1:1!
- We are an equal-opportunity employer across all positions within our organisation.
- Our local porters include direct descendants of the last remaining ‘Fuzzy-Wuzzy-Angels’.
About South Sea Horizons
Papua New Guinea-owned and operated, South Sea Horizons practise responsible tourism that gives back to the communities they interact with. They only employ local Papua New Guineans as porters, historians and cooks. The local porters used while trekking includes direct descendants of the last remaining ‘Fuzzy-Wuzzy-Angels’.
Tour Dates: Various departures throughout 2025-2026. Price on request.
BOOKING
To find out more information about this tour or to book, contact personal travel manager Kate via phone on 0461 411 444 or email kate.webster (@) travelmanagers.com.au
** Note that prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may change.
Overview
On this Kokoda expedition, we set out to explore the complete route of the campaign, starting from Kokoda to Owers Corner. By taking on this expedition, we will trek across the Owen Stanley Ranges. We will see all the main Kokoda battle sites and appreciate the rugged beauty of the region, as exemplified by the Owen Stanley Ranges. The Kokoda is a tough but rewarding journey that will last in your memories forever.
INCLUSIONS
- Private Charter Flight to Kokoda
- Personal Porter at hire at no extra charge
- Large Back Pack at hire at no extra charge
- Day Pack at hire at no extra charge
- Sleeping mat at hire at no extra charge
- Walking Poles hire at no extra charge
- Local PNG Historian
- Local Guide
- Local Food Porters
- Pre trek briefing
- Smaller intimate groups
- Visit Bomana War Cemetery
- Road transfers from Owers Corner to Port Moresby
- Kokoda Track Authority Trek Permit
- Kokoda Certificate
- Kokoda Trail Map
- Port Moresby – 2 nights Accommodation only included for the accommodation only.
All Travellers are required to have medical insurance with third world country medivac included within their respective policies.
NOT INCLUDED
- Extra meals – Villiage food (bowls of fruit and vegetables)
- Hotel facilities – Laundry, phone calls
- Medical Insurance
COSTS
Please note that costs in PNG are surprisingly high. You should budget AUD 60-100 per day per person for meals and expenses while in Port Moresby.
TREKKING TIMES
Please note that all trekking times listed in this itinerary are based on ideal, dry weather conditions. Rainy weather and muddy conditions could add several hours to these times.
RUCKSACKS
Rucksack hire is included in trip costs. You will be provided with a 80 Litre and I a 35 litre, relatively waterproof rucksack. Just bring your regular luggage and repack your belongings into the rucksack provided tonight.
Highlights
- Explore the complete route of the campaign, starting from Kokoda to Owers Corner.
- Learn the history of Kokoda and the 'Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels' from a local PNG historian
- Trek across the Owen Stanley Ranges
- See all the main Kokoda battle sites and appreciate the rugged beauty of the region
Itinerary
You will have a transfer booked for the Holiday Inn Express. Our guides will be at the airport to meet you to transfer you to the hotel bus. Your briefing session is at 530 pm, meet your guide in the foyer of the hotel. This is where you will be given your packs, walking poles, sleeping mats. Please make sure you bring your insurance details to hand to your guide. No Meal included tonight.
ACCOMMODATION
Hotel (1 night)
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
MEALS INCLUDED
There are no meals included on this day.
AMENITIES
Our hotel in Port Moresby has internet access (not included in the room rate). There are only minimal places along the Kokoda Track with mobile phone reception, so we advise you not to bring a phone on the trek.
This morning we board our 45-minute chartered flight to Kokoda. All pack weights and body weights will be checked so; please be sure to stick to the 12kg maximum restrictions for your large pack and 8 kg for your day pack. In Kokoda, our trek team will be waiting for us, and your lead guide will introduce you to your porters. While your porters repack your packs fitting in food supplies – we will walk to the Kokoda Museum and have a look around. Once our trek team are ready, we will start our Kokoda journey. Tonight, our destination is Deniki Campsite, which is the first position the 39th Battalion regrouped at when the Japanese Imperial forces occupied Kokoda.
The journey to Deniki from Kokoda commences with a nice flat walk, passing through rows of palm oil and rubber tree plantations. We pass through Kovelo and Hoi village along the way and, after the final crossing at Hoi we commence our first steep ascent up the Owen Stanley Range to 1000 meters above sea level. We follow the ridge around to Deniki, which sits at about 900 meters above sea level. At Deniki we are greeted with spectacular views across Kokoda Valley. We will set up camp here for the evening.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
Kokoda – Kokoda Memorial
Kokoda – Kokoda War Museum
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
We will need to depart camp this morning at 530 am. This means we will need to be packed and ready to go by 5 am at the latest. Our trek takes us to Eora Creek this morning. Travelling through a number of wild choko gardens, we will pass through the village of Isurava (1100meters ) toward the sacred Isurava Battlefield. At Isurava Battlefield, we will hold a short service led by our historians and guides. This memorial was built by the Australian Federal Government and is maintained by the Australian War Graves Department. The four pillars encapsulate the battle along the Kokoda Track with the four words – ‘Courage, Sacrifice, Mateship and Endurance’. These are four words we are sure to take on board with us for the remainder of our journey to Owers’ Corner.
Your Historian will tell you about the heroics of Private Kingsbury, a real estate agent from Victoria who was enlisted to fight in New Guinea with the 2/14th Infantry. Battalion. His heroics at Isurava earned him a Victoria Cross when he was said to have held off an onslaught of invading Japanese soldiers with his Bren gun. This event was enough to give the retreating Australian troops enough time to escape from total destruction and the opportunity for the reinforcement troops to arrive. The unfortunate death of Private Kingsbury occurred on the rock when he was struck in the head by a Japanese sniper. His story is one of the many legends we will encounter throughout our journey along the Kokoda Track.
Your Historian will tell you about the heroics of Private Kingsbury, a real estate agent from Victoria who was enlisted to fight in New Guinea with the 2/14th Infantry Battalion. His heroics at Isurava earned him a Victoria Cross when he was said to have held off an onslaught of invading Japanese soldiers with his Bren gun. This event was enough to give the retreating Australian troops enough time to escape from total annihilation and the opportunity for the reinforcement troops to arrive. The unfortunate death of Private Kingsbury occurred on the rock when he was struck in the head by a Japanese sniper. His story is one of the many legends we will encounter throughout our journey along the Kokoda Track.
Following our break at Isurava, we continue for 11⁄2-2 hours to the village of Alola. This beautifully located village sits on the mountainside overlooking Iora Valley and Auberi. When the Australian troops commenced their retreat of Isurava, they decided to split up, with one party trekking across Eora Creek to Auberi and the other following the ridge down to Alola. This split was s a diversion for the Japanese and place the Australian troops at the best vantage points across the valley.
We continue the trek to Eora Creek, which takes roughly 2 hours. We commence with a 30-minute steep descent down to the first river crossing, followed by several ascents and descents, which follow the ridge around to Eora Creek, where we will set up camp.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
Kokoda – Kokoda Trail trek with a personal porter
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
A tough day of trekking is ahead of us today as we climb to the highest point of the trek at Mount Bellamy. Mount Bellamy is 2200 meters above sea level and provides some spectacular views across the Owen Stanley Ranges. The track towards Digger’s Camp can sometimes be one of the more difficult legs, especially in wet conditions. It is not too steep but can be muddy and slippery.
At Digger’s Camp we are accommodated at a local village guest house for the evening. The campsite is set in amongst lush rainforest and is just over 2000 meters above sea level, so it can get very cold if it is raining.
After we will drop our bags and take a quick walk to Myola, which is a beautifully flat plain of grassland with little creeks flowing through.
During the war, Australian troops had utilised Myola’s airstrip to drop in supplies. When making their advance to Port Moresby the Japanese completely missed Myola, which probably played a significant role in the ultimate chain of events. There were once many aircraft remains scattered around Myola, but since the war, local villagers have salvaged much of what was left for scrap metal. We will make our way back from Myola to Diggers camp where we will enjoy a nice cold dip in the river before dinner.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
We start off this morning heading towards the northern face of Mount Bellamy, where spectacular views can be shared looking over to the villages of Naduri, Kagi, Brigade Hill, and Nauro and, in the distance, Imita Ridge.
The leg down to Naduri is a long and steady descent and we will be exposed to the harsh sun as the majority of this sector passes through open Kunai grassland. Be sure to have your hat and sunscreen on hand and it is also recommended that you wear a long sleeve shirt. We have a short break at Naduri and then commence the trek down the ridge towards Efogi I. The descent will take up to 11⁄2 hours and is very steep and slippery. The climb up to Efogi I is also very steep and slippery. Our personal porters will keep a very close eye on us. We enjoy a well-deserved rest upon reaching Efogi I. The local village will have on display a range of their local fruits and other types of food. Be sure to carry some small change with you so that you can purchase some of their produce, all of which is organically grown.
After the break at Efogi we continue our trek down to Efogi II, which involves a one-hour descent. This leg is relatively short but will be exhausting and energy-sapping as it will be the middle of the day and there isn’t a lot of canopy protection. Make sure you’re hydrated and have good sun cover protection. Our arrival into Efogi II we are greeted by the local village and accommodated at our cooperative guesthouse owned by the Siosi family. Efogi II is the largest of the Koiari villages along the trail with an estimated population of 400-500 people. The elementary school has more than 150 students. The kids of Efogi are a lively bunch with plenty of vibrant energy.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
This morning we head towards the village of Manari where we will be spending the night. Today’s trek involves a decent climb up to Mission Ridge following the path taken by the retreating Australian soldiers, which ultimately lead to the ambush that took place on top of Brigade Hill.
The Aussie troops had occupied the Seventh Day Adventist mission during the war, using it as a shelter and storage facility. After the first climb of the morning, we can turn back and look over Mount Bellamy, Efogi I and II and Kagi villages in the distance. Just imagine the sight of 20,000 Japanese troops marching down Mount Bellamy towards Kagi village with lanterns lighting the sky, which seemed to the Australian troops like a sea of fireflies lighting the night sky. Their advance was so swift and clinical that within a few days they had completely occupied the base of Brigade Hill.
The walk to Brigade Hill from Efogi takes approximately 11⁄2 hours. It is a decent walk following the ridge of Brigade Hill or Mission Ridge, as it was referred to during the war. Upon reaching Brigade Hill we first come across a huge tree trunk that looks big enough to shelter a person – and where the famous story of the Bone Man from Kokoda will be told.
At Brigade Hill our trek leader and local historian will relate the story about Brigade Hill and how the Australian troops were engulfed or ambushed by fast-approaching Japanese troops. Over 75 Australian soldiers fell at Brigade Hill and this is commemorated by a plaque, which sits at the top of the hill. Glorious views can be enjoyed from the top of Brigade Hill and, on a clear day, we can see across to Mount Victoria- the highest mountain in the region. To the southeast are views to Nauro village (our evenings camp) and Magulu Ridge. A short memorial service will be conducted here by our trekking team.
From Brigade Hill we head down the back of Mission Ridge for about 2 hours – this is a steep and sometimes very slippery path to walk. At the bottom of the valley is a beautiful waterway and from there it’s a 40-minute climb to Manari village. At Manari we are welcomed by the local villagers and we will be shown to our guesthouse for the evening.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
We have an early climb up to the top of Manari Ridge this morning. This is a steep climb should take approximately 11⁄2 hours to get to the top. After a short break at the top of Manari Ridge, we trek down the back, an extremely steep and sometimes slippery walk that should take us about an hour and a half. At the base of Manari Ridge, we enter Nauro Valley, where we pass through Agu Logo campsite and then cross the mighty Brown River. This section can be swampy and unpleasant during the rains, but it is a long flat section and more of a comfortable walk. Our lunch stop is Nauro village which is situated on an old airstrip. There are mosquitoes in this area, so be sure to wear insect repellent.
After lunch – we take on the Nine False Peaks to the top of Maguli Ridge. This involves roughly 3 hours of serious uphill trekking. We pass by New Nauro village and enjoy have a quick recovery break before pushing on to Maguli Ridge.
From here we commence our first of many descents, with our first break being at Jap’s Ladder. We have a good rest at Jap’s Ladder and then continue our march down towards Ofi Creek (approximately 2 hours). A nice river awaits us at the bottom of the last climb where we can swim and freshen up for the evening.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
This morning is an early climb to Ioribaiwa. It was here at Ioribaiwa that the Japanese troops were turned back. From Ioribaiwa we will be able to clearly see Imita Ridge, which is less than 5 kilometres away as a crow flies, and in the background (if lucky and only on clear days) we may be able to see quite clearly to see Port Moresby. From Iorribaiwa our journey continues down a steep slope that leads to Uaule Creek. At the base of the Ioribaiwa Ridge, we make our way across a myriad of rivers and creek crossings (nine in total) until we reach Uaule Creek so make sure you have your wet shoes handy.
From Va’Ule Creek’s expect 14 river crossings, so expect we will leave our wet shoes on. At our final crossing, we commence the trek up the back of Imita Ridge, Which takes up to 11⁄2 hours to climb. At the summit of Imita Ridge, we enjoy a stunning view looking back across to Ioribaiwa and Maguli Ridge. From the top and looking southwest towards Port Moresby, we trek down what was known as the Golden Staircase. This flight of stairs was built by Australian troops during the war to help with transporting artillery and other supplies from Port Moresby. The ‘staircase’ no longer exists, but some historians and operators believe that they have identified its original location. After a good break and recovery at the summit of Imita Ridge, we head downhill towards our campsite at Goodwater.
We make our final push to Owers corner. From Goodwater, we travel onto Goldie River which takes close to 3 hours. From Goldie River, we climb our final hill towards Owers’ Corner. After a short 30-minute climb up to the top, we can finally say that we have completed the Kokoda Track! We are met at Owers’ Corner and transferred to Port Moresby. Along the way, we stop to visit Bomana War Cemetery where 2890 Australian soldiers were laid to rest at the end of World War II.
This evening our trekking team will meet us for a drink and catch up at our hotel; a great way to reflect on our recently-completed trekking adventure with our new mates from Papua New Guinea.
ACCOMMODATION
Village Hut (1 night)
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Checkout of the hotel is at 11 am and transfer to the airport can be organised on request. Just let our guides know your flight details on the day.
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
Complimentary Airport Departure Transfer
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfast
Package Inclusions
Includes
- • Private Charter Flight to Kokoda
- • Personal Porter at hire at no extra charge
- • Large Back Pack at hire at no extra charge
- • Day Pack at hire at no extra charge
- • Sleeping mat at hire at no extra charge
- • Walking Poles hire at no extra charge
- • Local PNG Historian
- • Local Guide
- • Local Food Porters
- • Pre trek briefing
- • Smaller intimate groups
- • Visit Bomana War Cemetery
- • Road transfers from Owers Corner to Port Moresby
- • Kokoda Track Authority Trek Permit
- • Kokoda Certificate
- • Kokoda Trail Map
- • Port Moresby – 2 nights Accommodation only included for the accommodation only.
- All Travellers are required to have medical insurance with third world country medivac included within their respective policies.
Excludes
- • Extra meals – Villiage food (bowls of fruit and vegetables)
- • Hotel facilities – Laundry, phone calls
- • Medical Insurance
Accommodation
Port Moresby – 2 nights Accommodation only included for the accommodation only
On the track you will stay in village accommodations
Transport
- Private Charter Flight to Kokoda
- Road transfers from Owers Corner to Port Moresby
- The rest is by you on foot trekking
Gallery
Map
Terms & Conditions
While every care has been taken to ensure the prices and availability of this tour is locked in, we do sometimes experience fluctuations and changes from our suppliers and ground operators. While every effort will be made to ensure this has no impact on the overall cost of your trip, if this cannot be done, you will be notified immediately with options.
Please note that we are working in remote destinations and sometimes changes to the itinerary are unavoidable. While we endeavour to ensure we stick to the set itinerary, changes may occur prior to travel and while on location. Also, note that wildlife is never guaranteed nor predictable. We are travelling during times of high probability of wildlife experiences; however, this is never 100% guaranteed.
FLIGHTS
Flights are NOT included with this package unless otherwise stated. Please discuss with us the timing requirements for arrival and departure if you are organising your flights. If you wish us to book flights, we can arrange this also.
PRICING
All prices are quoted in Australian Dollars. Typically, prices are based on two passengers travelling together. Solo traveller supplements may be applicable. Special offer pricing has already been applied to the website pricing displayed, unless it is stated otherwise.
PASSPORTS & VISAS
Passports must have a validity of at least 6 months or longer than your intended stay overseas. Visas to some countries are required for Australian Passport holders. Visas can be purchased on arrival in most countries, but please note, for entry into certain countries a visa must be applied for online before travel. Some visa fees are payable in US Dollars cash only. Some countries have a requirement making it necessary to have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Please check with us regarding visa requirements.
TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN
Travelling with children under 18 years of age through certain countries may require further documentation in addition to their valid passport. As requirements can change, please check with us.
HEALTH & FITNESS
Please consult your GP or Travel Doctor for up-to-date medical advice. A minimum level of fitness is required to be able to participate in a Where Wild Things Roam Travel tour. In addition, some tours may require you to disclose your body weight. Please check with us to ensure that you can meet the relevant requirements. COVID19 declarations must be completed before travelling and conditions of these must be met, otherwise your travel will be cancelled.
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS
Luggage restrictions may apply to your tour where safari vehicles or light aircraft are utilised. Please check your trip dossier for detail on this and what is suggested to pack.
BOOKING
A non-refundable deposit of 25% per person is required within seven days of booking confirmation along with a signed Booking Form. Some tours and arrangements may impose a higher non-refundable deposit – please check at the time of booking. Payment of deposit and a signed Booking Form represents acceptance of Where Wild Things Roam Travel Terms & Conditions by the client. The final balance of payment must be received no later than 60 days before departure.
LATE BOOKINGS
Bookings made within 30 days of travel from Australia will require full payment immediately.
AMENDMENT FEE
An amendment fee of AU$50 will be levied to cover communication and administration costs for any changes to bookings. This is in addition to any airline and operator fees.
ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
We can organise additional arrangements such as hotels and car hire not forming part of a package. Just ask us at the time of booking.
CANCELLATIONS
While we appreciate that circumstances change and travel regulations may vary, we will always try to be flexible with changes to your booking. Cancellations must be received in writing and will take effect from the date received by Where Wild Things Roam Travel. The following cancellation charges will apply to the tour costs.
- More than 60 days before departure: Deposit only
- 60-49 days before departure: 40%
- 48-31 days before departure: 60%
- 30-0 days before departure: 100%
These charges can vary subject to the trading terms of our suppliers as some do impose higher cancellation fees on certain tours. The non-issuing of an invoice or non-payment of the deposit will not exempt clients from these cancellation and administration fees. We regret we can make no exception to the charges and strongly recommend that comprehensive travel insurance is taken out at the time of booking to cover cancellation fees.
INSURANCE
We strongly recommend that a comprehensive travel insurance policy be taken out at the time of paying the deposit. Where Wild Things Roam Travel will NOT accept responsibility for loss of deposit/full payment, loss or damage to baggage and personal items, personal illness or injury, medical expenses, cancellation or curtailment of your trip.
TRAVEL SAFETY
For the latest government advice on travel safety and security, please visit and register your holiday on www.smartraveller.gov.au
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING PRICES
Much care has gone into the composition of itineraries and prices, however, circumstances beyond our control such as currency devaluation, fuel or airfare surcharges, imposition of new or amended Government charges (i.e VAT) may necessitate an increase in cost. Where Wild Things Roam Travel cannot be held responsible for these changes. Should this occur at any time until the departure date, you will be notified as soon as possible, and regardless of deposit or total payment having been made, any increase is to be paid by the client. If such an increase is unacceptable, the client may cancel the booking, though, in so doing, is still liable to pay any cancellation charges imposed by our suppliers. While every effort has been made to ensure prices are accurate, please use the brochure as a guideline only, as rates are subject to change.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY
Where Wild Things Roam Travel uses local ground operators in the country of travel. The standards of accommodation and other services are based on various factors, which are generally accepted as indicated by a certain class. However, we do not represent or guarantee that standard, class or fitness for purpose of the accommodation or service. Where Wild Things Roam Travel does not accept any liability of whatever nature for the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of those airlines, local operators, shipping companies, hoteliers or other persons providing services in connection with your tour under a contract between them and yourselves and over whom we have no direct and exclusive control. We do not accept liability for any injury, damage, loss, delay, change of itinerary when required, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by events which are beyond our control, or which are not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part including, but not limited to war, civil disturbances, fire, floods, unusually severe weather, acts of God, acts of Government or any other authorities, accidents to, or failure of, machinery or equipment, or industrial action (whether or not involving our employees and even though such actions may be settled by acceding to demands of a labour group).
In addition to Where Wild Things Roam Travel terms and conditions are that of South Sea Horizons.
THE BOOKING CONTRACT
Your South Sea Horizons booking is confirmed and a contract exists when your travel agent or booking agent issues a written confirmation with you once a deposit is paid for your advertised tour.
Confirmation must be checked by the traveller and all incorrect information must be referred to your booking agent immediately.
Passports must be up to date and visas are also required for certain passports and this is the responsibility of the client.
VALIDITY
Dates and itineraries are valid until 31 December 2019. Beyond 31 December 2020 dates and itineraries are indicative only.
BOOKING ON BEHALF OF OTHERS
By booking on behalf of other participants, you are deemed to be the designated contact person for every participant on that booking and you are responsible for making all payments due for your South Sea Horizons booking.
You represent and have obtained all required consents to act on behalf of all tour parties. You are responsible for verifying that all information that is provided to South Sea Horizons.
MANDATORY INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS
Each Individual must have travel insurance which has a minimum medical evacuation and Repatriation coverage of US$200,000 for Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.
This insurance must cover personal injury and emergency medical expenses. On the first day of each Tour, a representative of the Tour Operator will verify that you have sufficient insurance in place.
You are strongly recommended to extend your coverage to include cancellation, curtailment, and all other expenses that may arise as a result of loss, damage, injury, delay or inconvenience while travelling.
You acknowledge that insurance coverage is not included in the cost of any Tour offered by the South Sea Horizons and you are required to obtain separate coverage at an additional cost.
It is your responsibility and not South Sea Horizons responsibility to ensure that you have sufficient coverage and comply with the terms of the applicable insurance plans. You are responsible for advising your insurer of the type of travel, destination(s) and activities included in your booking so that the insurer may provide appropriate coverage.
DEPOSIT REQUIREMENT
The traveller is required to pay a non-refundable deposit of 15 % per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed.
If your South Sea Horizons booking is made within 60 days of the departure date then the full amount is payable at the time of booking.
Please note that different deposits amounts are required for selected trips including Our Festival Tours.
AIRFARE
South Sea Horizons tour prices do not include international or other airfare unless expressly mentioned in the Tour’s descriptions.
South Sea Horizons is a tour operator and does not offer airfares or prices. South Sea Horizons will direct our clients to Airlines who will be able to book flights however will not collect payments for flights.
South Sea Horizons advises consulting the air carrier’s applicable terms and conditions and conditions of carriage for complete information including applicable cancellation terms.
South Sea Horizons is not responsible for changes in air itineraries or flight times and does not provide advice or alerts regarding air travel tickets, flight status or delays.
ACCEPTANCE OF BOOKING AND FINAL PAYMENTS
If South Sea Horizons accept your booking, we will issue a confirmation invoice. A contract will exist between South Sea Horizons and the client from the date we issue the confirmation invoice or if you book within 30 days of departure the contract will exist when we accept your payment.
Please refer to your booking confirmation invoice for details regarding final payments.
Payment of the balance of the trip price is due 60 days before the departure date.
If this balance is not paid on or before the due date, we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled.
PRICES & SURCHARGES
South Sea Horizons trip prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, both of which are standard practices within the travel industry.
This means that South Sea Horizons trip prices may vary at any time in accordance with demand, market conditions and availability.
It is likely that different passengers on the same South Sea Horizons trip have been charged different prices. Your best option if you like the price you see is to book at that time. Any reduced pricing or discounts that may become available after you have paid your deposit will not apply.
If you wish to cancel your booking to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions apply.
The most up to date pricing are available on our website. Prices are based on currency exchange rates as of June 2020; note that prices may vary depending on which currency the booking is made.
We reserve the right to impose surcharges up to 60 days before departure due to unfavourable changes in exchange rates, increases in airfares or other transportation costs, increases in operating costs, taxes, or if government action should require us to do so.
In such instances, we will be responsible for any amount up to 2% of the trip price and you will be responsible for the balance. If any surcharge results in an increase of more than 10% of the trip price you may cancel the booking within 14 days of notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund.
CANCELLATION BY TRAVELLER
If you the traveller cancel some or all portions of your booking, South Sea Horizons cancellation fees will apply. A cancellation will only be effective when South Sea Horizons receive written confirmation of the cancellation.
If you cancel a trip:
90 days or more prior to departure, South Sea Horizons will retain the 15 % non-refundable deposit;
Between 30 and 89 days prior to departure, South Sea Horizons will retain the deposit or 50% of the total booking cost.
30 days or less prior to departure, South Sea Horizons will retain 100% paid by you in connection with the booking.
You are strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking which will cover cancellation fees.
If you leave a South Sea Horizons trip for any reason after it has commenced South Sea Horizons are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services.
If you fail to join a South Sea Horizons tour, join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, South Sea Horizons will not issue a refund.
The above cancellation fees are in addition to fees that may be levied by accommodation providers, travel agents or third party tour and transport operator fees.
CANCELLATION BY US
South Sea Horizons trips are guaranteed to depart once they have 4 fully paid travellers unless the minimum group size specifically states otherwise.
South Sea Horizons may cancel a trip at any time prior to departure if, due to terrorism, natural disasters, political instability or other external events it is not viable for us to operate the planned itinerary.
If South Sea Horizons cancel your trip, you can transfer amounts paid to alternate departure date or South Sea Horizons will pay a full refund.
In circumstances where the cancellation is due to external events outside South Sea Horizons, reasonable control refunds will be less than any unrecoverable costs.
South Sea Horizons are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights.
BOOKING AMENDMENTS
If you wish to transfer from one South Sea Horizons trip to another or transfer your South Sea Horizons booking to a third party, you must notify us at least 60 days prior to the proposed departure date. A fee of $100 per person per change will apply).
If you notify South Sea Horizons less than 60 days prior to the proposed departure date the refund policy applicable to cancellations will apply.
Transfers to a third party are only permitted where the transferee meets all the requirements in relation to the South Sea Horizons trip, and transfers to another South Sea Horizons departure can only be made to a departure within the current validity period.
Amendments to any other arrangements made in conjunction with your South Sea Horizons trip will incur a $100 administration fee per South Sea Horizons booking change.
This fee is in addition to any charges levied by hotels, ground operators or airlines. No amendments are permitted to your booking within 10 days of departure.
