The National Park has created a number of walks and picnic sites which make a delightful outing for Moresby families. The more sharp eyed might spot a bird of paradise. There are many varieties of trees, plants and butterflies. There are pitcher plants and fern baskets and many sorts of fungi. It is a naturalists dream. Some of the trails are quite jungle like considering the proximity to the big city. It is possible to stay overnight in Varirata - an attractive option for birdwatchers who want to catch a glimpse of some rare species. T here are other day-trips into Central Province. T he Gerebu Plateau located near Doe village about 45 minutes drive from Moresby has a natural lake and a mini waterfall which never dries up even during the driest of dry seasons. T here are caves which are rarely explored either by local people or outsiders because village elders have restricted visiting for fear of disturbing resident spirits. O ne of the caves has unusual pillars of
rock which the local people call stone posts - they seem to change their shape every time eyes are set on them. T he Gerebu plateau has clear, clean creeks and rivers rapid and deep enough for diving, rafting and canoeing. Linki ng the north and south coasts, the Kokoda Trail was first used by miners in the 1890’s but it was World War 2 that ‘put it on the map’. A fter the bombing of Pearl H arbour in 1941 the Japanese moved on PN G sending the navy to Port Moresby and the army round the back via Popondetta. W hat they hadn’t realised was that the trail was a switchback footpath across some of the most rugged country in the world, plunging up and down, the gullies infested by leeches. T here was no chance of maintaining a supply line. T he courage and suffering of those who fought there has never been forgotten. T he Kokoda Trail is one of the most popular bush walks in all of PN G .