Kangaroo Island – 7 Days

GROUP-GUIDED

Group-guided

Self-guided

OVERVIEW

Kangaroo Island is Australia's third-largest island and is renowned for its forests, lagoons, white-sand beaches and sea cliffs pounded by thunderous swells. With a quarter of the island's area being protected, it's no wonder the native animals flourish. It has recently been through bush fires, however the sprouting of new life through the forest is now quite prolific. Some of the walks have been affected by the fire, but with the regrowth, the forest is alive and well.

The walks make their way into Flinders Chase and past the surreal sculptures that are Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. We walk over stunning stretches of beaches and striking clifftops.

We take care of every detail so you can relax and concentrate on what's important, the fully immersive walking experience of this stunning island. The meals are expertly prepared and include 2-course dinners. With two outstanding guides looking after you, you can pace yourself with easier or harder walking options along the way.

Auswalk has been guiding Kangaroo Island walking holidays for nearly 20 years, walking the island and parts of the trail that have subsequently morphed into the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Our Kangaroo Island walking holidays combine these new magnificent sections of track, with our favourite old bits. Given that the island is the third-largest in Australia, it has a lot to offer, but it can only be fully explored on foot.

New walks have been opened off the Wilderness Trail in Flinders Chase NP. With the Platypus and Lagoon walks being spectacular additions which offer opportunities to get in touch with the unique wildlife on the island.

With over a quarter of the island’s area protected within national parks, it’s a paradise for walkers and naturalists. Tall limestone cliffs dominate the coastline and deeply incised creeks flow out to sea. As well as stunning stretches of coastal landscapes are vast areas of wilderness and highly visible terrestrial and marine wildlife.

Highlights

Walk the Kangaroo Island Wilderness tour and its magnificent coastline
Explore 3 historic lighthouses
Fascinating limestone caves at the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Area
The iconic, wind-sculpted Remarkable Rocks
Spotting native wildlife in their natural habitat – from a colony of sea lions to kangaroos, penguins, koalas, goannas and even platypus

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK

GROUP GUIDED

TRIP LENGTH

7 DAYS

WALK GRADE

Easy to Moderate

PRICE FROM

$ 3795

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY

$ 425

per person

Customised
25+ years experience
Pack-free walking
Eco Travel

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Departure Dates

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ITINERARY

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7

DAY 1
ADELAIDE TO KANGAROO ISLAND AND WALK IN DEEP CREEK NATIONAL PARK

Start at The Terrace Hotel Adelaide at 9.00 am. Travel via the scenic Onkaparinga area, McLaren Vale winery district and Fleurieu Peninsula to Cape Jervis. Cruise by ferry over to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island.

We may have to vary the walking order of the days to fit in with the ferry time which unfortunately can vary and be outside of our control. Our aim is to do a lovely walk in the Deep Creek National Park or the end of the Heysen Trail, the 1200 kilometre long distance walking trail which starts in the Flinders Ranges before hopping on the ferry.

Walking: Easy / 3-4 km / 1 hr

Meals: Walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner

Accommodation: Penneshaw in the Seafront in ensuites rooms

DAY 2
WALK AT CAPE WILLOUGHBY

This afternoon we’ll travel to the extreme eastern end of the island for a tour of the Cape Willoughby Lightstation. There are three historic lighthouses in all to explore on this walk, each with its own unique features and history. At Cape Willoughby, enjoy a walk through history and there may be an opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse. We also do another walk on the north coast at your accommodation.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 7 to 12 km / 4 – 5 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Private houses on a beautiful bay

DAY 3
CAPE BORDA LIGHTHOUSE AND RAVINE DES CASOARS

Today we’ll head for the very remote Cape Borda region. The morning hiking will take the path used by early lighthouse keepers to transport supplies from the boat landing to the light station itself. We then travel to the remote hike at the Ravine des Casoars Wilderness Area where you can explore some fascinating limestone caves. We also explore Cape Borda Lighthouse, a special square lighthouse that’s perched high above Investigator Strait, and was built in 1858 to guide sailing ships arriving off the ‘roaring forties’ trade routes.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 10 to 12 km / 6 hrs / easier option available

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Private houses on a beautiful bay

DAY 4
SNAKE LAGOON TO CAPE DU COUEDIC LIGHTHOUSE AND ADMIRALS ARCH

Today we will walk another section of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail from Snake Lagoon all the way to Cape du Couedic and Admirals Arch. The walking is quite remote as we follow riverside tracks as they meander to the massive southern ocean. This is a moody place with a real sense of isolation. The easier option is a circuit walk in the Rocky River area where there should be lots of wildlife and flora. Those lucky enough might even spot an elusive platypus in the stream.

Walking: Moderate / 18.4 km / 6 to 7 hrs / easier option of 8km available

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Private houses on a beautiful bay

DAY 5
REMARKABLE ROCKS TO SANDERSONS AND KELLY HILL CAVES TO HANSONS BAY

Today’s hike covers another section of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. We will walk from Remarkable Rocks to Sanderson Bay. The awesome sight of iconic Remarkable Rocks is our starting point. The wind-sculptured Remarkable Rocks proudly sit on top of a huge granite dome – a testament to 500 million years of nature’s erosion. We continue on past Cape Young Husband via the magnificent coastline. If there is time we will also walk from the Kelly Hill Caves to the stunning Hansons Bay. This track meanders through a delightful bushland walk passing several lagoons teeming with birdlife.

Walking: Moderate / 11 -17km / 4 to 6 hrs

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course dinner

Accommodation: Private houses on a beautiful bay

DAY 6
SEAL BAY AND HANSONS BAY HIKE

This morning we travel out to the most stunning bay on the island, beautiful Hansons Bay and do the walk which takes us to the very end of the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail at Kelly Hill Caves, via an inland estuary. We will go into Kelly Hill Caves with a guide. In the afternoon we will travel to the mid-section of the island to Seal Bay where you’ll see Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. There are also populations of kangaroos, wallabies, possums, echidnas, goannas, penguins, koalas, Cape Barren geese and fur seals. The boardwalks and lookout offer great views over the coast.

Walking: Easy / 12 km / 5 hrs / easier option available

Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch and two-course a la carte dinner at the hotel restaurant

Accommodation: Penneshaw in the Seafront in ensuites rooms

DAY 7
KANGAROO ISLAND TO ADELAIDE

After breakfast we catch the ferry back to the mainland. We will be stopping for lunch in the McLaren Vale wine region, before arriving back in Adelaide at around 4.00 pm.

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant and lunch on the way home at a local winery or picturesque hotel.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Pack-free walking
25+ years experience
Customised
Eco Travel

Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
2 engaging, knowledgeable and experienced guides
6 nights’ comfortable accommodation
All meals including breakfasts, 6 dinners and 7 walkers lunches
Seal Bay and Cape Willoughby tours
Kangaroo Island ferry tickets and all transport from Adelaide
Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail fees and national park admission
Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

Comfort is always a priority, at the end of each day on these Kangaroo Island walking holidays a hot shower, glass of wine and an excellent two-course meal awaits. A comfortable night’s sleep ensures you’ll wake refreshed and primed, ready for the next day’s walking after breakfast.

We travel to the north side island to our superb private housing accommodation perched right above a beautiful bay. You’ll find the beach deserted pretty much all the time so an evening or morning stroll along the beach is definitely in order. The accommodation is excellent. This is not a hotel, but works more like a lodge, thus the rooms are a mixture of style and there is some variance to size. Bathrooms will have to be shared here but it’s a small price to pay for the amazing location. You won’t spend much time in them I assure you as we will keep you busy walking and enjoying the retreats beach and surroundings, not to mention the constant grazing. We will do our best to make sure everyone’s experience is a magic one, but some rooms might have a better view or be bigger, we can’t help that.

You will enjoy two-course dinners at the retreat, utilising fresh local produce.

We are based at private accommodation for the four nights whilst we are on Kangaroo Island. This accommodation is nestled right on what is almost our own private beach. The Villas have gorgeous views over the ocean. The other two nights we are based in Peneshaw where we have a la carte dinners and ensuites.

Packed lunches and picnics complete the circle ensuring that your appetite is always satisfied. In fact, you can look forward to having lunch on a daily basis at incredible locations on the island. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin and a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by Auswalk’s famous trail mix. Importantly, you start each day with a substantial breakfast. This is a great way to ready yourself for the upcoming walk.

Kangaroo Island has a burgeoning wine industry and is also well known for its marron and unique Ligurian honey.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except some wine on some nights and tea, coffee and juice with breakfast). Complex dietary requirements can not be catered for because of the remoteness of the location.

NIGHTS 2, 3, 4 & 5

HOUSES ON A BEAUTIFUL NORTHSIDE BAY

This 4 night’s accommodation is simply wonderful. We get to spread out over the 2 separate retreats. Coming together for dinner in the main house each night. With views over the beach and the possibility of an early morning swim right at your doorstep what could be a better way to start the walking day.
NIGHT 1 & 6

SEAFRONT HOTEL

The Seafront Hotel is in a good location adjacent to the beach. It has all the facilities you’d expect from a Hotel. There’s an excellent restaurant where we dine each evening and get to sit back and enjoy the cooking of professional chefs. The same goes for breakfast.

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed. Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

DISTANCE - ~AVERAGE

Distance training should be a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - BELOW AVERAGE

Elevation is not a major consideration in your overall training program. However, you should still incorporate some form of resistance training to increase your endurance.

TERRAIN

ROCKY TERRAIN

Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility.

Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to strengthen your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on improving stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and Russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain if you can. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.

FLAT TERRAIN

Whilst training for walking on flat and hard terrain, you should focus on building endurance and ensuring you can maintain a comfortable pace.

Start with regular walks on sidewalks, roads, or paved paths to get used to the surface. Maintain a proper posture and engage your core muscles to support your back, keeping a steady gait. Ensure that you have comfortable, supportive footwear with adequate cushioning. If endurance is important, consider incorporating low-impact cross-training activities like swimming or cycling into your routine.

GENERAL INFO

The tracks are dry, firm and well cared for on Kangaroo Island. Most of the walks are easy to moderate. The easy walks are great for first-timers; however, the experienced hikers won’t be disappointed as there is ample opportunity to walk challenging distances and explore some fascinating geological sites. The new Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail as you’d expect is extremely well cared for and makes for excellent walking. Some of the walks were been affected by the fire, but with the prolific regrowth, the forest is alive and well.

This trip operates with a pair of expert guides that lead the way, providing the flexibility to walk at a pace that suits you and offering a choice of easier or harder walking options along the way. We also have a third guide/cook preparing the meals at the private houses. Most dietary requirements can be catered for, but if you want more information, please speak to the office.

Pre and post-tour accommodation: There are many hotels in Adelaide however we pick up and drop off at the Terrace Hotel, 208 South Terrace, Adelaide. The tour starts at 9.00 at the Terrace Hotel. We arrive back in Adelaide at approximately 4.00 pm on the last day

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

We only depart at the best time and for Kangaroo Island this is autumn and spring. See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure suitable clothing.

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office. See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS

This trip is staged in a remote area and in some instances, some of the food is catered by our guides. Therefore it is not possible to cater to complex dietary requirements though we can cater to some preferences. Please speak to the office if you have any queries.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

DATES

AVAILABILITY

PRICE
PER PERSON

Single Occupancy

DETAILS
Keaney Private Group

AVAILABLE

^from
$3795

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$425

24 SEPTEMBER 2024

BOOK NOW
17 Nov 2024

LIMITED SPOTS

^from
$4095

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$795

1 room available - single/double

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REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

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Overview

OVERVIEW

The walks make their way into Flinders Chase and past the surreal sculptures that are Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. We walk over stunning stretches of beaches and striking clifftops.