OVERVIEW

DUE TO THE 2020 BUSHFIRES AND OUR ACCOMMODATIONS SADLY BEING BURNT DOWN THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE. HOWEVER THERE IS AVAILABILITY ON THE 7 DAY GROUP GUIDED TRIP CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

 

The spectacular coastal scenery and coastal forest, together with Kangaroo Island’s abundance of wildlife, create an amazing platform for walking. It is Australia’s third-largest island, and a third of it is protected within a national park. This unique island sanctuary has become a haven for native animals, particularly threatened and protected species. The track traverses a diverse range of landscapes. Eucalypt and mallee forest and striking stretches of coastal landscape dominate the 67km purpose-built walk.

 

Admire the tall limestone cliffs, reminiscent of the Otways and the massive Southern Ocean swells. The island is also a haven for marine wildlife like whales, even the odd killer whale, seals and dolphins, so keep your eyes peeled!

Highlights

  • Kelly Hill Caves, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, Rocky River and seal colonies
  • Stunning views over the ocean at remote Hansons Bay and beach
  • The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (minus one very small section of low mallee forest)

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easy to Moderate

Grade 2 - Easy to Moderate

Some uphill sections and occasional steps. Walks are generally shorter and walking experience is not required.

PRICE FROM
$ 2370

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 520

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
VISITORS CENTRE TO SNAKE LAGOON

Catch the 9.30 flight from Adelaide to Kingscote airport arriving on Kangaroo Island around 10 am.  We will transfer you to your first accommodation where you will pick up lunch and have a safety overview. Today you walk from the visitor’s centre to Rocky River and Snake lagoon through gorgeous eucalypt forest, via swampland and the Platypus pools. Stop for a moment at the rapids and rock pools along the way, and keep an eye out for the stacks of wildlife coming in to take a drink. Expect to see Cape Baron Geese, Wallabies and Kangaroos plus a whole lot more.

Walking: Easy to moderate/ 12km / 3-4 hrs
Meals: Lunch and two-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 2
SNAKE LAGOON TO ADMIRALS ARCH

From Rocky River, it’s a gentle walk down the river to the Southern Ocean. There’s nothing between here and the Southern Ocean; the wilder the weather, the bigger the show. The views of the massive swells crashing against the cliffs paired with the peacefulness of this splendid remote landscape set the tone for the rest of the walk. From May to September there’s a chance you’ll see whales. The walk follows the coast both on the cliff tops and on the beach eventually heading inland via Hakea Campground to the other side of Cape de Couedic Peninsula. The walk via Weirs Cove and Cape de Couedic Lighthouse to Admirals Arch is one of the real highlights of the trail.

Walking: Moderate with some challenging sections of rocky track / 18.5km / 5.5 – 6.5 hrs / 14km option is available
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation:Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 3
REMARKABLE ROCKS TO HANSON BAY

Today’s walk starts at Remarkable Rocks, arriving early well before all the crowds is a real pleasure. For your information, we miss one small 6 km section of the walk, through mallee forest from Hakea Campground to Remarkable Rocks. The granite boulders sculptured by the forces of nature have an artistic, almost surrealist feel to them. This next section is one of the best, if not the best. From Sanderson Bay, it’s back to the coast past Cape Younghusband. The coastal views are stupendous before heading off through cooler mallee and tea tree forest. Hike to spectacular Hanson Bay and your accommodation. Hanson Bay is one of the most beautiful places on the island. There’s a very safe bay or an estuary to take a swim in, and there are additional beach walks on your doorstep if you feel so inclined. Depending on the time of year, there is likely to be hardly anyone here, so in the evening it’ll feel like having your own private beach.

Walking: Moderate / 18.5km / 5.5 – 6.5hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 4
HANSON BAY TO KELLY HILL CAVES

Walk from your accommodation one of 2 ways. Back the way you came in yesterday, along the road and across the South West River on a very ingenious punt-like boat system. Or walk along the beach, over the sandhills and along the river to the same point. The track opens up to large natural grassland, thus the name and an abundance of birdlife. From here we walk around Grassdale Lagoon and then inland to Kelly Hill Caves, through a much taller gumtree forest, before meeting the Burgess Hike. There is a short side-trip here to the old entrance of Kelly Hill Caves. Look out for the many craters which feed water into the caves below. At Kelly Hill Caves Visitor Centre pass through the iron ‘gate’, to mark the end of the 67km Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail.

Walking: Easy to moderate / 11km / 3-4 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing or Seafront Hotel

 

DAY 5
RETURN TO ADELAIDE

Breakfast is included on your last morning on the island. You will be transferred to the town of Kingscote in the afternoon to explore and have lunch. Your walking holiday finishes with a private transfer to Kingscote airport to catch the evening flight back to Adelaide.

Meals: Breakfast

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 30+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Private transfers to and from Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 4 nights’ comfortable accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 (2-course) dinners, 4 walkers lunches
  • Transfers out to your accommodation and transfers on and off the track
  • Kangaroo Island Wilderness track fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags

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 Snelling beach. 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 simply stunning. 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 3 or 4 nights whilst we are on Kangaroo Island. This accommodation is nestled right on what is almost our own private beach. The Villas are just gorgeous as are the views. The Seafront Hotel will be utilized dependent on walks reopening.

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 walker’s 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 /tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

Please note the accommodations you are staying at are remote there is limited alcohol and snacks available for purchase. If there are any particular drinks or snacks you would like please make sure you bring these to the island with you.

  • NIGHTS 1 & 2

  • NIGHTS 3 AND 4

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.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. 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 17-25 km 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. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

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

GETTING THERE AND AWAY

Flying (highly recommended)
Arrive at Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island around 10 am. You can fly from Adelaide Airport through Regional Express. The flight takes around 30 minutes. There is a 9.30 am flight daily please check times on the Regional Express website. You will need to arrange your own flights.

We will transfer you back to Kingscote in time to catch the evening flight at 6.30 pm to Adelaide.

Please confirm your walk with Auswalk before booking flights. 

Bus and ferry
There are ferries that travel from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw. Please bear in mind that this method takes much longer and the coach services do not match up with the ferries. We highly recommend flying.

WEATHER

This trip is suitable at any time in the year. However, spring and autumn are the kindest conditions for walking. See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure proper clothing.

THE TRACK

Please note that the coastal sections of this track are heavily eroded, making the terrain very rocky and rough. While they are easy to navigate walking along these sections can be challenging and should be taken slowly and carefully. We recommend solid walking shoes with ankle support and a Vibram sole.

Walking poles are useful along these sections and are recommended if you are accustomed to using them or if you are unsteady on uneven ground.

 

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.

CONTACT

However, you may have more questions right now. Please feel free to ask one of our destination consultants in the office or ask to speak to one of our guides. You can contact us via our contact form on the website, email us at info@auswalk.com.au or call us, our favourite option on 1300 777 878 (International +613 9597 9767)

 

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 2 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    CLOSED
    from

    $2370

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $520

SIMILAR TRIPS

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – 6 Days

Self-guided

6-day self-guided walk along the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Stay in comfortable accommodation in stunning locations, enjoy private transfers and eat well.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2595 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – 6 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Private transfers to and from Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 5 nights’ comfortable accommodation
  • 5 breakfasts, 5 (2-course) dinners, 5 walkers lunches
  • Transfers out to your accommodation and transfers on and off the track
  • Kangaroo Island Wilderness track fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags

Great Ocean Walk Highlights – 5 Days

Self-guided

Experience all the highlights of the iconic track from Cape Otway Lighthouse to 12 Apostles. Walk along remote Wreck & Johanna Beaches.

Self-guided 5 Days From $2155 Moderate What's Included

Great Ocean Walk Highlights – 5 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Five-day pack free walking holiday
  • The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
  • Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • Luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating much more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

Self-guided

Queen Charlotte track end to end from Ship Cove to Anakiwa. Forests filled with fauna and birdsong. Lush rainforest gullies filled with massive tree ferns.

Self-guided 4 Days From $1495 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
  • 3 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • 3 walkers lunches
  • Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort – 13 Days

Self-guided

The perfect TMB trip for walkers that prefer a little extra comfort. Trek Tour du Mont Blanc by day, relax in comfortable hotels in the heart of alpine villages in the evening.

Self-guided 13 Days From $4455 Challenging to Strenuous What's Included

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort – 13 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 12 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or simple hotels
  • 12 breakfasts and 5 dinners
  • Maps, comprehensive Auswalk authored walk notes, GPX tracks and day-by-day summary
  • Transfers from Geneva airport – see General Information section
  • Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Daily luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening (not possible in mountain huts)
  • No need to carry a sleep sheet or towel (required for mountain huts)

7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

Self-guided

Traverse the world heritage-listed Kumano Kodo, hiking the beautiful Kii Peninsula. Soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, and savour traditional Japanese meals.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2355 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and  maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk – 7 Days

Self-guided

K’gari means paradise (aka Fraser Island). Expect lush tropical rainforests, crystal clear freshwater lakes, endless pristine beaches and wildlife galore; staying in comfort.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2395 Easy to Moderate What's Included

K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk – 7 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • 7-day pack free Fraser Island walking holiday
  • The Fraser Island Great Walk and much more
  • Luggage transport
  • Ferry and vehicle transfers
  • 6 nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef-cooked breakfasts and walkers lunches
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
Overview

OVERVIEW

DUE TO THE 2020 BUSHFIRES AND OUR ACCOMMODATIONS SADLY BEING BURNT DOWN THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE. HOWEVER THERE IS AVAILABILITY ON THE 7 DAY GROUP GUIDED TRIP CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE

 

The spectacular coastal scenery and coastal forest, together with Kangaroo Island’s abundance of wildlife, create an amazing platform for walking. It is Australia’s third-largest island, and a third of it is protected within a national park. This unique island sanctuary has become a haven for native animals, particularly threatened and protected species. The track traverses a diverse range of landscapes. Eucalypt and mallee forest and striking stretches of coastal landscape dominate the 67km purpose-built walk.

 

Admire the tall limestone cliffs, reminiscent of the Otways and the massive Southern Ocean swells. The island is also a haven for marine wildlife like whales, even the odd killer whale, seals and dolphins, so keep your eyes peeled!

Highlights

  • Kelly Hill Caves, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, Rocky River and seal colonies
  • Stunning views over the ocean at remote Hansons Bay and beach
  • The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail (minus one very small section of low mallee forest)

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
SELF GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Easy to Moderate

Grade 2 - Easy to Moderate

Some uphill sections and occasional steps. Walks are generally shorter and walking experience is not required.

PRICE FROM
$ 2370

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 520

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
VISITORS CENTRE TO SNAKE LAGOON

Catch the 9.30 flight from Adelaide to Kingscote airport arriving on Kangaroo Island around 10 am.  We will transfer you to your first accommodation where you will pick up lunch and have a safety overview. Today you walk from the visitor’s centre to Rocky River and Snake lagoon through gorgeous eucalypt forest, via swampland and the Platypus pools. Stop for a moment at the rapids and rock pools along the way, and keep an eye out for the stacks of wildlife coming in to take a drink. Expect to see Cape Baron Geese, Wallabies and Kangaroos plus a whole lot more.

Walking: Easy to moderate/ 12km / 3-4 hrs
Meals: Lunch and two-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 2
SNAKE LAGOON TO ADMIRALS ARCH

From Rocky River, it’s a gentle walk down the river to the Southern Ocean. There’s nothing between here and the Southern Ocean; the wilder the weather, the bigger the show. The views of the massive swells crashing against the cliffs paired with the peacefulness of this splendid remote landscape set the tone for the rest of the walk. From May to September there’s a chance you’ll see whales. The walk follows the coast both on the cliff tops and on the beach eventually heading inland via Hakea Campground to the other side of Cape de Couedic Peninsula. The walk via Weirs Cove and Cape de Couedic Lighthouse to Admirals Arch is one of the real highlights of the trail.

Walking: Moderate with some challenging sections of rocky track / 18.5km / 5.5 – 6.5 hrs / 14km option is available
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation:Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 3
REMARKABLE ROCKS TO HANSON BAY

Today’s walk starts at Remarkable Rocks, arriving early well before all the crowds is a real pleasure. For your information, we miss one small 6 km section of the walk, through mallee forest from Hakea Campground to Remarkable Rocks. The granite boulders sculptured by the forces of nature have an artistic, almost surrealist feel to them. This next section is one of the best, if not the best. From Sanderson Bay, it’s back to the coast past Cape Younghusband. The coastal views are stupendous before heading off through cooler mallee and tea tree forest. Hike to spectacular Hanson Bay and your accommodation. Hanson Bay is one of the most beautiful places on the island. There’s a very safe bay or an estuary to take a swim in, and there are additional beach walks on your doorstep if you feel so inclined. Depending on the time of year, there is likely to be hardly anyone here, so in the evening it’ll feel like having your own private beach.

Walking: Moderate / 18.5km / 5.5 – 6.5hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing accommodation

DAY 4
HANSON BAY TO KELLY HILL CAVES

Walk from your accommodation one of 2 ways. Back the way you came in yesterday, along the road and across the South West River on a very ingenious punt-like boat system. Or walk along the beach, over the sandhills and along the river to the same point. The track opens up to large natural grassland, thus the name and an abundance of birdlife. From here we walk around Grassdale Lagoon and then inland to Kelly Hill Caves, through a much taller gumtree forest, before meeting the Burgess Hike. There is a short side-trip here to the old entrance of Kelly Hill Caves. Look out for the many craters which feed water into the caves below. At Kelly Hill Caves Visitor Centre pass through the iron ‘gate’, to mark the end of the 67km Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail.

Walking: Easy to moderate / 11km / 3-4 hrs
Meals: Breakfast, walkers lunch pack and 2-course dinner
Accommodation: Excellent private housing or Seafront Hotel

 

DAY 5
RETURN TO ADELAIDE

Breakfast is included on your last morning on the island. You will be transferred to the town of Kingscote in the afternoon to explore and have lunch. Your walking holiday finishes with a private transfer to Kingscote airport to catch the evening flight back to Adelaide.

Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Private transfers to and from Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 4 nights’ comfortable accommodation
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 (2-course) dinners, 4 walkers lunches
  • Transfers out to your accommodation and transfers on and off the track
  • Kangaroo Island Wilderness track fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
Accommodation & Dining

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 Snelling beach. 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 simply stunning. 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 3 or 4 nights whilst we are on Kangaroo Island. This accommodation is nestled right on what is almost our own private beach. The Villas are just gorgeous as are the views. The Seafront Hotel will be utilized dependent on walks reopening.

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 walker’s 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 /tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

Please note the accommodations you are staying at are remote there is limited alcohol and snacks available for purchase. If there are any particular drinks or snacks you would like please make sure you bring these to the island with you.

  • NIGHTS 1 & 2

  • NIGHTS 3 AND 4

Fitness Guide

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.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ABOVE AVERAGE

Distance training is a major consideration in your overall training program. 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 17-25 km 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. Take every opportunity you can to walk. If you have a fitness watch or phone, you should try to reach >15,000 steps every day.

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

GENERAL INFO

GETTING THERE AND AWAY

Flying (highly recommended)
Arrive at Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island around 10 am. You can fly from Adelaide Airport through Regional Express. The flight takes around 30 minutes. There is a 9.30 am flight daily please check times on the Regional Express website. You will need to arrange your own flights.

We will transfer you back to Kingscote in time to catch the evening flight at 6.30 pm to Adelaide.

Please confirm your walk with Auswalk before booking flights. 

Bus and ferry
There are ferries that travel from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw. Please bear in mind that this method takes much longer and the coach services do not match up with the ferries. We highly recommend flying.

WEATHER

This trip is suitable at any time in the year. However, spring and autumn are the kindest conditions for walking. See the Bureau of Meteorology’s information about temperatures and rainfall ahead of time to ensure proper clothing.

THE TRACK

Please note that the coastal sections of this track are heavily eroded, making the terrain very rocky and rough. While they are easy to navigate walking along these sections can be challenging and should be taken slowly and carefully. We recommend solid walking shoes with ankle support and a Vibram sole.

Walking poles are useful along these sections and are recommended if you are accustomed to using them or if you are unsteady on uneven ground.

 

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.

CONTACT

However, you may have more questions right now. Please feel free to ask one of our destination consultants in the office or ask to speak to one of our guides. You can contact us via our contact form on the website, email us at info@auswalk.com.au or call us, our favourite option on 1300 777 878 (International +613 9597 9767)

 

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 2 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024
    CLOSED
    Details
    from

    $2370

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $520
Similar Trips

SIMILAR TRIPS

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – 6 Days

Self-guided

6-day self-guided walk along the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Stay in comfortable accommodation in stunning locations, enjoy private transfers and eat well.

Self-guided 6 Days From $2595 Easy to Moderate What's Included

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail – 6 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Private transfers to and from Kingscote Airport on Kangaroo Island
  • Genuine all inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • 5 nights’ comfortable accommodation
  • 5 breakfasts, 5 (2-course) dinners, 5 walkers lunches
  • Transfers out to your accommodation and transfers on and off the track
  • Kangaroo Island Wilderness track fees
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags

Great Ocean Walk Highlights – 5 Days

Self-guided

Experience all the highlights of the iconic track from Cape Otway Lighthouse to 12 Apostles. Walk along remote Wreck & Johanna Beaches.

Self-guided 5 Days From $2155 Moderate What's Included

Great Ocean Walk Highlights – 5 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Five-day pack free walking holiday
  • The highlights of the Great Ocean Walk
  • Four nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Breakfasts, two-course dinners and substantial walkers lunches
  • Luggage transport and vehicle transfers
  • We shift you along the track from accommodation to accommodation to limit time in a vehicle, creating much more time to relax and enjoy the region
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  • Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags
  • 24/7 support from Auswalk’s transfer company and representatives on the ground

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

Self-guided

Queen Charlotte track end to end from Ship Cove to Anakiwa. Forests filled with fauna and birdsong. Lush rainforest gullies filled with massive tree ferns.

Self-guided 4 Days From $1495 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

Queen Charlotte Track-The Essentials – 4 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Full access to the Queen Charlotte track in superb comfort.
  • 3 nights accommodation in beautiful lodge accommodations
  • Walk the entire track end to end pack free
  • 3 walkers lunches
  • Comprehensive tracks notes, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
  • Enjoy nearly 30 years of our experience in organising self-guided walking holidays

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort – 13 Days

Self-guided

The perfect TMB trip for walkers that prefer a little extra comfort. Trek Tour du Mont Blanc by day, relax in comfortable hotels in the heart of alpine villages in the evening.

Self-guided 13 Days From $4455 Challenging to Strenuous What's Included

Classic Tour du Mont Blanc in Comfort – 13 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation arranged for you
  • 12 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or simple hotels
  • 12 breakfasts and 5 dinners
  • Maps, comprehensive Auswalk authored walk notes, GPX tracks and day-by-day summary
  • Transfers from Geneva airport – see General Information section
  • Itineraries can be flexible to account for weather conditions
  • Daily luggage transfers – access to your main luggage every evening (not possible in mountain huts)
  • No need to carry a sleep sheet or towel (required for mountain huts)

7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

Self-guided

Traverse the world heritage-listed Kumano Kodo, hiking the beautiful Kii Peninsula. Soak in onsens, stay in Japanese accommodation, and savour traditional Japanese meals.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2355 Moderate to Challenging What's Included

7 day Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

BACK
What's Included
  • Walk the entire Kumano Kodo Nakahechi from end to end via magnificent shrines ending at the glorious Nachi waterfall and temple complex
  • Walk pack free with luggage transfers from accommodation to accommodation
  • 6 nights stay in an intimate family-run or small traditional Japanese lodgings, some with in-house onsens
  • Superb traditional multi-course meals for breakfast and dinner each day on the walk. Plus 4 walkers lunches
  • Itineraries can be flexible to shorten the walking or slow the trip down by adding more rest days
  • Enjoy worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s authored comprehensive track notes and  maps
  • 24/7 support from our representatives on the ground

K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk – 7 Days

Self-guided

K’gari means paradise (aka Fraser Island). Expect lush tropical rainforests, crystal clear freshwater lakes, endless pristine beaches and wildlife galore; staying in comfort.

Self-guided 7 Days From $2395 Easy to Moderate What's Included

K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk – 7 Days

BACK
What's Included
  • 7-day pack free Fraser Island walking holiday
  • The Fraser Island Great Walk and much more
  • Luggage transport
  • Ferry and vehicle transfers
  • 6 nights’ accommodation with ensuites
  • Chef-cooked breakfasts and walkers lunches
  • National Park admission
  • Worry-free navigation with Auswalk’s navigation app, travel book, maps & info pack
  •  Insulated lunch bag and luggage tags

blog

May 23, 2016

10 minutes with Merel

Read More
June 9, 2016

7 Easy Steps To Take When Preparing For A Hike

Read More

ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

Get in touch