Trekking Tour Galah

Guided trekking tour
Duration: 21 Days
PAX: 6-11

Tour

Overview

Hike and experience the most spectacular corners of Australia in its most extraordinary beauty spots!

Marvel at Sydney’s Opera House and Victoria’s Great Ocean Road. Hike through the highlights of the famous Larapinta Trail and forget time in the Red Outback of this ancient country.

Marvel at the East coast of Tasmania, Maria Island and experience its own wild beauty.

Not only do you get to know this fantastic country, its people and interesting animals but also and the way of life of the aboriginals, our countries first inhabitants.

Tour

Highlights

  • Trekking the Tasmanian East coast & Maria Island
  • Trek the highlights of the iconic Larapinta Trail
  • Experience Ayers Rock (Uluru), Olgas and Kings Canyon
  • Sleeping around a campfire
  • Experience Sydney’s skyline from the sea
  • Trekking along the Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles
  • Trekking in the Victorian Grampians

Tour

Essentials

Day 1 - Arrive in Melbourne

Upon arrival in Sydney, transfer to the hotel.

Upon arrival transfer to the hotel. Then time to stroll along the beach, explore the fashion Mecca Melbourne or stroll around Melbourne’s famous little laneways.

Location: Melbourne
Accomodation: Hotel

Day 2 - Grampians National Park

We will visit the once grandiose old mining town of Ballarat and sample some wine (optional) in a small old winery on our way to the Grampians. There we hike the Grand Canyon trail and perhaps even the Pinnacles. An easy cliff path above the canyon offers stunning views of the entire mountain range down to the plain.

Walking approx. 4 hours

Location: Grampions
Accomodation: Cabin
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Through the McKenzie Gorge

After a cozy night in our cabin we walk to the exciting McKenzie Gorge to a steep waterfall. After marvelling at natures best we continue to the Great Ocean Road and see a magnificent sunset at the 12 Apostles.

Hiking: 1-2 hours
Travel time: 3.5 hours

Location: Port Campbell
Accomodation: Motel/Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is considered the most beautiful panoramic road in Australia. After discovering more of the 12 Apostles sights we lace up our boots once more and discover this coastal section on foot. On the way we will find kangaroos, the small village of Apollo Bay and another small hike in the rainforest.

Walking time: about 3-4 hours
Driving time: 4.5 hours

Location: Port Cambell
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Flight to Tasmania

We fly to Launceston. After settling in we hike through the Cataract Gorge. This popular and well-known spot is known for its magnificent gardens.

Location: Launceston
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Ben Lomond National Park

Drive from Launceston to Ben Lomond National Park. Here we discover one of the most spectacular mountain plateaus on the east coast of Tasmania. We discover this plateau through magnificent hikes. From here we travel onwards towards the coast for the night.

Walking: Duration approx 3 1/2 hrs , 7.5 kms + elevation of 280m.
Travel time 1-2 hours

Location: Ben Lomond National Park
Accomodation: Glamour tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7 - Bay of Fires

We head towards the Bay of Fires – a most picturesque strip of the Tasmanian coast. Along the coastal road we can admire the white, sandy magnificent beaches.

To the left and right of us rise large granite rocks covered with orange crustaceans. Above us is the great blue sky and behind shines the turquoise ocean – what a magical play of colours! For large parts of the day we will have the beach entirely to ourselves.

Location: Bicheno or Scamander
Accomodation: Hotel/glamour tent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 8 - Freycinet National Park

Today we make an early start so we can experience the Douglas Apsley waterhole at its most beautiful: in the morning light. Next we drive to another amazing beach, Wineglass Bay, surrounded by pink granite mountains.  We follow a path leading to a viewpoint that rewards us with spectacular views over the bay.

We then descend through Eucalyptus and Casuarina forests to more untouched and magical beaches.

Walking: 13 kms, 5 hrs plus elevation of 50m
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Location: East Coast
Accomodation: Glamour tent
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 9 - Maria Island

The east coast of Tasmania has a lot more to offer, so we travel further south towards Maria Island. Maria Island is a historically very exciting island that is best discovered on foot. After a short ferry crossing, our hike takes us through the historic town of Darlington. From here it goes through fascinating coastal forests up to granitic rubble. Across the fields to the top of ‘Bishop and Clerk’ with a breathtaking 360° view. We then take the ferry back to the mainland and then head south again to Port Arthur.

Walking: 9kms, 4 hrs  plus elevations +620m
Drive time: 1.5 hours

Location: Port Arthur
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 10 - Cape Hauy

Port Arthur had an unsightly origin in the ‘convict period’ of Australia, but today has wonderful and dramatic coastal walks to offer. Cape Hauy is one of the three famous headlands of the ‘Three Cape Walks’ and our hike takes us along this headland to the top. Here there is a view of Cape Pillar and the fascinating basalt structures of the entire coastline. After the hike we drive to Hobart, the capital of Tasmania.

Walking: 10km, approx 4hrs plus elevation of 200m
Drive time: 1.5 std

Location: Hobart
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 11 - Red Centre

Flight to Alice Springs. We get used to the dry air, red earth and Aussie outback. We can visit the Botanical Gardens and explore Alice Springs or have time to prepare for the next 4 days of excursion.

Pack only the most necessary, small bags and a day backpack for drinking water, camera etc. Please bring some warm clothes (jumpers or jacket). The overnight temperatures in desert can be very cool.

Location: Alice Springs
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Flight Hobart – Alice Springs

The Red Center is simply stunning and unique. For 3 days we tour the outback for an authentic outback experience and explore the stunning landscape of Uluru (Ayers Rock). We learn from our local guide about the Aboriginal dreamtime stories and we make our own dot painting. We experience imposing cliffs and gullies of the wind at Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), travel on unpaved roads and sleep in permanent safari tents. We also experience delicious food cooked over the camp fire and sleep under the huge imposing Milky Way (warm sleeping bags are provided).

Hiking: 3 hours
Driving time approx. 5 hours

Location: Uluru
Accomodation: Cosy permanent tents with 2 beds
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 13 - Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)

From our vantage point, you will experience the spectacular Uluru sunrise. Continue to Kata Tjuta where you can look forward to a leisurely 7km walk through the “Valley of the Winds”. Then we drive to Kings Creek Cattle Station to a remote private camp (complete with bush toilet and shower). This camp gives you a real feel for the outback. Tell stories over dinner at the camp fire before you spend another night under the stars.

Hiking: 2-3 hours
Driving time approx. 5 hours

Location: Outback
Accomodation: Permanent tents with 2 beds
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 14 - Watarrka (Kings Canyon)

Today we continue to Watarrka (Kings Canyon) for an incredible 6 km walk through the towering walls, columns and plateaus of Watarrka. We visit the Amphitheater, the Lost City and the quiet ‘Garden of Eden’. After our final meal together we travel back to Alice Springs for a well earned refreshment in one of the  typical outback pubs.

Location: Alice Springs
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 15 - Rest day Alice Springs

Today you have time to relax or explore Alice Springs. Maybe you want to explore the Reptile Center or the Royal Flying Doctor Museum?

Location: Alice Springs
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16 - Alice Springs to Simpson’s Gap

Hello wilderness! The majestic and serene West MacDonnell Ranges are rich in natural wonders and traditional culture and are considered the best there is in Australia. Our first walk is a 23.4km ‘leg stretch’ commencing from the outskirts of Alice Springs. Some beautiful views can be seen, particularly at Euro Ridge. Our walk is taken casually, a fitting way to relax and immerse in the wonder of the region and to ponder the coming 4 days.

Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at the picturesque Simpsons Gap and transfer us to our remote camping location. Let the true experience begin as we rest in a region synonymous in the dreamtime (Alcheringa) of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people.

For those who feel they cannot complete the entire 23.4kms, there is always an opportunity to finish earlier and return to the campsite with our support staff.

Walking: 9 hours, 24 kms plus elevation 723m

Location: Outback
Accomodation: Tent or swag
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 17 - Serpentine Gorge to Serpentine Chalet Dam

Today we head to the spectacular western half of the Larapinta Trail and onto a 13.4km section of the Larapinta Trail that is only suitable for well-prepared and experienced walkers with a good level of fitness. It offers exhilarating views of the high quartzite ridge lines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil (the highest point in the Northern Territory).

Walking: 6 hours, 13.4 kms plus elevation 412m

Location: Larapinta Trail
Accomodation:
Tent or swag
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 18 - Ormiston Gorge to Glen Helen Gorge

Today we traverse the low lying regions surrounding Ormiston Gorge gradually working our way upward into the back reaches of the Finke River. This area is steeped in traditional folklore with several important sites being viewed including ‘Yapulpa’, which is part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend as well as the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming.

Tonight our campsite is shadowed by Mount Sonder (Rwetyepme, The Pregnant Lady) and the imagery of the Yeperenye Hills. Relax at the campsite on the banks of the mighty Finke River as the sun sets and the colours of the night desert erupt into million dollar star accommodation.

Walking: 6 hours, 12.2km plus elevation 70m

Location: Glen Helen Gorge
Accomodation: Tent or swag
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 19 - Mount Sonder

An early rise is an understatement as we challenge the 8km climb to the peak of Mount Sonder. The vision of sunrise and the 360° view will leave you speechless – a truly unforgettable achievement. Enjoy time at camp for your last evening under the stars of the Milky Way.

Walking: 7 hours, 15.8km plus elevation 400m

Location: Mount Sonder
Accomodation: Tent or swag
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 20 - Ormiston Pound Walk to Alice Springs

Regarded by many as the ‘primo’ small walk of the Larapinta Trail, the Ormiston Pound Walk is full of wow factor, wildlife and flora and a great finale to our walk. A location inspirational to Albert Namatjira – the entry into the Gorge will leave you dumb founded.

After another healthy lunch, we will pack and break camp for regrettably the last time and return to normality (hot shower and life as you know it awaits). Tonight we will reminisce the past 5 days and share some banter over a refreshing ale or cool drink at one of Alice’s classic outback restaurants.

Walking: 4-5 hours, 9km plus elevation 142m

Location: Alice Springs
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Day 21 - Sydney and flight home

Flight to Sydney and transfer to your hotel. We take the ferry to Manly and discover a part of the famous great coastal walk. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city and the historic waterfront “The Rocks”. With a backpack full of experiences and new found friends tonight we sadly say goodbye as you depart for home.

Tip: Extend your stay with a day trip to Sydneys Blue Mountains?

Location: Sydney
Accomodation: Hotel
Meals: Breakfast

What is included in this tour:

  • All transfers
  • 13 nights accomodation in double rooms with showers/bath in hotels/motels or cabins
  • 2 nights accomodation in Glamping tents
  • 7 nights in 2-Person spacious permanent Safari-Tents  and 1-person Camping-tent or Swag in the Red Centre
  • 4 wheel drive in the Red Centre
  • Meals include 22 x breakfasts; 11 x lunches and  9 x dinners
  • Entry to all National Parks
  • German speaking, experienced guide for the entire tour
  • Additional english driver/guide in the Red Centre

What is not included in this tour:

  • Non-inclusive meals and drinks
  • Optional excursions
  • Tips
  • Personal spending

14/04/2024

05/05/2024

Sydney

05/05/2024

25/05/2024

Sydney

  • The 3-day Uluru tour and the Larapinta tour could possibly, depended on numbers, be shared  with other participants.
  • Important instructions: As this trip has the character of an expedition, we expressly point out that there may be delays, route changes or program changes – due to unfavourable conditions, bad weather, organisational difficulties etc. You should therefore bring your spirit of adventure and, if necessary, exercise tolerance and patience.
  • Conditions: Hikers need a daypack, water bottle or bladder for at least 3-4 litres of water, bring clothes to bathe in. Good physical condition is necessary
  • Red Centre: In the desert it can get colder at night or early in the morning, please bring a warmer jacket and clothes for layering.
  • Equipment tips: Bring with you: good footwear, hat, multifunctional underwear, rainwear, sun protection, water bottle, backpack for day hikes, hat, bathing suit, mosquito cream and head lamp.
  • Accommodation: The right choice of accommodation is very important to us, because at the end of an active day, every guest naturally wants to have it comfortable and cozy. In cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Alice Springs, we choose centrally located, upper-middle-range hotels. Outside, we prefer selected accommodations that are “Aussi-owned and operated”, which are interesting or that combine authenticity with comfort. For example in Tasmania we sleep 2 nights in a comfort or “glamping tent” and in the Red Centre during trekking we sleep in either permanent 2x man tents with beds, in spacious 2x man tents or, if you like, in the typical SWAG!