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Tasmania

Welcome To Our Tasmania Adventures

Escape Trekking Adventures is as an accredited outdoor recreation business running tours to various locations throughout Australia and abroad. We host a variety of tours professionally set up and managed for the Overland Track, Blue Mountains, Port Stephens, Royal National Park, MT. Kosciusko & Australia’s 10 Highest Peaks plus more!

Click on our Tasmania tour dates (tab at the top of the page for desktops, the bottom of the page for mobile devices) to see our small group set departure dates and all the information you require each location.

Private Group Tours

Enquire about our private group tour’s. We can host school groups, corporate groups, family groups and mates looking to undertake an amazing adventure.

History

Tasmania is home to the Overland Track one of Australias premier hikes. The Track traverses Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park and is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Big River and Northern Tasmanian Aboriginal nations artifacts have been discovered between Pelion Plains and Lake St Clair suggesting it may have been an area traversed by the indigenous.  During the early colonial settlement period, the last free Aboriginals in the area were seen between Barn Bluff and Lake Windemere in 1836.

Europeans first explored Cradle Mountain in 1827 and 1828 which led to Trappers working in the area from the 1860s till the collapse of the fur trade in the 1950s.

1937 it was officially named the Overland Track.

In 1922 the area became a scenic reserve, a wildlife reserve in 1927 and incorporated National Park format in 1947.  It was then during the mid-1950s former trappers began building huts and guiding bushwalkers across the Overland Track.

Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service have managed the Overland Track since 1971 improving access, walkways and protecting the World Heritage-listed area. Join us on an Overland Track experience.

Contact us for a private group and itineraries to suit your needs.

Overland Track Walk

The Overland Track 9 day (7 days on the Track)  day multi-day semi supported expedition with a food resupply at the conclusion of day 3. The walk requires the participant to carry a full pack weighing approximately 15-18 KGS. This commercial expedition is paced to allow for an average of 5-6 hours of walking per day.

Campsite locations are guaranteed each night with no fighting for space in a lodge or campground.

Meals are expertly crafted to offer you the right mixture of calories and weight savings while being incredibly simple and easy to prepare.

Adequate safety equipment is carried to ensure you have a hassle-free safe walk with the only concern to get yourself from A to B each day while learning multi-day wilderness skills from our professional guides who mentor you every step of the way.

Trip Overview

Trip Duration – 9 days/ 8 nights

Tour Grade-6.5 moderate to mildly challenging

Activities – Walking, historical and tourist sightseeing and commentary, bird and wildlife watching, dining

Quick Questions

How do I get there?

Domestic flight direct to Launceston

What can I do there?

Trekking, dining out, bird and wildlife watching, historical tours

Can I stay overnight?

Yes and extended stays optional and advised (Hotel stay included during the trek)

Any costs involved?

Yes $2370 current (2020) 8-day tour price including all accommodation and meal as per the itinerary

What’s the best time of year to go?

October to April

Can I travel solo or in a group?

Solo travellers regularly join our set departures and groups are most welcome

Who are the groups made up of?

Mainly Australians however we are joined quite often by travellers from the US, NZ and UK. Most groups are made up with 60% male and 40% female

Level of difficulty:

With Mt Everest being 10/10 and walking around the block 1/10 the Overland Track rates as a 6.5/10, Good cardio fitness required.

Must take items?

Good quality waterproof layers and a good pair of worn-in hiking shoes. Use a good quality water bladder for drinking.

Secret tips or handy advice?

Bring a buff to use, handy as a neck warmer or to wipe away perspiration in warmer conditions

Overland Track Walk Itinerary

Overland Track Brief walking Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Launceston
Day 2 Ronny Creek to Waterfall Valley
Day 3 Waterfall Valley to Lake Windermere
Day 4 Lake Windermere to Pelion Hut
Day 5 Pelion to Kia Ora
Day 6Kia Ora to Windy Ridge (Bert Nichols)
Day 7 Windy Ridge to Lake St Clair to Launceston via Narcissus Hut
Day 8 Depart Launceston (Home or onward travel)

 

 

Winter Overland Track Brief walking Itinerary (June-August)

Day 1 Meet in Launceston by 9 am and transfer to Cradle Mountain for Overnight
Day 2 Ronny Creek to Waterfall Valley
Day 3 Waterfall Valley to Lake Windermere
Day 4 Lake Windermere to Pelion Hut
Day 5 Pelion contingency day (summit Mt Oakleigh on offer)
Day 6 Pelion Hut to Kia Ora
Day 7 Kia Ora to Windy Ridge (Bert Nichols)
Day 8 Windy Ridge to Lake St Clair to Launceston via Narcissus Hut
Day 9 Launceston free day or contingency day for Overland Track walk if bad weather occurs 
Day 10 Depart Launceston (Home or onward travel)

Overland Track Inclusions

What’s Included

  • All transfers and ground travel arrangements – both airport transfers and mountain transfers
  • 2 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
  • All meals on the track and in hotels – breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks while on the track
  • Share tent – personal tent available on request but only possible if group size permits (less than 10 participants)
  • National Parks Pass – compulsory for all visitors to Tasmania National Parks
  • Lake St Claire Ferry Service
  • 2 Highly experienced Australian guides
  • Emergency Satellite communications
  • Detailed Risk Management and Risk Assessment of the Overland Track
  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Track Authority track permit

 

Meal inclusions: Day 1: Dinner
Day 2 to 7: All Meals
Day 8: Breakfast

 

Licensed Tasmanian Tour Operator
*Guide ratio: 4–6 bookings, 1 guide; 7–10 bookings 2 guides
What’s not included:
Travel to and from Launceston
Items of a personal nature – Alcoholic beverages, car parking etc
Travel insurance
Face masks and hand sanitiser

Winter Overland Track Traverse Inclusions

What’s Included

  • All transfers and ground travel arrangements – both airport transfers and mountain transfers
  • 3 nights twin-share hotel accommodation
  • All meals on the track and in hotels – breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks while on the track
  • Share tent (4 season) – personal tent available on request but only possible if group size permits (less than 10 participants)
  • Minus 10-degree Sleeping Bag
  • Snowshoes
  • National Parks Pass – compulsory for all visitors to Tasmania National Parks
  • Lake St Claire Ferry Service
  • 2 Highly experienced Australian guides
  • Emergency Satellite communications
  • Detailed Risk Management and Risk Assessment of the Overland Track
  • Public Liability Insurance
  • Track Authority track permit
Meal inclusions: Day 1: Dinner
Day 2 to 8: All Meals
Day 9: Breakfast and Dinner (Lunch at own expense)
Day 10: Breakfast
Licensed Tasmanian Tour Operator
*Guide ratio: 4–6 bookings, 1 guide; 7–10 bookings 2 guides
What’s not included:
Travel to and from Launceston
Items of a personal nature – Alcoholic beverages, car parking etc
Travel insurance
Face masks and hand sanitiser

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the trekking/terrain like?

The terrain is semi-rugged and remote on formed tracks and trails that may be steep in sections. During the trip, you will walk along boardwalks, formed steps, muddy areas and dense forests. Elective side trips require some scrambling over rocks and boulders (otherwise you can wait in camp or on the main trail and rest). Approximately 40% of the walk is on platforms lifted just above the vegetation to prevent erosion to eco-sensitive environments.

What is the best time to walk the Overland Track?

October and April are the most notable time to trek the Overland Track. Winter traverses are possible; however, you should have had previous exposure to extremely cold weather hikes/treks and have high-quality trekking/climbing equipment. At any stage of the year on the Overland Track, you should expect to experience a variety of weather conditions from wind, snow, rain and hot days.

How many participants will be on my trip?

Each trip requires a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 10 participants. You can book as a single walker or in odd or even group size to fill the trips capacity.

How fit do I need to be?

You will need to be in good health and have an adequate level of fitness to be able to walk distances of 10 KLM per day for consecutive days (6 days). You will be carrying a full pack of around 13-18kg so you should train with a similar amount of weight during the lead up to your trip.

How much training do I need to do?

For fitness to improve, the minimum number of sessions per week is Three to four. These sessions should be a mixture of strength and weighted pack hiking. 
 
Your training load (time spent training and difficulty of hills you are ascending/descending) and training weight should be progressively increased each 4 to 6 sessions hill walks.
 
Your training needs to apply the principles of a period of stress/load and recovery time for you to rebuild and gain more endurance/strength.
 
HR monitoring training is the best way to determine that you are applying the correct amount of stress/load. As you improve your fitness the speed, weight carried and time of the session will increase. Training too hard, training without rest or recovery periods lead to overtraining and a drop in performance (residual fatigue). For endurance activities (classified more than 60 minutes) you should keep your heart rate in Zone 2 (Garmin watch HR zones) this roughly equates to below 120 BPM for most people perhaps lower if your fitness is not so great.
 
At the conclusion of your training, you should be able to ascend 300m per hour for 3 hours (with a 5-minute rest every hour added to the time) with a pack weight of 15-17 KGS (this weight will be relative to the number of personal items you bring).

How much weight will I carry?

The Overland Track is a semi supported expedition with a food drop on the end of day 3. Your guides will carry some group equipment; however, you will need to share a cooking set and tent to carry with another participant. Depending on the quantity of personal gear and toiletries, you will need a pack size of 70-90litres in capacity carrying approximately 13-18kg. Weigh all of your equipment before your trek and see if you can reduce any weight not required.

What should be the weight of our clothing and toiletries?

This weight will vary a little depending on your size; however, the basic principle in carrying a pack is it should not exceed 25% of your body weight.

Generally speaking, your equipment should weigh 7.5-10 kGS. Once you add water (2L), food (2-3kgs), half a tent weight (1.3KGS), half of the cooking equipment (500g) and hiking bag weight (1.8-2.5KGS) this will make your bag weigh between 16-20KGS.

Using an electronic hanging scale weigh all of your items inside your hiking bag well before you trip departure and discuss any items you are culling with us first.

If hiring a bag from Tasmania, weigh your items on an electronic hanging scale inside a supermarket bag (Bunnings Wearhouse have huge fabric bags) to ascertain your bag weight.

What type of pack should I use?

The Overland Track requires a full-size robust pack to make the carrying of moderate to heavy loads comfortable day after day. 70L to 90L pack is the size you should be using (no smaller). Generally, the taller or broader the participant is the large their personal items will be resulting in the need for a larger pack.

Examples:

If you are 183cm tall and weigh 95KGs+, you should be looking at using an 80-90L pack.

If you are 165cam tall and weigh 75KGS, you should be looking to use a 70-80L pack.

If you are 150cam tall and weigh 55KGS, you should be looking to use a 70L pack.

Features your pack should come with:

The pack should be made out of robust nylon or durable canvas.

The pack should have a strong internal frame to help you support the load you will be carrying.

The pack should have a large comfortable waist belt to help support the load upon your hips.

The pack should have two external pouches to store 2 x 1L water bottles.

The pack should have 2 to 3 external pockets to access essential gear you require through the day.

The pack should be able to support the use of a 3L water bladder/Camel Bak (One Planet packs can hold the bladder on top of the pack between the lid and your main compartment).

Pack brands we use or recommend:

One Planet backpacks

Wilderness Equipment backpacks

Lowe Alpine backpacks

Osprey backpacks

Is there a minimum age restriction?

This depends on the nature of the child undertaking the journey, 13 years old is a good guideline for undertaking a full pack hike without a background in multi-day bushwalking such as the Duke of Edinburgh program. 

I have a fear of heights, is there any sections that may concern me?

Yes, there is a suspension bridge that is suspended above the ground; there is no way of avoiding this challenge.

What sort of meals will I be eating?

The Overland Track meals have been created to provide the best quality meals packaged meals. Our meal uses a specialised packing process providing you with FRESH (not dehydrated) meals ready to eat which includes Vegan meals. Heat these in your jet boil or stove, and you are good to go. Some meals for specific dietary requirements may require some meals to be supplemented by dehydrated meals.

Can you cater for specific dietary requirements?

Yes, we can cater for:
Gluten-free
Vegan
Hindu 
Soy-free
Lactose-free
Onion garlic allergies 
Peanut allergies
Nut allergies 

What is the weight of our meal packs?

Day 1 to the end of Day 3 you set out with 2 KGS, Day 3 you set out with 3 KGS

Do you supply cooking equipment?

Yes, one cooking set is provided to two participants to heat water and your meals. The meals are heat and eat style meals that require no cooking.

How much does our cooking equipment weight?

Less than 1KG

How much water will I have to carry?

You should set out from each camp in the morning with 1.5 to 2L of water. Water is found along the route in many places. It is important to hydrate each morning pre-hike and each afternoon post-hike to ensure you stay well hydrated.

Do you need to purify water?

While the water sources are generally clean, pure water it still may be exposed to contaminants without notice (usually animal and human facies, sometimes tank wrigglers). For the sake of a tablet to remove the risk of contaminated water, we recommended purifying your drinking water.

Do you supply tents?

Yes, 3 season tents are supplied, these tents can stand snow loading that occasionally occurs on the Overland Track.

How much do our tents weigh?

2.7 KGS

Single tent supplement?

We don’t provide a single tent supplement on our Overland Track tours. Depending on the makeup of the group and the number of people booked on the departure, it may be possible for you to have your own tent. This also means the additional weight of carrying your own tent instead of sharing the load.

Is it possible to arrive early at the hotel?

We prefer you to arrive at the airport at a nominated time for transfers if arriving a day or more prior to the trip you are responsible for your own transfer to the meeting location/hotel.

Do you include accommodation in Launceston before and after the trip?

Yes, twin-share accommodation is included in our tour costs. Ensure when comparing tours that they provide pre and post-accommodation.

Is single supplement for pre and post hotel accommodation possible, if so how much would this cost?

AUD $300 for 2 nights single supplement

Do I need to take toilet paper on the Overland Track?

Yes, you need to bring 2 rolls inside a zip lock or waterproof bag.

Is there any toilet facilities on the hike?

Yes, there is good hygienic composting toilet facilities at each campsite (drop stye with no running water). During the day, you are asked to defecate away from the main walking trail and to bury any solids.

Does the campsite have any shower facilities?

Cold swims are available throughout the trip however antibacterial wet wipes are the most preferred method of keeping yourself clean.

If undertaking a side trip or a summit peak do I have to carry my backpack?

Yes, although if you bring a summit pack e.g. Sea To Summit 20L Ultra-Sil® Daypack that weighs only 72g and folds up to as small as your hand.

Will I be able to summit Cradle Mountain and Mt Ossa?

It is possible to summit these peaks; however, you should also understand you may not be able to ascend the high peaks. Inclement weather, strong winds, cloud cover and foggy conditions may not allow for the summit, and dangerous in bad conditions.

Is cell phone reception available while on the hike?

Generally speaking, there is no cell phone reception while on your hike. From the summits of a few high peaks, it may be possible to receive limited cell phone reception (Cradle Mountain and Mt Ossa for example).

Are leaches found on the Overland Track?

Yes from time to time in dense forests (they live in leaf litter and vegetation) you may find an occasional leech. Remove the leach by sliding your fingernail or a flat, blunt object on the skin adjacent to the oral sucker. Slide this under the sucker to break the seal, resulting in the leech detaching its jaws. If required, repeat the process with the sucker at the rear end of the leech (generally, this is the thicker end). Be careful to ensure that the leech doesn’t reattach itself at the other end!
Don’t use salt or a flame to induce the leech to detach itself quickly. A leech detaching itself like this is likely to initiate the leech to regurgitate some of the contents of its stomach into your wound. It is thereby increasing the risk of the wound becoming infected.
See your guide if you find a leech and would like it removed.

Is there anywhere to recharge battery devices?

No, there is no power available to recharge your devices. A 20000 mili amp power bank is recommended to recharge your devices.

Optional Extras For Our Tasmanian Tours

Our optional extras for our Tasmanian Adventure include a Sleeping Bag, 76L backpack, wet weather clothing and single supplement for hotel stay

Sleeping Bags

Specifically engineered for extreme conditions, the full mummy style construction ensures your sleeping bag fits you like a glove – vitally important to conserve body heat, as you are not heating up any void space in the sleeping bag. The zip length is carefully optimised to minimise the entry of cold air too. Designed specifically for the maximum warmth from the minimum weight & size. Non-allergenic MicroSmart ultra-fine performance microfibre fill ensures down-like insulation properties without the bulk and will continue to insulate even if wet.

Backpacks

Our packs are made with high-quality materials with comfortable harnesses. They feature a double-layer reinforced base, large lid pocket, and outer pocket.

Wet Weather Clothing 

Wet weather clothing to shield off the rain, snow and wind is essential for Tasmanian and Overland Track adventures. Ensure you purchase or hire good quality gear to keep you warm and dry.

Single Supplement

If you would like to have your own privacy while staying in the hotel in the towns this luxury comes at the lowest price we can arrange. You can select this option while booking your tour or after the booking is made contact our office to arrange this optional extra.

Fitness Requirements For Our Tasmanian and Overland Track Tours

Training for Adventure tours can be vastly different from what you are used to for your every day sporting pursuits. The type of training program will vary on your pre-existing fitness levels, strength and minor injuries or impairments you may already have.
The different categories will be little to no pre-existing fitness level will require 16-20 weeks of preparation in some cases if you are overweight, it may require more then 20 weeks to be ready).
Limited fitness but can briskly climb a 3 story staircase resulting in a little shortness of breath and not be bent over huffing and puffing at the top of the stairs should see you needing 12-16 weeks of training to prepare.
Some fitness level, which includes mostly cardio training. This type of person could complete 3 x 1-hour walks per week and do 10 push-ups along with 20 sit-ups. This type of persons would also engage in physical activity on a few occasions per week, i.e. bike riding, running, swimming, ball sports or sport that involves a good level of cardiovascular strength. They could prepare in 10-12 weeks.

Don’t be scared or put off on taking on a challenge like the Overland Track remember everyday normal Aussie’s complete these tours every day.

Fitness Preparation

Trekking the Overland track is not a walk in the park! It is an amazing challenging experience, and the amount of training and preparation you do beforehand can determine the amount of enjoyment you have on the track. We recommend that you put in at least 3 months of training before your trek. If you are in good physical fitness, your preparation time may be less. To avoid residual fatigue, ensure you have at least one rest day, ideally after your hardest session of training for the week. Vary the method of training over the course of the 12 weeks from bike riding to interval training and a little running. However, 60-70% of your cardio workout should be bushwalking with a pack on.

These guidelines are for a Multi-day hike is 70L -90L backpack.

It is important to work to build your fitness and intentionally work to build your strength. You may say, “well we don’t have hills or mountain where I live”, Push Bike riding, Climbing Steps over and over again, or Gym work out can help gain the strength and fitness you need.

FYI: The Day Counter numbers are so that you can mark the days off as you go.

Month 1

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 1-6 (each day)Walk for 30 minutes at a medium to fast pace, on flat ground x 6 times a week

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

10 Push ups & 20 Sit ups

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day 7: Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 8-12 Day 13 1 hour walkWalk for 45 minutes at a medium pace, on flat to hilly ground, carrying 3kg( camel back) x 6 times a week

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

15 Push Ups & 25 sit ups

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day 14: – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 15 – 19 Day 20 1.5 hour walkWalk for 45 minutes at a faster pace, on ;hilly ground increasing weight to 5kg x 6 times a week you should by now had purchased your hiking boots and be wearing them for all walk.

3 – 4 sessions a week of the below excises

15 Push ups & 25 Sit ups.

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 21- Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 22 -29 Day 30 2 hour walk30 minute of interval training such as excise bike, sprints, rowing etc. Do 30 secs at high speed, 30 secs slow pace of the chosen excise 4 times a week. 1 x walk for 2 hours + 7kg pack

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

20 Push up 30 sit ups.

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 31 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Month 2

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 1 – 5 (each day) Day 6 2.5 hour walk35 minute of interval training such as excise bike, sprints, rowing etc. Do 30 secs at high speed, 30 secs slow pace of the chosen excise 4 times a week. 1 x walk for 2.5 hours carrying 7kgs

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

20 Push ups & 30 Sit ups

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

Day: 7 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 8-12 Day 13 2.5 hour walk35 minute of interval training such as excise bike, sprints, rowing etc. Do 30 secs at high speed, 30 secs slow pace of the chosen excise 4 times a week. 1 x walk for 2.5 hours carrying 8 kg.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

15 Push ups & 25 sit ups

3 sets of 12 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 12 lunges each leg

3 sets of 20 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

Day 14: – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 15 – 19 Day 20 3 hour walk4 walks for 60 minutes at a faster pace on hilly ground increasing weight to 9kg over the week and 2 walks of 2.5 & 3 hour duration.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

25 Push ups & 30 Sit ups.

3 sets of 14 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 14 lunges each leg

3 sets of 25 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 21 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 22 -29 Day 30 3 hour walk4 walks for 90 minutes at a medium to pace, on Hilly ground increasing weight to 11kg over the week and 2 walks of 2.5 & 3 hour duration.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

30 Push up 35 sit ups

3 sets of 14 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 14 lunges each leg

3 sets of 25 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 31 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Month 3

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 1 – 5 (each day) Day 6 4 hour walk1 walks for 90 minutes at a faster pace on hilly ground increasing weight to 13kg over the week and 2 walks of 3 & 4 hour duration & 2 runs or bike rides for 30 minutes on grass areas to reduce impact & residual fatigue.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

30 Push ups & 35 Sit ups

3 sets of 16 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 16 lunges each leg

3 sets of 30 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 7 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 8 – 12 Day 13 5 hour walk4 walks for 90 minutes at a faster pace on hilly ground increasing weight to 15kg over the week and 2 walks of 4 & 5 hour duration. You can replace 2 short walks with runs/rides this week also reduce residual fatigue.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

30 Push ups & 40 Sit ups

3 sets of 18 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 18 lunges each leg

3 sets of 35 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 14 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Day Counter Day Counter
Days: 15 – 19 Day 20 5.5 hour walk4 walks for 100 minutes at a faster pace on hilly ground increasing weight to 17kg over the week and 2 walks of 4 & 5.5 hour duration.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

30 Push ups & 40 Sit ups.

3 sets of 20 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 20 lunges each leg

3 sets of 40 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 21 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Days: 22 -29 Day 30 6 hour walk4 walks for 120 minutes at a faster pace on hilly ground increasing weight to 19kg over the week and 2 walks of 4 & 6 hour duration.

3-4 sessions a week of the below excises

35 Push up 40 sit ups

3 sets of 20 calf raises each leg

3 sets of 20 lunges each leg

3 sets of 40 squats with a fitness ball against a wall

 

Day: 31 – Rest

12

3

4

5

6

7

Overland Track Gear List

A more detailed gear list will be sent out to you upon registration and we can assist you in your purchases, these are all suggested items and you should also do some of your own research to ensure you are carrying what suits you. (if you have what we suggest on our gear lists this should be sufficient, but please do ask any questions).

Gear Required:

Clothing

  • Upper body clothing – four layers

Base Layer

  • Shirt (long sleeve recommended)
  • Base layer top & bottoms
  • Trekking pants (convertibles)
  • Shorts (optional if you have convertibles)
  • Socks (high merino content)

 

Mid fleece layer

  • Jumper light to mid-weight

 

Insulation layer

  • Insulated jacket – lightweight

 

Hardshell breathable layer

  • Breathable waterproof jacket – we recommend GORE-TEX
  • Breathable waterproof pants (trousers) – we recommend GORE-TEX

 

Other clothing items

  • Warm gloves
  • Sun hat
  • beanie
  • 1 pair of skins to wear under to stop chaffing
  • Moisture-wicking underwear
  • Sunglasses

 

Footwear

  • Comfortable, worn-in hiking boots – we suggest that you wear these during your flight to avoid the risk them being lost by the airline
  • Comfortable regular footwear, such as training shoes

 

Equipment

  • Sleeping bag – four-season-rated or suitable for temperatures as low as -5°C
  • Camping pillow
  • Backpack
  • Water Bladder 3L
  • 2 drinks bottles – of at least 1-litre capacity
  • headlamp
  • Trekking poles – optional but recommended for reduced strain on knees
  • Camera

 

Personal and medical supplies

  • High-factor sunscreen and lip balm
  • Essential toiletries – toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, wet wipes, toilet paper, hand sanitizer etc.
  • water purification tablets
  • First-aid kit

 

What you use each day

This is what we personally use while on the walk.

  • One pair of bushwalking boots (with good grip)
  • Trekking pole(s)
  •  One pair of socks
  •  One pair of gaiters
  • One pair of long pants
  • One Shirt
  • Fleece layer
  • Layers for your head
  • Insulation layer
  • Gloves
  • One pair of lycra gym shorts

Booking Information For Tasmanian Adventures

So you have decided to choose Escape Trekking Adventures to facilitate your Australian adventure trek, Great choice!

What are the processes to book, pay and complete your tour?

  1. Book online via our website selecting the tour date that you wish to join and filling out our booking form as part of the shopping cart. Alternately you can call or email us to make your booking.
  2. Pay a $300 deposit (non-refundable) into our account either online through our secure website payment system, deposit money into our bank account (contact us for details) or call us and make a credit card payment over the phone.
  3. Escape Trekking Adventures will send out our destination information packs containing a 3-month training plan, destination information, forms (that are required to return to us), a doctors examination (to alert you and ETA of any pre-existing conditions that may affect your trek), gear list and a gear discount voucher.
  4. Begin training for your Australian tour as soon as possible to ensure you get the most out of your tour.
  5. From our gear lists that we provide purchase your trek gear.
  6. Be sure to send us some pictures of your training and tag us with #etaescapes.
  7. Get a medical check to ensure that there are no underlying health issues you and I don’t know about.
  8. Please book your flights or other means of travel to meet us at the nominated start location.
  9. Please fill out our destination forms and return to us no later than 60 days before your adventure beginning.
  10. Pay your balance 60 days before your adventure beginning. (let us know if you need a little more time we are not unreasonable if you have paid for a majority of your tour already).
  11. Receive pre-departure emails from us with advice and information.
  12. Your big adventure begins!

Escape Trekking Adventures Booking Terms & Conditions

Escape Trekking Adventures Terms & Conditions

(Booking Terms & conditions including cancelation policy)

Please read carefully these terms and conditions of this contract.

In completing and submitting the Booking Form, you agree to be bound by these conditions which constitute the agreement between Escape Trekking Adventures ABN 71 827 095 874 and you. No purported variation of these conditions will be effective unless in writing and signed by a person so authorised by Escape Trekking Adventures. In these terms and conditions reference to “Escape Trekking Adventures representatives” means tour leaders and staff of Escape Trekking Adventures and its officers, employees, agents, licensees, guides and other third parties and representatives and the land management authorities in each country in which the tour is conducted, or any of them.

  1. How to Book. To reserve your place on one of the tours, you should complete the Booking Form and send it, along with a non-refundable deposit of $700 per person per trip to the nearest Escape Trekking Adventures office, or to your travel agent. Some trips require a non-refundable additional deposit or instant payment for a permit. In these instances refer to the individual trip notes for details.
  2. Travel Insurance. Personal travel insurance is not included in the tour price. Adequate and valid travel insurance is compulsory for all of Escape Trekking Adventures travelers. Your travel insurance must cover accidents, injury, illness and death medical expenses, including any related to pre-existing medical conditions, emergency repatriation (including helicopter rescue and air ambulance where applicable) and personal liability. We also suggests it covers cancelation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of insurance to Escape Trekking Adventures. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to cancel or suspend your participation on a trip or in certain activities that comprise part of a trip, at any time, including after the commencement of your tour, with no right of refund, if you are unable to provide proof of insurance when requested.
  3. Evacuation, Withdrawal From Tour. In the unlikely event of an evacuation or withdrawal from any tour, Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to pass on costs incurred, including transport, logistical support and communications. Clients should submit these costs to their travel insurance company as part of their claim. Clients who have to withdraw from the trek for medical or any other reason, will be required to return to Australia on the first available International flight. They will also be required to meet any personal accommodation, transport and medical expenses incurred during their time away from their nominal home and claim these against their personal travel insurance policy. Escape Trekking will Adventures not accept liability for any of these expenses.
  4. Personal Images. You agree that Escape Trekking Adventures may use images of you taken during the tour without recourse to you and without compensation to you, for publicity and promotion purposes only through whatever medium it chooses.

If you do not want agree to Escape Trekking Adventures using these images, you must inform Escape Trekking Adventures in writing prior to the departure of the trip.

  1. Personal Information. In order to be able to supply our adventure service to you Escape Trekking Adventures will need to collect certain personal information from you. The information may be disclosed to, or collected on our behalf by our service providers to enable the services to be provided, but will not be used by them for any other purpose without your express permission.

6.Health & Fitness Requirements. You must be in good health and physical condition and are strongly advised to follow our pre departure fitness training recommendations, where necessary. For many of our tours you will be required to submit a medical questionnaire completed by you or your doctor as proof that you are fit enough to participate in the tour. If you have booked a tour graded 1-5 the only time that a medical questionnaire will be required by your doctor is where you have a pre existing medical condition, are over 65 years of age. This will be sent to you upon booking and you will be required to return the form completed and signed by your doctor 70 days prior to departure. If you have booked for a tour graded 6-10 you will be sent a medical form upon booking and you will be required to have your doctor complete and sign your medical questionnaire and return to us 60 days prior to departure. If you suffer from severe muscular, chest heart or bronchial disorders, or if you are a severe asthmatic, or have high blood pressure, you are strongly advised against participating. Tours take place in remote areas where there is little or no access to normal medical services or hospital facilities for serious problems. Evacuation, where necessary, can be prolonged, difficult and expensive. Medical and evacuation expenses will be your responsibility. While we do not discriminate by age, due to the extreme nature of our mountaineering trips we strongly discourage participants over 60 years of age. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right in its absolute discretion to refuse a participant.

7. Medical Disclosure. It is your responsibility and you must advise Escape Trekking Adventures of any pre-existing medical condition and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of you requiring medical attention while on our tours. Escape Trekking Adventures or our suppliers may require additional medical assessment by a medical practitioner. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your booking and refund the money paid by you, less any unrecoverable costs. Escape Trekking Adventures also reserves the right to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.

Generally, we do not allow travelers under the age of 12 years. However we will occasionally make exceptions for under-18s traveling with their legal guardian or following discussion with parents or legal guardian. The decision for any person less than 18 years of age to travel on our scheduled itineraries is at the absolute discretion of the directors and guides of Escape Trekking Adventures. We reserve the right to;

You declare and warrant that

  • You are in good health and mental and physical fitness at the time of booking this tour;
  • You have disclosed to Escape Trekking Adventures every matter concerning your health and mental and physical fitness of which you are aware, or ought reasonably be expected to know, that is relevant to Escape Trekking Adventures decision to permit you to go on the adventure tour;
  • Immediately upon any adverse change in your health or fitness that may be likely to affect Escape Trekking Adventures decision to permit you to go on the adventure tour, you will notify Escape Trekking Adventures in writing of any such adverse change;
  • Escape Trekking Adventures are permitted to disclose medical information to our consultant doctor.
  • Escape Trekking Adventures consultant doctor may exclude you from a tour if he/she deems it necessary. You acknowledge that the obligation to disclose under this condition continues from the time of booking the tour through to departure and extends for the duration of the tour.
  • You have taken the necessary precautions to immunise/vaccinate for the destination you are travelling to. If you fail to comply with the duty of disclosure in this condition and if Escape Trekking Adventures would not have permitted you to undertake the tour, or continue participation of the tour, had you made full disclosure under this condition, Escape Trekking Adventures will not be liable, except to the minimum extent.

8. Tour Leaders. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to cancel any tour prior to departure. In this condition, ‘tour leader’ includes both the nominated tour leader and any other nominated person given at any time the task of leading or supervising any aspect of the tour. Escape Trekking Adventures tour leaders take their responsibilities seriously and if for any reason a tour leader believes, in his or her absolute discretion, that you should not participate in the tour, before your departure, even if you pass your medical, he/she may exclude you from the tour. In this event, but subject to condition 6, you will be offered the option of taking another tour considered suitable for you or a full refund. If for any reason during a tour the tour leader considers you should not participate further due to you committing an illegal act, or in the opinion of the nominated tour leader, your behavior is causing or is likely to cause danger, distress or annoyance to others, or your fitness or health is inadequate, he or she may direct you not to continue and you must follow the nominated tour leader’s instructions. In this case you will not be entitled to any refund. Travel insurance may compensate you depending on the circumstances. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to change, at any time, the tour leader of any tour. If that happens, Escape Trekking Adventures will try to ensure that the alternative tour leader has expertise commensurate with that of the tour leader. Any such change by Escape Trekking Adventures will not give rise to any right on your part to cancel the tour or claim any expenses, loss or damage which may be suffered.

9. Cancelation by Escape Trekking Adventures. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to cancel a departure and will advise you of such cancelations no later than 30 days before the tour departure date. If due to ‘Force Majeure’ or government travel advice, Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to cancel a departure at any time. With any form of cancelation, Escape Trekking Adventures will do it’s best to offer you alternative arrangements if available, and if the price of your alternative adventure is of lower value than the original booking we will refund the difference to you. If you do not accept alternative arrangements we will refund all payments you have made to Escape Trekking Adventures, (in case of ‘Force Majeure’ or government travel advice refunds will be less any unrecoverable costs). Escape Trekking Adventures will not be liable for any additional costs incurred by you.

Force Majeure
Escape Trekking Adventures will not be liable for any delay in, change to or cancelation of trips due to ‘Force Majeure’. ‘Force Majeure’ definition means a circumstance beyond the reasonable control of Escape Trekking Adventures and includes, but is not limited to, war or threat of war, riot, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, disease, industrial or nuclear disaster, adverse weather conditions, fire and strikes.

Escape Trekking Adventures and or its third party reserve the right either before or during the course of the tour to refuse to carry or accommodate any client which it reasonably considers, in the light of the best interests of all participants within the tour group and crew, to be unsuitable by reason of physical or mental condition or unruly behavior.

10. Cancelation due to small tour numbers. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to cancel any tour prior to departure in the event that there are too few people booked on a tour in which case you will be given a full refund of the tour price paid by you. You will not be entitled to claim any additional amounts or seek any compensation for any injury, loss, expenses or damage (either direct or consequential) or for any loss of time or inconvenience which may result from such cancellation (including but not limited to visa, passport and vaccination charges, or departure, gear purchases, airport and airline taxes). We require a minimum of 6 trekkers in a selected trek. If numbers fall to 6 or below, we reserve the right to cancel, or change dates of the trek or refer you to another existing trek. Trek numbers are regularly reviewed and we will notify you of any cancelations no later than 50 days prior to your selected trek.

If numbers for your selected trek decrease below 6 people, you may be required to pay a small group trekking fee should you wish to proceed with the tour. A $4-600 fee per person is required to be paid. This does not happen very often, so if you have any questions regarding this just ask.

11. Itineraries and brochures. Itineraries and other details are published in good faith as statements of intention only and reasonable changes in the itinerary and related items may be made where deemed necessary or advisable by Escape Trekking Adventures. The information contained in Escape Trekking Adventures brochures, itineraries, and internet site is, to the best of Escape Trekking Adventures belief, correct at the date of publishing.

12. Route changes, Postponement, Cancellation or Delay. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to:

Cancel or modify any routes within the tour or objectives set out in the itinerary; or

Substitute different or equivalent routes within the tour in place of cancelled or modified routes, or

Postpone, cancel or delay (either in relation to the departure or arrival times or the duration of the tour) any such aspect of the tour if, in the absolute discretion of Escape Trekking Adventures, it is necessary to do so due to inclement weather, snow or icy conditions or conditions that are otherwise likely to be hazardous or dangerous or due to any other adverse or threatening conditions whether political or military or terrorist or otherwise or if, in the absolute discretion of Escape Trekking Adventures, there is a likelihood of any such event occurring which may impact upon the safety of the participants, or if an act or omission of a third party prevents the tour or the aspect of the tour being undertaken in accordance with your booking or for any other reason considered necessary by Escape Trekking Adventures. In the event of any change, modification, cancellation postponement or delay under this condition, you acknowledge that you will have no right of refund of the tour price (whether in whole or in part) and no right to claim compensation for any injury, loss or damage or other additional expenses incurred by virtue of the change, modification, cancellation postponement or delay. Escape Trekking Adventures also reserves, in its absolute discretion, the right to cancel any tour due to any government travel warning or advice, or any change in such warning or advice. In this event, condition 4 applies as if you had transferred or cancelled the tour at the date that Escape Trekking Adventures cancelled the tour due to the governmental travel warning or advice. Travel insurance may compensate you depending on the circumstances.

13. Tour Prices. Package prices are per person based on ground costs, fuel prices, airfares, exchange rates and assumptions made at the time of printing the brochure. Escape Trekking Adventures tries its utmost not to increase tour prices, however sometimes increases are outside its control. The most current prices will be listed at www.escapetrekkingadventures.com.au so visit the website before booking. Escape Trekking Adventures reserves the right to amend tour prices without notice at any time before and including the departure date. Amendments may be necessitated for many reasons including, but not limited to, exchange rate fluctuations, increased fuel costs, airfares, airport charges, increases in ground operator service fees, or the need to engage alternative air or ground operators. Any increase in tour prices must be paid prior to the departure date.

14. Proof of citizenship or information required to travel. It is your responsibility to obtain proper identification or proof of citizenship as required by the authorities of the destination to which you are travelling. You will not be entitled to a refund if you are denied boarding or entry on any basis, including without limitation, improper documentation or failure to provide information. It is recommended that your passport is valid for six months beyond the date of your return home to your home country.

15. Airlines and other transport providers. Any material published by Escape Trekking Adventures, the Booking Form and these conditions of contract are not issued on behalf of, and do not commit any airline whose services are used or proposed to be used in the course of the tour. In the event that an airline’s proposed travel or fare schedule is amended or cancelled, such amendment or cancellation will not be considered a cancellation of the tour by Escape Trekking Adventures. Any flights or other transport forming part of the tour arrangements are subject to the conditions of the carrying airline or other transport entity, which in most cases limits the airlines’ or other transport entity’s.

16. Exclusions from tour price. Without limitation, the following items are excluded from the tour price:

Personal travel insurance;

Visa, passport and vaccination charges;

Departure, airport and airline taxes and on some tours internal domestic flights;

Extra meals, transport costs, accommodation costs, or other expenses not included in the itinerary; laundry, postage, personal clothing, medical expenses & items of a personal nature; emergency evacuation and/or emergency search charges;

Additional expenses caused by delay, accidents or disruption of planned itineraries;

Tips, onboard beverages and excess

17. Assumptions of Risk. You understand and will accept that your proposed tour may expose you to inherent dangers. Only people in good physical and mental condition should undertake this tour. Our tours are physically and mentally challenging you will be required to consult with your Doctor and ensure that your health is sound and you are able to undertake a rigorous training program as necessary to complete this tour. You must accept that you will be traveling through remote areas where external assistance may be delayed or unavailable if an unforeseen event occurs. This may be due to medical, weather or political situations and may affect you or other members of the group or our trekking crew. You must understand and accept that a medical emergency in this remote area may be life threatening and by completing your booking form you accept these potential adverse and unfavorable conditions and potential life threatening situations as your choice. You acknowledge and agree that:

By the very nature of adventure travel and trekking holidays, they are more challenging and demanding with a commensurately higher level of risk compared with conventional holidays, and involve potential exposure to injury and possibly death;

In the countries and regions in which adventure travel is undertaken, standards of accommodation, transport, health care, hygiene, safety and service provision generally are often not as high as those standards in your country of residence and may require flexibility and patience on your part;

The additional dangers and risks associated with adventure travel may include difficult and dangerous terrain; high altitude; extremes of weather, including sudden and unexpected changes; political instability; remoteness from normal medical services and from communications; and evacuation difficulties in the event of illness or injury;

The enjoyment and excitement of adventure travel is derived in part from the inherent dangers and risks associated with adventure travel and that those inherent dangers and risks are a reason why you wish to undertake the adventure tour, and

You have submitted your booking for the tour after giving due consideration of relevant travel information including, without limitation, any relevant information or advice given by the governments of Australia, New Zealand and Canada, the British Foreign Office and US Department of State and that it is your responsibility to acquaint yourself that information or advice.

For the above reasons you therefore accept the inherent and increased dangers and risks associated with the proposed adventure tour and the accompanying risk of injury, death or property damage or loss.

18. No Liability. You acknowledge and agree that:

Where Escape Trekking Adventures acts as a booking agent for third-party tour operators it accepts no liability for the acts or omissions of those third-party tour operators and does not authorise any suppliers including hotel management to promise refunds on our behalf; and

Operational control of the tour may be in the hands of a third party and that your right of action in regard to any shortcomings of that third party’s performance is against the third party and not against Escape Trekking Adventures; and

Escape Trekking Adventures will not be liable for any breach of any law by any person with whom you travel on the tour; and

You may not rely on any representations concerning the tour made by Escape Trekking Adventures, which are not contained in these conditions.

19. Release and discharge of Liability. To the extent permitted by law, by accepting the additional inherent dangers and risks associated with the tour, you release, waive and discharge all Escape Trekking Adventures representatives from all claims, actions or losses for personal injury or death, property damage, loss of services, loss of profits, consequential, exemplary, indirect or punitive damages or otherwise which may arise

Out of or occur during your travel in connection with the tour or any activities conducted in conjunction with the tour unless caused by the reckless conduct of Escape Trekking Adventures representatives, or

In connection with any optional activities which you may undertake during the course of your tour but which do not comprise part of your tour itinerary and you accept that any assistance given to you by Escape Trekking Adventures representatives in arranging such optional activities will not render the Escape Trekking Adventures representatives liable to you in any way.

20. Australian Consumer Law Under the Australian Consumer Law, statutory guarantees apply to the supply of recreational services of the kind offered by these terms and conditions. “Recreational services” is defined as including activities that involve a significant degree of physical exertion or risk undertaken for the purposes of recreation, enjoyment or leisure. These guarantees mean that Escape Trekking Adventures, as the supplier, is required to ensure that the recreational services it supplies to you are rendered with due care and skill and are fit for their intended purpose. Under the Australian Consumer Law, Escape Trekking Adventures, as supplier, is entitled to ask you to agree that these statutory guarantees will not apply to you. If you sign this form you will be agreeing that your rights under this agreement, if you are killed or injured because the services provided were not rendered in accordance with these statutory guarantees, are excluded, restricted or modified in the way set out in this condition. To the extent permitted by law, you hereby exclude, release and forever discharge all Escape Trekking Adventures representatives from all liability for any and all claims, loss, damage, cost or expense arising from your death or your suffering physical or mental injury or any other condition, occurrence, activity, form of behaviour, course of conduct or state of affairs as specified in section 139A of the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (except in the case of liability arising from the reckless conduct on the part of the Escape Trekking Adventures representatives) and connected with your participation in the recreational services which comprise the tour.

22. Cancelation, Amendments, Quotations and transfers 

 

Deposit & Final Payment

The non-refundable $700 Deposit secures your place in the trek, and No bookings will be made until the deposit is paid. This may result in missing the opportunity to be involved, so we suggest you book early.

Once your deposit is paid, your trek place & price is secure.

Balance is due 8 weeks prior to your selected trek.

Quotations

Quotes are valid for 30 Days, after which we reserve the right to increase costs.

Note: Only due to changes beyond our control, such as the exchange rate between Australia and our international destinations /or unexpected increases in outsource services/ costs (charter, accommodation, transport, fees etc) and/or review of trek package and prices, will prices be increased.

If you need to have your quote reviewed please contact us.

Cancelation

If a cancelation is made:

  • Prior to 60 days departure if you select to cancel your trek you loose 100% of the $700 deposit.
  • Between 29 & 59 days prior to your selected trek, a $1600 cancelation fee applies (per trekker).
  • Between 28 & 1 days prior to your selected trek, a $2800 cancelation fee applies (per trekker).
  • (We can assist with travel insurance claim).

Please note the above is a guide and maybe dependent on what has been booked for your participation in the trek itinerary – So Cancelation fee may increase to cover these costs. The cancelation fee is in addition to the $700 deposit.

Should you require canceling your trek as mentioned above – You are able to keep your ETA polo etc. that has been sent to you. – Should you need to cancel your trek, remaining balance can be transferred to another trek less your cancelation fee.

At Escape Trekking Adventures we pride ourselves on offering SAFE, professional treks, led by experienced guides and friendly service, so if you have any questions please feel free to Contact Us.

Terms

Please read carefully these terms and conditions of contract.

Transfers

If you wish to transfer from one tour to another, you must notify Escape Trekking Adventures in writing. Once Escape Trekking Adventures receives your notice the transfer will take effect subject to the following. Transfers may only be made to another tour to commence within 12 months of your original departure date and the following transfer charges will apply: • If your notice is received more than 70 days prior to your original departure date a $100 transfer fee will apply. In addition, any increase in airfares or operational services will be payable by you: or • If your notice is received within 70 days prior to your original departure date up to 50% of your original tour price will be forfeited provided your notice is received at least 35 days prior to your original date.

Amendments

Additional charges will be applied to you if you add, adjust or change a service prior to, during or before the completion of a trek. The cost of these will be charged out at the full rate and may incur a surcharge fee of $80 to cover any additional logistic arrangements that may be required for this service. Examples of this service could be but not limited to change from twin share to single share accommodation, use of (additional) personal porter, excess luggage, room upgrade or airport transfer out side the itinerary.

23. Severance of conditions.

If any part of a condition is illegal, unenforceable or invalid, it is to be treated as removed from the conditions, however, the remainder of the conditions are not altered.

Australian Trek Leaders

Shane & Tina are avid outdoor bushwalking enthusiast and lead our MT Tomaree and Australian tours.

Between them they have 1000’s of ascents up to the summit of Tomaree and they both are widely experienced in adventure walks within Australia and internationally to such locations as the Kokoda Trail, Everest Base Camp, MT Wilhelm and MT Kilimanjaro just to name a few places they have hiked.

There local area knowledge of locations we travel to and enjoy peoples company.

Shane & Tina are both trained in first aid and members of the Surf Life Saving Club at Birubi beach. Shane is also a qualified life guard.

Their delightful personalities and high standards will ensure you enjoy your guided Australian tour.

Shane in the Blue Mountains

Tina at Kokoda

Why Trek With Us

  1. We are a small Australian business who have a vast amount of experience in arranging treks, tours and expeditions not only in Australia but around the world.
  2. We know our History! The historical aspect of our tours is important to us.
  3. Qualified & Trained. We are a professionally qualified outdoor recreation and tour guiding business.
  4. Safety. We are trained in first aid and well seasoned practising our skills in remote bushwalking environments. We carry a comprehensive first aid kit in the unlikely event you need a running repair.
  5. Communications. We carry communications on each tour to ensure we know what is happening locally with weather, fires and storms. We carry the latest and best satellite phones not just a PLB (Personal Locator Beacon or EPIRB) and GPS, maps and compasses to ensure we know our location even in the thickest of white-outs (cloud cover).
  6. Emergency. We have comprehensive risk assessments of our tours and carry Safe Operating Procedures to ensure we are prepared for every situation we may encounter.
  7. Friendly & Fun. We enjoy what we do and love sharing this beautiful mountain and history with you.
  8. Memories. We are here to help make your memories, taking pictures of your group, assisting you to reach your goals and providing a fun informative service

View Our Adventures Trek Series Videos

The Kokoda Trail, Everest Base Camp & Kilimanjaro are amazing adventures but prior to the trip you can feel a little under prepared for your journey and wish to seek a little advice. The below videos are intended to take away some of the confusion so that you are better prepared.

 

First Aid Kits & what they should contain.

When trekking in Remote area’s you should always be mindful of what items you may require to treat any aliments that may occur as if you are on the Kokoda trail or Kilimanjaro you will not be able to purchase any such items. Everest Base Camp treks (and Nepal lodge trekking in general) you can buy some supplies but these are mainly limited to the large Sherpa villages so it is best to carry the right things with you.

If you suffer from heyfever, sinus, reflux or any such medical condition you should bring medication to treat this, plan for the worst case scenario and be prepared.

Some items that are worth your consideration include but are not limited to;

Anti-inflammatory tablets and gel (as prescribed by your doctor, remember voltaren and the like take up to 48 hours to relive symptoms so a fast acting tablet such as ibuprofen is great to start with), antibiotics for treating diarrhoea (as prescribed by your doctor), gastro stop, antibacterial gel, betadine liquid (Betadine can also treat your water for purification as a emergency back up if required), blister packs, one roll of broad elasticated bandage, roll of strapping tape, antihistamines, anti sickness tablets, painkillers such as Panadol Forte/Aspirin tablets/capsules, Codral cold and flu tablets, sunscreen, pawpaw cream along with one pack of a general use antibiotics.

 

Items you should carry in your day pack

This video details the items you should carry in your day pack as overloading your self will bring excess strain on your self.

Packing and sorting your gear will always be a personal preference however there are many such items you should carry that will be required throughout the day and avoid constantly digging through your main pack for in search of the particular item you require.

 

Sorting and packing your gear for trekking

The following video explains how to separate your gear into different packs of various sizes and colours.

I personally try to use one colour dry bag for each category I separate the items into, allowing the item you are looking for to be easily identified.

You should try to group things into to medications, toiletries, clothing, sleeping gear, general use items, spare batteries, dirty or wet clothing, first aid kit and snacks in to several separate bags for identification.

Avoid using one large dry bag as this means the entire contents will need removal to find the item you are looking for as well when you pack your bag it will need to be inside the backpack to fit the gear in correctly. Trust me I have been through all of these issue in the past.

 

Cold climate trek gear for Everest Base Camp and MT Kilimanjaro explained

This video will walk you through the items you require to trek in cold climates at altitude.

Simply using ski field clothing will not suffice and will be very uncomfortable whilst trekking, you will require items to keep you warm and safe. Being cold at altitude can lead to altitude sickness such as AMS, HACE and HAPE.

Layers is still the best clothing configuration for these treks and surprisingly enough you will require lightweight items that breath, high altitude trekking be quite warm during the day one minute to freezing cold blistering winds the next, so you will need to be able to regulate your core temperature according.

Health Information For Australian Adventures

If you are looking at Adventure trekking in Australia it is essential that good health and preparation with regard to your health is the first and foremost task. As with all adventure travel outside of your usual environment you will need to be prepared for the activity.

Immunisations

The required immunisations  for every destination around the world could change on a daily basis and as a result you will be required to check with your Doctor what you should be protected against. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

The general major risks to your health while traveling in Australia can be but not limited to :

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A outbreaks occur throughout the world and sometimes in countries with a low risk for hepatitis A (including the US). You can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in Australia, so talk to your doctor to see if the hepatitis A vaccine is right for you.

Hepatitis B

You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.

Japanese encephalitis

For nearly all of Australia and the southern states Japanese encephalitis is not a risk for Australian locations. Depending on what time of year you are traveling, you may need this vaccine if you are visiting certain remote areas of Australia for more than a month, or if you will be spending a lot of time outdoors in those areas during a shorter trip. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans. See more in-depth information on Japanese encephalitis in Australia.

Rabies

Rabies is present in bats in Australia. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:

  • Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).
  • People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).

Yellow Fever

There is no risk of yellow fever in Australia. The government of Australia requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does notinclude the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.

For more information on recommendations and requirements, see yellow fever recommendations and requirements for Australia. Your doctor can help you decide if this vaccine is right for you based on your travel plans.

Overland Track

Overland Walker

Overland Camp