At a Glance
With its rugged coastlines, spectacular old growth native flora and spectacular wildlife encounters, the new Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail is one of the must-do walking destinations in Australia. Discover at every step a world class trail to the most remote coastlines in South Australia. Settle each day in luxury cabins as you enjoy delicious meals in a convivial affair where experiences of the day are celebrated.
Departing Adelaide, uncover the third largest of Australia’s islands, Kangaroo Island, and journey on moderate graded walks immersing through botanically unique areas in all of South Australia before reaching the rugged, remote and spectacular coastline of the Southern Ocean. The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail suffered significant damages in the devastating bushfires in Summer 2019-2020. In the first steps of recovery, witness the landscape ‘unmasked’ and ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 4 night’s accommodation on a twin share basis from cabins and hotels
- Tour transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned mini bus
- All transport returning to and from Adelaide CBD
- National Park entrance fees
- Two qualified and fun guides
- Return ferry service from Cape Jervis
- All meals of fresh and wholesome food including packed lunch, picnic, morning tea and fruit snacks out on the tracks
Itinerary
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Approx. 2-6km walking distance Leave everyday life behind and depart Adelaide for a scenic 2 hours' drive towards the western tip of Cape Jervis, the gateway to the magnificent Kangaroo Island. Take in wide panoramas of Fleurieu Peninsula, stunning coastlines and charming townships along the way. Here, you’ll board the ferry for a spectacular sea cruise down the peninsula to beautiful Kangaroo Island. Depending on the ferry schedule, it may be a walk into the unspoiled beauty of Cape Jervis amongst coastal clifftops where you might be lucky for wildlife spotting of grey kangaroos and echidnas. Or, it is a walk in the stunning Kangaroo Island unveiling the beginning of your fascinating journey ahead. You’ll stay at the idyllic Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge. Located amongst peaceful bushlands and overlooking the pristine American River Bay. Unwind in well-appointed guestrooms including ensuite bathrooms with exceptional waterfront views. Meet an abundance of wildlife that inhabits the hotel’s grounds before enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant inspired by fresh local delights of the region. |
Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Approx. 12km walking distance, moderate grade Rise and shine as today you begin one of Australia’s newest and greatest walks, the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, as it has never been seen before! Journey on a 2-hour drive to the trail head before popping by the National Park Visitors Centre for a familiarisation of Kangaroo Island. The moderate walk from Rocky River journeys through fragrant eucalyptus woodland flourishing with fresh green growth before reaching a lookout, where you’ll enjoy wonderful views through the valley and across the sparkling Southern Ocean. Stride across riverbanks, revel in the mallee forest and be captivated by the colourful wildflowers before descending to the spectacular sights of the Rocky River cascades. Feel the space and soak in the tranquility. Traverse tall sugar gums before arriving at the picturesque Snake Lagoon. Home to an array of wildlife, listen out for the calls of elusive bird species, kangaroos grazing amongst bushland and keep a lookout for echidna diggings in soft earth. Relax in cozy luxury cabins at Western Kangaroo Island Caravan Park, you’re home for the next 3 nights. Conveniently nestled right on the edge of the Wilderness Trail and adjacent to the picturesque Flinders Chase National Park, you will wake up and unwind each day to the serenity of nature. The cabins have everything you need for a comfortable stay including lounges, fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and patios. |
Western Kangaroo Island Caravan Park Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Approx. 21 km walking distance, moderate grade Lace up your hiking boots for another incredible day out on the newly recovered Wilderness Trail. Marvel at you first breathtaking view of the mighty Southern Ocean, and feel the edge of the world and the space around you- nothing but deep blue sea between you and Antartica. Stride along wild and rugged coastlines and be awed by the impressive clifftop views before descending onto the pristine white sands of Maupertuis Bay. Seafarers found this wild coastline unforgiving, with the remnants of shipwrecks that cost the lives of many still visible today. Along the way, encounter unforgettable wildlife encounters, dolphins playing and seasonal sights of the majestic Southern Right Whales. Soak in breathtaking views from historic Weirs Cove before heading inland. Traverse ancient sand dunes covered with flourishing flora towards the impressive granite boulders of Remarkable Rocks amongst the pounding Southern Ocean. Your views culminates as you amongst the coastline boasting cinematic views that inspire both awe and contemplation. Be sure to look back from time to time for an ever-changing view of the captivating Remarkable Rocks. Cap off another magical day walking along outcroppings of rocks hidden amongst lush eucalyptus, the perfect space to sit and reflect on your journey. |
Western Kangaroo Island Caravan Park Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Approx. 18km walking distance, moderate grade Your hiking adventure heightens embarking high energy coastal trekking at its best, with massive swells, towering cliffs and extended panoramic views along the coast stretching from Sanderson Bay to the spectacular Cape Younghusand. Looking back, you’ll continue to see Remarkable Rocks as it is rarely seen, framed by the surrounding wild landscape. Wander inland only to be treated to a dramatic change in vegetation from slowly recovering low coastal heath to the lush and vibrant greens of the tall mallee trees, a now critically endangered ecological species. Here, the wildlife is in abundance. Keep your eyes peeled for goannas and wallabies sunning themselves on rocky outcrops, echidna diggings near ant hills and the sights of majestic whales and dolphins dancing afar from sea. |
Western Kangaroo Island Caravan Park Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner  |
Approx. 9km walking distance, moderate grade Today, you conquer the final stretch of an incredible walk on the great kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Your final day's walk is somewhat more leisurely, but no less spectacular and beautiful. Smell the finish line as you conquer the final stretch on this incredible trail. Journey through a diversity of habitats, from ‘karst’ cave systems to recovering woodlands and serene freshwater lakes. Traverse Kelly Hill Caves before immersing through banksia plains, pink sugar gum woodland, coastal scenes, alongside freshwater lagoon and over dunes to viewpoints boasting wonderful vistas inland and along the coast. Birdwatchers are in for a treat with sightings of local and visiting woodland and wading birds. A final walk see’s you wading across the shallow waters of the picturesque South West River flowing into Hanson Bay before a celebration spot marking a convivial affair to the end of your Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail. Early afternoon, you’ll board the ferry back for a trip to Adelaide, leaving inspired and conquered. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for group bookings and private tours.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Adelaide
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Adelaide
Kangaroo Island has a Mediterranean climate: warm to hot dry summers (December – February) with very low humidity; and cool, mild winters (June – August). The majority of rainfall occurs from April – September, while strong winds are a possibility throughout the year.
- Accommodation: The Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail tour with Inspiration Outdoors includes 4 nights' accommodation. This includes: 1 night at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge. Rooms include ensuite bathrooms. 3 nights in 2-bedroom cabins at Western Kangaroo Island Caravan Park. The cabins have a shared bathroom for the 2 rooms.
- Meals: Breakfast comprises cereals, fruit, yoghurt, toast, juice, tea and freshly brewed coffee. Each day your guide will carry tea, coffee and a home-made cake for your morning tea. Fruit is also available. On some days lunch is self-made from fresh breads, salads and meats. On other days, where there is vehicle access to the track, the bus will bring us a tasty and nutritious picnic lunch. Enjoy pre-dinner nibbles with fellow guests each evening while your guides prepare a delicious two course meal for dinner. Feel free to bring alcohol and additional snacks e.g. muesli bars, nuts, chocolate etc. There will be time for you to purchase additional alcohol and supplies during the week.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, 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, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
