At a Glance
Experience the best sections of 90-kilometre Fraser Island Great Walk track on this all-inclusive, pack-free, luxury 4-day walking tour. Highlights include Lake McKenzie (one of the world’s best beaches), Valley of the Giants, 75 Mile Beach and more.
Departing from Hervey Bay, set out with experienced guides to discover the UNESCO-heritage natural beauty of Fraser Island, the world’s largest sand island. Over four days, you will experience the unimaginable beauty of diverse landscapes from coastal bushland, to the heart of the rainforest, to pristine, white sand freshwater lakes. Visit historical sites including a 1930s shipwreck and a World War Two special forces training camp. Wander through the Valley of the Giants, home to the island’s tallest trees. Swim in the picturesque Champagne Pools at 75 Mile Beach. Climb colossal ‘sandblows’ or ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- Complimentary bag storage and car storage at the Hervey Bay office (locked)
- Hand sanitiser, first aid kit, emergency radio
- National Park passes
- All linen at accommodation, bath towels, face washers, hand towels, personal sustainable toiletries including soap, shampoo, conditioner, moisturiser
- 4-days’ guided hiking of the Fraser Island Great Walk (approximately 40 kilometres total walking)
- Barge and private 4WD transfers from Hervey Bay to Fraser Island and to the meeting points on the Great Walk track
- 3-nights’ deluxe accommodation at Waiuta Retreat - a private, peaceful house with panoramic water, bush and sunset views to the Great Sandy Strait stretching from River Heads along the mainland coast. Double, twin or single share available. Shared bathrooms.
- All food and beverages: luxury gourmet meals (breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, cheese platter/canapés) and complimentary beer, champagne, red or white wine with dinner. 3 x breakfast, 4 x lunch, 3 x dinner
- Guided tour (2 guides): 1 x interpretation guide/on the ground guide walking with the hikers providing information on the environment; 1 x support guide providing pick up/drop off, preparing lunches, food etc
Itinerary
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Walking information: 6km/3.7mi | 2 - 3hrs | Easy Departing from Hervey Bay at 11am, travel to the Riverheads barge landing, where you will board the ferry to Kingfisher Bay on Fraser Island, the largest sand island in the world. At approximately 1:30pm, you’ll check into your luxurious Waiuta Retreat before enjoying a delicious gourmet lunch. After lunch, journey by 4WD to McKenzies Jetty, an area famously used by the ‘Z Special Unit’ as a special forces camp – the Fraser Commando School – during World War Two. Here, you’ll begin a gentle walk through the dune forest along Fraser Island’s western sheltered beach back towards the Kingfisher Bay jetty. Upon arrival at the Kingfisher Bay jetty, enjoy a complimentary welcome drink at Jetty Hut as the sun sets red, pink and purple over the horizon. You’ll then transfer back to your accommodation, where you can relax with fellow walkers over drinks and canapes and enjoy downtime before dinner. |
Waiuta Retreat
Lunch, Dinner |
Walking information: 10-12km/6.2-7.5mi | 6hrs | Easy - Moderate Wake early and enjoy continental breakfast on the verandah at Waiuta Retreat before heading deep into the heart of vegetated heart of Fraser Island to the mystical Valley of the Giants. Named for the island’s oldest and tallest trees, some stretching over 40-metres towards the sky, the Valley of the Giants is a place where the canopy seems to swallow the sun. The serenity of the 4.2-kilometre (2.6mi) return walk is interrupted only by the chatter of birds and the whispers of the treetops. After morning tea, transfer by 4WD to M12, a meeting point on the track 7 kilometres (4.35mi) before Lake Garawongera. On the way to the lake, walk through rainforest along Bogimbah Creek and stop in at the historical sites of Petrie’s Camp and Dipuying’s Nursery. Your reward is a well-deserved lunch and the option of a refreshing swim in the tea-tree infused like. Another option is to walk another 3 kilometres (1.87mi) to the next meeting point on the track to Happy Valley. You will then be transferred back to your accommodation via the famous 75-mile beach before settling in for a gourmet evening of drinks and dinner. |
Waiuta RetreatBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Walking information: 15km/9.3mi | 6hrs | Moderate Another exciting day of hiking begins after breakfast with a drive along Eastern Beach to Stonetool Sandblow. Named for the Aboriginal artefacts found in the area, this colossal sand dune rises about 125 metres (410ft) above sea level and stretches more than 2 kilometres (1.24mi) inland. Continue onto Dilli Village to resume the trail, following the boardwalk across the creek where swamp banksia, melaleucas, sedges and coral ferns thrive. You have the option to ascend the Wongi Sandblow for spectacular views of the coastline. Otherwise, continue through Eucalypt forest to Lake Boomanjin, the largest lake on the island. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch overlooking the lake before strolling along the north-western foreshore. You’ll pass through an ever-changing landscape of rainforests, open woodlands and sand to Lake Benaroon, one of Fraser Island’s more secluded lakes. This is the perfect place for a refreshing afternoon swim. Back at Waiuta Retreat, it’s time to indulge in some wine and a cheese platter followed by a gourmet dinner. |
Waiuta RetreatBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Walking information: 10km/6.2mi | 3-4hrs | Moderate After a delicious breakfast, set out for your last day of walking. You’ll leave your overnight bags packed ready to be transferred back by your guide. Travel by 4WD to a meeting point near Pile Valley. Walk through ancient rainforest as you descend into Pile Valley, recently recognized as one of the Queen’s Commonwealth Canopies (one of three in Australia). This is the only place in the world where rainforests can grow from the sand at 200 metres (656ft) above sea level. You’ll cross the bridge over the crystal-clear waters of Wanggoolba Creek before ascending to Central Station, once the centre of the forestry industry when there was logging on Fraser Island. These days, this amazing rainforest area houses a fascinating information centre. |
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Enjoy a picnic lunch before embarking on an afternoon walk to Basin Lake and the jewel of Fraser Island: Lake McKenzie. With its pure white sand and incredible turquoise water, it’s not surprising that Lake McKenzie is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. The water is naturally acidic, making it difficult for fish and plant life to flourish. The result is a virgin swimming spot that is as peaceful as it is beautiful. On this high note, take the short walk to the M6 meeting point to transfer back to Waiuta Retreat, where you will collect your bags and head down to the jetty where the ferry departs at 5pm. The ferry ride back is a fantastic opportunity to reflect on your incredible achievement and farewell your guides and fellow travellers. Depart Fraser Island on the 5pm barge from Kingfisher back to Hervey Bay by 6:00pm. Drop off Hervey Bay accommodation by around 6:30pm. NOTE: Itinerary, distances and times outlined are rough estimates and a guide only. These are subject to change and may depend on group, walking speed and track access. If in the unlikely event of an itinerary change, any alternate routes used will provide a similar itinerary utilising locations along the Great Walk track, where there is an abundance of stunning scenery to explore! |
NoneBreakfast, LunchAccommodation
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for group bookings. Single supplement is $830pp.
Private departure is available for 2 - 6 people and tailor-made itinerary is also available, i.e. bird watching, photography etc (day of choice subject to availability - prices may vary).
More Info
The walk exits from Hervey Bay, Queensland located in the Fraser Coast region.
The closest airport is the Hervey Bay Airport, followed by the Sunshine Coast Airport (2.5 hours drive) and the Brisbane International and Domestic Airport (4 hours drive).
The start and finish point of this tour is Hervey Bay (complimentary pick-ups can be arranged from Hervey Bay accommodation starting from 11am on Day 1).
Free secure car parking is available at the offfice in Hervey Bay.
Day 1: 6km/3.7mi | 2.3hrs | Easy
Day 2: 10-12km/6.2-7.5mi | 2.3hrs | Easy – Moderate
Day 3: 15km/9.3mi | 6hrs | Moderate
Day 4: 10km/6.2mi | 3-4hrs | Moderate
Fraser Island is gloriously mild and sunny throughout the year. In summer, the temperature sits around 27 degrees Celsius during the day, dropping to around 22 degrees Celsius during the night. In winter, the temperature drops to 13 degrees Celsius during the night.
The hiking season from March to October is the drier season of the year, with September expecting just 39mm. If it does rain, it is generally just short showers.
The island is rather humid in April, October and November.
- Hikers are required to complete and sign a liability waiver, sent via a link before departure.
- Hikers must have an average fitness level.
- All health/medical conditions, including allergies, must be disclosed on the participant’s declaration prior to departure.
- Participants must not participate in any hiking adventures if they are injured, have a disability, medical or health condition that may increase their risk by undertaking hiking activities.
3 nights at the private deluxe house, Waiuta Retreat. Waiuta Retreat is nestled in the natural landscape adjacent to the Great Sandy Strait National Park in Kingfisher Bay. Waiuta’s elevated position captures the gentle sea breezes and a spectacular vista over the canopy to water views of the Great Sandy Strait. Tranquil and private, with modern appliances, it features large comfortable rooms, open living areas, and an expansive deck to enjoy the perfect evening drink.
Healthy, delicious meals made from local produce where possible, will be prepared for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is an enhanced continental style buffet; with gourmet muesli, cereals and breads, seasonal fruit and yogurt, along with a selection of teas, coffees and juices. The tour also provides daily high energy snacks, juice and water in walkers snack bag for access on the trail. Walkers are spoiled with a freshly prepared lunch in beautiful locations along the track. These could include: Turkish Cajun chicken burger, gourmet salad and cold meat sandwiches and Mediterranean wraps. In the evening back at Waiuta Retreat, sunset canapés and drinks precede a gourmet meal each evening. The evening meal will be based on seasonal produce from the land and sea. Creating sumptuous dishes from local seafood, i.e. scallops, prawns and locally caught fish, or poultry, i.e. free range chicken or duck, with a vegetarian option for all meals on request. All meals are accompanied by quality Australian organic red or white wine.
The best quality fresh produce and ingredients are sourced locally in season. Dietary requirements can be catered upon request (vegetarian, vegan, gluten free etc). Delicious hearty meals and snacks provide walkers with all the energy required to sustain on the walking adventure.
How many guests will be on the walk?
The walk has a maximum of 6 guests, we require a minimum of 3 confirmed guests to run the walk.
What level of fitness do I need to participate?
Fraser Island’s diversity means that walkers go through a variety of vegetation. Tracks are generally gentle gradients, but are quite steep in some sections, Grade 3 & 4 tracks. These are bush tracks, expect normal leaf litter and unevenness of the surface. Walkers require a good level of fitness, balance and be steady on their feet. We recommend that walkers do some preparation by taking long day walks, in their local area, in and around natural spaces carrying a small day pack.
Are there age restrictions for the walk?
There is a minimum age limit of 12 years and over. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There are no upper age restrictions for walkers with suitable ability, however walkers with medical conditions should check with the operator before booking.
What do I need to bring for each day’s walk?
Full list of 'what to bring' will be provided prior to departure. All walkers need good quality hiking boots, preferably with ankle support. TIP: make sure you wear them in prior to the walk to avoid blisters. Hiking poles are optional but we do recommend bringing one as it can be used to help you navigate up any steep sand dunes. A light rain jacket is a must for unexpected rain during the walk. A waterproof bag for swimmers is also important, so that walkers can store wet items while walking. Insect repellent is also recommended while walking.
Can we use the facilities at the Kingfisher Resort?
Yes, anyone staying at Waiuta Retreat is allowed to access the facilities at the resort. These include the Sand Bar and pool, the Jetty Hut, Seabells Restaurant, Resort pool, Spa etc.
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 50% 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 50% 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.
The tour requires minimum of 4 guests to guarantee a departure.
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.
