Iconic Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa and Kangaroo Island Join the Great Walks of Australia Collective

Discover the Newest Signature Walks in Australia’s Iconic Collection of Premium Multi-Day Guided Hiking Experiences.

Today marks an exciting day for passionate walkers and nature lovers: Great Walks of Australia proudly welcomes two brand new experiences to Tourism Australia’s Signature Experiences collective. The Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk and the Kangaroo Island Signature Walk. If you’ve been dreaming of your next journey into Australia’s wild, breathtaking heart, these world-class, guided walks promise connection, immersion, and a new benchmark for sustainable travel.

In a hurry? Here’s what’s new:

• Two new Signature Walks: Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa (NT) & Kangaroo Island (SA), both operated by Tasmanian Walking Company
• All-inclusive, fully guided, multi-day adventures: Comfort, safety, and deep cultural & natural immersion
• Exclusive access: Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk is the only walk offering overnight stays inside the National Park
• Small group journeys: Maximum 14–16 guests per walk
• Sustainable, premium experiences: Carbon neutral, eco-certified, chef-inspired and guide-prepared meals, and unique accommodations

Why These Walks Matter

If you’ve explored one of our existing Great Walks of Australia, you will know these aren’t “just” hikes. They’re curated journeys shaped by story, landscape, and shared experience. With these new additions, the collection now offers 15 of the country’s most remarkable, premium nature-based adventures.

Genevieve Matthews, Executive Officer of Great Walks of Australia, captures the spirit of this expansion:

“Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa and Kangaroo Island Signature Walks offer guests an extraordinary combination of nature immersion, expert guides, comfort, culture, and storytelling, which defines what makes a Great Walk of Australia truly great. These walks add both heart and a new edge to our collection.”

Spotlight: Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk

Five Days, Four Nights | 54km | Max 16 Guests | From $5,395pp

If you’ve ever felt the pull of the Red Centre, this is your invitation to walk deeper. Developed in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners, the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk is the first and only multi-day experience offering exclusive overnight stays inside the National Park itself.

• Access: Yulara (Ayers Rock Airport)
• Season: April–September
• Accommodation: Eco-camps and private lodge, inside the National Park
• Highlights:
  • Guided in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners and expert storytellers
  • Chef-inspired meals under star-filled skies
  • Optional wellness therapies
  • Deep cultural workshops and connection to Country
  • Small groups, carrying only a day pack
  • End each day with desert sunrises, ancient geology, and moving stories

Brett Godfrey, Co-Owner of Tasmanian Walking Company, describes it best:

“A decade in development, but 500 million years in the making, the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk is a five-day, fully guided, premium hiking experience inside Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park that was developed in partnership with Aṉangu Traditional Owners. Guided by both indigenous partnership and a culture more than 40,000 years old, it has been a long-held dream to be granted overnight access within the World Heritage-listed National Park. Our guests will journey across Country, staying in our new flagship, environmentally sensitive, high-quality private camps and lodge. It’s an experience that unites comfort with a genuine connection to the heart of Australia.” Mr Godfrey said.

Spotlight: Kangaroo Island Signature Walk

Four Days, Three Nights | 46km | Max 14 Guests | From $2,995pp

Few places on earth feel as alive, and as untamed – as Kangaroo Island. This four-day, fully guided adventure reveals the island’s most spectacular corners, from lush rainforest and wild bushland to the dramatic coastal cliffs and geological icons like Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks.

• Access: Return transfers from Adelaide (including ferry)
• Season: September–December, February–May
• Accommodation: Heritage-listed Cape du Couedic Lightkeeper Cottages (built 1907)
• Features:
  • Follow the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail in Flinders Chase National Park
  • Encounter sea lions, wallabies, echidnas, rare birds
  • Chef-prepared meals with local produce, paired with premium South Australian wines
  • 100% carbon neutral, Advanced Ecotourism Australia certified
  • Extra touches: use of backpack, weatherproof jacket, small group support

As Mr. Godfrey shares:

“The Island is back! Kangaroo Island Signature Walk invites guests to explore the wild beauty of Kangaroo Island on a four-day guided journey combining rugged coastal cliffs, pristine bushland, and abundant native wildlife. This all-inclusive experience features heritage lighthouse accommodation, chef-prepared meals, and expert guides who bring the island to life.”

A New Chapter for Australian Walking

Robin Mack, Acting Manager Director, Tourism Australia said today’s announcement strengthens the world-class nature-based tourism offering Great Walks of Australia represents.

“Great Walks of Australia is a collection of safe, all-inclusive, multi-day hiking experiences that allows visitors to be immersed in the country’s most spectacular landscapes and wilderness areas. Kangaroo Island Signature Walk and Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk provide both domestic and international tourists with an invitation to deeply connect with nature, culture and place. ” Mr Mack said.

The New Walks At a Glance

Walk	Duration	Distance	Group Size	Price (from)	Season	Accommodation
Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa	5 days / 4 nights	54km	16	$5,395pp	Apr–Sep	Private eco-camp/lodge
Kangaroo Island	4 days / 3 nights	46km	14	$2,995pp	Sep–Dec, Feb–May	Heritage lighthouse cottages

FAQ

How do I book a place on these walks?
Both walks are available through Great Walks of Australia’s website or via Tasmanian Walking Company.

What fitness level is required?
Both walks are rated moderate, suitable for walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.

Are the walks all-inclusive?
Yes. All meals, drinks, accommodation, expert guides, transfers, park fees, and selected gear are included.

Are there solo or single supplement options?
Yes, single supplements are available.

How are these walks different from others in the collection?
Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa Signature Walk, is the only walk offering exclusive overnight stays inside the National Park with deep cultural immersion. Kangaroo Island Signature Walk offers heritage accommodation, chef-inspired meals, and one of Australia’s most wildlife-rich landscapes.

Where can I learn more or see photos?
Visit greatwalksofaustralia.com.au/our-walks for details, images, and booking info.

Why More Travellers Are Rethinking Wellness—And How a Walk Can Make a Difference

For years, “wellness” has meant different things to different people. For some, it’s a morning yoga class or a green smoothie. For others, it’s the quiet joy of losing yourself in a good book, or the sense of accomplishment after reaching the summit of a mountain. However, as we recognise World Mental Health Day today, it’s timely to ask:

What does wellness truly mean for me? Does it live in grand gestures, or in the steady, nurturing rituals we bring into our everyday lives?

Wellness rarely arrives in a single, life-changing moment. More often, it’s found in the choices we quietly make for ourselves — like deciding to take on a multi-day walk. And here’s the real gift: the journey begins long before your boots touch the trail.

Choosing a walk isn’t just about the hike itself. It’s the days and weeks leading up to it: carving out time to train, preparing your gear, planning your route, and quietly building confidence in your own abilities. Each small step — an early morning walk, a new pair of socks, a call with a walking buddy — is a gentle act of self-care.

By the time you set foot on the trail, you’ve already nurtured your wellbeing in so many subtle, important ways.

Quick Summary

• Wellness is personal. Preparing for a walk is a process that builds resilience and confidence, not just fitness.
• Walking holidays offer unique, proven benefits for mental health, including calm, connection, and a sense of daily accomplishment.
• Science backs it up: Time in nature, especially over multiple days, supports lower anxiety and brighter moods.
• Multi-day walks invite travellers to slow down, let go, and return to life feeling more themselves.
• Real stories from the track show it’s often the preparation and small moments that matter most.

Wellness: More Than a Buzzword

Wellness is everywhere these days. Smoothie bars, apps, and yoga studios promising the secret to happiness. The Oxford Dictionary calls it “the state of being in good health, especially as an actively pursued goal.” But talk to someone who has returned from a multi-day walk, and you’ll hear a more personal story.

For many, wellness is the feeling that you’re enough – not perfect, not constantly striving, just gently tuning in to what you need. It’s a blend of movement and stillness, challenge and comfort, solitude and connection. And it’s most powerful when it’s woven into the rhythms of everyday life.

The Science: Why Walking in Nature Lifts Your Mood

If you’ve ever noticed your worries soften after time outdoors, science says you’re onto something. Research in Frontiers in Psychology and other journals has shown that walking in nature can:

• Lower stress hormones (like cortisol)
• Improve sleep
• Reduce feelings of anxiety and depression
• Spark creative thinking and fresh perspectives

Stanford University researchers even found that time in wild places can help break the exhausting loop of repetitive, negative thoughts (the kind that love to stick around on tough days). And the benefits grow stronger the longer you give yourself to disconnect and just walk.

It Starts Before You Set Out: The Quiet Power of Preparation

Committing to a multi-day walk is a quiet promise you make to yourself: I will invest in my wellbeing. The steps you take, from researching the right boots to learning what snacks keep you going. These are small victories.

You might notice:

• The satisfaction of feeling fitter as the weeks go by
• The comfort of a well-packed backpack, ready and waiting
• The excitement that builds with every plan and every “what if?”

This gentle lead-up builds inner strength and self-trust. It’s not about chasing perfection. It’s about showing yourself steady care.

On the Trail: Walking for Your Mind, Not Just Your Muscles

When you finally head out, the benefits only deepen. Here’s what past Great Walks of Australia travellers often share:

1. Space to Think (Or Not Think at All)

“By the second day, my thoughts slowed to the rhythm of my steps. The track became my quiet place to process, to breathe, to just be.”

2. Real Connection — With Nature, Yourself, and Others

“On the trail, I felt part of something bigger. Whether I was swapping stories over dinner or savouring a silent sunrise, I connected with parts of myself I’d lost touch with.”

3. A Gentle Sense of Achievement

“Completing each day’s walk — even through rain or tired legs — gave me a quiet pride I carried home. It reminded me that I’m stronger than I think.”

Little Moments, Lasting Impact

• The fresh scent of eucalyptus in the early morning.
• A mug of tea warming your hands after a satisfying day.
• The quiet hush of a forest, broken only by birdsong.
• The pleasure of a shared laugh with a new friend.
• That first, deep breath of ocean air after hours inland.

These aren’t luxuries. They’re reminders that real wellness is stitched together from simple, sensory moments… if we make space to notice them!

How to Get the Most from a Walking Holiday (for Mind and Mood)

• Choose a walk that lets you truly unplug
  Multi-day, guided walks (like those with Great Walks of Australia) are designed for leaving daily distractions behind in safe, beautiful settings.
• Don’t rush the preparation
  Enjoy the process of getting ready: walking in your local park, trying out your gear, walking and talking with friends. Letting the anticipation build.
• Allow for both company and solitude
  Some days you’ll want to share the journey; others, you’ll crave quiet. Both are valuable.
• Set kind intentions
  Forget about “achievement.” Instead, focus on being present, gentle, and open.
• Celebrate every step
  Whether you walk 5km or 50, each day is a win for your mind as well as your body.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is walking really good for mental health?
Yes. Countless studies show that gentle movement in nature lowers stress, lifts mood, and encourages better sleep — especially when you can fully unplug.

Do I need to be super fit for a multi-day walk?
Not at all. Many of the Great Walks of Australia are designed for a range of abilities, with support, rest options, and expert guides to help you find your pace.

Will I come back “a new person”?
Maybe not. You will still be you, however you’ll likely come back feeling more yourself than you have in years.

How do I find the right walk?
Head over to Great Walks of Australia’s Walks page for honest descriptions, guest stories, and planning tips.

This World Mental Health Day, Take a Step for Yourself

Wellness isn’t about overhauling your life or chasing the next trend. Sometimes, it’s just about putting one foot in front of the other — and letting the journey do what it does best: restore, reconnect, and remind you how good it feels to slow down.

Ready to walk your way to wellbeing?

Images showcased here from our 4 day / 3 night Twelve Apostles Signature Walk. Marvel at the rugged Victorian coastline as you walk dedicated tracked ending in the icon Twelve Apostles. Visit our website to see which other walks from the collective call you, and start your own story of gentle, lasting care. Read more on Beating Burnout by Walking in Nature here.

Every great journey has a story and some stories are told best by the people who’ve spent a lifetime caring for travellers and Country. As World Expeditions celebrates fifty years of guiding people gently into wild places, that deep well of trust, knowledge, and connection is more important than ever.

These aren’t just adventures. They’re a promise: you’ll be held, not hurried. Supported, not rushed. Because when a team has been quietly setting the benchmark for five decades, you feel the difference in every thoughtful detail.

Summary

• World Expeditions marks 50 years of experience, care, and leadership in adventure travel.
• In 2025, World Expeditions/Australian Walking Holidays marks 30 years on the Larapinta Trail, a symbol of deep local partnerships and pioneering comfort in the outback.
• Flinders Island Walking Adventure in Comfort, the newest Great Walk of Australia, offers a wild, grounding coastal contrast — with sustainability and comfort at its heart.
• World Expeditions recorded a 72% increase in walker numbers on Flinders Island in 2024. True to the brand’s small group philosophy – with a maximum of 12 walkers – and strong environmental focus, this growth has been achieved in a carefully managed and sustainable way, ensuring the island’s pristine landscapes remain protected for future adventurers.
• Both walks are built on respect for Country, strong community ties, and a genuine sense of place.
• Now is the time to start dreaming about your next adventure, knowing you’re guided by a team shaped by the land and its stories.

Walking With Heart: Fifty Years, Two Profound Journeys

World Expeditions’ golden anniversary is more than a milestone. It’s a testament to a philosophy that has never wavered: adventure is not about conquering landscapes, but about being welcomed into them. Their legacy is felt most clearly in the walks that have become part of Australia’s spirit.

Larapinta Trail: Thirty Years of Deep Connection

Since 1995, World Expeditions and Australian Walking Holidays have been guiding people through the soul-stirring spaces of the Larapinta Trail. This experience is a living partnership with the land and its traditional custodians. With a strong focus on Indigenous interpretation and genuine relationships with Arrernte people, every step asks travellers to slow down, listen and learn.

Australian Walking Holidays was the first to bring semi-permanent, low-impact Eco-Comfort Camps to the West MacDonnell Ranges. This was more than a practical advance; it was a statement of values. Walkers could breathe in the desert air, sleep well, and tread lightly — all while feeling a real sense of safety, ease and belonging in the heart of the Red Centre.

As World Expeditions marks thirty years on the Larapinta in 2025, their commitment to leadership, comfort and community remains as strong as ever. As CEO Sue Badyari reflects:

“We’ve spent the last five decades crafting walking experiences that respect the land, support local communities and challenge the status quo of active travel.”

Flinders Island: A Grounding, Wild New Chapter

South on the continent, Tasmanian Expeditions brings a different kind of wonder. Flinders Island, named the 13th Great Walk of Australia in 2024, offers a rugged, windswept, and deeply grounding experience. Here, granite peaks rise from the sea, wildlife moves through windswept heath, and each day ends in an exclusive Eco-Comfort Camp with the shoreline just steps away.

The Flinders Island Walking Adventure is guided, supportive, and designed for comfort with star-gazing roof tents, nourishing meals, and time to slow down and listen to the rhythms of the island. This walk is a contrast to Larapinta’s ochre heart: lush, coastal, and wild, with a deep sense of peace.

World Expeditions recorded a 72% increase in walker numbers on Flinders Island in 2024. True to the brand’s small group philosophy – with a maximum of 12 walkers – and strong environmental focus, this growth has been achieved in a carefully managed and sustainable way, ensuring the island’s pristine landscapes remain protected for future adventurers.

In the words of Tasmanian Expeditions’ General Manager:
“Flinders Island is wild, wind-swept and deeply grounding – it’s Tasmania’s best kept secret. We’re proud to have developed this walk with sustainability and comfort at its core.”

Why These Walks Matter in the World Expeditions Story

The Larapinta and Flinders Island walks are symbols. Together, they show what it means to lead with heart: to create journeys that are comfortable, immersive and respectful.

World Expeditions was the first to bring real comfort into remote, multi-day treks without ever compromising on sustainability or cultural respect. Both walks offer a strong sense of place, a feeling of belonging, and an ongoing commitment to the communities who call these landscapes home.

The experience isn’t about ticking off “great walks”—it’s about returning with a story written into you, shaped by every sunrise, every footstep or fireside chat, every moment of quiet awe.

Held by Experience, Welcomed by Community

After fifty years, World Expeditions has continued to focus on what really matters: holding travellers gently, honouring the places they visit, and always striving to do better. Whether you’re crossing a desert ridge on Larapinta or feeling the salt wind on Flinders, you know you’re part of something bigger, something special and important.

Behind every step on Larapinta or Flinders Island are the teams who bring these journeys to life. This anniversary celebrates five decades of pioneering adventure travel and acknowledges the guides, staff, and communities dedicated to these incredible Great Walks of Australia.

Find out more about each of these walks and the entire Great Walks of Australia collective here and to go into the prize draw to win the Ultimate Outback Walking Adventure for You & 3 Mates! Click here for a chance to experience the pioneering Larapinta Walk in Comfort.

FAQ

What makes the Larapinta Trail walk unique?
It’s a deep partnership with Arrernte Country, plus 30 years of leadership in guided trekking and camp comfort in the Red Centre.

What is special about the Flinders Island Walking Adventure?
Flinders is wild, rugged and coastal — with exclusive access, supportive guides, and a focus on sustainability and comfort.

How does World Expeditions support local communities?
Through strong Indigenous partnerships, local employment, and supporting regional tourism and interpretation.

Are the walks suitable for all fitness levels?
Both are graded Introductory to Moderate — designed for people who want to feel comfortable and supported in wild places.

How is sustainability addressed?
With low-impact Eco-Comfort Camps, partnerships with traditional custodians, and ongoing care for the land.

Want time in nature that clears your head, not a test of endurance? Would you like the beauty and drama of Australian landscapes, with guides who keep you safe, share stories of place, and take care of the details that can make or break a trip? That is exactly what a guided walk with Great Walks of Australia is designed to deliver.

A good guide changes what you see, how you feel, and what you remember long after the trail ends.

Quick summary

• Small groups, usually 10 to 16 guests, create space for genuine connection.
• Many walks are lodge based, and you often carry only a day pack.
• Some love the challenge of packing light and carrying everything.
• Luggage transfers are offered on some walks
• Accommodation ranges from wilderness lodges to eco-camps and lux villas.
• Meals showcase high quality regional produce and incredible Australian hospitality.
• Guides are trained in safety and first aid, with practiced emergency procedures.
• You come for the views and leave with a deeper sense of place.

What you gain with a guide

A landscape looks different when someone who knows it walks beside you. Guides point out details you might miss: a wedge-tailed eagle riding a thermal, a patch of wildflowers thriving after rain, the way a rock shelf tells a story of ancient seas. They know when to pause for a quiet moment and when to push on for a wow view. More than logistics, they bring context that anchors you to the land.

Small groups, big connection

Walking in a small group feels human. With 10 to 16 guests, there is time for easy conversation and long silences without pressure. You might find yourself swapping life stories with a new friend under a sky that looks close enough to touch, then settling into a companionable quiet as your boots settle into a shared rhythm. That sense of belonging often becomes a highlight in itself.

Comfort without losing the wild

This is hiking in comfort. Many walks are lodge based so you carry only a day pack. On some itineraries your luggage is transferred for you. On others you pack light and carry throughout. Some nights you might stay in the same eco-lodge, on other walks you move from camp to camp. Most nights you are treated to a ceiling of stars no matter where you are. You’ll keep the soul of the trail while enjoying the right amount of care.

Safety you do not have to think about

Peace of mind is priceless on remote tracks. Guides prioritise safety with high level first aid training, state-of-the-art equipment, and practiced emergency procedures. You can relax, knowing someone capable is watching weather patterns, track conditions, and group wellbeing, and is ready with a plan if needed.

Food that tells a story

Meals feature high quality regional produce. After a day on the trail, that first bite of house-baked bread or fresh seafood tastes like the landscape itself. Dinner conversations often circle back to where your food came from and the people who grew it. It is more than a meal. It is another way of knowing the place you walked through.

How a typical day feels

• Morning: Wake to the scent of eucalyptus and warm light on your lodge or camp window. Over coffee, your guide outlines the day, the grade, the highlights, and the small moments to look for.
• On trail: Gravel crunches underfoot, the air is cool, and your mind quiets as the landscape opens. Your guide shows you a native plant in flower or points out animal tracks along the path.
• Lunch: Shared on a lookout or beside a creek, simple food tastes amazing in fresh air.
• Afternoon: The track undulates. You fall into an easy pace, led by someone who knows where the shade is and where the views are worth an extra five minutes.
• Evening: A hot shower, a glass of something local, then dinner that celebrates the region. Laughter. Tired legs. A feeling that your whole body has exhaled.

Who these walks suit

• Curious travellers who want meaning with their mileage.
• Couples or friends who appreciate comfort and a little style with their wilderness.
• Solo travellers who want the safety and sociability of a small group.
• Walkers who value knowledgeable guides over going it alone.

Respect for land and culture

Walking with a guide helps you move through landscapes with care. You learn why certain places are significant, how to tread lightly, and how to leave trails as you found them. That respect makes every view feel bigger, because you understand more of what lies beneath it.

Practical details to know

• Group size: Small groups, generally 10 to 16 maximum, keep the experience personal.
• What you carry: Often just a day pack. Or pack light and carry as you move from camp to camp.
• Accommodation style: Ranges from wilderness camps, eco lodges, houseboat or luxury villa, depending on the itinerary.
• Meals: Expect high quality regional produce and generous Australian hospitality.
• Safety: Guides are trained in first aid and carry safety equipment, with clear procedures in place.

How to choose your walk

• Decide your preferred comfort level. Lodge based or swag under the stars.
• Consider how much you want to carry. Day pack only, or personal items in your pack with the rest provided.
• Match the distance and terrain to your fitness and your idea of a good day out.
• Check dates and seasons for the region you want to visit.
• Read about the guides. Their knowledge and style shape your experience.

Frequently asked questions

How fit do I need to be?

Fitness requirements vary by walk. If you are comfortable with several hours on your feet and some uneven terrain, there is likely a walk that fits. Check the grade and daily distances on each walk page.

What will I carry?
On many walks you carry only a day pack. On some, your luggage is transferred. On others, you carry your belongings as you explore the trail and travel to your next overnight camp or lodge. Accommodation is outlined on each itinerary.

Is this a good option for solo travellers?

Yes. Small groups and attentive guides make it easy to feel included, and the social side is as light or lively as you want it to be.

What is included?

Inclusions vary by operator. Commonly, guided walks include accommodation, most meals featuring regional produce, and on-trail support. See the specific walk page for full details.

How big are the groups?

Group sizes are kept small, typically 10 to 16 guests, so guides can personalise the experience and everyone has space to breathe.

Next step ideas

• Browse all walks to compare distances, styles, and landscapes in our planning guide.
• Check upcoming dates and availability for your preferred season here.
• Take onboard operator packing advice in pre-departure materials so you arrive prepared and comfortable.
• Meet our guides and learn more about who they are and their experience.

Important note

Details such as inclusions, pack weight, accommodation style, and group size can vary by operator. Always review the individual walk page before you book.

To take a look through our walks, visit https://greatwalksofaustralia.com.au/our-walks/

The signs arrive quietly: short sleep, a tight chest before meetings, a mind that won’t settle even when the day is over. Burnout rarely crashes in; it builds. And it feeds on one thing most of us can’t seem to find: space.

Walking gives that space back. It’s simple, accessible, and deeply human. Step after step, the body regulates, the breath deepens, and the mind finds room to soften. This is not about chasing a personal best. It’s about coming back to yourself.

Summary

• Walking is a natural circuit breaker for stress and mental fatigue.
• Even short walks can lift mood and clarity; multi-day walks amplify the effect.
• Research links time in nature with lower stress markers and calmer brain activity.
• Gentle, practical walking rituals protect energy during busy weeks.
• Multi-day guided walks create sustained space for reflection, connection, and rest.

Why walking works when you’re stretched thin

In Australia, reports of burnout are worryingly high compared with global averages. Microsoft’s Work Trend Index highlighted that around 62% of Australian employees were experiencing burnout versus 48% globally, a trend echoed across Australian summaries of the data (sources: Microsoft Work Trend Index; news.com.au; MHFA Australia).

Short walks help right away. A Curtin University team found that a 30-minute lunchtime walk in previously inactive office workers improved enthusiasm, relaxation, and motivation during the workday (source: Thøgersen-Ntoumani et al., Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 2014–2015 coverage). It’s a reminder that you don’t have to overhaul your life to feel different by 3pm.

Nature’s effect on stress and mood is measurable

You can feel the difference the moment you step under trees or onto a coastal path: air cooler on your cheeks, light shifting through leaves, shoulders dropping without permission. Research backs that felt sense.

• Stress physiology: Spending just 20 minutes in nature can reduce stress hormone levels in everyday settings (source: Harvard Health, 2019).
• Brain activity: After a 60-minute walk in a natural environment, activity in the amygdala — the brain region involved in stress processing — decreases. The same change doesn’t appear after an urban walk of the same length (source: Sudimac et al., Molecular Psychiatry, 2022; open-access summary via PMC).
• Mental health: Accumulating an activity volume similar to 150 minutes of brisk walking per week is associated with roughly a 25% lower risk of depression (source: Pearce et al., JAMA Psychiatry, 2022).

The power of stepping away for days, not minutes

If a single lunchtime stroll can shift your mood, imagine what happens when you give yourself several days of steady walking in nature. With multi-day walks, your nervous system finally has time to settle into a different rhythm: walk, eat, rest, talk, notice, sleep. Repeat.

There’s also a creativity effect when you spend longer outdoors. In research involving multiple days in natural settings, participants improved creative problem-solving performance by around 50% compared with pre-trip baselines, suggesting that extended time away from screens and schedules restores attention and sparks new thinking (source: Atchley, Strayer, and Atchley, PLoS ONE, 2012).

Walking with others restores connection

Burnout thrives in isolation and constant self-pressure. Walking gently breaks that pattern. Conversations flow easier when you’re moving side by side. Silences don’t feel awkward; they feel restorative. Whether it’s a lap around the block with a colleague or several days on a guided track, shared steps create a sense of belonging that softens stress.

Simple walking rituals that protect your energy

• Micro breaks: Trade a scroll between meetings for 5–10 minutes outside. Notice three things you can see, hear, and feel.
• Walking meetings: Take one recurring catch-up on the move each week. Many people find ideas arrive more easily when the body is in motion.
• Transition walks: A short morning loop to start the day with intention; an evening loop to mark its end.
• Weekend reset: Choose a bush trail, a coastal path, or a riverside track and give yourself a longer, unhurried walk.
• Multi-day immersion: A guided walking holiday removes decision fatigue. You walk, you’re fed, you rest well, and each day builds on the last.

What multi-day walking in Australia can feel like

Australia’s landscapes invite you to slow down. Think of long coastal boardwalks with the hush of surf, forest trails where the air smells faintly of eucalyptus, and high-country paths with big skies and clean horizons. On multi-day guided walks, meals are taken care of, and each day’s route brings fresh terrain and fresh headspace. You don’t have to think about logistics. Your only job is to keep putting one foot in front of the other and let the noise fall away.

If you’re starting to imagine a few days of walking, Great Walks of Australia curates guided, multi-day experiences across iconic regions. The collection includes coastal routes, alpine landscapes, island trails, and desert country guided by experienced operators, with comfortable stays at day’s end. The practical upside matters when you’re tired: someone else handles the planning, while you focus on your steps, your breath, and the conversations you’ve been too busy to have.

What changes when you walk regularly

• Your inner pace shifts. The world can still be fast, but your responses aren’t.
• Sleep returns a little more easily. Longer outdoor time often supports better sleep quality.
• Your mind has a place to put hard thoughts. They move through rather than around in circles.
• You remember what steady progress looks like. No urgency. Just steps.

Walking reminds us that progress isn’t always about pushing harder. It’s about showing up, moving gently, and letting nature do some of the work. Burnout keeps you stuck. Walking is motion, momentum, and medicine — one honest step at a time.

FAQs

Is walking enough exercise to help with burnout?

• For many people, yes. Even gentle, regular walking can reduce stress, improve mood, and support better sleep. The key is consistency and, when possible, time in green or blue spaces.

How long should I walk to feel a difference?

• Many people notice benefits from 10–30 minutes. Research suggests 20 minutes in nature can lower stress hormones, and a 60-minute nature walk can calm stress-related brain activity.

Do I have to hike hard trails to get the benefits?

• No. The benefits come from steady movement, time outdoors, and your own comfortable pace. A flat riverside path can be as restorative as a climb. Many of our walks have mixed terrain some particularly covering a variety of trail types over the course of days. This can suit different fitness levels. Take a look at our planning guide here to find the walk that suits your fitness level.

What if I’m not very fit?

• Start small and be kind to yourself. Our walk operators offer support leading up to your multi day walk and suggest a training plan. There are clear daily distances for each walk. Aim for regular short walks during the week to prepare and ideally do some back to back walks eg. longer walk on sat/sun or during the week thur/fri – if you can to prepare your body to the consecutive days walking.
• And if it’s more a confidence thing, about whether you can do it, mentally more than physically, take a look at our article her on Comfort and Confidence for First-Time Multi-day Walkers.

What makes a guided Great Walks of Australia multi-day walk helpful for burnout?

• Fewer decisions, a supportive group, delicious food and sleep, and a simple daily rhythm. You get the restorative parts of walking without the mental load of planning.

Got more questions? Head to our Frequently Asked Questions to find out more, or Contact Us and ask your specific questions. Dreaming about your next adventure: explore all of the guided multi-day options here at Great Walks of Australia

References

• Microsoft Work Trend Index: Great Expectations: Making Hybrid Work Work (2022) and Australian summaries (news.com.au; MHFA Australia).
• Lunchtime walking study: Thøgersen-Ntoumani et al., J Behav Nutr Phys Act (2014/2015 coverage via PubMed; Psychological Science news brief).
• Nature and stress hormones: Harvard Health Publishing, “A 20-minute nature break relieves stress” (2019).
• Amygdala and nature walks: Sudimac et al., Molecular Psychiatry (2022).
• Physical activity and depression: Pearce et al., JAMA Psychiatry (2022).
• Multi-day nature immersion and creativity: Atchley, Strayer, and Atchley, PLoS ONE (2012).

Great Walks of Australia is a collective of premium, guided, multi-day walks run by reputable Australian operators in iconic locations, with a strong focus on sustainability, expert guiding, and thoughtful hospitality. Walks typically run 4 to 6 days, use lodge-based or point-to-point accommodation, and feature curated local food and wine that reflects the place you are walking through.

If you’re new to multi-day walking in Australia, you might have a few questions about “Greats”? There’s a TV show called Great Walks, a magazine called Great Walks, and you may have heard about Great Walks of Tasmania or NSW.

So what exactly makes a Great Walk of Australia truly great?

In Summary

The collective is a selected group of premium Australian guided walks united by high standards of sustainability, guiding, safety, and hospitality.

Some key core elements:

• Iconic and immersive locations
• Leave No Trace-aligned practices
• EcoTourism Australia certification appreciated
• Environmental governance and community responsibility
• Multi-day premium walking experiences, often 4 to 6 days
• Expert guides with deep knowledge and genuine care
• Lodge-based or point-to-point itineraries
• Meals and beverages that showcase local provenance

The Great Walks of Australia, a Tourism Australia Signature Experience’s collective brings together independently run, premium guided walks across the country. Each walk meets agreed standards around environmental care, quality guiding, safety, and highly thoughtful guest experience. While the magazine and TV show share stories and inspiration about walking, the collective refers to the collective and collaboration between actual operators and their guided, bookable multi-day experiences across Australia.

Why this matters for first-time walkers?

When you pick a walk inside this collective, you are choosing a trip designed with care for both the environment and the traveller. That means considered routes, trained guides, an emphasis on safety, and an experience that feels complete from the first briefing to the final shared meal.

Key Elements That Make a Great Walk of Australia – Great!

Iconic, immersive locations

The settings are the reason you lace your boots each morning. Expect landscapes that feel distinctly Australian: wild coastlines, ancient ranges, cool temperate forests, highland tarns, red desert light. These walks are designed to bring you into the rhythm of place. Think dawn birdsong as you shoulder your daypack, the soft give of sandy tracks, the scent of eucalyptus after rain. Routes are chosen to offer variety, quiet moments, and a sense of unfolding story.

Sustainability and Leave No Trace practices

Care for country is non-negotiable. Operators use Leave No Trace principles across daily operations, route planning, and guest briefings. You will likely notice clear guidance on staying on track, pack-in pack-out practices where appropriate, and thoughtful infrastructure that minimises impact. This is about walking well and leaving the landscape as you found it.

EcoTourism Australia certification

EcoTourism Australia certification that is relevant to member’s product is highly regarded. This independent certification signals ongoing commitment to environmental performance and continuous improvement. For travellers, it is a simple way to know the walk has been assessed against recognised sustainability criteria.

Environmental governance, conservation, and community responsibility

Behind the scenes are permits, partnerships, and policies that protect sensitive environments. Many operators contribute to conservation initiatives, respect cultural heritage, and prioritise local employment and training. You benefit from access that is carefully managed and relationships that have been built over time. It adds depth to what you see and learn on the track.

Multi-day premium walking experience, typically 4 to 6 days

Time matters. With four to six days, you settle into a comfortable pace. You feel your body adjust to steady movement. You sleep better. You notice more. The itinerary length allows for a complete arc: gentle introduction, a few big moments, a relaxed final day. For many travellers, especially those who prefer to plan with confidence, this structure supports fitness, comfort, and enjoyment.

Expert guides with knowledge and hospitality

Guides are the heart of the experience. They know the local geology, plant life, bird calls, weather patterns, and safety protocols. Just as important, they read the room. They set a pace that suits the group, create space for quiet, and bring warmth to shared meals. You get story-rich interpretation, patient coaching on tricky sections, and the kind of calm presence that builds trust.

Point-to-point or lodge-based experiential accommodation

Some Great Walks of Australia take you from point to point. Others return you to a private lodge or a series of eco-accommodation each night. Either way, the stays are intentionally designed for comfort and connection with place. Expect hot showers, a welcoming common area, and details like drying rooms and boot stations that make walking life easier. You rest well and begin each day refreshed.

Curated local produce and wine that reflect provenance

Meals matter, especially at the end of a full day on the track. Dinners may feature local meats or seafood, small-farm vegetables, or regionally roasted coffee, or wines that tell the story of the surrounding country. It is not about extravagance. It is about thoughtful, well-prepared food that tastes of where you are. The table becomes part of the experience, and conversations with guides and fellow walkers deepen what you have seen.

How to choose the right Great Walk of Australia for you

• Terrain and pace: Coastal paths, alpine trails, or arid country feel very different. Consider your comfort with steps, gradients, and daily distance.
• Accommodation style: Do you prefer the rhythm of a different location each night, or returning to a comfortable lodge base?
• Seasonality and weather: Check the typical conditions for your dates and plan layers accordingly.
• Sustainability values: Look for details about certification, local sourcing, and conservation efforts that align with your priorities.
• Group style and support: If you value personal attention, ask about group size and guide-to-guest ratios.

FAQs

What exactly is the Great Walks of Australia collective?
It’s a national collective of premium, guided, multi-day walks delivered by trusted Australian operators. It’s different from the TV show or magazine called Great Walks. Expect considered routes, expert guides, and hospitality that reflects the place you’re walking through.

How long are the walks and what does a typical day look like?
Most sit around 4 to 6 days. Days include steady walking with regular breaks, story-rich guiding, and time to pause for views and photos. You’ll usually carry a daypack unless on a point to point walk, with water, layers, and lunch; check your chosen itinerary for daily distances and what you’ll carry.

Do I need to be very fit, and how should I prepare?
A steady base helps. If you can comfortably walk for several hours with breaks, you’re well on your way. In the weeks before your trip, add a few longer walks even back to back on the weekend, on varied terrain and include some gentle strength for legs and core. Well-fitted shoes you’ve already worn in make a big difference.

Where do we sleep and what are meals like?
Walks are either point-to-point with eco-accommodation or return to a comfortable private lodge. anticipate hot showers, a welcoming common area, perhaps a foot bath and thoughtful details like a cool towel at the end of a walk or drying rooms. Evenings feature considered, locally sourced meals and regional wines that reflect the region you’re visiting. Note some walks provide alcoholic as an optional extra.

How do you care for the environment and local communities?
Behind the scenes are permits, conservation efforts, cultural respect, and local partnerships that guide how we operate. You’ll be briefed on low-impact walking so we leave places as we found them. Read more on sustainability here.

To understand more about our specific walks, head to Our Walks page here and explore each of the different walks in the collective. For any questions, please reach out via the Contact Us.

We look forward to seeing you on the trail!

To find our more about Tourism Australia’s Signature Experience Collectives watch here.