Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure
from $1351
Duration: 4 Days
Take a deep dive into the sacred heart of Australia’s Red Centre and experience magnificent sunrises and sunsets, fascinating landscapes and incredible culture across four action-packed days. Learn about the history and culture of this ancient landscape with a special guided Aboriginal cultural experience where you’ll discover traditional bush tucker, bush medicine and dot painting artwork. You’ll marvel at Uluru at sunset, one of Australia’s most sacred sites, and learn about the importance of the area to Australia’s Anangu people. Then, walk through the towering domed rock formations of Kata Tjuta and spot native wildlife like Mala wallabies and Red kangaroos. Fully immerse yourself in the splendour of this place and return home with a total sense of awe after just four days here.
  • See the best of Australia’s Red Centre in just four action-packed days.
  • Enjoy a special Aboriginal cultural experience where you’ll learn about traditional bush tucker (including Witchetty Grubs), bush medicine and the art of dot painting.
  • Marvel at the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you view the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.
  • Explore Kings Canyon by foot and soak up the breath-taking scenery of soaring red cliffs, sandstone domes and tranquil gardens. Then, wind through two of the Kata Tjuta’s towering domed rock formations on the Walpa Gorge Walk with your leader.
  • Enjoy the Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole to see more of the incredible landscape and its connection to the Anangu people.
  • Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Outback BBQ & Grill Restaurant Dinner
  • Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon sunset viewing
  • Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Rim Walk
  • Watarrka National Park - Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience (except Nov-Jan)
  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Walpa Gorge Walk
  • Uluru - Uluru Sunset
  • Yulara - Uluru sunrise walk
  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole
  • Day 1 Location: Alice Springs / Kings Canyon
    Welcome to Australia’s Red Centre! Your adventure kicks off bright and early with a Welcome Meeting at 8 am in Alice Springs (Mparntwe in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Alice Springs is now located). Alice Springs is the perfect place to start our journey into the ancient culture and landscapes of Australia’s Red Centre and acts as a launching pad to reach some of Australia’s most incredible landscapes. We’ll hit the open road en route to Watarrka National Park soon after our welcome meeting, you can expect the drive to be framed by the rusty red landscape, and you might catch glimpses of native wildlife like kangaroos from your window. With a quick stop in Erldunda to pick up lunch, you’ll arrive at our campsite near Kings Canyon later in the afternoon. You’ll have some time to settle in, before joining your newfound travel companions for dinner at the resort restaurant, to kick off your Red Centre adventure.
    Day 2 Location: Kings Canyon
    After breakfast this morning, head out to soak in the remarkable scenery of Watarrka National Park during a walk around the rim of Kings Canyon. With soaring cliffs and ethereal rock formations, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place. The walk starts with a difficult climb to the top of the canyon to take in unrivalled views before descending through the Lost City, a series of natural sandstone domes resembling ancient ruins, the remnants of eons of weathering. Continue down to the Garden of Eden, named for its lush greenery that stands in contrast to the rest of the arid landscape. After your walk, you’ll head back to camp to refuel with a picnic lunch. This afternoon, you’ll enjoy an Aboriginal cultural experience – where you’ll learn about bush tucker (including the Witchetty Grub), bush medicine and the history of dot painting from local First Nations guides. This is a true, authentic experience and something you won’t soon forget.
    Day 3 Location: Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara
    This morning, we’ll pack up and head out to Kata Tjuta (formerly known as 'The Olgas'), a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations – these rust-coloured beauties are truly one of Australia’s most impressive sights. Here, you’ll tuck into a picnic lunch at the Kata Tjuta sunset area – talk about a meal with a view – before embarking on the Walpa Gorge walk. This walk takes you between two of the stunning red-domed rock formations that make up Kata Tjuta. On one side of the gorge, Mount Olga stands proudly towering above the track below – giving you a real sense of just how incredible this place is. After your walk, you'll make your way to one of Australia’s most spiritually significant and iconic sites, Uluru. From a prime viewing location, you’ll enjoy the view as the sun sets over the epic sandstone monolith – watching the incredible landscape shift in colour is a sight you won’t soon forget! To show respect for Uluru’s cultural and spiritual significance to the Anangu people we do not serve alcohol during our sunset viewing. This evening, tuck into an included dinner. Depending on the time of year this will be either before or after the sunset viewing.
    Day 4 Location: Uluru / Yulara (or Alice Springs)
    Start the day early in one of the best ways imaginable – watching a spectacular sunrise over Uluru. Set off on the Kuniya Walk with your leader as the sun climbs over the landscape and walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. Your Leader will explain what makes this waterhole sacred and its connection to the Anangu people. Afterward, stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to continue immersing yourself in First Nations culture. Then, make our way back to Yulara at which time your Outback Adventure will come to an end. If you are flying out of Alice Springs you can remain on the vehicle as your leader will be heading back into town. Arrival back in Alice Springs is in the early evening.
    Dates
    Prices
    Availability
    Departure Date:
    13APR2024
    Return Date:
    16APR2024
    1655NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    20APR2024
    Return Date:
    23APR2024
    1590NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    27APR2024
    Return Date:
    30APR2024
    1590NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    04MAY2024
    Return Date:
    07MAY2024
    1590NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    11MAY2024
    Return Date:
    14MAY2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    18MAY2024
    Return Date:
    21MAY2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    01JUN2024
    Return Date:
    04JUN2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    05JUN2024
    Return Date:
    08JUN2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    08JUN2024
    Return Date:
    11JUN2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Departure Date:
    12JUN2024
    Return Date:
    15JUN2024
    1675NZD
    available
    Last modified (date)

    07 Feb 2024

    Trip title

    Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

    Trip code

    PZRC

    Validity

    Validity: 01 Apr 2023 to 31 Mar 2025

    Introduction

    Take a deep dive into the sacred heart of Australia’s Red Centre and experience magnificent sunrises and sunsets, fascinating landscapes and incredible culture across four action-packed days. Learn about the history and culture of this ancient landscape with a special guided Aboriginal cultural experience where you’ll discover traditional bush tucker, bush medicine and dot painting artwork. You’ll marvel at Uluru at sunset, one of Australia’s most sacred sites, and learn about the importance of the area to Australia’s Anangu people. Then, walk through the towering domed rock formations of Kata Tjuta and spot native wildlife like Mala wallabies and Red kangaroos. Fully immerse yourself in the splendour of this place and return home with a total sense of awe after just four days here.

    Style

    Basix

    Themes

    Explorer

    Transport

    Private vehicle

    Physical Rating

    3

    Physical preparation

    This trip can be enjoyed by just about anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. Some trips may have individual inclusions that may be of a higher physical rating compared to the overall rating of the trip. Please read the day-to-day itinerary carefully to find out more details on each day's activities, and whether they are suitable for you. Activities can be opted out of if you don't want to participate. KINGS CANYON, ULURU & KATA TJUTA This trip includes walks and hikes around the major landmarks of this area. Please read the daily itinerary carefully for details. Walking is the best way to explore these stunning geological features in this otherwise flat landscape, so make sure you bring along comfortable walking shoes.

    Joining point

    Stay at Alice Springs Hotel (formerly Aurora Alice Springs)

    11 Leichhardt Terrace

    Alice Springs

    AUSTRALIA

    Joining point instructions

    Stay at Alice Springs Hotel accommodation is conveniently located in the in the heart of town. Located on Todd Mall, the main shopping, dining and tourist precinct offering a unique walking experience.

    Finish point

    Stay at Alice Springs Hotel (formerly Aurora Alice Springs)

    11 Leichhardt Terrace

    Alice Springs

    AUSTRALIA

    Important information

    START POINT LOCATION & TIME This trip starts in Alice Springs with a pick-up on day 1 at 8:00 am. It is very important that you are on time as we will be departing for Kings Canyon right away and are unable to delay our departure. We recommend you arrive a day prior to your trip. END POINT LOCATION & TIME You have the option of finishing your trip either at Yulara Resort (approx 12pm), at Ayers Rock Airport (approx 12:30pm) or back in Alice Springs (approx 6:30pm). Please note that if your flight from Yulara (Ayers Rock Airport) departs before 1pm you will need to miss today's activities and make your own way to the airport via the free Resort shuttle bus.  CAMPING Your accommodation on this trip is at private semi-permanent tented campsites. However, this isn't the most basic camping experience, as you'll have stretcher beds to sleep on. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Pillows are provided. Alternatively you can hire a sleeping bag at an additional cost. Please ask your booking agent to request a sleeping bag for you if you like to take advantage of this option. Please note that facilities are shared with other nearby campsites, including toilets and shower blocks, which are a short walk from where we camp. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a tent on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. Please note that all tents have single beds. No double beds are available. LONG TRAVELLING DAYS This trip involves long travelling days. Please see the daily itinerary for more information. Take into consideration the weather when you are thinking of travelling and ensure you and your family are well hydrated in the desert heat.

    Group leader

    AUSTRALIA LEADERS All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. In Australia your group leader is often also your driver, taking you from start to finish. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, as well as recommend great local eating venues. They will also introduce you to our local friends along the way. Please be aware they will be juggling many things on your tour and on some days may have less time to spend with you. But they will always be working hard to ensure you and your group have a fantastic time exploring Australia!

    Safety

    Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

    REMOTE AREA TRAVEL We carry a satellite phone on all our remote/overland trips to be used by our leaders in the event of an emergency and for your safety. Our leaders are all First Aid trained and certified.

    Communications

    PHONE COVERAGE & WIFI In remote areas of Australia travelling even a small distance from populated areas will see phone coverage drop off dramatically. The extent of coverage will depend on your phone provider. If you are spending longer in Australia it might be a good idea to purchase a local SIM card. Telstra and Optus deliver better coverage in rural and regional areas, while Vodafone can be very patchy. Wifi is common at accommodations in urban areas of Australia, but many of the more remote properties may not offer this service, and some properties may charge a fee for usage.

    Visas

    PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here:  www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

    Why we love it

    See the best of Australia’s Red Centre in just four action-packed days.

    Enjoy a special Aboriginal cultural experience where you’ll learn about traditional bush tucker (including Witchetty Grubs), bush medicine and the art of dot painting.

    Marvel at the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you view the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.

    Explore Kings Canyon by foot and soak up the breath-taking scenery of soaring red cliffs, sandstone domes and tranquil gardens. Then, wind through two of the Kata Tjuta’s towering domed rock formations on the Walpa Gorge Walk with your leader.

    Enjoy the Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole to see more of the incredible landscape and its connection to the Anangu people.

    Is this trip right for you

    Your accommodation on this trip is at private semi-permanent tented campsites. However, this isn't the most basic camping experience, as you'll have stretcher beds to sleep on. Please bring your own sleeping bag. Alternatively you can hire a sleeping bag at an additional cost. Please ask your booking agent to request a sleeping bag for you if you like to take advantage of this option. Please note that facilities are shared with other nearby campsites, including toilets and shower blocks, which are a short walk from where we camp. Temperatures in the Red Centre can be extreme. During the day the weather can be very hot (and the Australian sun is very strong) so please bring appropriate clothing, use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures really drop (in winter temperatures can be below zero at night!) so make sure you check the forecast and have a suitable sleeping bag and warm clothes for the climate. On some days of the trip, you’ll spend many hours driving through very remote areas of Australia. Sit back and enjoy landscapes that you would miss in any other form of travel. The days can be long, but we want to fit as much of this amazing place in as we can in 4 short days! As this is a camping trip, we rely on group participation to give everyone the best experience. You won't need to pitch your own tents as these are semi-permanent at our campsite, but you will need to help with loading and unloading our bus and with the preparation of meals and cleaning up. When everyone lends a hand, everything is much more enjoyable! As sunrise and sunset times as well as weather conditions vary throughout the year, the order of activities may change to ensure you have the best experience possible. On occasion, the First Nations experiences may not be available should our guides have other cultural commitments, in which case we will include alternative activities.  If you’re looking for a longer, non-camping trip in the Red Centre, you might like to consider the 6-day Red Centre & Uluru Adventure. Search trip code PZSR on our website. Alternatively, if it is even more comfort you are after, search for Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon (PZKR) or Premium Red Centre (POPR).

    Health

    GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. 

    Food and dietary requirements

    All breakfasts are included and will be eaten at camp before setting off for the day. Lunches are typically picnic-style and will be eaten in a scenic location during or between activities. For the included dinners we usually head to the local pub or a nearby restaurant, while on the nights where dinner isn't included you can choose yourself where you would like to dine, with or without the group. Your leader will be able to advise of options. Please consult the daily itinerary for details on which days have meals included. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS If you have any dietary requirements please advise your booking agents at the time you make your booking along with your leader at the time of the group meeting. While most dietary requirements can be catered for, you may also like to bring along some of your own supplies to ensure you can enjoy your favourite foods as these may be limited in remote locations.

    Money matters

    The currency of Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD). Most shops will take card as well as cash, but occasionally will only take one or the other. ATMs are common in all cities and towns, but may be limited in remote areas. You may need to use a PIN for purchases, and businesses often add a small surcharge for card payments. SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. TIPPING Tipping is generally voluntary in Australia and is most commonly used to show appreciation for good service. Tipping is most common in the hospitality industry, especially at higher end restaurants and bars. If you choose to tip, the general rule is to add 10-15% to the bill. But these rules are just guidelines - feel free to tip however much or however little you feel comfortable with. After dining out, cash is left on the table, or in a tip jar at the counter. A tip can also be added to any cashless transaction that includes a tipping function. Taxi drivers won’t expect a tip, although it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest dollar. You do not need to tip hotel staff or local guides in Australia.  You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline 4-6 AUD per person, per day can be used.  CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

    What to take

    LUGGAGE Be ready to manage your own luggage, including loading it on and off our vehicle and taking it from the car park to and from our accommodation in each location. We recommend no more than 20kg for your main luggage in a soft-sided bag and no more than 7kg for your day pack.  Below are some suggestions for packing for this trip. Check online for the expected weather to ensure you pack appropriately for the time of year you are travelling. ESSENTIALS  - Sleeping bag (either bring your own or request to hire one through us for an additional cost) - Long shirts and pants are important to protect against the harsh Australian sun and wind. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry.  - Comfortable, closed-in shoes to protect your feet from cuts, scratches, bites and stings when walking through bush or grasslands. - A pair of sandals or thongs/flip flops for around camp or on the bus - Sun protection, including a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. - Wind & waterproof jacket. - Light weight, quick dry towel. - Headlamp or torch for around camp at night. - Sleep sheet (for warmer months) or extra sleeping layers (for colder months) - Battery pack/power bank for recharging your phone or camera - Refillable water bottle minimum 2 litres RECOMMENDED - Earplugs to get a good night's sleep at our campsite. - Binoculars for spotting wildlife. VALUABLES Try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables with you on holiday. Take a photo of all important documents (tickets, passport, vaccination certificate etc to keep on your phone).  MORE! If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list.

    https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

    WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill along the way. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. Your group leader or local representative will advise whether tap water is safe to drink in your destination and if it is you can simply refill with tap water. When unable to avoid bottled water it is better to buy the largest available and distribute into your smaller bottle for the day. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip you will need to carry at least 2L of water with you.

    Climate and seasonal

    CENTRAL AUSTRALIA WEATHER Central Australia, which includes Alice Springs, Uluru and the surrounding desert, has a semi-arid climate. The area experiences large variations in temperature from season to season. Temperatures can be extreme on either side of the scale. They can rise above 40C/104F in summer and can drop below 0C/32F overnight in winter. Make sure you are well prepared no matter the season!

    A couple of rules

    We like to think our Intrepid travellers are all connected by a love of adventure and passion for seeing the world in a different way. We've laid down a few non-negotiable rules to ensure everyone feels connected, comfortable and safe on our trips. We ask that you respect your fellow travellers, group leader or local representative, and local people and places we visit in all circumstances. We don't tolerate any forms of violence and expect that you follow the local laws, customs and regulations in any destination we travel to. Any behaviour contrary to the above, including any behaviour that prevents our staff from performing their duty of care or continuing the itinerary as planned, may result in travellers being removed from the trip. If you consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect you to abide by local alcohol laws. To ensure the well-being of everyone on the trip, all decisions made by group leaders or local representatives and ground staff are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. By travelling with us, you agree to comply with these rules and the laws and customs of all countries visited. If something is concerning you during your travels with us, please speak to your group leader or local representative immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in your Essential Trip Information’s Problems and Emergency Contact section.

    Feedback

    Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

    Emergency contact

    While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/ourtrips/contact/ ALL general enquiry must be directed to our reservations team. In case of a GENUINE EMERGENCY, or concerns about a missed pick-up on the day of departure ONLY, please contact our local Operations Team on the number listed below: 1300 544 882 or +61 8 6219 5164

    Responsible travel

    Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN As an Australian-owned business with a vision to change the way people see the world, Intrepid is committed to reconciliation and strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples. While Intrepid might have done a lot to empower communities, businesses and our partners around the world over the years, there’s still a lot for us to do here at home. We are working towards a better, more inclusive and fairer Australia. You can find more information about our Reconciliation Action Plan here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/reconciliation

    The Intrepid Foundation

    We created our not-for-profit, the Intrepid Foundation because you – our travellers – told us you wanted to make an even greater impact in the communities you visit. The Foundation works by teaming up with partners around the world so that together we can deliver greater positive impact at scale. Partners are identified by our local staff who live and work in our destinations. They harness their powerful community connections to determine the issues that matter most and select local partners who can deliver real solutions. Since 2002, the Intrepid Foundation has raised more than $14million dollars and supported more than 160 communities worldwide. Now, with over 40 partners all over the world, your donations are helping to restore forests in Kenya, empower women in Honduras and promote elephant welfare in Laos, to name just a few. For more information about the Intrepid Foundation, please ask your group leader or local representative or visit our website: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports Greening Australia, who are restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature. They’re taking action to rebuild resilient ecosystems across Australia, from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the cool island ark of Tasmania. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges through large on-ground restoration projects and research initiatives that help scale their impact. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit: www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/greening-australia

    Accommodation notes

    The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. PARTICIPATORY CAMPING Our camping trips in Australia stay in a variety of campsites, from powered sites with permanent tents and shared bathroom facilities, to bush camping in remote locations. Check your daily itinerary for more details. On all camping trips you will be expected to lend a hand to ensure your experience is a comfortable one for everyone, whether it is helping to bring equipment from the bus, gathering firewood, making your beds up in a tent, putting together your picnic lunch or helping to wash up. Your leader will let you know how you can contribute as well as ensure that we leave all our campsites ready for the next visitors when we depart.

    Transport notes

    DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA Australia is a BIG country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that's why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates. HOT WEATHER From October to March it is likely that you will experience temperatures over 35C/95F. These extreme temperatures place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your leader will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping cool and hydrated.

    Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services AUSTRALIANS TRAVELLING DOMESTICALLY Travel insurance will help ensure you’re protected in case of any unforeseen changes to your journey – such as flight cancellations or COVID-19 related disruptions. For this reason, we recommend you purchase comprehensive domestic travel insurance for your trip. This may not be something you would have typically done in the past when travelling domestically in Australia, but it does offer you a number of benefits in these dynamic times. While Australians and Australian Permanent Residents travelling within Australia are not required to be covered for hospital care due to being covered by Medicare, a comprehensive domestic travel insurance policy should cover you for expenses resulting from – among other things – COVID-19 related changes, including an outbreak in your destination or on your departure necessitating changes to your travel plans that incur additional costs. Domestic travel insurance plans may also include personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, loss of luggage and personal effects, and other benefits. It is also advisable that domestic travellers have current ambulance cover in the case of emergency evacuation or incidents requiring ambulance transportation. Please be sure to carefully check the policy’s inclusions with your preferred insurer.

    Your fellow travellers

    As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS The beauty of our style of travel is that it caters to travellers who are travelling solo and who want to meet and share experiences with like-minded people. On our trips rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. As a responsible tour operator, we strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. In the case that your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you. We also have an optional single supplement available on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. Please note that this only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will be on a single room basis. On a small selection of itineraries some accommodations are booked on an open gender, multi-share basis (for example on a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam). In those instances it will clearly be stated in our Essential Trip Information prior to booking and travelling.

    Itinerary disclaimer

    OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. ABORIGINAL & TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER CULTURAL EXPERIENCES & COMMUNITIES First Nations people have complex community obligations, and at times activities or experiences may be cancelled at late notice due to cultural commitments. In the case that we are unable to include planned activities with First Nations communities, we will endeavour to find a suitable alternative in the same or another destination on your trip.

    Accommodation

    Semi-permanent tents with shared facilities (3 nights)

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