How fit do I need to be?
This depends on which trek you choose to join. It is expected that all participants will have a good general level of health, fitness, and agility and be able to carry a pack weighing between 12-15 kg or even more on our Cape Range Challenge. Daytime temperatures can reach as high as 30°C, and afternoon trekking can be challenging. Time spent on the trail can vary between 6 and 8 hours per day; however, an eight-hour day will see you physically walking with your pack on for about half of that, with the rest of the time spent resting, swimming and enjoying the views.
Our Cape Range Explorer - One-day trekking adventure, for novice to intermediate skill levels or moderate fitness and agility. Expect one or two short treks, typically spanning 6 kilometres, subject to weather conditions and the group's fitness level. These treks entail navigating steep rocky gullies and uneven terrain, with your daypacks weighing up to 3 kilograms. During shoulder seasons, daytime temperatures can soar above 30°C, adding to the challenge posed by the terrain and distance.
Our Sunset Reef & Range overnight loop, two-day trek, will see you walking approximately 7 km on day 1 and again on day 2. Bear in mind that parts of this will be over rough, uneven ground and will involve negotiating occasional steep rocky gullies. Our guide will be mindful of the group’s experience and fitness levels and will at all times put your safety first and ensure you have plenty of time to enjoy the trek and take in the views at a leisurely pace.
Our East-West Traverse, three-day trek includes all of the above and more. Trekking up to 14 km on day 1 and 15 km on day 2 with a full pack over the very heart of Cape Range means you have to be fit, agile, and can be on the trail for up to 8 hours a day. This is a challenging walk; however, the pace will be comfortable, and there will, of course, be plenty of breaks along the way to enjoy the views, rest, and take it all in.
The Cape Range Challenge - four-day expedition, is just as the name suggests; without exception, you need to be very fit, strong, and agile. You will be expected to carry a full heavy pack over some extremely tough country at a steady pace. You must also be mentally prepared for the long days and early morning starts ahead. Do not even think of taking the Challenge unless you are confident of your ability and are mentally and physically prepared.
Do I need to train beforehand?
Yes, It is recommended that you train before commencing any trek. Whichever trek you have chosen, it will be more enjoyable if you’re well prepared. You don't want to find yourself reaching the top of that steep canyon and be bent over gasping for breath when you should be admiring the fantastic view with your fellow trekkers. What’s the best preparation for your trek? Get Trek-fit. Getting trek-fit will increase your enjoyment when you’re on your trek and help prevent injury. Plus, training for your trek is a great way to improve your overall health and well-being. A regular 1 - 2hr stroll is not enough to prepare you for 6-7 hours on the trail. Your training should start several months before your trek, and the following link will help you get Trek-Fit. Before starting any training program, you should consult your Doctor.
What should I bring?
For our two and three-day wilderness treks, you'll need suitable clothing, sturdy walking footwear and your personal items for two or three days in a remote wilderness environment. We provide all trekking and camping equipment, including your backpack, tent, sleeping system, cooking equipment, trekking poles, gaiters and other essential gear.
Remember, everything you bring you'll carry, so pack light and stick to the essentials. Our strategically placed water drops and food caches help keep pack weights comfortable throughout the trek.
A detailed What to Bring Guide will be emailed after booking and can also be downloaded here.
What do we eat?
To keep pack weights to a minimum, our meals are lightweight, nutritious and designed for remote trekking. Breakfast and evening meals consist of high-quality dehydrated meals that are quick to prepare after a long day on the trail, leaving little more to do than add boiling water. Lunches are more substantial and typically include fresh wraps filled with salad, meats and cheese, while fresh fruit, trail mix, nuts, muesli bars and other snacks keep energy levels up throughout the day.
As the sun sets over Cape Range, unwind with a complimentary wine and cheese board or gourmet dips while taking in the spectacular surroundings. On our longer treks, strategically placed food and water drops replenish supplies, allowing us to enjoy fresh food while venturing deep into the wilderness.
Do I need walking boots?
For our two and three-day wilderness treks, well-worn walking boots are strongly recommended. Cape Range's sharp limestone and rugged terrain are unforgiving, so sturdy boots with supportive, grippy soles will provide the best comfort and protection over multiple days.
For our one-day treks, quality hiking shoes are perfectly suitable, although well-worn walking boots remain our preferred option. Comfortable, enclosed walking shoes with good grip are acceptable, provided they are suitable for uneven rocky terrain.
Can children join your treks?
Guests on our scheduled one, two and three-day treks must be 16 years or older.
Families with younger children are welcome to enquire about our Ningaloo Private Wilderness Charter, which is suitable for children from 8 years of age. We also offer private multi-day wilderness treks for families with younger children, subject to suitability and a minimum charge equivalent to four paying guests.
Please get in touch to discuss the best option for your family.
Do you take private group bookings?
Absolutely. Private bookings are available for families, friends, clubs, schools, corporate groups and special interest groups, subject to availability.
Private experiences can be tailored to suit your interests and are available across our range of products, including the Ningaloo Private Wilderness Charter and private multi-day wilderness treks.
Depending on the experience, private groups can accommodate up to 12 guests.
Private multi-day wilderness treks are ideal for groups of four or more. If you're travelling as a smaller group of one to three guests, you can still enjoy an exclusive private trek by paying the equivalent of four adult fares.
Please call us on +61 422 570 043 or get in touch via email to discuss the best option for your group.
Will it be hot?
If booking at the beginning or end of the trekking season, May or September, daytime temps may well get up into the +30s. However, there is usually respite in the evening as the temperature drops into the mid-teens, and a warm sleeping bag is a comfortable companion. Winter daytime temperatures on the North West Cape average around 25°C and seldom get over 30°C, night time temps at this time of year average between 10-16°C
What if it rains?
Great! On the rare occasion that it does rain on the Cape you will get to see the country from a totally different perspective than most do. It is expected that all participants will have with them their wet weather gear, otherwise this may be purchased here in Exmouth. Our quality Australian “One Planet” tents can stand up to the harshest of storms to keep you snug as a bug at night, and when the rain has passed, the fly sheet can be removed to reveal the sprawling Milky Way overhead. Although we do get rainy days on the Cape it usually comes in showers rather then torrential downpours, these weather events are more typical of the hotter summer months (too hot for trekking) when tropical depressions and cyclones may skirt the region.
What about snakes?
In all the years I have trekked in the Australian bush, I have only occasionally encountered a snake; yes, they are there, and yes, some are venomous. However, all snakes are harmless when left alone. If we are lucky enough to see one, we will treat it with the respect it deserves, admire it from a safe distance, take a photo or two, then give it a wide berth and continue safely on our way.
What about flies?
Ah flies, the soundtrack of the Australian bush! Or the tormentors of your soul? We do get them in Western Australia; some days, they are bad, some days, they are worse, and some days, we don’t get any at all. The fly population varies depending on recent local weather events. Personally, they don’t bother me too much at all; however, some can't stand them; if this is you, I would recommend using an insect repelling cream and/or a fly head net. Remember though, the flies finish work for the day at sundown.
Can we bring our own equipment?
Yes, absolutely. You're welcome to bring your own equipment if you prefer. Please check our equipment list to ensure you have everything required. We provide all meals, although you're welcome to bring additional snacks or any favourite food items.
How do I get to Exmouth for my trek?
Many guests drive from Perth as part of a Western Australia road trip, while others fly directly to Exmouth. If you're planning to self-drive, hiring a campervan is a popular option as it gives you the flexibility to explore Kalbarri, Shark Bay, Coral Bay and Ningaloo at your own pace before or after your trek. For inspiration, see this Perth to Exmouth road trip guide.
Do you arrange airport pick up/drop off?
No. We do however pick you up and drop you back off at your accommodation in Exmouth, a simple google search will give you details of local businesses providing airport transfers.
Where do we store our luggage?
We don't have facilities to store excess luggage. Please arrange luggage storage with your accommodation provider in Exmouth.
Will there be phone reception?
Mobile phone reception is intermittent throughout Cape Range. Part of the wilderness experience is switching off, immersing yourself in the landscape and escaping the distractions of everyday life. Turn your phone off and enjoy the moment.