The Best of the K’gari (Fraser Island) Great Walk – Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the meeting point for the walk (where does it depart)?
The walk departs from Hervey Bay, Queensland and a ferry transfer takes walkers over to K’gari (Fraser Island). The closest airport is the Hervey Bay Airport (HVB) which has direct flights to and from Brisbane and Sydney. Other transport options are available, including bus, train and car hire. We offer a complimentary private pickup from the airport or accommodation in Hervey Bay on the morning of departure.
How many guests will be on the walk?
The walk has a maximum of 6 guests, we require a minimum of 4 confirmed guests to run the walk.
What level of fitness do I need to participate?
Fraser Island’s diversity means that walkers go through a variety of vegetation. Tracks are generally gentle gradients, but are quite steep in some sections, Grade 3 & 4 tracks. These are bush tracks, expect normal leaf litter and unevenness of the surface. Walkers require a good level of fitness, balance and be steady on their feet. We recommend that walkers do some preparation by taking long day walks, in their local area, in and around natural spaces carrying a small day pack.
Are there age restrictions for the walk?
There is a minimum age limit of 12 years and over. Anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. There are no upper age restrictions for walkers with suitable ability, however walkers with medical conditions should check with the operator before booking.
What do I need to bring for each day’s walk?
Read our full list below of travel items to pack before embarking on the walk. All walkers need good quality hiking boots, preferably with ankle support. TIP: make sure you wear them in prior to the walk to avoid blisters. Hiking poles are optional but we do recommend bringing one as it can be used to help you navigate up any steep sand dunes. A light rain jacket is a must for unexpected rain during the walk. A waterproof bag for swimmers is also important, so that walkers can store wet items while walking. Insect repellent is also recommended while walking.
Can we use the facilities at the Kingfisher Resort?
Yes, anyone staying at Waiuta Retreat is allowed to access the facilities at the resort. These include the Sand Bar and pool, the Jetty Hut, Seabells Restaurant, Resort pool, Spa etc.
What will the weather conditions be like?
The climate of K’gari (Fraser Island) is subtropical, with warm daytime temperatures throughout the entire year. The winter months are from May to August, where the average temperatures are 14-25°C (57-77 degrees F). Winter is the drier season of the year and it is less likely that you will see much rainfall during walking season. If it does rain it’s generally short showers.
Can we book the walk as exclusive use and have it tailor made?
Yes, we offer an exclusive package for couples or groups who can book their own private walk. If there is a group of 2 – 6 then they can choose their own date subject to availability. This also allows for a tailor made itinerary according to the interest and fitness levels. For example: if all hikers were passionate photographers or bird watchers, then the hike can be tailored to these interests (please note that exclusive packages have a different pricing structure, as they are classed as a private charter). Contact our friendly team for to enquire.
Accommodation – Waiuta Retreat:
Nestled in nature adjacent the Great Sandy Strait National Park, our comfortable, spacious, accommodations settle within the natural landscape. Our elevated position captures the gentle sea breeze and a spectacular vista over the canopy to water views of the Great Sandy Strait. Tranquil, private, and features large, comfortable, queen beds, open living area, and an expansive deck to water views.
Catering:
Healthy, delicious meals made from local produce where possible, will be prepared for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is an enhanced continental style buffet; with gourmet muesli, cereals and breads, seasonal fruit and yogurt, along with a selection of teas, coffees and juices. We also provide daily high energy snacks, juice and water in your own snack bag for access on the trail. Walkers are spoiled with a freshly prepared lunch in beautiful locations along the great walk track. These could include: Turkish, cajun chicken burger, gourmet salad and cold meat sandwiches and Mediterranean wraps. In the evening back at Waiuta Retreat, sunset canapés and drinks precede a gourmet meal each evening. The evening meal will be based on seasonal produce from the land and sea. Creating sumptuous dishes from local seafood, i.e. scollops, prawns and locally caught fish, or poultry, i.e. free range chicken or duck, with a vegetarian option for all meals on request. All meals are accompanied by quality Australian organic red or white wine.
The best quality fresh produce and ingredients are sourced locally in season. We take care to provide healthy meals for our walkers and we cater for most dietary needs upon request (vegetarian, vegan, gluten and lactose free etc). Delicious hearty meals and snacks provide walkers with all the energy required to sustain on the walking adventure.
Suggested list of packing items to bring:
- 2 Light weight walking pants
- 2 Light weight walking shorts
- 4 Light weight t-shirts
- Fleece jumper/sweater or similar
- Light weight rain jacket
- 2 evening clothes, for evenings/dinner.
- 4 Hiking socks
- Hiking boots – good quality, with ankle support
- Shoes (runners/trainers or comfortable shoes)
- Thongs/ slippers/ flip-flops
- Swimming costume
- Personal toiletries
- Prescribed medicines, general medicine as approved by your Doctor ie. Aspirin, paracetamol.
- Hiking day pack (to carry as you walk)
- Phone, camera etc. and their chargers
- 1lt water bottle (or Camelbak style if you prefer)
- Hiking poles
- Hat, sunglasses
- Light-weight swimming towel
We will supply:
- Accommodation and linen
- General sustainable toiletaries (shampoo, conditioner, soap)
- All gourmet meals, canapes and drinks
- Natural Fraser Island water to refill your water bottles
- Packed trail mix, snacks and juice.
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitizer
- Basic First Aid Kits
- Emergency Radio
- National Park Permit
- Barge transfer
- 2 experienced guides, one driving 4WD and one guiding through the walk