Frequently asked questions about Twelve Apostles
Following are a few frequently asked questions about our Twelve Apostles / Great Ocean Road walks that you may find useful.
- How often do trips depart?
Our walks depart reguarly from 1 September through to 31 May. We will be offering a number of winter departures in July and August - please check the booking calendar for dates.
- Walk accommodation
Whilst walking with us you will experience truly spectacular accommodation. Each night you will return to our Twelve Apostles Lodge, nestled into rainforest surrounds in Johanna. The lodge boasts shared spaces to relax in, spacious bedrooms (twin-share), an outdoor lounge and rejuvenating foot spas.
- How many guests will be on my trip?
Each trip requires a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 10 guests.
- How fit do I need to be?
As long as you regularly exercise, or are capable of walking between 7 - 17 km's each day you should enjoy the experience. The best preparation for a walk is walking! Do some hill training and increase your distances over time. If you have any concerns about fitness please call and speak to one of our staff members.
- How much weight do we carry?
Your 32-litre day pack should weigh no more than 5kgs. You will carry your lunch, water, a waterproof jacket and any personal items each day.
- What style of shoes should we have?
Please refer to the guide below for recommended footwear for this walk.
DOWNLOAD FOOTWEAR GUIDE
If you have any questions about footwear, please contact our team on (03) 6392 2211 or bookings@auswalkingco.com.au - Do we need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend travel insurance. Consideration needs to be given to our cancellation policy, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. We do not refund for such occurrences, therefore travel insurance is your only safeguard.
- How many guides are there?
Every trip has two experienced guides. This allows plenty of opportunities to rest, take photos and walk at your own pace.
- How about food?
All meals are provided, including scrumptious three-course dinners with fresh produce from local suppliers prepared for you in our lodge by your guides/host. All evening meals are served with a selection of local wines. We are happy to cater for special dietary requirements, we just need to know in advance.
*Please note in the best interests of our guests and staff we promote the responsible service of alcohol. - What time does the trip commence and conclude?
If you would like a transfer from Melbourne our shuttle will meet you at Mercure Melbourne Southbank, 9 Riverside Quay, Southbank Victoria at 7.45am. Please note we do not travel via the Great Ocean Road.
For those who wish to self-drive, please contact our Reservation’s team to discuss your options.
If you are transferring back to Melbourne with us we can drop you at the Tullamarine Airport between 5pm and 5.30pm (please book domestics flights no earlier than 6.30pm or international flights no earlier than 7.30pm). We will then transfer to Mercure Melbourne Southbank between 5.30pm and 6pm.
- What accommodation options do we have pre-and post-walk?
For your convenience, you may like to stay at Mercure Melbourne Southbank the evening prior to your walk as this is where our shuttle departs from. You are more than welcome to choose alternate accommodation just please ensure you are ready to leave from Mercure Melbourne Southbank at 7.45am.
- Are there age restrictions?
The minimum age for guests walking with us is 12 years old. There are no upper age restrictions, however, for guests walking with us who are 69 or above, we do require a GP to sign off on a letter we provide.
- How do I support the Tasmanian Walking Company Foundation?
We are committed to inspiring positive change and preserving the wild places we walk through for generations to come. That's why we launched the Tasmanian Walking Company Foundation in 2020, so we can focus on supporting environmental and community projects close to our hearts.
You can support the foundation in a number of ways:
Tasmanian Walking Company Foundation Shop
From merino shirts, to drink bottles and art. We sell a range of outdoor and hiking gear at our walker bases and in our online shop. 100% of proceeds from sales go directly towards projects that the Tasmanian Walking Company Foundation supports.
Shop online→
Give today - Help support the delicate areas we walk through
100% of your donations go directly to our projects. All administrative costs are paid for by the Tasmanian Walking Company and Australian Walking Company. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.
Give today→
Read and share stories
Head to our website and read about the issues affecting the areas we walk through. Tell a friend and get them involved, or simply keep an eye out next time you're on the track!
Learn more→
Need help deciding? Talk to an expert
We're here to help 9am – 5pm Monday to Saturday, otherwise, email us anytime and we'll be in touch.