13-19 October 2024

$3,499

Trip Cost
Paid upfront or in instalments

3/5

Challenge Grade

$3,500

Self Donate OR Fundraise for AMCS

I'M SELF DONATING

I'M FUNDRAISING

The Difference You'll Make

Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches, iconic wildlife and precious marine ecosystems in the world. That’s why the work of the Australian Marine Conservation Society (AMCS) is so vital.

As threats to the ocean increase, from plastic pollution to warming waters and offshore drilling, AMCS is leading the movement to safeguard the places and species we all love.

By taking part in the Great Ocean Walk 100KM Challenge and pledging to raise $3,500, you will do your part to raise an incredible $100,000 - all of which goes directly to AMCS to support ocean conservation.

The Great Ocean Walk 100KM Challenge isn’t just an epic adventure, it’s an opportunity to protect Australia’s oceans and marine life.

How it works

FLEXIBLE BOOKINGS

Pay upfront or in flexible instalments

Cancel more than 90 days before departure to receive refund options (excluding deposit).

For more details, see our FAQs.

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Acknowledgement of country

The Australian Marine Conservation Society acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of this land and sea country, and we pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We acknowledge that this land and sea was and always will be Aboriginal land and sea. On this journey we will pass through Watha-wurrung, Gadabanud and Girai-Wurrung lands. Endeavours will be made to engage with local traditional owners and incorporated where possible.

Trip notes

Day 1, Sunday, 13 October 2024: Depart Melbourne - Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach

Note: As this adventure begins early on Day 1, you will need to arrive in Melbourne the day before the trek starts. Accommodation is NOT included on this night. Please do not book your flight home to depart before 7:30 pm on the last day.

Day 1, Sunday, 13 October 2024: Depart Melbourne - Apollo Bay to Shelly Beach

Our adventure begins! We meet our guides and board our private transfer at the National Gallery of Victoria. We’re treated to spectacular scenery along the Great Ocean Road as we make our way to Anglesea. There, we stop for morning tea and a welcome briefing before continuing to Apollo Bay where we’ll enjoy lunch and last-minute preparations for the trek: topping up water bottles and tightening laces.

Our first steps on the trail are through the beach-side suburb of Marengo, where fur seals hang out on rocks in the bay. Leaving the suburb behind, we trek into rural countryside, the open landscape revealing views along the coast looking south-west towards Cape Otway and north-east over the ranges surrounding Apollo Bay. Continuing on, we descend to a beach for a short rest before rejoining the trail as it winds into low rainforest, and then starts to climb into the Great Otway National Park just above Shelly Beach. Here we complete the day’s trek and transfer to our accommodation before sharing our first team dinner, getting to know each other and reflecting on a great first day.

Transfer Time: 3 hours

Trekking Distance: 9 km

Meals: L D

Day 2, Monday, 14 October 2024: Shelly Beach to Parker Inlet

Day 2, Monday, 14 October 2024: Shelly Beach to Parker Inlet

Our trek today is more challenging and leads away from the coast into the towering forests of Mountain Ash. At up to 65m high, these are some of the biggest trees in Australia and walking through the heart of the giant forest is a humbling experience, with hills to keep you working hard as you soak in the soaring tree canopy above. The trail rejoins the oceanside at Blanket Bay, an isolated stretch of coast, then meanders along the cliff tops and through coastal forests to the quiet haven of Parker Inlet. Keep your eyes open for black wallaby, echidna, black cockatoo, rosella and other wildlife along the way. With today’s challenging but rewarding walk complete, we return to our accommodation and enjoy a hearty dinner together.

Trekking Distance: 20.5 km

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Tuesday, 15 October 2024 Parker Inlet to Aire River

Day 3, Tuesday, 15 October 2024 Parker Inlet to Aire Rive

Today’s trek is all about the coast. We start our trek around Parker Inlet, which gives us the option to walk along the water’s edge following rock shelves and beaches around Point Franklin. The trail then heads inland through manna gums to the Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia’s oldest continuously operating lighthouse. Keep an eye out - you are almost sure to see koalas along this section! The trail winds its way through wind sculpted landscapes of sand dunes, coastal scrubland and magnificent calcified cliffs. At the Aire River Lookout, we enjoy views down to the estuary where the Aire River meets the Southern Ocean. The wetlands look quite spectacular from this vantage point. A nice steady downhill walk from the lookout takes us to a picnic area for lunch.

Trekking Distance: 16.5 km

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Wednesday, 16 October 2024: Aire River to Johanna Beach

Day 4, Wednesday, 16 October 2024: Aire River to Johanna Beach

From Aire River, the track heads inland for a while, climbing up and around the next headland through tea-tree forests, and then continues along the coastal path with sweeping views of the rugged coastline. Located on a spectacular bend of the Great Ocean Road at Glenaire, Castle Cove is a beautiful beach surrounded by towering cliffs which have high archaeological significance, as dinosaur fossils have been found here. From Castle Cove the track winds its way along the cliff tops, through heathlands and forests, occasionally emerging to give breathtaking and extensive views along the coast. The forest here is an interesting mixture of manna gums, spring wildflowers and magnificent expanses of grass trees. Make sure you keep an eye out above for Peregrine Falcons. Eventually you will emerge onto the broad expanse of Johanna Beach, one of the best in Australia with superb views and enormous crashing surf.

Trekking Distance: 14 km

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Thursday, 17 October 2024: Johanna Beach to Moonlight Head

Day 5, Thursday, 17 October 2024: Johanna Beach to Moonlight Head

The first part of today’s walk from Johanna Beach to Ryan’s Den is the wildest and most challenging section of the entire track. From Johanna Beach the track rises through rolling hills and farmland as it cuts inland before returning to the coast and one of the walk’s highlights, Milanesia Beach which receives few visitors and is all the more special for it. We then rollercoaster our way up to Ryan’s Den, our picturesque lunch stop for today with breathtaking views all the way back to Cape Otway and west to Cape Volney. After soaking in the scenery – arguably the most picturesque of the whole track—we continue through coastal forests to Moonlight Head. We check into our accommodation in Port Campbell for the last two nights.

Trekking Distance: 19 km

Meals: B L D

Day 6, Friday, 18 October 2024: Moonlight Head to Princetown

Day 6, Friday, 18 October 2024: Moonlight Head to Princetown

After Moonlight Head the track leads us to The Gables Lookout, perched on one of the highest sea cliffs in mainland Australia. Continuing along the track through a grove of casuarina trees Wreck Beach will come into view, where at low tide you can descend and see the anchors of two of the many shipwrecks that lie submerged along this coast. From Devils Kitchen we follow a new section of track that hugs the wild coastal cliffs towards Princetown where our day’s walking concludes. Tonight we enjoy one last team dinner (at own cost), happy to rest our feet and celebrate a successful adventure so far.

Trekking Distance: 17 km

Meals: B L

Day 7, Saturday, 19 October 2024: Princetown to Twelve Apostles - Return to Melbourne

Day 7, Saturday, 19 October 2024: Princetown to Twelve Apostles - Return to Melbourne

It’s the last day of our adventure, and we’ve saved one of the most iconic sights in Australia for today. We set out today near Princetown, home to a wide variety of birdlife in the surrounding wetlands. We reconnect with the Great Ocean Walk on the home stretch into Port Campbell National Park and the world-famous Twelve Apostles. Soon, the famous landmarks come into view with the last kilometre of the Great Ocean Walk taking us through to the Twelve Apostles Visitor Centre. You’ve done it! With the Apostles welcoming us, we celebrate the end of an incredible adventure. We head back into Port Campbell where we can purchase some lunch and collect our bags. It’s then time to transfer back to Melbourne, arriving at approximately 5:30 pm.

Transfer Time: 3 hours

Trekking Distance: 8.5 km

Meals: B

Note: At several points along the Great Ocean Walk we have the choice of walking along the beaches or rock platforms at low tide or following the inland trail. Due to the unpredictable nature of the tides, our guides will make a decision which is the safest route for the day.

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation in 3 star hotel based on twin share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Guide/s • Entrance fees as per itinerary

Doesn’t Include: Flights • Airport transfers • Pre/post tour accommodation in Melbourne • Travel insurance (highly recommended) • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

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Why you'll love this adventure

Challenge yourself as you trek 100 kms over 7 exhilarating days.
Witness some of the most dramatic and iconic scenery in Australia, from sheer limestone cliffs to deserted beaches, and mountain ash forests.
Raise vital funds for AMCS’s ocean protection work and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Great Ocean Trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 100 kilometres over 7 days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet, and better for you. Our adventures average between 10 - 20 participants, connected by their commitment to the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

AMCS has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $46 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and AMCS, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 5+ hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-Star accommodation

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

Can I donate instead?

Absolutely! If you prefer to make a donation rather than fundraise, you can do this via the fundraising page or directly to AMCS. The Inspired Adventures fundraising team will be able to advise you on how to make this donation once you register.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for AMCS are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Payments, cancellations and refunds

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is $3,499.

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,500 (per person) for AMCS.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you find yourself unable to attend, please notify us as soon as possible.

Cancellation within 5 days of registration will receive a full refund.
Cancellations more than 90 days prior to departure will receive a full refund minus the $950 deposit.
Cancellations within 90 days of departure will receive no refund. Please contact us and we can assist with writing you an insurance letter to claim your refund.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

Find Out More

Enter your details to find out more and hear directly from our team about how this adventure makes a difference.

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