FAQ about our Larapinta Trail Tours »

Fitness, feet and walking

Q: How fit do I need to be to walk the Larapinta Trail on one of your tours?

Fitness levels vary from trip to trip, but being well-prepared can help you enjoy your tour. We recommend a couple months' preparation before your tour, with some regular aerobic activity and a longer walk once a week. Our trips are slower paced, but this will help you to feel good for the duration of your holiday.

You can also have a look at the tour itineraries for more detailed, specific information about preparing for your chosen tour, and we are happy to talk to you about being prepared for your trip.

We also welcome Private and Group bookings, which can be a great way to tailor a tour to a group's level of experience and interests.

 

Q: Some days' walking distances seem pretty short. Why is that?

At times, the terrain dictates the speed at which we travel. Overall we like to have plenty of time to appreciate the scenery. Trek Larapinta isn’t about just ticking the box for another walk to do: it's about being in country!

These trips may not suit people who just want to run out in front. Although we come together as individuals, we are here as a group, and so walking is a balance between personal pace and group consideration and safety.

Our tours suits people who enjoy the chance to come together occasionally to sit in the shade, soak in the scenery, share a cuppa and have a chat, taking in the wider experience of being here.

 

Q: Do I have to walk every day?

No, you don't. Some people like to take a day off and enjoy their own space in the area around camp, reading, resting or just being. You are on holiday, after all!

 

Q: Are walking poles useful?

Walking poles are useful for uneven terrain and steep descents. If you are used to them, bring them along, and we also have poles for hire.

 

Q: What sort of footwear or shoes do I need on the Larapinta Trail?

Boots: Your footwear needs to be comfortable and preferrably worn in but not worn out. It needs to suit warm days and sharp, uneven rocky surfaces. You will probably know your own preferred walking footwear, whether it's a walking shoe or boot. We walk in good-quality, low-cut walking shoes with a good-quality firm sole, although we do at times wear light-weight boots, especially when carrying heavier loads.

If you are buying new boots for this trip, make sure you give yourself time to wear them in and seek the advice of knowledgable retailers in reputable outdoor equipment stores.

Socks: We wear thinner-style moisture wicking socks that allow good circulation and have padded soles (either synthetic or merino wool). We find they work well for these conditions. We find that wearing two pairs of socks at once can create too much heat and leave you more prone to blisters, but experienced walkers will know what they prefer.

 

Q: What about blisters?

Due to the dry and rough conditions and heat generated inside shoes while walking, we find that people can are more prone to blisters (even people that have never had them before) and that walking can exacerbate existing foot worries. If you suffer from problem nails, callouses or corns, you may like to have your feet seen to by a podiatrist, or you yourself can trim the nails.

If you do suffer from blisters, be sure to tape-up before the day's walk. Your guides are more than happy to assist you to take the care you need for a good day's walk. Your feet will be very valuable to you during this tour, and a little preparation can go a long way.

 

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