Below you’ll find clear answers to the most common questions about the Great Ocean Walk and our Self-Guided, pack-free walking tours.
These FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip, including transport and shuttles, accommodation options, camping, safety, food and water, and what to expect on the track each day.
If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please contact our friendly Apollo Bay team — we’re always happy to help you plan the perfect Great Ocean Walk experience.
The Great Ocean Walk begins in Apollo Bay, with the official trailhead located beside the Apollo Bay Visitor Information Centre.
From there, the track follows the coastline west through the Great Otway National Park and finishes at the iconic Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park.
There is no walking track beyond the Twelve Apostles, so this is the official end of the Great Ocean Walk.
The official Great Ocean Walk is listed by Parks Victoria as 100 km, based on the distance between the hike-in campgrounds.
However, once you include access points, lookout detours and walking to and from trailheads, most hikers cover around 104 km.
If you add the short loop around the Cape Otway Lighthouse and a few optional scenic detours, the total distance can reach 108–109 km.
(Fun fact: when the walk first opened over 20 years ago it was 91 km long — that’s where Walk91 gets its name! The trail has since been extended and improved.)
Yes — with Walk91, you enjoy pack-free walking. You only carry a small day pack, and we transport your luggage for you each day.
On any day you change accommodation, your bags are moved ahead of you so they’re waiting when you arrive. On the final day, after you finish at the Twelve Apostles, we drive you back to Apollo Bay and return your luggage.
If you have extra bags you don’t need on the track, Walk91 can store your luggage safely until your walk is complete.
The Great Ocean Walk starts in Apollo Bay, and the easiest way to reach it by public transport is via the V/Line train and coach service. It’s cheap, reliable, and runs daily.
Take a V/Line train from Melbourne Southern Cross (or Geelong if landing at Avalon Airport).
At Geelong Station, transfer to the connecting V/Line coach to Apollo Bay.
You only need one ticket for the whole journey. Book Here.
The coach waits for the train to arrive, and it stops directly outside the Apollo Bay Visitor Information Centre — right at the start of the Great Ocean Walk.
Sit on the left-hand side for stunning ocean views.
Travel time (approx):
Melbourne → Geelong: ~1 hour
Geelong → Apollo Bay: ~2.5 hours
Check times and buy tickets at: https://www.vline.com.au
If you finish at the Twelve Apostles, you won’t return to Apollo Bay on our Walk91 shuttle bus until 4:30–5:00 pm — after the last V/Line bus has already left.
We recommend:
Staying one night in Apollo Bay, or
Asking Walk91 about staying in Port Campbell after your walk.
Shuttle every ~15 minutes
~20 minutes to Southern Cross
Approx. $25 one way. Pay in advance or
Direct to Southern Cross train station
~20–40 minutes depending on traffic
Avalon Airport is closer to Geelong, so I you are not intending to visit the CBD, this option might be a great fit you.
~20–30 minutes (allow more time for safety)
Check times match your flight
~20–30 minutes to Geelong Station
Direct airport-to-Geelong shuttle
~1 hour 15 minutes
Approx. $36 (2026)
Must book in advance
Connects with the V/Line bus to Apollo Bay. You can then buy a ticket to Apollo bay and the start of the Great Ocean Walk by selecting ‘Geelong Station: Railway Terrace Station’ to ‘Apollo Bay: Information Centre, Great Ocean Rd’ here.
~1 hour depending on traffic
More info: https://gull.com.au
Yes — Walk91 can arrange this for you when booking a multi-day Great Ocean Walk package. If you prefer, you can park your car near the Twelve Apostles (the end of the walk), and we will transfer you back to the starting point in Apollo Bay before your hike begins.
Most walkers, however, choose to leave their car in Apollo Bay. You simply walk as far as your chosen itinerary allows, and we meet you at the end of your walk and return you to your car, no matter which end point you finish at.
Please note that a start-point transfer from the Twelve Apostles is an additional service and incurs a fee.
Even though you are ultimately walking back to your car, our team still needs to:
meet you at your final end point,
return your luggage,
collect any borrowed items (safety beacon, walking poles, etc.).
Availability depends on scheduling, so please ask us for a quote when planning your walk.
If you’re driving to Apollo Bay to begin the Great Ocean Walk, Parks Victoria recommends parking near the Apollo Bay Police Station on Nelson Street. You can also park free of charge at Marengo Beach car park, just a few minutes from town.
Another option is the Apollo Bay Recreation Reserve, which sometimes offers paid parking for a small fee. To check availability and current rates, call 03 5237 6577.
Please note: Vehicles are left at your own risk.
Walk91 cannot guarantee the safety of your vehicle and is not responsible for any damage, loss, or outcomes resulting from parking recommendations. However, in over 20 years, we have never had a single report of theft or damage to a guest’s vehicle.
With Walk91’s catered package, you enjoy delicious, home-made meals so you can focus entirely on the walk. (Important note – once you start walking there are no shops or restaurants! You are not walking through towns.)
Walk91 can offer meals tailored to the following preferences if required:
Vegetarian
Vegan
Meals made with gluten-free ingredients
(NOT suitable for coeliac disease or severe allergies—trace gluten may be present)
Dairy-free meals
(NOT suitable for casein anaphylaxis—risk of cross-contamination)
No nuts / no shellfish
(NOT suitable for anaphylaxis—trace amounts may still be present)
⚠️ Important:
We cannot provide that meals meet strict medical requirements (coeliac disease, anaphylaxis, FODMAP, sugar-free, keto, etc.).
If you have specific medical dietary needs, please contact us before booking—or consider our self-catered walking options.
Most accommodation providers along the Great Ocean Walk are not legally permitted to cook for guests. When this is the case, Walk91 arranges a fresh, home-made meal delivery service from Apollo Bay. Your meals are delivered directly to your accommodation, and you simply heat or serve them whenever you’re ready, giving you complete flexibility after a day on the track.
This system works extremely well — because we are not locked into using just one accommodation provider, we can choose the perfect accommodation to suit you and your group. Your meals are delivered wherever you stay, so we design your walk around your needs, not ours.
Menus vary throughout the season, but a typical dinner may include:
Crackers, dip, cheese and nibbles
Occasionally a homemade pumpkin and carrot soup
You may receive delicious meals such as:
Chicken Cacciatore with homemade gnocchi
Slow-cooked beef “one-pot” stew
Chicken and vegetable casserole
Chicken curry with lentil dahl, roti and rice
Roasted vegetable and ricotta lasagne with healthy side salads
Roasted meat with a seasonal salad or roasted vegetables
Moroccan vegetable stew with couscous, chermoula and a fresh side salad
Spiced apple cake
Almond–orange cake with cream or yoghurt
Fresh fruit salad
You will receive everything you need to prepare fresh sandwiches each morning, using locally baked bread, salad items, and local cold meats.
Breakfast provisions typically include:
Yoghurt
Muesli
Fruit
Bacon and eggs (you may cook these yourself)
This setup keeps your meals fresh, flexible, and satisfying — perfect fuel for your Great Ocean Walk adventure.
With our self-catered, pack-free Great Ocean Walk option, Walk91 transports your food supplies and luggage each day, so you only carry a light day pack while walking. This gives you the freedom to enjoy a fully pack-free experience while still eating exactly what you like.
We recommend packing your provisions in fold-away insulated ice bags (affordable, lightweight supermarket versions are ideal).
Please do not bring large hard eskies / cool boxes, as these are too heavy for our drivers to lift safely.
You can purchase all your non-perishable supplies in Apollo Bay before your walk begins. Your food bags are moved at the same time as your luggage.
Please note:
We cannot store food in fridges, and
Our vehicles are not refrigerated,
so only bring items that travel well without cooling.
Remember to pack the basics, as there are no shops along the Great Ocean Walk:
Tea and coffee
UHT or long-life milk
Cooking oil or butter substitute
Breakfast items
Snacks and lunch ingredients
Other non-perishable meal supplies
Walk91 also cannot deliver food into accommodation before check-in (usually after 3pm), so please plan accordingly.
If you would like to bring alcohol, we can move it with your luggage and provisions as part of your pack-free service.
There is a small café at Cape Otway Lighthouse, but it is often closed, so do not rely on it for resupplying food or drinks.
Water bottles can be refilled at each accommodation — an important part of staying hydrated during your walk.
If you have any more questions regarding food on the Great Ocean Walk, or self-catering, please feel free to contact us.
No — there are no shops on the Great Ocean Walk, and you do not pass through any towns, so you must bring all the food and snacks you need each day.
Most walkers either pack their own supplies or book a pack-free catered self-guided walk or self-catered package before starting their walk.
Alternatively, if you use Walk91’s Great Ocean Walk shuttle service, you can buy provisions for your daily packed lunch in Apollo Bay, and enjoy your breakfast and dinner back in town each day.
There is a small café at the Cape Otway Lighthouse that occasionally sells coffee and sandwiches, but opening hours vary and it is often closed — so please do not rely on it for supplies.
You can refill your water bottles at your accommodation each day.
There are no reliable water refill points on the track itself.
No — there is no treated drinking water available along the Great Ocean Walk. Campsite tanks only hold untreated rainwater, and these tanks can sometimes be empty, especially in dry months.
If you plan to rely on campsite water, you should bring water purification tablets or a filtration system, but even with purification, water availability is not guaranteed.
If you are staying in Walk91 accommodation, you can refill your water bottles each morning, which is the safest and most reliable way to ensure you have enough water for each day’s walk.
We recommend carrying 2–3 litres of water per person per day, using either refillable bottles or a hydration system.
A hydration system is a hands-free way to carry and drink water while hiking.
It usually refers to a hydration bladder — a flexible water reservoir that sits inside your backpack with a drinking tube that clips to your shoulder strap.
This allows you to sip water regularly without stopping or removing your pack, which is especially helpful on longer days of the Great Ocean Walk.
Most hydration systems hold 2–3 litres, but many walkers prefer to use multiple reusable water bottles instead. The key is simply to start each day with enough water, as refilling on the track is not possible.
If you are car camping, Walk91 can help with water support.
We can deliver large containers of treated town water to your campsite, stored securely in our trailer, so you have reliable access throughout your stay.
This service is available as part of our Great Ocean Walk camping packages.
Please refer to the link below for details on package options where this water support is included:
👉 Great Ocean Walk Camping Packages – Water Support Included
Camping on the Great Ocean Walk – selected sights
To protect the environment and ensure a safe experience for all walkers, there are specific fire and campsite rules along the Great Ocean Walk.
Hike-in campsites do not have communal fire facilities.
Only fuel stoves or gas cookers may be used at these sites.
Some drive-in campsites do have shared fireplaces, where fires are permitted only in the fireplaces provided.
Fuel stoves and gas barbecues are preferred at all campsites and are the safest cooking option, especially during warmer months.
Bring your own drinking water and firewood, as these are not supplied at hike-in sites.
(Note: firewood collection is not permitted in national parks.)
The Great Ocean Walk is designed to offer peace and quiet.
To maintain this experience for everyone, generators are not permitted at any campsite.
Following these guidelines helps reduce fire risk, protects local wildlife habitats, and keeps the Great Ocean Walk a peaceful, safe, and sustainable experience for all hikers.
Important note! Please beware of total fire ban days. Carry a transistor radio and tune into 774 Melbourne for information and updates or refer to the ABC emergency website.
You may also want to download the official VicEmergency app for Victorian fire information. This app provides emergency warnings and information for a range of incidents, not just fires. You can set up “watch zones” for the areas you want to monitor.
If a Total Fire Ban is declared, you must follow all official restrictions while walking the Great Ocean Walk. Before you begin each day, check the latest warnings and restrictions via:
Victorian Bushfire Information Line: 1800 240 667
CFA Warnings & Restrictions: https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/warnings-restrictions
VicEmergency App or emergency.vic.gov.au
Once you start your walk, it is your responsibility to comply with all fire restrictions in place.
During fire season, it is strongly recommended to carry a small AM/FM radio so you can receive emergency broadcasts and updates about Total Fire Ban days, as mobile coverage can be unreliable.
If a fire occurs while you are on the trail, evacuation points are signposted at all Great Ocean Walk hike-in campsites. Follow the marked routes and be prepared to act quickly if instructions change.
Yes — there are toilets along the Great Ocean Walk, and most are composting toilets located at major campsites and key access points. Toilets are available at:
Apollo Bay
Marengo Caravan Park (may not always be open to the public)
Shelly Beach car park
Cape Otway Lighthouse car park
Johanna Beach (drive-in camping area)
Twelve Apostles Visitor Area
Elliot Ridge
Blanket Bay
Parker Hill
Cape Otway hike-in campsite
Aire River
Johanna hike-in campsite
Ryan’s Den
Devil’s Kitchen
There are no bins in the National Park, so please:
Do not leave toilet paper on the track
Carry out all rubbish, including used toilet paper and hygiene products
Using the provided toilets helps protect the environment and keeps the trail clean for everyone.
The Great Ocean Walk is considered a moderate multi-day hike, and a general level of fitness is required. Parks Victoria grades each section clearly so you know which parts are easier and which are more challenging.
(You can also refer to Walk91’s Hiker’s Guide to Trail Grades in Australia for full grading details.)
Because the walk involves several consecutive days of hiking with no built-in rest days (unless arranged), we recommend doing some walking training beforehand—especially if you haven’t completed a long-distance walk before.
When you’re researching “all-inclusive” or “pack-free” walking holidays, it may seem like every company offers the same thing — but they don’t.
This is where Walk91’s premium point of difference truly matters.
At Walk91, premium means care in every step; genuine flexibility, safety, and support from a local, family-run team that lives right here on the Great Ocean Walk.
We design every trip around you, and we provide real-time assistance that most out-of-town operators simply cannot match.
Learn more about what makes us a premium operator here
Nature doesn’t always follow a plan, so neither do we.
If the weather changes, or if you would prefer a shorter day, that’s completely fine. Every Walk91 itinerary includes optional exit points, so you can safely shorten or adjust your walk.
Over the past 20 years, we’ve developed a real-time tracking system that helps us monitor your approximate pace and arrival windows. This ensures:
Minimal waiting time for pick-ups
Your luggage arrives when you do (or before!)
Flexible support if distances feel too long on any given day
If you find the walking too difficult, feel unwell, or become injured, we can transfer you to your accommodation when we move your luggage.
We simply ask for flexibility with pick-up times, as our small local team coordinates support for all walkers on the track.
If you’d like a rest day built into your itinerary, just let us know and we’ll happily add one — another part of our premium flexibility.
Yes — Walk91 provides full transport support for your Great Ocean Walk experience.
Once you arrive for your self-guided Great Ocean Walk, after your personal walk briefing, we transport you to the start of your walk, unless your itinerary begins by walking straight out of Apollo Bay.
Each day, depending on your itinerary, you will either:
Walk directly into your accommodation, or
Be transported to and from your accommodation as specified in your personalised schedule.
All transfers listed in your itinerary quote are included, and Walk91 will also return you to Apollo Bay on the afternoon your walk concludes.
We also use a text-based tracking system to estimate your walking pace and coordinate shuttle times.
This allows us to:
Reduce waiting times
Adjust to your pace
Provide flexible, responsive support each day
If you prefer not to move accommodation each night, Walk91 also offers a multi-day shuttle bus service that travels in and out of Apollo Bay. This option allows you to stay in one location while completing different sections of the Great Ocean Walk at your own pace.
Both transport options give you freedom, flexibility, and a truly pack-free walking experience.
Yes — it is possible to arrange private transfers from Melbourne CBD or Melbourne Airport to Apollo Bay. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially for groups.
Most walkers, however, choose the V/Line train and coach service, which is cheap, reliable and easy to use. Trains run from Melbourne Southern Cross to Geelong, where you connect to the V/Line coach to Apollo Bay.
Walk91’s private transfer service is subject to availability.
If you would like a quote, simply email us your group size and travel details, and we will check availability and pricing for you.
You cannot walk from the Twelve Apostles to Port Campbell, as there is no walking track beyond the official end point.
The Great Ocean Walk finishes at the Twelve Apostles, and your Walk91 package includes a transfer back to Apollo Bay unless you choose an alternative option.
However, if you would like to extend your trip and spend the night in Port Campbell after your walk concludes, Walk91 can arrange this for you for an additional fee.
This option works especially well for walkers without a car, as you do not need to return to Apollo Bay on the same day.
Walk91 offers two flexible options:
If you have left your car in Apollo Bay, we can pick you up from Port Campbell at approximately 11:00am the following morning.
Allow around 2 hours for the journey back to Apollo Bay.
We can arrange transport from Port Campbell to Camperdown Station, where you can catch a V/Line train to Melbourne or Geelong.
Please note:
V/Line train fares are not included in this additional service.
Walkers book and pay for their own train tickets directly via V/Line:
👉 https://www.vline.com.au (Plan Trip / Buy Tickets)
Yes — you can purchase the official Parks Victoria “Great Ocean Walk Information Guide and Topographic Map” through Walk91.
This is the recommended map for all walkers and is available on our Great Ocean Walk Map page, where you can buy both the fold-out map and the ring-bound booklet version.
The booklet is sturdy, weather-resistant, and bound with a ringbinder edge, making it easy to flip pages while walking.
Many hikers prefer this format over the traditional fold-out map because it’s easier to handle in wind and rain.
You may also purchase official maps from:
Visitor Information Centres in Lorne, Apollo Bay, and Port Campbell (look for the yellow & blue i symbol)
Parks Victoria (sometimes available via phone order with credit card)
Local newsagents or map stores (availability varies)
For convenience, accuracy, and to ensure you receive the correct edition, we recommend purchasing directly from our Walk91 Map Page.
The official map is highly valuable for:
Navigation: Essential in forest sections and on the tide-dependent high/low route options
Safety: Helps you locate the nearest road, exit point, or shelter during emergencies
Planning: Includes campsite locations, elevation profiles, distances, and route notes
Tide & weather awareness: Shows beach access points and inland detours for avoiding ocean surges or strong winds
The 1:25,000 scale topographic map provides:
The entire route from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles
All campsites, access points, and decision points
Key features, lookout points, and emergency contacts
Terrain details including forest sections, coastal heath, steep climbs, river crossings, and wild beaches
If you book a Walk91 walking package, you’ll receive a complimentary map booklet during your personal walk briefing.
During the briefing we will cover:
Key decision points
Tide-dependent route options
Our text check-in system
Safety advice and any questions you may have
Providing your medical details and next-of-kin information is optional, but we strongly recommend it for your safety while walking the Great Ocean Walk.
Before your walk begins, we invite you to share any details that may be important in an emergency, such as:
Relevant medical conditions
Current medications
Known allergies (please note we do not cater for food allergies due to possible cross- contamination)
Next-of-kin or emergency contact information
Your car registration (if leaving a vehicle in Apollo Bay)
All information is kept strictly confidential and will only be shared with emergency services if required.
Providing this information helps us respond quickly and appropriately should an unexpected situation arise on the track.
Your safety is always our top priority — which is why Walk91 is recognised as a premium Great Ocean Walk operator with real-time local support throughout your journey.
Yes — camping is allowed on the Great Ocean Walk, but only at the official hike-in campsites managed by Parks Victoria. If you plan to camp, please read our dedicated guide here:
👉 Camping on the Great Ocean Walk (insert your link)
Walk91 offers a unique service to help campers walk pack-free:
You can store your heavy packs and food in our secure trailer.
We move the trailer along the trail as you progress each day.
You only carry a day pack while walking.
Please note that some campsites do not have vehicle access, so our trailer can only meet you at the designated drive-in locations. Your itinerary will clearly show which nights are accessible by vehicle so you can book the correct campsites and know what to expect.
Even with the trailer service, we still recommend packing light, as hike-in sections require carrying essential items yourself.
If you prefer a combination of camping and accommodation, Walk91 can arrange a custom itinerary that blends both styles — perfect for walkers who want a little comfort between remote nights.
Just get in touch and we’ll create a plan that suits your group.
Just get in touch!
If you only require one or two shuttles on the Great Ocean Walk, please email Great Ocean Walk Shuttle.
If unavailable, they can usually provide additional contact numbers for other local operators who may be able to help.
Walk91 occasionally offers one-off shuttles, but please note:
Our priority is always our premium Great Ocean Walk packages, where we plan for minimum waiting times, real-time support, and flexible pick-ups for our multi-day walkers.
For this reason, availability for single shuttles is limited.
If you prefer to base yourself in Apollo Bay for your entire walk, and complete the track in sections, our Great Ocean Walk shuttle bus may be the most suitable option.
For many walkers, the Great Ocean Walk is their first ever multi-day hike, and feeling supported from start to finish makes a huge difference. This is exactly where choosing a locally owned and operated company like Walk91 truly matters.
Because we live here in Apollo Bay, we are always close by. Walkers love meeting us in person on Day One for their private walk briefing, where we explain the track in detail and answer any questions.
At your briefing, we provide:
An EPIRB emergency beacon
A Telstra mobile phone (best reception on the Great Ocean Walk)
Maps, safety notes, tide guidance, and personalised tips
You begin your walk feeling confident, supported and fully prepared.
We use a specialised text check-in system that helps us estimate your walking pace each day and minimise waiting times for pickups.
And because we have our own Walk91 drivers and Walk91 vehicles—not taxis or subcontractors—we can offer far more flexibility than companies operating from out of town.
Do keep in mind that access points along the trail are limited, but our local team always does its best to support you safely and efficiently.
One of Walk91’s biggest advantages is that we are not locked into contracts with specific accommodation providers.
This means we can place you in the best accommodation for your group, based on:
Your comfort level
Sleeping arrangements
Budget
Preferences
Other operators often choose accommodation based on where catering is possible…
but we don’t need to.
Because Walk91 can deliver fresh, homemade meals directly to your accommodation, we are not limited to placing you only where private in-house catering services are available.
Every walker is different, so every itinerary can be customised.
If you want to:
Shorten a day
Add a rest day
Adjust distances
Mix camping and accommodation
Change pick-up times
Request something special
…we can almost always make it happen. Send us a message and we will see how we can help custom make your prefect Great Ocean Walk holiday.
Yes — many walkers choose the Great Ocean Walk as a personal fitness challenge.
Some people aim to complete the track in four or five days, which is only recommended for very fit and experienced walkers or runners. Fitness groups also often book the trail as a shared goal, training together at home before taking on the challenge in Victoria.
Others use the Great Ocean Walk as a training walk to prepare for more demanding treks around the world. The changing terrain, distances, and multi-day format make it an excellent preparation tool for bigger adventures.
Don’t worry — we’ve got your back.
If you start your Great Ocean Walk and realise you can’t walk as far as planned, we can usually adjust your itinerary after you arrive. Our local drivers and flexible logistics allow us to shorten sections, alter pick-up points, or provide transfers where needed.
This is one of the reasons Walk91 is known as a premium, flexible Great Ocean Walk operator — we design your walk around you, not the other way around.
Yes — absolutely. If you would like to follow one of our advertised walking itineraries but include a rest day, we can easily build this into your trip.
Our team will chat with you about:
Where a rest day fits best within your walking itinerary
Which accommodation you’ll be staying in at that point
What kind of rest day you’d prefer — relaxing, exploring, or sightseeing
How to ensure it flows smoothly with your daily walking distances
Because Walk91 designs every Great Ocean Walk experience around your needs, adding a rest day is no problem at all.
To plan your personalised itinerary, simply contact us via our
👉 Custom Great Ocean Walk Tour Packages page,
and we’ll help create the perfect adventure for you.
We understand that every group includes a mix of fitness levels and walking capabilities, and you can absolutely plan for this in advance.
If you have faster and slower walkers, we can tailor-make your Great Ocean Walk itinerary so everyone starts together in the morning, but returns at different times.
For example:
Your group can be dropped off together each morning.
In the afternoon, we can arrange two separate pick-ups instead of one.
Our local team can monitor both groups throughout the day using our text check-in system, ensuring everyone is supported, safe, and collected at the right time.
Adding a second pick-up simply incurs a small additional cost, and we will outline this clearly in your quote.
If your group has mixed abilities or you’d like advice on the best setup, please give us a call on +61 3 5237 1189 or email us — we’re always happy to help design the perfect, flexible Great Ocean Walk itinerary for your group.
Absolutely — we can tailor your itinerary so you have shorter walking days with plenty of time to pause, explore, photograph, sketch, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Before your walk, we’ll chat with you about:
How far you’d like to walk each day
How much time you want for breaks, photos or creative work
The pace you feel most comfortable with
We then plan your daily distances and schedule your afternoon pick-up times accordingly, so your experience feels relaxed rather than rushed.
For walkers who want to experience the full length of the Great Ocean Walk at a slower pace, our
Absolutely — we can tailor your itinerary so you have shorter walking days with plenty of time to pause, explore, photograph, sketch, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Before your walk, we’ll chat with you about:
How far you’d like to walk each day
How much time you want for breaks, photos or creative work
The pace you feel most comfortable with
We then plan your daily distances and schedule your afternoon pick-up times accordingly, so your experience feels relaxed rather than rushed.
For walkers who want to experience the full length of the Great Ocean Walk at a slower pace, our 10-day itinerary is an ideal choice.
It features much shorter walking legs, giving you more time to:
Take photos
Sketch or paint
Birdwatch
Enjoy the landscapes without feeling hurried
This slower-paced tour is perfect for photographers, artists, nature lovers, and anyone wanting a gentler, more immersive experience.
Yes — absolutely. Many walkers choose premium or luxury accommodation on the Great Ocean Walk and still prefer to self-cater, and not always for budget reasons. Some guests have complex dietary needs, and others simply love cooking their own meals after a long day on the trail.
If this sounds like you, just let us know. We can discuss the type of accommodation you prefer and design a custom Great Ocean Walk itinerary that combines premium stays with self-catered meals.
Please keep in mind:
There are no shops on the trail, so you’ll need to purchase your food in Apollo Bay before your walk begins.
Walk91 cannot store food and our vehicles do not have refrigeration, so non-perishable items or insulated cool bags are recommended.
We can transport your food bags each day along with your luggage as part of your pack-free self-catering service.
With a little planning, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: luxury accommodation and the freedom of self-catering.
It’s very common for walkers to worry that old injuries or past aches might resurface during a multi-day hike like the Great Ocean Walk — and sometimes they do. If this happens, please don’t panic. We’re flexible, local, and always here to help.
If your injury flares up and you can’t walk the full distance, we can usually adjust your itinerary once you’ve started the walk.
As long as you’re happy to “go with the flow” and be a little flexible, we can reorganise your walking legs and transfers so you can continue safely and comfortably.
Please note:
To shorten your walk on any given day, you do need to reach a vehicle-accessible point on the track so our drivers can pick you up.
If walking becomes too uncomfortable, you’re welcome to take a rest day or even skip a day entirely.
If your itinerary involves changing accommodation that day, we’ll discuss the best options for you, which may include:
A later pick-up
An earlier drop-off
Alternative transfer arrangements
We do kindly ask for your patience and flexibility, as last-minute changes require coordination, but we’ll always do our best to make things run smoothly.
Because we live in Apollo Bay and run our own vehicles with our own drivers, we can offer the real-time support, adjustments, and personal care that out-of-town companies simply can’t provide.
Your comfort and safety always come first — and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Walkers naturally travel at different speeds, and it often takes a day or two to find your rhythm on the Great Ocean Walk. Whether you’re moving faster or slower than expected, we can adjust to support you.
No problem — if you reach your pick-up point early, we can often send our drivers out earlier to collect you.
Just keep in mind:
If you’re moving to new accommodation that day, you may arrive before check-in time (usually 3pm).
In these cases, we may recommend starting a little later in the morning to create a more relaxed, comfortable day.
We understand that some days feel harder than others. If you’re walking more slowly:
Our drivers can adjust pick-up timing within reason
Our text check-in system helps us monitor your progress
Optional exit points built into your itinerary can shorten your day safely
Because Walk91 is a local, family-run company with our own drivers and vehicles, we can offer far more flexibility than operators based out of town.
We’ll always do our best to time transfers around your natural pace — whether that’s quicker, slower, or somewhere in between.
This is very common — and completely fine. Many walkers bring along a partner, friend, or family member who wants to enjoy the holiday, but not necessarily walk every day.
Your friend can:
Walk with you for one or two days, and
Spend the other days resting at the accommodation, enjoying the views, reading a book, exploring the local area, or simply relaxing.
There’s no pressure for everyone to follow the same daily plan. Your itinerary can be arranged so your companion stays comfortably at your accommodation while you continue along the track.
If you already know that someone in your group wants a mix of walking and rest days, just give us a call. We’ll discuss:
The best accommodation options for non-walkers
The smoothest way to coordinate pick-ups
How to design your itinerary so both walkers and non-walkers enjoy their holiday
Walk91 specialises in creating flexible, personalised Great Ocean Walk itineraries for mixed-activity groups.
This is not a problem at all. If your partner or companion becomes injured or simply needs a rest day, they can stay comfortably at the accommodation while you — or the rest of your group — continue walking along the track.
The only thing to keep in mind is that if your itinerary includes moving to a new accommodation that day, we can absolutely transfer your non-walking companion and their luggage to the next place.
We simply ask for a little patience and flexibility with timing, as last-minute changes require coordination from our local team.
We always do our best to make this process seamless and supportive.
This kind of personalised support is exactly why many walkers choose Walk91. Being locally based with our own drivers and vehicles means we can adapt quickly and help your group continue enjoying the walk — even if plans change unexpectedly.
Yes — if you are travelling from the Port Campbell end of the Great Ocean Walk and would prefer to leave your car near the Twelve Apostles instead of Apollo Bay, we can organise this for you.
Although the Great Ocean Walk officially runs east to west (from Apollo Bay to the 12 Apostles), many walkers arriving from the west choose to start by parking in Port Campbell and using our transfer service to reach their starting point.
You can leave your car in Port Campbell (near the western end of the trail).
Walk91 will pick you up from Port Campbell and transfer you to:
Apollo Bay (the official starting point), or
Any other alternative starting point if you’re walking only part of the track.
At the end of your walk, we will transfer you back to Port Campbell to collect your vehicle.
Just let us know your preferred plan, and we will advise you of any additional costs involved.
This arrangement works especially well if:
You are travelling from Port Campbell or Warrnambool direction
You prefer to finish your walk close to your car
You want a seamless, premium transfer service without backtracking to Apollo Bay
Walk91 can tailor transfers to match your itinerary, your walking distance, and your preferred start and end points.
No matter the forecast, it’s important to be prepared for all weather conditions along the Great Ocean Walk. Coastal weather can change quickly, so we recommend taking the following essentials:
Weatherproof jacket (waterproof and windproof)
Weatherproof trousers
Warm jumper or fleece
Comfortable hat for sun protection
Sturdy footwear (hiking boots or trail shoes)
Good-quality socks
No jeans — they become heavy and uncomfortable when wet
Some walkers also like to bring sneakers/trainers for beach sections, as these can be lighter and more comfortable on sand.
Gaiters
Useful for mud in winter
Helpful against leeches or snakes in summer
A personal choice — most of our walkers do not use them
Insect repellent
Fly net/hat fly screen (especially in summer if flies bother you)
You’ll receive comprehensive Walker’s Notes after booking, which include a full packing list and preparation advice.
You can also read our helpful blog:
Yes — in addition to your standard clothing and gear, there are several important safety and navigation items you may wish to bring on the Great Ocean Walk. These can be especially useful if you are undertaking long walking days, walking without Walk91’s support, or spending time in remote sections.
Official Great Ocean Walk Map (topographic map) – see our Map Page for details
Emergency numbers and Parks Victoria campsite reservation contacts
Matches or a lighter (for emergency use only – fires not permitted)
Basic first aid kit, including:
Blister pads or dressings
Antiseptic
Pain relief
Compass
Whistle
GPS device (optional but useful)
Fully charged mobile phone
EPIRB / Personal Locator Beacon (Walk91 provides one for package walkers)
Tide chart (important for beach sections)
Sufficient water
These items are guidelines only. Walk91 provides detailed recommendations in your Walker’s Notes after booking, and we supply key safety equipment — such as an EPIRB and a Telstra phone — as part of our premium support.
Yes — the Great Ocean Walk includes coastal, forest, and remote sections, so it’s important to stay aware of key safety considerations throughout your hike.
Always refer to the official Great Ocean Walk Map and pay close attention to marked decision points, especially where the track offers both high- and low-tide route options.
Check tide charts each day and never attempt beach sections when tides are high or conditions are unsafe.
Cross rivers only at designated points
Avoid ocean swells and strong currents
Never swim alone and only swim where conditions are safe
Wildlife encounters are common and part of the walk’s beauty, but keep a respectful distance from:
Kangaroos & wallabies
Snakes
Echidnas
Koalas
Never feed wildlife and stay on marked tracks.
Always comply with Total Fire Ban alerts and fire danger ratings.
Use only fuel stoves at hike-in campsites and follow all Parks Victoria recommendations.
If you take regular medication, ensure you pack enough for the full duration of your trip and keep it accessible in your day pack.
Choose distances and pace that suit your fitness. If you need help or wish to shorten your itinerary, Walk91 is here to support you with flexible, local, real-time assistance.
Mobile reception on the Great Ocean Walk is patchy and unreliable, but many exposed sections of the trail offer some coverage with a Telstra phone. Telstra has the strongest signal along the Great Ocean Road, though you should never rely on mobile reception as your only form of communication.
Remember that most mobile phones can still call 000 or 112, which attempts to connect you to emergency services via any available network (Police, Ambulance or CFA). But you still need network access.
When you walk with Walk91, you are never truly isolated. As part of our premium self-guided packages, every walker receives:
A personal EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)
This can be activated anywhere on the trail — even with no phone reception — to alert emergency services immediately.
A Telstra mobile phone on loan (if needed)
This ensures you have the best possible coverage along the coast.
Access to our text-based tracking system
You check in with us daily so we can monitor your progress and know if something is not quite right. If you missed a text or appeared delayed, we would follow up to ensure you are safe.
We take safety extremely seriously. In over two decades, we have had only one EPIRB activation:
A walker experienced a heart attack on the track.
Because they were carrying a Walk91 emergency beacon, emergency services were able to reach them quickly, and a rescue helicopter arrived. The walker recovered well after heart surgery.
This is exactly why our safety systems exist — and why choosing a local, premium operator matters.
Australian residents: Ensure your Ambulance Victoria / emergency services cover is up to date.
International visitors: Please arrange travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation.
Your safety is our priority, and we want you to enjoy the Great Ocean Walk with complete peace of mind. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us.
To help keep you safe while walking the Great Ocean Walk, here are the most important emergency and local service contact numbers for the region. Please remember that 000 is always the first number to call in an emergency.
Police, Ambulance & Fire (Australia-wide): 000
Victoria Police Non-Urgent Line: 131 444
Apollo Bay Police Station: (03) 5237 6750
Port Campbell Police Station: (03) 5598 6310 (recommended to verify prior to travel)
Lavers Hill Police Station: (03) 5237 3200 (recommended to verify prior to travel)
Great Ocean Road Health – Apollo Bay (24/7 Urgent Care): (03) 5237 8500
75 McLachlan St, Apollo Bay
Apollo Bay Medical Centre (GP & after-hours advice): (03) 5237 8595
(For emergencies, always call 000 first)
RACV Roadside Assist: 13 11 11
Parks Victoria – Apollo Bay Office: (03) 5237 2500 (verify if required)
These emergency and local service numbers are recommended for anyone walking the Great Ocean Walk, ensuring access to assistance in Apollo Bay, Port Campbell, Lavers Hill and surrounding areas.
The Great Ocean Walk is one of the most wildlife-rich hiking trails in Australia. As you move through forests, coastal heathlands, beaches, and cliff tops, you may spot an incredible range of native animals and birdlife.
Koalas (especially near Cape Otway)
Eastern Grey Kangaroos
Black Wallabies
Echidnas
Snakes (usually shy—give them space)
King Parrots
Crimson Rosellas
Gang-gang Cockatoos
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoos
Rufous Bristlebirds
Singing Honeyeaters
Wedge-tailed Eagles
White-bellied Sea-Eagles
Crested Terns
Sooty Oystercatchers
Dolphins
Little Penguins
Migrating whales (best spotted between June and September)
Many walkers say the abundance of wildlife is one of the most magical parts of the Great Ocean Walk experience.
To learn more, explore our detailed guide:
: Everything You Need to Know About Great Ocean Walk’s Wildlife.
While the Great Ocean Walk is full of incredible wildlife, there are a few creatures and environmental risks to be aware of so you can enjoy the trail safely.
Snakes – Tiger snakes and brown snakes live in the area. They are shy and usually move away if given space.
Leeches – Common in wet or ferny areas, especially after rain.
Wasps & bees – Can be attracted to food; avoid disturbing nests.
Ticks – Found in grassy or bushy sections; check your skin after walking.
Ants – Bull ants can bite if disturbed.
Foxes – Not dangerous, but will attempt to steal food. Always store food securely.
Never feed, approach or handle wildlife. Feeding animals can cause injury, encourage aggressive behaviour, and harm their natural diet.
Cinnamon Fungus (Phytophthora cinnamomi)
This soil-borne disease infects the roots of many native plants and spreads easily on muddy boots.
Please:
Stay on designated tracks
Use the shoe clean-down stations where provided
Avoid walking through muddy areas off track
Following these guidelines helps protect the precious ecosystems of the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks.
Snakes are a natural part of the Great Ocean Walk environment. They generally avoid people and will move away if given space. Problems usually occur only when a snake feels cornered or threatened.
Be aware of where you place your feet and hands, especially near logs or long grass.
Do not walk barefoot in bushland or grassy areas.
If you see a snake:
Do not touch, approach, frighten, or attempt to move it.
Stand still and allow it to move away. Snakes will only defend themselves if they feel threatened.
Snake bites are rare, but it’s important to know the recommended first-aid steps:
Current Australian first-aid guidance recommends the following:
Apply a pressure bandage immediately, just as you would for a sprained ankle.
Do not cut off blood flow — avoid tourniquets or very tight bandages.
Apply the bandage firmly over the bite site, then continue bandaging as much of the limb as possible.
Immobilise the limb with a splint or similar support.
Keep the person still — they should not walk further.
Do not wash the bite — venom residue on the skin helps identify the snake and the correct antivenom.
Do not cut, suck, or apply ice to the area.
Call 000 or 112 immediately for emergency support.
If the bite is on the head, neck or torso, apply firm, direct pressure and keep the person still until help arrives.
Assistance should be brought to the injured person, not the other way around
The Gadabanud people’s traditional Country transcends what is known today as the Otway coastline – The Great Ocean Walk trail. Today the Gunditjmara people are the traditional custodians of the Gadubanud lands. This area, rich and diverse in plant and animal life, has been a gathering, ceremonial and feasting place for thousands of years. Many sites and spiritual links remain today. Local Gadubanud & Aboriginal people are closely involved with Parks Victoria in the protection, restoration and management of significant sites.
The Great Ocean Walk (GOW) launched in January 2006, is located between the Great Ocean Road and the sea. It is three hours and 200km west of Melbourne Australia. The Great Ocean Walk, originally 91km, now a 104 kilometre track, stretches from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles, and passes through the Great Otway and Port Campbell National Parks.
Members of the local business community developed the concept for a Great Ocean Walk trail in 1994 over bottles of port in a shed near Cape Otway. Initially known as the Great Ocean Road Walk Track, it was refined to be known as the ‘Great Ocean Walk’.
The original establishment cost for the Great Ocean Walk was $2.3 million which created an integrated, linked trail system from Marengo to Glenample Homestead (and eventually the 12 Apostles).
The alignment of the Great Ocean Walk was originally designed after review of the extensive environmental, cultural, risk and cost investigations spanning five years, referring to past track marking and involving hundreds of hours of fieldwork. 22km of new walking track was built between 2002 and 2005 by expert track builders.
Geological and geo-technical investigations were also completed to assess coastal stability and erosion issues. The track surface is predominantly made of natural soils or sand, however boardwalks and crushed rock have been laid to protect areas from erosion.
The Great Ocean Walk (GOW) officially opened in January 2006. This spectacular coastal trail runs between the Great Ocean Road and the sea, about 200 km (three hours) west of Melbourne, Australia.
When the walk first opened, it stretched 91 km, from Apollo Bay to Glenample Homestead (just short of the Twelve Apostles).
This original length is where Walk91 got its name more than 20 years ago.
At that time, walkers had to be shuttled from Glenample to the Twelve Apostles viewing area, because the final section of track didn’t yet exist.
Later, the trail was extended all the way to the Twelve Apostles car park, creating the continuous 104 km Great Ocean Walk we know today. Once this final section was added, walkers could complete the full journey on foot — and the old shuttle at Glenample was no longer needed.
The concept for a long-distance coastal trail began in 1994, when members of the Apollo Bay and Otway business community met in a shed near Cape Otway — helped along, as local legend tells it, by a few bottles of port!
Originally referred to as the Great Ocean Road Walk Track, the name was later refined to the Great Ocean Walk.
Creating the Great Ocean Walk was a major regional project with an establishment cost of $2.3 million. It linked existing tracks into one integrated trail stretching from Marengo to Glenample Homestead, and later to the Twelve Apostles.
Between 2000 and 2005, the alignment was shaped through:
Environmental and cultural assessments
Risk and safety investigations
Coastal stability and erosion studies
Hundreds of hours of on-ground fieldwork
Reviews of historical routes and early walking lines
From 2002 to 2005, professional track builders constructed 22 km of new track, joining older paths into a single continuous coastal experience.
Importantly, before the walk opened, Walk91’s co-founder Mark Kininmonth worked as a Parks Victoria Ranger and helped build several sections of the track. His firsthand knowledge of its terrain, conditions and decision points still shapes our service today.
Most of the walking surface remains natural soil and sand, preserving the environment. In sensitive areas, boardwalks and crushed rock were added to:
Protect fragile ecosystems
Reduce erosion
Improve safety and access
A major redevelopment is currently underway to improve the experience for walkers and visitors alike:
A new viewing station has recently opened at the Twelve Apostles and is proving extremely popular with both Great Ocean Walk hikers and general visitors.
The Twelve Apostles Visitor Experience Centre, including a new café, expanded car parking and upgraded road access, is now under construction.
This is part of a $126 million redevelopment project, which began in late 2024.
The new facilities are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.
These upgrades will enhance the final moments of the Great Ocean Walk journey, offering improved views, better services and a more enjoyable visitor experience.
Today, the Great Ocean Walk stands as one of Australia’s most iconic multi-day hikes — shaped by local passion, environmental care, expert planning and community involvement. Walk91 is proud to carry forward the original 91 km legacy in our name and continue sharing this extraordinary trail with hikers from all over the world.
For more details regarding shuttles:
http://www.greatoceanroadshuttle.com.au
The Parks Victoria Website for the Great Ocean Walk:
https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/great-otway-national-park/things-to-do/great-ocean-walk
We recommend the following:
Captains at the Bay – 200m from bus stop:
https://www.captains.net.au/
The Coastal Motel – 120m from bus stop:
http://www.coastalmotel.com.au/
The Beachcomber Motel – 2 blocks behind the main street, quiet & good value https://www.beachcombermotel.com.au/
The Seaview Motel -300m from bus stop:
https://www.seaviewmotel.com.au/
Captains Quarters – we can collect you from here – nice and quiet at the back of town. A 5 minute walk to the main street and harbour. (A 10 minute walk to the bus stop).
https://www.captainsquarters.net.au/
The Sandpiper Motel – 400m from bus stop:
https://www.sandpipermotel.net.au/
Eco YHA – We can pick you up directly from the YHA office:
https://www.yha.com.au/hostels/vic/great-ocean-road/apollo-bay/
WATERFRONT Motor Inn
https://www.apollobaywaterfront.com.au/
Beachfront:
https://www.bookings247.com.au/booking2/booknow.php?property_id=3211
We’re here to answer your questions!
