About us
For terms and conditions please scroll down!
About Aussie Explorers:
Welcome to Aussie Explorers, where adventure knows no bounds! We're a community of passionate explorers, thrill-seekers, and nature lovers who share a common love for Australia's vast and diverse landscapes, as well as international adventures.
Whether you're a seasoned trekker, a weekend warrior, or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Aussie Explorers is your gateway to unforgettable adventures both within Australia and beyond.
From breathtaking hikes through ancient rainforests to epic road trips along rugged coastlines, our group is dedicated to discovering the hidden gems and natural wonders that make Australia truly unique. And when the wanderlust calls, we're ready to explore the far corners of the globe, from trekking the Inca Trail in Peru to safari adventures in Africa, to walking Europe to cruising the Fjords...
Join us as we embark on exciting excursions, forge new friendships, and create lasting memories in some of the most spectacular destinations Australia and the world has to offer. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or simply craving a breath of fresh air, there's something for everyone at Aussie Explorers. Let's explore together!
TermsĀ andĀ conditionsĀ of JoiningĀ AussieĀ Explorers
So we can keep this group as enjoyable as possible for everyone, there are a fewĀ conditionsĀ you must agree to. By joining this group you agree to them and agree to abide but them at all times. Most people will find theseĀ conditionsĀ to be common sense. If any of theseĀ conditionsĀ seem unfair to you, please do not join, raise your concerns with the organiser prior to joining the group.
Number of people at EventsĀ andĀ attendance.
Firstly, you must be 100% committed to attend any event that you have RSP to, regardless of the weatherĀ conditions. If the weather is considered extreme by the organiser, he or she will change or cancel the event. If you RSVP for a meetup eventĀ andĀ you cannot attend, please change your RSVP. It is your responsibility to manage your RSVPĀ even when on wait lists. If you are in a position where you often change your RSVP to "not going", please do not RSVP until you are 100% committed to attend. We monitor all RSVPĀ andĀ changes, as often we have large wait lists due to the popularity of our meetup events.
Hence we may need to remove those repeat offenders fromĀ AussieĀ ExplorersĀ on particular events. We limit the numbers of participants at some of our events due to logistical issues in order to better enjoy a particular meetup or in more remote places for safety concerns.
An important note: Guests ofĀ AussieĀ ExplorersĀ are bound by the sameĀ termsĀ andĀ conditionsĀ as members,Ā andĀ it is the member's responsibility to provide the fullĀ termsĀ andĀ conditionsĀ to any guests included on their RSVP.along with providing any updates and full event details.
HealthĀ andĀ Safety, Personal Responsibility - Disclaimer
Our activities are recreationalĀ andĀ involve walking on pathsĀ andĀ tracks, sometimes off track in remote, difficult terrain. All participantsĀ andĀ their guests by choosing to RSVP to any event are agreeing to take their own full responsibilityĀ andĀ liability for their own safetyĀ andĀ health at all times during the meetup event. Attendees will at no time hold the organiserĀ and/or walk leader/event host responsible for any accident, misadventure or ill health that may occur whilst attending an event including damage to or loss of equipment/belongings.
Children are only permitted to attend meetups rated as easy,Ā andĀ at the permission of the event host or leader. Each child must be monitored 100% of the time by the parent or parents. Attendees who RSVP yes for an event agree that it is their responsibility to ensure they are fit enough to attend the walk/eventĀ andĀ to ensure they have sufficiently read the event details and researched the walk or other activity,Ā andĀ the prevailing weatherĀ conditionsĀ andĀ warnings in order to make an informed decision whether or not the event is suitable for them.
Important note: "AussieĀ Explorers, its organisersĀ andĀ leaders accept no liability during any meetup event. As any meetup event may require hiking in remote areas, leaders will try to ensure the safetyĀ andĀ wellbeing of members at all times, however, accidents may happen. Please take responsibility for your own safetyĀ andĀ your belongings.
Fees
Meetups generally incur a fee to attend. These are small fees to cover leaders costs getting to/from the event, replenish first aid kits carried, cover organiser's costs on the day including equipment such as maps, compass, gps, PLB etc, pay for training in 1st aid, bush survival skills etc. The suggested gratuities are $5-$10 for a bush walk or meetup, $30-$50 for weekend overnight walks. The fees collected are provided to the leader on the day or by PayID
Some pre-paid meetups will not incur gratuities. These are usually meetups such as overnight stays in somewhere like YHA or camping where accommodation is pre-booked,Ā multi day walks which include transport, accommodation etc. These charges cover any rent charged, sometimes transportĀ andĀ other inclusions. Please check each meetup thoroughly before RSVP. Most meetups are non-refundable (however using the comments section sometimes you can find a person to attend in your place less any cancellation fees) so please make sure you are 100% committed to attend to avoid disappointment. Please pay promptly when you RSVP to these meetupsĀ andĀ do not rely on email reminders to pay!
Starting Times
Our meetups start on time. In most cases we cannot wait for you if you are running late as this sets back our scheduleĀ and keeps a large group waiting which is unfair to the majority that turn up on time. Please give yourself plenty of time to allow forĀ SydneyĀ trafficĀ andĀ public transport delays.
Pace
The focus of our walks is to have a friendly social group where people have an opportunity to meet new people whilst exploring somewhere new. The pace of our walks varies depending on the group. If you happen to join us on a day when there are some people who are not as fit as you, we request that you exercise patienceĀ andĀ keep in mind that the organiser/leader will set the pace.
The organiser/leader will be endeavouring to walk at a pace that suits the majority of the group whilst ensuring those who are slowest are also able to keep up. This may mean frequent stopping for water or photos to allow others to catch up or rest a little. We ask you to ensure that you walk behind the organiser/leader at all timesĀ andĀ can always see the person in front of you,Ā if you can'tĀ see them please call out to the organiser/leaderĀ andĀ let them know. This is basic bushwalking/hiking safety, ensures no-one gets left behindĀ andĀ your co-operation is greatly appreciated.
Grading of meetups
Each meetup will be graded, most are easy to medium that enable larger groups to walk at an average pace whilst enjoying the scenery, talking to other members, plenty of stops for water, snacksĀ andĀ lunch breaks.Ā
For easy walks, a lower level of fitness is required to ensure you enjoy the meetup. The distance walked is always posted. Walks graded medium mean terrain can be rough, uneven tracks, steep climbs but still stops for water, snacksĀ andĀ lunch.a higher level of fitness is required.
Hard walks are for fit, experienced hikers/bush walkers only. The description will vary from rough, uneven terrain/tracks to off track walking, steep climbs, scramblingĀ andĀ possibly less stops for water/snacks/lunch.
Overnight or multi day walks are arranged, some for first time overnight walkers called Camping 101 but some for experienced overnight walkers only. Each meetup will have a description on who can RSVP. A new grade of Extreme was recently introduced for longer distance, hard walks, rough, remote terrain, probably for training purposes to a specific event. These are for very fit, experienced walkers only.Ā
If at any time you have any doubt or any questions, please contact the organiserĀ andĀ ask if the meetup is suitable for you.
We grade our events loosely bases on NSW national parks grading system which can be found here:
https://blog.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/whats-the-best-hike-for-you/#:~:text=Grade%201%20is%20up%20to,don't%20need%20no%20metres.
International travel:
Aussie Explorers often arranges amazing events overseas, these each have different terms and conditions as bound by different suppliers but always deposits are non-refundable with no exceptions. International travel insurance at the time of paying your deposit is recommended however compulsory on all international trips. Changes or cancellations incur fees and charges for each trip, regardless of reason for cancellation and by whom, please ask for details at time of RSVP and paying deposit.
Communication/Publication/Comments on Website
Please remember that our organisers put in a lot of timeĀ andĀ effort to makeĀ AussieĀ ExplorersĀ work. If you are unhappy with something or wish to make a comment on how the group is run, please respect the organisers by communicating with them directly. This gives them an opportunity to assist you. If there is a problem whilst on a meetup, please contact the leader as soon as possible rather than discuss with other members or contact David the main organiser.
Disclaimer:
By RSVP to any meetup you agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of Aussie Explorers above
Aussie Explorers its organisers and leaders accept no liability during this meetup, leaders try to ensure the safety and wellbeing of members at all times, however accidents happen, please take responsibility for your own safety and your belongings.
SAFETY WARNING: Please stay away from cliff edges and be very careful when walking on wet and slippery rocks and surfaces. Please always stay within sight of the group.
DISCLAIMER: Your health and safety is our priority and we take care to minimize risk and avoid accidents and injuries. However, Organizers and Hosts are not responsible for your health and safety and do not accept any liability for accidents and injuries that may occur during Meetup activities and events. Please take responsibility for your own safety and belongings.
Featured event
Cycling Japan Old Tokaido Highway Tokyo to Kyoto
Arrive Tokyo by 10th Oct and explore the city for 2 nights taking in the bright lights, historic sites and local Izakaya (Japanese pubs) fabulous food and much more. Complete our cycling trip Tokyo to Kyoto via the old Tokaido Highway using back roads and cycleways throughout, shorten your days cycling by taking the train if you wish!
Arrive Kyoto 19th Oct and enjoy two nights to relax and enjoy this fabulous historic city, explore with a Kyoto bus pass all the sites you wish to visit.
Checkout Kyoto 21 Oct for your onward travel!
Accommodation is twin share two beds, two same sex adults in each room throughout, all 3-4 star hotels in great location, some with hot spring (onsen) for an evening soak š
Price is $1990 plus flights and bike hire, any local transport required whilst cycling. Price is subject to change and availability and currency fluctuations. Single supplement aprox $1050
At the time of RSVP please email david@discoverytravel.com.au your full name & mobile number. Yes I can assist with flights if you wish, plus any other sightseeing you wish to do.
Bike hire is not included standard road bikes aprox jpy19000 per week Ebike aprox JPY24000 per week see link for more details https://cycletrip.jp/ja/item_detail.html?s=471
Once we have minimum 8 RSVP then we can look at other bike rental companies as a group for discounts above is a guide only. Yes one way rental is OK Tokyo to Kyoto
Cycling itinerary
Day 1: Tokyo to Enoshima 65km
- The Start: Depart from Nihonbashi, the historic "Kilometer Zero" of Japanās road network.
- The Route: Follow the Tokaido Highway through Tokyoās vibrant residential and shopping districts, passing the first post-town of Shinagawa.
- The Crossing: Cross the Tama River (a site famous in Ukiyo-e prints) and continue through Yokohama toward Fujisawa.
- Destination: Arrive in Enoshima by 3 p.m.
- Highlights: Explore the islandās ancient shrines, sea caves, and observation tower, featuring iconic views of Mount Fuji.
Day 2: Fujisawa-Mishima 80kms Crossing the Hakone Pass
- The Ascent: Tackle the Hakone Pass (846m), the Tokaidoās most challenging climb, made easy with high-performance e-bikes.
- The Scenic Route: Ride through Hiratsuka and Odawara, enjoying flat coastal roads lined with ancient pines and mountain vistas.
- Historic Milestones: * Stop for a break at a traditional thatched tea house.
- Explore Lake Ashi and the reconstructed Hakone Sekisho (Edo-era checkpoint).
- Walk the historic cedar tree-lined path.
- Destination: Arrive in Mishima, the "City of Water."
- Evening: Relax by Mt. Fuji-fed springs and enjoy a local unagi (eel) dinner.
Day 3: Mishima to Fuchu (Shizuoka) 70 km
- The Many Faces of Fuji: Experience ever-changing views of Mt. Fuji as the Tokaido Highway curves through the landscape.
- Key Scenic Stops:
- Senbon Matsubara (Numazu): Ride a dedicated cycling path through thousands of evergreen pines with views of Suruga Bay.
- Yoshiwaraās "Left-Fuji": Witness the rare phenomenon where a sharp bend in the road places the mountain on your leftāa view made famous in Ukiyo-e art.
- The Photography Highlight: Climb the Satta Pass for an iconic panoramic view of Mt. Fuji towering over the blue waters of the bay and modern transport arteries below.
- Destination: Finish in Fuchu (Shizuoka City). Enjoy the vibrant local nightlife and diverse culinary scene of the regionās largest city.
Day 4: Shizuoka to Kakegawa 60 km
- Edoperiod Flavors: Step back in time at Ishibeya (est. 1804) for traditional Abegawa mochi and Chojiya (est. 1596), a restaurant preserved exactly as seen in ancient Ukiyo-e prints.
- Engineering History: Traverse the Utsunoya Pass, home to four tunnels from different eras, including a registered Meiji-period red brick tunnel.
- Record-Breaking Bridges: Cross the Horai Bridge in Shimadaāthe worldās longest wooden bridge at 897 meters.
- Tea Country Ascent: Climb Nakayama Pass through lush tea fields to visit a 300-year-old tea house at the summit for a taste of "Kosodate Ame" candy.
- Destination: Kakegawa. Wrap up the day with a visit to the historic grounds of Kakegawa Castle.
Day 5: Kakegawa to Yoshida (Toyohashi) 75 km
- The Midpoint: Ride through tranquil pine forests to reach Fukuroi, the official halfway point of the Tokaido Highway.
- Lakes & Shrines: * Cycle through Hamamatsu to Lake Hamana.
- Stop at Bentenjima Beach Park to see the iconic "floating" red Torii gate.
- National History: Visit the Arai Sekisho, the only original Edo-period checkpoint building remaining in Japan.
- Coastal Vistas: Enjoy panoramic sea views from Shirasuka before riding through peaceful rural farmland.
- Destination: Arrive in Yoshida (Toyohashi).
- Bonus: If time allows, visit Toyokawa Inari Shrine to see its mystical forest of over 1,000 stone fox statues.
Day 6: Yoshida (Toyohashi) to Miya (Nagoya) 70 km
- The Best Pines: Cycle the 600m stretch between Goyu and Akasaka, home to 300 ancient pine treesāwidely considered the finest pine-lined street on the Tokaido.
- Historical Lodging: Stop at Ohashiya, a museum that served as a working inn from the Edo period until 2015.
- Defensive Design: Navigate the "27 Turns" of Okazaki, a zig-zagging road layout originally designed for city defense.
- Culinary Heritage: Visit a Hatcho Miso factory. This dark, intense miso has been produced in Okazaki for 800 years and was once the exclusive supplier to the Imperial family.
- Traditional Craft: Explore Arimatsu, a town famous for its preserved architecture and historic tie-dyeing (shibori) handicraft.
- Destination: Finish the day in the bustling metropolis of Nagoya.
Day 7: Kuwana to Minakuchi 80 km
- Maritime History: Begin at Kuwanaās historic port park, the traditional landing site for Edo-era travelers arriving by boat from Nagoya.
- The Modern Tokaido: Ride through Yokkaichi, where the ancient highway has evolved into a vibrant, roofed shopping arcade.
- The Crown Jewel: Explore Sekijuku, the best-preserved post station of the Tokaidoās 53 stops. Unlike more famous mountain towns, this hidden treasure retains hundreds of original Edo-period buildings.
- The Challenge: Tackle the Suzuka Pass, historically ranked as the route's second most difficult crossing after Hakone.
- Destination: Descend into the quiet town of Minakuchi for your overnight stay.
Day 8: Minakuchi to Kyoto 60 km
- The Descent: Enjoy a relaxing, gentle downhill ride toward Kusatsu, a historic junction where the Tokaido and Nakasendo highways meet.
- Feudal Luxury: Visit Kusatsujuku Honjin, one of Japanās largest and best-preserved elite rest houses, formerly reserved for feudal lords and nobles.
- Famous Crossings: * Cross the Seta no Karahashi, one of Japanās "Three Famous Bridges."
- Complete the final climb and descent over Mount Osaka.
- The Grand Finale: Arrive in Kyoto, the ancient capital. Your 492-km adventure officially concludes at the historic Sanjo Ohashi Bridge.
- Evening: Celebrate your journey's end with a farewell dinner at a local favorite in the heart of the city.
Itinerary may change. This is an international travel trip and travel insurance with unlimited medical cover, including existing conditions is compulsory.
By RSVP this meetup you agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of Aussie Explorers which can be found here:
https://www.meetup.com/Aussie-Explorers/
Aussie Explorers organisers and leaders accept no liability during this meetup, leaders try to ensure the safety and well-being of members at all times however as this is a weekend away travelling, exploring different areas and hiking in the great outdoors accidents happen, please take responsibility for your own safety and your belongings.
Deposits are non-refundable, final price is subject to currency fluctuation.
Upcoming events
25
Great North Walk, Somersby to Wondabyne, 25kms, Hard.
Gosford Station, Stand F, Gosford, NS, AUThis 25km walk comprises the isolated Hawkesbury Track section of the Great North Walk. Although isolated it is easily accessible by public transport and it is also relatively free of the steep sections of the GNW further south. We will walk from Somersby down into the Mooney Mooney Valley and then through Brisbane Waters National Park to Wondabyne Station.
The plan is to meet at Gosford Station Bus Stand F at 7.30AM as we will need to get the only weekend bus into Somersby; you will need to be on the 5.48AM Central to Wyong train that arrives at Gosford Station at 7.13AM. We will then board the 7.43AM bus no 34 (from Stand F) arriving at Silvesters Road, Somersby at 8.11AM. NB You may wish to park at Gosford Station and get the train from Wondabyne back to Gosford at the end of the walk.
Then commences our walk, the first 1.8km takes us along Silvesters Rd to the Great North Walk Trackhead, we then enter the Hawkesbury Track and continue downhill for 7km to Mooney Mooney Dam for a morning tea stop.
We then continue along Hawkesbury Track before arriving at Mooney Mooney Ponds, it's then onwards past Mooney Mooney Campsite and under the Mooney Mooney Bridge which at 76 metres is the highest in Australia.
Shortly afterwards we cross the creek on the old Pacific Highway then walk the 2km to Phil Houghton Bridge which is our designated lunch break. After lunch we climb gradually up to Scopas Peak where we can enjoy great views down into the Mooney Mooney Valley. Then we leave the Hawkesbury Track to make the final 2km along Rifle Range trail to Wondabyne Station, the only station in Australia which is not accessible by road. I estimate we will arrive at about 4.30PM.
For this walk you will need your morning tea, lunch and at least two litres of water. Also required are good quality walking shoes and a hat and sunscreen.
Due to the length of this walk it is rated hard (Grade 4) so it is not suitable for novices and inexperienced walkers. Please see detailed track notes here: Wondabyne station to Somersby Store walking track (wildwalks.com)
There is a $5 gratuity for this walk payable in cash or by PayID to 0439543695.
People with proven good attendance are likely to be given priority for this event.
Any questions please ask. My phone number is 0439543695.
By RSVP this meetup you agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of Sydney Explorers which can be found here (https://www.meetup.com/Sydney-Explorers/about/)(scroll to bottom of page) Sydney Explorers its organisers and leaders accept no liability during this meetup, leaders try to ensure the safety and well being of members at all times however as this is a weekend away travelling, exploring different areas and hiking in the great outdoors accidents happen, please take responsibility for your own safety and your belongings.DISCLAIMER: Your health and safety is our priority and we take care to minimize risk and avoid accidents and injuries. However, Organizers and Hosts are not responsible for your health and safety and do not accept any liability for accidents and injuries that may occur during Meetup activities and events. Please take responsibility for your own safety and belongings
9 attendees
Illawarra Range, Lunch Rock Walk. Be active, healthy and happy!š
Scarborough Station, Scarborough, NS, AUIllawarra Range, Lunch Rock Walk
Start: Scarborough Station
Finish: Stanwell Park Station
Distance: 17km- I would like to acknowledge the traditional custodians of this land on which i walk, the Wodi Wodi people of the Dharawal nation & pay respect to the Elders past, present & emerging.
- Meeting place & time: Scarborough Station @ 7:42am.
- About: This walk has picturesque sea views, rock & cliff formations and beautiful biodiverse bushland.
- Route: From Scarborough we walk north along Lawrence Hargrave Drive crossing the Seacliff Bridge to the village of Coalcliff.
There's a talking public toilet at Coalcliff. āŗļø
From Coalcliff we keep heading north, cross under the rail line and start up the Wodi Wodi Walking Track.
Turning right at the Forest Walk Track we have a moderately steep ascent to the first lookout. It doesn't take long but it is steep.
The view from the lookouts on the shoulder of Mt Mitchell make it all worthwhile!
From there it's a gentle undulating track & a couple more panoramic lookouts with 90% shady tree canopy to Lunch Rock with beautiful views of the coast and Wollongong in the distance. There we'll have a well earned break.
Then we double back & turn right at Wodi Wodi track through verdant rainforest heading to Stanwell Park.
There's a challenging creek crossing at Stanwell Creek with steep banks on either side. You need shoes with a good grip. Trainers won't hack it.
Finish at Stanwell Park Station for the train home. - Type of walk: Bushwalking. Steep climb near the start, easy on top of the range & challenging at the finish.
- Difficulty: ā ļøHard, because of the steep start and finish sections. The distance is 17km. A good level of fitness is required.
šš šššš šššššš! If you start this walk you have to go the full distance.
šš šš¼ššš ššššššš š¼šššš ššš šš¼š! Bring your own.- Walking pace: At start & end sections we will take our time to be safe.
At top of the Range we should average 4 to 4.5 km per hour. - What to bring:
- Trailwalker shoes with good grip.
- 2 litres of water. Hydralytes or Berroca may come in handy.
- Carbohydrate (starchy) snacks and lunch.
- Light rain jacket depending on conditions.
- Sunscreen and a cap or hat with a wide brim.
- Eagerness to explore
- Public transport:
Start:
Depart- 6:29am Platform 25 Central Station.
Arrive- 7:42am Platform 2 Scarborough Station.
Finish:
Depart- 1:11pm Stanwell Park Station.
Arrive- 2.16pm Central Station- Driving:
Drive to our finish point Stanwell Park Station & catch the 7:36am train for 2 stops to our start point Scarborough Station.
Alternatively drive-park at either Sutherland, Waterfall or Helensburgh stations & hop on the train to Scarborough. Sutherland 7:02am; Waterfall 7.16am or Helensburg 7.25am. The train home stops at these 3 stations. - Gratuity: There will be a $10 cash gratuity for this walk. Pay ID alternatively.
Safety Warning: Please stay away from cliff edges and be very careful when walking on wet and slippery rocks and surfaces. Please stay within sight of the group at all times and do not walk in front of the leader.
By RSVP this meetup you agree to and are bound by the terms and conditions of Aussie Explorers which can be found here: https://www.meetup.com/Aussie-Explorers/
If you have any questions, please leave a comment below or message me. I look forward to seeing you on this walk. I will post my mobile number closer to the day.ššš«š¤ š .š
7 attendees- A$10.00
The "Best of Both Creeks" Challenge: Cowan to Berowra Valley (25km, Hard)
Mount Kurin-Gai Station, 84WP+PP, Mount Kuring-gai, AUReady to see the absolute best of our local national parks in one day? This 25km trek bridges the gap between the stunning Cowan Creek and the rugged Berowra Valley, offering a "greatest hits" tour of the regionās best lookouts and riverside views.
The Journey: Starting at Mt Kuring-gai Station, weāll drop down to the waterās edge at Cowan Creek. Weāll follow the shoreline north to Waratah Bay (the historic site of Windybankās Boatshed) before tackling the legendary steep climb up to Berowra.
From there, we dive into the heart of Berowra Valley National Park, stopping briefly to catch our breath at the beautiful Crosslands Reserve. Weāll wrap up the day by 4:00 PM at the Mt Kuring-gai ALDIāperfect for grabbing a cold drink or snacks before the train ride home!
What makes it "Hard"? Prepare for a big distance and that heart-pumping ascent to Berowra Station. This one is for hikers who love a bit of a challenge and plenty of sandstone overhangs along the way.
TRANSPORT: T1 Berowra via Gordon, arriving at Mount Kuring-gai Train station at 8:45 am. (Check Opal Trip Planner for updates).
BRING 2~3 litres of water, hydrate tablets, snacks & lunch, sun protection, first aid kit, rain gear, hiking shoes.
GRATUITY: There will be a $10 gratuity for this walk in cash. All proceedings go to Charity.
Fast Pace: 4.5km/hr on average
SAFETY WARNING: Please stay away from cliff edges and be very careful when walking on wet and slippery rocks and surfaces. Please stay within sight of the group at all times.
By RSVP to this event, you and your guests agree to comply with the terms and conditions of the Aussie Explorers Meetup group which can be found in the link below:
https://www.meetup.com/Aussie-Explorers/DISCLAIMER: Your health and safety is our priority and we take care to minimize risk and avoid accidents and injuries. However, Organizers and Hosts are not responsible for your health and safety and do not accept any liability for accidents and injuries that may occur during Meetup activities and events. Please take responsibility for your own safety and belongings.
5 attendees
Past events
4099
