Southwest Traverse

The Southwest Traverse is a very tough trip and you need to be fit and prepared. Previous hard, multi-day bushwalking experience is ESSENTIAL. Basic rock-climbing skills are desirable and it is recommended that these are refreshed prior to joining this expedition. There is a high degree of height exposure on certain sections on the trek. Our Southwest Traverse walking adventure involves trekking in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day, possibly more, over rugged and varied terrain. The tracks may be long, rough and very steep. There will be creek and river crossings, walking on sand and through mud. With remoteness comes potential to encounter variable weather conditions. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a full pack weighing up to 20kgs and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions and remote locations where evacuation may be very difficult. Suggested preparation: We recommend one hour of strenuous exercise 4 times per week (this can be cycling, jogging or walking) interspersed with relatively demanding bushwalks carrying a full pack weight (up to 20kgs). At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (5–7kg) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. The best exercise for our challenging treks is multi day bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents and in variable weather conditions. Your participation is up to the full discretion of the Tasmanian Expeditions Operations Manager in consultation with senior expedition leaders, who will need to discuss your suitability for this experience.