TREK GRADING
​​​​​​​​​​​Participation in our ADE Great Desert Walks requires the completion of a Health Clearance form,
which can be downloaded here. This applies to all trekkers, regardless of age or previous trekking experience
Understanding the Grading System
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Our grading system is not simply a measure of how far you will walk each day. Instead, it provides an overall indication of the trek’s difficulty, factoring in the number of hours spent trekking, the terrain, average temperatures, and weather conditions.
For example, a trek graded as MODERATE doesn’t mean you won’t feel tired at times! Likewise, treks graded as CHALLENGING are not necessarily out of reach for inexperienced desert trekkers, provided they are fit and experienced bushwalkers.
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No prior camel trekking experience is required to join one of our treks. What’s most important is your readiness to spend time in the bush. This is where physical fitness and mental preparation come into play. While the camels handle the heavy lifting, these treks can still be demanding. With the right preparation and a positive mindset, you’ll finish your journey tired but deeply fulfilled, with a well-earned sense of personal accomplishment.
Our treks are conducted during the cooler winter months (April to September), when Central Australia offers ideal conditions for bushwalking and desert exploration. Average daily temperatures hover around 23°C, though nighttime temperatures can drop to zero or below.
Please note that in late April and early May, short periods of daytime temperatures in the early 30s, and occasionally up to the low 40s, are possible, though rare. Similarly, in September, as winter transitions into spring, higher temperatures may occur.
Good physical fitness, a love of the outdoors, and a positive, adaptive mindset are essential for the success of your trek or expedition. Travelling in remote, untouched landscapes means you may encounter conditions outside your usual experience. Embracing "desert time" and the unique rhythm of the desert is part of the adventure.
Camel trekking is a deeply personal experience and what feels like a leisurely adventure to one person may feel like an epic expedition to another. Be realistic about your abilities and select the trek grade that best matches your fitness and comfort level. If you’re unsure, our knowledgeable team of trekking experts is here to help you make the right choice.
MODERATE
No prior desert trekking experience is necessary to join our treks, as long as you are in good health and engage in regular physical activity.
A good level of fitness is essential, and you should be prepared to embrace the challenges of "roughing it" while actively participating in the daily operations of your trek.
Our walking pace averages 3 to 5 kilometres per hour, depending on the terrain. Daily distances typically range between 8 and 10 kilometres, and on some days you may need to cover additional ground (up to 15 kilometres) to locate a suitable campsite with adequate feed for the camels.
Trekking may involve moderate, continuous dune climbing on firm sand, with all walking done cross-country rather than on marked tracks.
Water is strictly for drinking, but it will not be rationed unnecessarily, and common sense will guide its use.
All the 2025 trips are graded as Moderate.
CHALLENGING
This grade requires a good level of fitness and a willingness to embrace the demands of “roughing it” while actively participating in the day-to-day operations of your or expedition.
Our walking pace is approximately 3 to 5 kilometres per hour, depending on the terrain. Daily distances typically range from 10 to 15 kilometres, with occasional days covering up to 20 kilometres, depending on the goals and capabilities of the expedition group.
Trekking may involve continuous, moderate dune climbing on firm sand. On some days, the schedule allows for making camp at lunchtime, giving you the afternoon to explore. On other days, you may need to cover extra ground to find a campsite with sufficient feed for the camels.
Drinking water will be rationed and common sense and careful planning will guide its usage. It is crucial that you come mentally and physically prepared to fully engage as an expedition member and ready to immerse yourself in the bush for an extended period.
None of the 2025 trips are graded as Challenging.
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EPIC
The Simpson Desert Expedition
Physical preparation is essential for this journey, as you may be walking for up to 7 hours or more each day over the course of 25 days. This is a true contemporary expedition, traveling in the traditional style of early explorers while immersing yourself in the diverse and captivating desert environment.
We are not operating the Simpson Desert Expedition in 2025.