Hike & Seek FAQs
Everything you might want to know before you go.
Pickup times, hiking difficulty, weather, food, cancellations, private tours and all the practical stuff in one place.
Start here
What are you trying to figure out?
Jump straight to the topic you need, or start with the questions guests ask us most often.
The basics
Public tours are capped at 10 guests and need a minimum of 4 guests to run. Most departures leave Melbourne around 7:30am.
Booking & payments
Minimum numbers, booking changes, last-minute spots and payment.
Pickup & transport
Meeting points, hotel pickup, return times and luggage.
Fitness & hiking
Walking difficulty, fitness, footwear and trail conditions.
Weather & conditions
Rain, changing conditions, extreme weather and what to wear.
Private tours
Pricing, custom itineraries, hotel pickup and private groups.
Cancellations & changes
Cancellation windows, low numbers and missed departures.
Most asked
Quick answers to the big ones.
How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 10 guests on our public tours.
Where do tours depart from?
Our standard public meeting point is 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, outside the National Gallery of Victoria.
Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
No. You just need to be comfortable with the walking level listed for your chosen tour.
Are solo travellers welcome?
Absolutely. Solo travellers are very welcome on our small-group tours.
Do tours run in the rain?
Usually yes. We adapt the day where needed for safety and conditions.
What happens if there aren't enough bookings?
Public tours need a minimum of 4 guests. We’ll contact you with alternatives or refund options if your departure does not reach minimum numbers.
Before you book
Booking & payments
How do I book a Hike & Seek tour?
You can book directly through our website or through one of our approved booking partners. Direct bookings are the best place to see our current availability, inclusions and tour details.
How many guests do you need to run a public tour?
Our public tours require a minimum of 4 guests to run. If numbers are low, we’ll contact you as early as possible with the available options, which may include moving to another confirmed date, switching tours or receiving a refund.
How many guests are on each tour?
Our public tours are capped at a maximum of 10 guests. Keeping groups small makes it easier to move through the day, ask questions, spot wildlife and spend more time outside.
Can I book at the last minute?
Yes, where availability allows. Some departures fill quickly and others may need minimum numbers, so booking ahead is recommended if your dates are fixed.
What currency are your prices in?
All prices shown on our website are in Australian dollars unless stated otherwise.
Can I change my booking?
In many cases, yes. Changes depend on availability and the conditions attached to your booking. Contact us as early as possible and we’ll let you know what options are available.
Getting there
Pickup & transport
Where do public tours depart from?
Our standard public tour meeting point is outside the National Gallery of Victoria at 180 St Kilda Road, Melbourne. Your booking confirmation will include the exact pickup instructions and departure time.
What time should I arrive?
Please arrive a little before the departure time shown on your booking confirmation so the group can leave on time. Most public tours depart around 7:30am, but always check your confirmation for the exact time.
Do you offer hotel pickup?
Hotel pickup is generally available for private tours from Melbourne CBD accommodation and some nearby locations, usually within approximately 5 km by road from the CBD. Pickup location is confirmed with you before the tour.
Can you pick me up outside Melbourne CBD?
For private tours, sometimes. It depends on the location and the route for the day. Send us your accommodation address and we’ll let you know what is possible.
What time do tours return to Melbourne?
Return times vary depending on the destination, traffic, weather and the pace of the day. Most of our full-day tours return in the evening. Check the individual tour page for the typical return window.
Can I bring luggage?
Space in the vehicle is limited, so large suitcases are generally not suitable for public tours. Small day bags are fine. If you need to travel with luggage, contact us before booking so we can confirm whether there is enough space.
What kind of vehicle do you use?
We use a small passenger vehicle suited to our maximum public group size of 10 guests. The idea is to keep the experience personal and flexible rather than operating as a large coach tour.
On the trail
Fitness & hiking
Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
No. Most guests are regular travellers rather than experienced hikers. You should be comfortable walking on uneven outdoor trails and being on your feet for parts of the day.
How fit do I need to be?
It depends on the tour. Some days involve shorter coastal or forest walks, while others include more sustained hiking and steeper sections. Check the individual tour page for the walking distance and difficulty.
Which tour has the most hiking?
The Grampians and Wilsons Promontory tours are generally among our more active options, with longer walks and more elevation than some of our other day tours.
Which tour is best if I want something easier?
Great Ocean Road and some private itineraries can be better suited to guests wanting a lighter walking day. If you’re unsure, contact us and we can help match you to the right experience.
What if I walk slower than the rest of the group?
Our guides keep an eye on the group and manage the pace so the day feels comfortable. Because groups are small, it is easier to adapt than on a large tour. Some walks do still need to stay within the timing of the day.
Are the trails steep or uneven?
Some are. Depending on the tour, trails may include stairs, rocks, sand, tree roots, steep sections and uneven ground. Proper footwear makes a big difference.
What footwear should I wear?
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes with good grip are strongly recommended. Avoid smooth-soled shoes where possible, especially on wet or uneven trails.
Can the walking be adjusted?
Private tours can often be adjusted more easily to suit your group. On public tours, changes depend on the itinerary, group and conditions on the day.
Victoria being Victoria
Weather & conditions
Do tours run in the rain?
Usually, yes. A little rain is part of exploring Victoria and many places are still beautiful in wet weather. Bring suitable clothing and expect conditions to change during the day.
What happens in extreme weather?
Safety comes first. If conditions such as extreme heat, storms, fire danger, flooding or park closures make part of the itinerary unsafe, we may change the route, substitute a stop or in some cases cancel the tour.
Can the itinerary change on the day?
Yes. Weather, traffic, road closures, park conditions, wildlife and the pace of the group can all affect the exact flow of the day. Our guides use their judgement to make the most of the conditions.
What should I wear in winter?
Layers are best. Bring a warm layer and a waterproof jacket, even if Melbourne looks dry in the morning. Conditions can be colder and windier outside the city.
What should I bring in summer?
Bring sun protection, water and light clothing, but it is still a good idea to have an extra layer. Conditions can change quickly, especially on the coast and in the mountains.
Keeping everyone fed
Food & dietary requirements
Is lunch included?
Lunch arrangements vary by tour. Some tours include or organise lunch as part of the day, while others include time to purchase food locally. Check your tour page for the exact inclusions.
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
We can usually accommodate common dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options where food is included or arranged. Please tell us in advance so we can plan properly.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes. You are welcome to bring snacks or your own food, especially if you have specific dietary needs.
Will there be coffee stops?
On many tours, yes. We like including local cafés and country towns where the itinerary allows, but exact stops can vary.
Can I buy snacks during the day?
Usually, yes, although some destinations have limited options once we are inside national parks or remote areas. Bringing a few snacks is always a good idea.
The locals with fur and feathers
Wildlife
Will we see koalas, kangaroos or other wildlife?
We regularly look for wildlife on a number of our tours, but wild animals can never be guaranteed. Sightings depend on the season, conditions and a fair bit of luck.
Can we feed the wildlife?
No. We observe wildlife without feeding or interfering with it.
How close can we get to animals?
We keep a respectful distance and follow local park and wildlife guidelines. The goal is to enjoy the sighting without changing the animal’s behaviour.
Can I take photos of wildlife?
Absolutely. Bring a camera or phone, but avoid disturbing animals for a photo.
Coming on your own
Solo travellers
Can I join a tour by myself?
Absolutely. Solo travellers are very welcome on our public tours.
Will I feel awkward joining alone?
Small groups tend to make it easy to settle in. You can chat with the guide and other travellers while still having plenty of space to enjoy the day in your own way.
Do many solo travellers book?
Yes. Small-group day tours are a popular option for people travelling alone who want to explore outside Melbourne without organising a car or spending the day completely solo.
Is joining a tour easier than hiring a car alone?
For many solo travellers, it can be. A tour removes the need to organise a rental car, fuel, navigation, parking and a long day of driving. Whether it is cheaper depends on your individual travel plans.
Exploring together
Children & families
Can children join your tours?
Yes, depending on the tour and the child’s age, height and ability to safely complete the walking involved. Please contact us before booking with younger children so we can confirm suitability.
Do you provide child seats or booster seats?
Child restraint requirements depend on the child’s age, size and the vehicle setup. Contact us before booking with your child’s age and height so we can confirm what is possible.
Which tours are best for families?
It depends on your children’s ages and how much walking they enjoy. Great Ocean Road, Phillip Island and private tours can work well for many families, while private tours offer the most flexibility.
Can we adjust the walking for children?
Private tours can often be adapted to suit your family, including changing the walking distance or spending more time at particular stops.
Do children need to be accompanied by an adult?
Yes. Guests under 18 must travel with a responsible adult.
Your own day out
Private tours
How much is a private tour?
Our private day tours start from $1,600 AUD per group. The final price depends on the number of guests, destination, itinerary and any additional inclusions.
How many people can join a private tour?
Private tours can accommodate up to 10 guests.
Can we customise the itinerary?
Yes. Private tours can be adjusted by prior arrangement to suit your interests, walking preferences and priorities for the day.
Do private tours include hotel pickup?
Hotel pickup is generally available from Melbourne CBD accommodation and some nearby locations, subject to confirmation.
Can we combine destinations?
Sometimes. It depends on the driving distances and what can realistically fit into one day without turning the experience into a rush.
Can you make the walking easier or harder?
Often, yes. Private tours are the best option if your group wants a particular walking distance, pace or difficulty.
Are attraction tickets included?
It depends on the private tour. Any attraction tickets or special inclusions will be clearly confirmed in your quote before booking.
Plans change
Cancellations & changes
What is your cancellation policy for public tours?
Public tour bookings can be cancelled free of charge at least 24 hours before departure, subject to the booking conditions attached to your reservation.
What is your cancellation policy for private tours?
Private tours can be cancelled free of charge at least 14 days before departure. We do not charge a separate change fee, although any changes remain subject to availability and any additional costs created by the change.
What happens if Hike & Seek cancels my tour?
If we need to cancel a tour, we’ll contact you with the available options. Depending on the circumstances, these may include another date, an alternative tour or a refund.
What happens if there are not enough bookings?
Public tours require a minimum of 4 guests. If a departure does not reach minimum numbers, we’ll contact you with the available alternatives or refund options.
What happens if a national park closes?
If a park closure or similar event affects the planned itinerary, we may adjust the route, offer an alternative or cancel the tour if there is no suitable safe option.
What if I miss the departure?
Our tours need to leave on time for the day to work. If you are running late, contact us immediately, but we cannot guarantee the group can wait or that we can arrange a later pickup.
Looking after the day
Safety & suitability
Are your guides First Aid qualified?
Our guides are required to hold appropriate First Aid qualifications for the work they do.
Do I need to sign a waiver?
Yes. Guests are required to complete our participant waiver before joining the tour.
What happens in an emergency?
Our guides assess conditions throughout the day and carry First Aid equipment. In an emergency, they will follow the appropriate response procedures and contact emergency services where required.
Can I join if I have limited mobility?
Possibly, depending on the tour and your mobility needs. Some trails include stairs, rocks, sand and uneven surfaces. Contact us before booking and we can help you work out which option is most suitable.
Are the tours wheelchair accessible?
Most of our standard hiking-focused itineraries are not fully wheelchair accessible because of the trails and terrain involved. Contact us if you have specific accessibility requirements and we’ll discuss what may be possible.
Can I bring walking poles?
Yes. Walking poles are welcome if you find them useful.
Still choosing?
Which tour is right for me?
Each day has a slightly different feel. Here’s the quick version.
| Tour | Best for | Walking | Day feel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Great Ocean Road | Iconic scenery + variety | Light–moderate | Coast, rainforest & road trip |
| Grampians | Hiking + mountain views | Moderate | Active & adventurous |
| Wilsons Prom | Wildlife + beaches + hiking | Moderate | Nature-heavy |
| Mornington Peninsula | Coastal walk + relaxation | Moderate | Hike + Hot Springs |
| Phillip Island | Wildlife + coastal scenery | Moderate | Coast + penguins |
Still wondering about something?
Ask us. We’re a small team and happy to help.
If you’re unsure about fitness, pickup, dietary requirements, children, accessibility or which tour suits you best, send us a message.
