Name: Larapinta Trail 5-Day Expedition | Trek Iconic Desert
Brand: Zero Trace Tours
SKU: 44629896003760
Price: 3125.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

Start and Finish

Alice Springs, NT

Small Groups

Avg. Size 12 People

Full Distance

Approx. 70 KM

Difficulty

Moderate +

Climate +

200% Co2 Offset

5-Day Larapinta Trail Expedition | West MacDonnell Ranges

Hike Australia’s iconic desert trail, sleep under stars, and climb Mt Sonder

Embark on a 5-day trekking adventure along the Larapinta, one of Australia’s most iconic long-distance trails. Traverse the ancient West MacDonnell Ranges on foot, exploring spectacular escarpments, sacred Aboriginal sites, and crystal-clear waterholes. Each day brings new highlights: panoramic views from Euro Ridge and Counts Point, a sunrise summit of Mount Sonder, and immersive bush food experiences around the campfire.

Camp in comfort at a private eco-site each night in safari tents or Aussie swags under the stars. With expert guides, 4WD support, and locally sourced meals, this is an unforgettable deep dive into the Red Centre’s raw beauty and cultural richness.

Quick Facts

Duration: 5 days
Style: Guided trekking with 4WD support
Region/Route: Larapinta Trail, West MacDonnell Ranges (NT)
Accommodation: Private eco-site — safari tents or swags under the stars
Meals: Locally sourced, prepared around the campfire

Trip Highlights

Hike the Larapinta Trail through the West MacDonnell Ranges
Explore sacred Aboriginal sites, escarpments, and desert waterholes
Take in Euro Ridge and Counts Point panoramas
Summit Mount Sonder at sunrise for a bucket-list moment
Share bush food experiences and star-filled nights by the fire
Enjoy expert guiding, 4WD support, and comfortable camp setup

View Operator Terms & Conditions

$350.00

RESERVE WITH DEPOSIT

Welcome

Guests arrive in Alice Springs and make their own way to their accommodation (not included; please book directly). At 4:30pm, the group gathers for a welcome meeting at Olive Pink Botanic Garden, where the guide will introduce the journey ahead and provide key information for the days to come.

Afterwards, return to your accommodation for an early night—rest is essential before heading into the remote outback.

🧭 Tip: Arriving earlier in the day? Take time to explore the bustling heart of the Red Centre—browse local Aboriginal art galleries, grab a bite at a desert café, or pick up any last-minute trail essentials for your upcoming Larapinta adventure.

Drive: 146 km | Hike: 14 km · Grade: 4 (Moderate to Difficult)

Depart Alice Springs at sunrise, journeying west into the ancient landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Today’s walk covers approximately 14 km, offering a stunning introduction to the Larapinta Trail.

The route winds through rugged terrain, across open ridgelines, and up to Euro Ridge, where panoramic views set the tone for the journey ahead. Guides ease you into the rhythm of outback hiking, allowing time to adjust to the pace and immerse in the vastness of the land.

After meeting the support vehicle at Wallaby Gap, transfer to a private bush campsite, nestled deep in the desert. Time permitting, there may be a chance for a refreshing dip in a nearby waterhole.

As the sun sets, gather around the fire for a bushfoods tasting platter featuring native ingredients—the first of many nourishing meals under the stars.

🧭 Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

🛏 Overnight: Private outback campsite (safari tent or swag)

Hike: 13 km · Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Lace up for a more challenging day, traversing the wild quartzite ridgelines that characterise the Western MacDonnell Ranges. This is where the landscape truly opens up—dramatic red rock spines, soaring cliffs, and vast desert skies as far as the eye can see.

Today’s walk covers around 13 km across remote and elevated terrain—a deep dive into the heart of the Red Centre wilderness.

Return to camp in the late afternoon. If time permits, enjoy a cooling dip in a nearby gorge or waterhole, before kicking back with another hearty outback dinner and a sky dusted in stars.

🧭 Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

🛏 Overnight: Private outback campsite (safari tent or swag)

Hike: 11 km · Difficulty: Moderate

Today’s walk follows the ancient bed of the Finke River—believed to be one of the oldest river systems on Earth. The landscape here is rich with Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, layered with history and sacred presence.

The trail winds gently for 11 km through stony plains, sheltering escarpments, and open country alive with native flora and fauna. There’s time to slow the pace, watch for wildlife, and soak in the deep stillness of this timeless terrain.

After reaching camp, unwind with a swim in the nearby gorge (conditions permitting) or simply rest and reflect. As evening falls, gather around the fire for another memorable night of fireside storytelling and stargazing.

🧭 Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

🛏 Overnight: Private outback campsite (safari tent or swag)

Hike: 16 km · Difficulty: Challenging

Rise well before dawn for the crown jewel of the Larapinta: the summit of Mount Sonder (Rwetyepme). This 8 km climb (16 km return) begins in darkness, with the trail gradually revealing the contours of the landscape as the sky begins to glow.

At the summit, take in a jaw-dropping 360° view as the first light spills across the vast outback—a soul-stirring moment that stays with you long after the descent.

Back at camp, a hot Aussie breakfast awaits. The afternoon is yours to rest, swim, journal, or simply stretch out beneath the desert sky and reflect on all that you’ve seen.

🧭 Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks

🛏 Overnight: Private outback campsite (safari tent or swag)

Hike: 16 km · Difficulty: Moderate

The final walk is a spectacular loop through Ormiston Pound—a vast natural amphitheatre encircled by towering red cliffs and rugged ridgelines. Rich in desert flora and teeming with wildlife, this trail is a standout highlight of the Red Centre, offering unforgettable views and a powerful sense of place.

After one last picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, the group returns to camp to pack down before the journey back to Alice Springs.

That evening, there’s an optional farewell dinner in town—a relaxed opportunity to raise a glass and reflect on five unforgettable days across one of Australia’s greatest walking trails.

🔄 Please note: Guides may adjust the itinerary in response to seasonal weather conditions, operational needs, or park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies. Days may be swapped in the field as required.

🧭 Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Snacks

🛏 Overnight: Not included (post-tour accommodation to be arranged independently)

Key Tour Info

Where You’ll Stay

Settle into the rugged serenity of the West MacDonnell Ranges at our private, remote eco-campsite.

You’ll sleep in permanent safari tents outfitted with beds, pillows, linen, and all the comforts you need—or opt for a classic Aussie swag under a sky ablaze with stars.

The campsite includes eco-friendly toilet facilities, and your outback home is nestled deep in traditional Arrernte country—off-grid, quiet, and spectacularly scenic.

What You’ll Eat

Fuel your adventure with wholesome, hearty meals cooked fresh each day. The trip includes:
4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
A mix of trek snacks, including dried fruit, nuts, muesli bars, and sweet treats
Bush food tastings and an outback meat platter featuring kangaroo, camel, and buffalo (subject to availability)
All drinking water, hot beverages, and cold storage for your BYO alcohol

Meals are ethically sourced wherever possible, and you’ll taste authentic Central Desert flavours around the campfire each night. Let your guide know about any dietary needs in advance—outback options are limited, but they’ll do their best!

What’s Included

4 nights at a private remote campsite on traditional Arrernte land
Twin-share permanent safari tents with bedding, linen, and optional Aussie swags
All camping gear provided: sleeping bags, blankets, pillows
All meals: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, plus trek snacks
Hot & cold drinks and fresh drinking water throughout
BYO alcohol welcome (cold storage provided)
Guided bushwalks covering approx. 70km across sections 1, 8, 10, 12, and 9/10 of the Larapinta Trail (grades 3–5)
4WD off-road transport in an air-conditioned mini-coach
Hotel pick-up/drop-off in Alice Springs
All park access fees, including trail permits and camping fees
Accredited outback guides and support crew
Emergency gear including a satellite phone, remote first aid kit, and EPIRB

What’s Not Included

Accommodation in Alice Springs before or after the tour (Day 0 and Day 5)
Transfer to the farewell dinner on Day 5 (self-arranged)
Any meals not listed in the itinerary
Alcoholic beverages (BYO only)
Special dietary snacks – we recommend bringing your own if you have specific needs
Travel insurance – highly recommended
Personal expenses or optional post-tour activities

Weather Expectations

The Red Centre is famous for its extremes—hot days, cold nights, and sudden shifts in between.

From May to August, you can typically expect:

Daytime temperatures: 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) – warm and sunny, perfect for hiking
Nighttime lows: Often drop below 5°C (41°F), with occasional frost—thermal layers are a must
Dry conditions: Rain is rare, but be prepared for wind, dust, and sudden cool changes
Early starts (especially on the Mt Sonder climb) can mean trekking in near-freezing pre-dawn temps

The climate adds to the adventure—just be sure to pack layers, hydrate well, and prepare for both sun exposure and chilly nights.

5/5

We had a fantastic time on two trips with Autopia Tours. Four days on the Larapinta Trail and a three day Uluru/Kata Tjuta/Kings Canyon trip.

The hosts and guides Vic, the two Zoe’s, Ben, Sue and Connie were welcoming, friendly and a credit to the business.

My only gripe would be that there were no larger sized swags for taller people. Highly recommended.

J

Juan Bradey

May, 2024

5/5

Tristan and Zoe were superlative guides. I cannot speak highly enough of them. They were caring, extremely capable and sensitive to individual needs.

They were very informative and respectful. of the culture and experience. . As well they were fun and engaging. They brought the very bast out of the fantastic group of women on the trek.

C

Cheryl Crosthwait

March, 2023

5/5

This review goes out to a pair of epic guides! (Tristan and Zoe) So so so accommodating and kind, taking our group in an awesome journey through the Larapinta.

C

Cliapatra

March, 2025

5/5

I was incredibly impressed with the three young women who led our tour along the Larapinta Trail in August 2023, Immy, Ell, and Shiarna. They were always upbeat, cheerful, exceptional cooks, and extremely fit and hard working.

After a day trekking, they would cook, set up dinner, unpack truck, clean up, get ready for the next day, be up early the next morning, offering coffee, etc. Immy had exceptional knowledge about the local flora, fauna, and indigenous peoples. She offered opportunities to walk on our own, sit on our own, encouraging us to reflect.

As someone who does yoga and meditation, I found this absolutely beautiful and perfect for me. It gave time to pause, reflect, I was able to leave work thoughts behind, focus on the present, and felt all round healthier, relaxed, calm and focused. This was completely unexpected and I hadn't thought so much attention would be focused on us in this way.

It was absolutely perfect for a group of people raising funds for women's cancer research, which is so often neglected, that we had three inspiring and strong women leading our group. Thank you so much to your company for the excellent guides who worked around the clock to make sure we were safe, healthy, fed and watered to a very high standard.

A special call out to Immy, who is to be commended for her leadership, thoughtful guiding, and wonderful poetry.

M

Michelle Henderson

May, 2025

5/5

We trekked section 1, 10 and 12 of the Larapinta Trail to raise awareness and funds for Women's rights to a second chance of education.

Tour guides Zoe and Tristan were amazing and had such a wonderful dynamic between the both of them, making the tour enjoyable and amazing.

The support they both offered each day and encouragement on all the trails was appreciated by everyone.

C

Courtney Millen

August, 2024

5/5

I took the four day Larapinta trip with Zoe, Coni and Keegan last week. It was amazing and they were absolute gems. Cannot recommend this trip enough.

J

Jaquci Mumford

May, 2025

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for comfort and safety in the Red Centre’s wild and remote conditions. Here's what you’ll need:

Essential Gear

3–5L refillable water bladder (hydration is key!)
15–20kg soft bag for main luggage (no hard cases)
5–8kg small day pack for daily hikes
Head torch with spare batteries (essential for early starts & camp nights)
Power bank (no charging at camp)

Clothing

Sturdy hiking shoes (closed-toe, grippy sole)
All-weather, quick-dry clothing
Thermal layers (for chilly mornings and nights)
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
Swimwear & lightweight towel
Sleepwear suitable for cold nights
Optional: Your own sleeping bag and pillow (gear is provided, but bring your own if preferred)

Personal Items

Toiletries (biodegradable preferred, wet wipes recommended)
Insect repellent (tropical strength)
Reusable ziplock or snack bag (for trail treats)
Extra high-energy snacks (we provide snacks, but bring extras if you have specific preferences)
Camera/phone for photos (no power access—bring extra batteries or a solar charger)
Money for snacks or meals on Day 5

Optional but Handy

Mosquito or fly net (summer months)
Lightweight gloves or beanie (for Mt Sonder sunrise)
Walking poles (if preferred for steep sections)

💡 Pro Tip: Expect both heat and cold. The Red Centre can swing from sunburn to frostbite in a single day—layer up and pack smart.

Your Tour Offsets drive far more than Tree Planting — We Go Climate Positive By Design | Click Here to View the Method

Zero Trace CO₂e Report — 5-Day Larapinta Trail Expedition (Alice Springs, NT)

Results Summary

Estimated total per person: ≈ 1,540 kg CO₂e
Offset per person (200%): ≈ 3.08 t CO₂e
Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 18.5 t CO₂e

Method: high-estimate with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and aviation non-CO₂ effects via RF = 1.9; includes single-origin guest flights, all meals (included + off-tour), on-tour road transport & camp stays, and +10% uncertainty uplift.

Purpose

Conservatively measure greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e) across Scopes 1–3, report per person (with group totals for context), and state the 200% offset applied per person.

Key Tour Info

Region: West MacDonnell Ranges, Central Australia
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Start/Finish: Alice Springs (ASP)
Group size used for context totals: 12 guests (max 12 shown)
Trail distance: ~70 km hiking (grades ~3–5 across key sections; Mt Sonder day up to ~16 km)
Accommodation: 4 nights at a private remote eco-campsite (safari tent or swag)
Inclusions (page): 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, trek snacks; 4WD mini-coach transport; hotel pick-up/drop-off; park fees; accredited guides & support; emergency comms/first aid
Exclusions (page): Pre/post Alice Springs stays; alcohol (BYO welcome); unlisted meals; optional post-tour dinner

Scope & Boundaries

Scope 1: On-tour vehicle fuel (trailhead shuttles, camp logistics).
Scope 2: Purchased electricity only if directly attributable (generally captured via accommodation factors).
Scope 3: Guest flights (single origin) to/from Alice Springs, accommodation (camp nights), all meals consumed (included + off-tour), supplier logistics proxies, and +10% uncertainty uplift. Capital goods excluded.
Method frame: GHG Protocol; DEFRA-aligned factors with WTT; aviation RF = 1.9.

Feeder Hub (Guest Flights) — Single Origin Rule

Chosen origin hub: Sydney (SYD) (conservative choice over Melbourne).
Routing applied (return): SYD ↔ ASP for each person.

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

Flights: Distance-based economy factors, WTT included, RF = 1.9 applied.
Road (4WD mini-coach): Higher bus/coach passenger-km factor (assumes lower occupancy) to bias high.
Accommodation: Room-night approach (HCMI/CHSB regional benchmarks) for camp nights to avoid under-counting.
Meals: Meat-heavy mixed diet at ~2.5 kg CO₂e/meal (upper-bound).
Uncertainty uplift: +10% applied to subtotal where primary meter/fuel data is missing.

Activity Data Applied (this estimate)

Guest flights: SYD ↔ ASP return (great-circle ≈ 2,020 km each way; we model conservatively)
On-tour road: ≈ 450 km total across 5 days of trailhead transfers and camp logistics (conservative allowance)
Accommodation: 4 camp nights
All meals consumed: 15 meals/person (5 days × 3/day), regardless of inclusions
Powered optionals: None assumed for this itinerary

Results — Per Person (high-estimate, no tables)

Flights (SYD ↔ ASP, return; WTT + RF = 1.9): ≈ 1,200 kg
On-tour road (≈ 450 km; conservative passenger-km factor): ≈ 80 kg
Accommodation (4 nights; camp benchmark): ≈ 80 kg
All meals (15 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 38 kg

Subtotal: ≈ 1,398 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 140 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 1,540 kg CO₂e

Reporting focus is per person. Group totals above are for context only. Offsets are applied per person.

Assumptions (transparent)

Origin hub fixed: Sydney for all travellers to keep one consistent, conservative baseline.
Aviation: Distance-based; WTT included; RF = 1.9 to reflect non-CO₂ warming.
Road: Daily section shuttles vary; ≈ 450 km allowance chosen to bias high over five days.
Accommodation: Camp nights counted via room-night benchmarks to avoid underestimation.
Meals: We count every meal during the trip window (15/person), independent of inclusions.
No powered extras assumed; add separately if a departure books scenic flights or other motorised activities.
Uncertainty: +10% uplift applied across the subtotal to cover missing primary fuel/energy data.

Versioning

Generated 23 Aug 2025 (Australia/Perth). Factors reviewed at least annually or when official sources update.

References

Zero Trace tour page — 5-Day Larapinta Trail Expedition (start/finish, distance, inclusions, logistics): zerotracetours.com/products/5-day-larapinta-trail-expedition
UK Government — Greenhouse gas reporting conversion factors 2024 (transport/energy factors): gov.uk/government/collections/greenhouse-gas-reporting-conversion-factors
UK Government — Methodology 2024 (WTT; aviation non-CO₂ treatment/RF): gov.uk/government/publications/greenhouse-gas-reporting-conversion-factors-2024-methodology
GHG Protocol — Corporate Accounting & Reporting Standard (Scopes 1–3): ghgprotocol.org/corporate-standard
Australia National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors 2024: dcceew.gov.au/climate-change/publications/national-greenhouse-accounts-factors-2024
ICAO Carbon Emissions Calculator — methodology v13 (CO₂ only; RF added separately): icao.int/environmental-protection/CarbonOffset
Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) / CHSB benchmarks: sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/resource/hotel-carbon-measurement-initiative-hcmi • hotelfootprints.org
Dietary emissions (upper-bound mixed meals; EPIC-Oxford context): ox.ac.uk/news/2014-06-11-vegetarian-and-vegan-diets-cut-greenhouse-gas-emissions-half
Great-circle distance checks (SYD ↔ ASP): airmilescalculator.com/distance/syd-to-asp

Local Insights — Larapinta Trail (Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges)

Travel takes place on Arrernte and Western Arrarnta Country. Culture leads—follow Traditional Owner guidance, signage, and any seasonal or cultural closures.

Big-picture snapshot

A classic desert trek of 12 sections along red-quartzite ridgelines and cool gorges, linking the Alice Springs Telegraph Station to the Mt Sonder (Rwetyepme) trailhead. Expect rocky footing, big horizons, shaded waterholes, and long distances between services—plan like it’s remote, because it is.

Seasons & weather (what actually changes)

Prime walking: April–September for cooler days, crisp nights and clear air.
Summer: Extreme heat; many guided trips avoid Dec–Feb.
Rain & flood pulses: Short downpours can flood creeks and close roads temporarily.
Fire season: May–October often sees planned/unplanned burns; smoke and short-notice closures are possible.
Temperature feel: Winter nights can be near-freezing even when days are mild—layer up.

Culture & conduct (essential respect)

Sacred places occur along the ranges; some sites have photography restrictions—obey all signage.
Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye) sits on Aboriginal land with its own entry conditions and hours.
Walk softly: stay on track, don’t touch rock art, and leave natural objects where they are.

Passes, permits & rules (plain English)

Parks Pass: Visitors to the NT require an NT Parks Pass for Tjoritja / West MacDonnell.
Camping & bookings: Designated campsites only and book a campsite for each night you’re on the trail.
Fires: Fuel-stove only on the Larapinta; limited exceptions exist away from trailheads in specific bush camps—always check current rules before lighting anything.
Drones: Permit required in NT parks and additional park-specific restrictions may apply.

Water, safety & navigation

Water tanks are provided at trailheads and some camps and are monitored by rangers, but water must be treated/boiled before drinking.
Carry generous reserves between reliable sources and log tank levels in the trailhead books.
Treat the trail as low-to-no reception. Carry a PLB/satellite communicator, download offline maps, and leave a trip plan with a contact.

Access realities

Common roadheads include Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Serpentine Gorge/Chalet, Ormiston Gorge, and Redbank Gorge. Several spur roads are unsealed and can be impassable after rain—build timing buffer into itineraries.

Recommendations & local-style tips

Simpsons Gap at dawn/dusk: Good chance to spot black-footed rock-wallabies near the waterhole and along the track.
Midday light at Standley Chasm: When the sun’s high, those red walls glow—check opening hours and community conditions.
Ellery Creek Big Hole: Iconic swim on hot days; the last stretch is unsealed and briefly closes after heavy rain—check conditions first.
Ochre Pits stop: A short, powerful cultural site—go slow, read the signs, leave ochre in place.
Ridgetop timing: Start early on exposed sections to beat heat and afternoon winds; use gorge shade for long breaks.
Stargazing: The dry season sky is outrageous—bring a warm layer for post-sunset chills.

Practical logistics

Fuel & supplies: Stock up in Alice Springs before remote legs; resupply options along the track are limited.
Waste & facilities: Facilities vary by trailhead; most camps are simple (tents sites, shelter, toilet). Pack out all waste.
Connectivity & comms: Assume no signal on-trail; set expectations with family and use scheduled check-ins via satellite device.

Zero Trace (do it right)

Stay on formed pads, keep off cryptobiotic soils, don’t swim where prohibited, pack out everything, and respect all closures (heat, fire, cultural, conservation). The aim is simple: leave it feeling untouched.

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This is a moderate to challenging hike. You’ll be walking up to 16 km a day across rocky, uneven terrain with elevation changes. A good level of fitness is required, and a doctor’s certificate is mandatory for guests over 70.

Expect daily hikes ranging from 11 to 16 km, with varying degrees of difficulty. The Mount Sonder summit and ridge walks are the most demanding but also the most rewarding.

You’ll stay at a private, remote campsite on traditional land. Twin-share safari tents with camp beds and linen are provided. Or, choose a true outback experience sleeping in a bush swag under the stars.

No. The campsite is off-grid and does not offer electricity or power points. We recommend bringing a portable power bank to keep devices charged.

Basic dietary preferences can be accommodated, but due to the remote setting, options are limited. You’re encouraged to bring additional snacks if you have specific needs.

Yes, children aged 8–17 are welcome when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Due to the physical nature of the hikes, the tour is not suitable for children under 8.

This Tour Has An estimated footprint of :

0.0tCO₂e

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Country/Region

Country/Region

Start and Finish

Small Groups

Full Distance

Difficulty

Climate +

Hike Australia’s iconic desert trail, sleep under stars, and climb Mt Sonder

Quick Facts

Trip Highlights

Welcome

Drive: 146 km | Hike: 14 km · Grade: 4 (Moderate to Difficult)

Hike: 13 km · Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Hike: 11 km · Difficulty: Moderate

Hike: 16 km · Difficulty: Challenging

Hike: 16 km · Difficulty: Moderate

Key Tour Info

Where You’ll Stay

What You’ll Eat

What’s Included

What’s Not Included

Weather Expectations

Field Notes From Fellow Travelers

Juan Bradey

Cheryl Crosthwait

Cliapatra

Michelle Henderson

Courtney Millen

Jaquci Mumford

What to Pack

Zero Trace CO₂e Report — 5-Day Larapinta Trail Expedition (Alice Springs, NT)

Local Insights — Larapinta Trail (Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges)

Save time planning with our helpful travel tools

Optimum Travel Time Heat-Map

Point A - B Travel Time Estimator

Co2 Calculator

This Tour Has An estimated footprint of :

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3. Reserve Your Spot

4. Plan Your Logisitics

5. Your Adventure Begins

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Vetted Tour Operators

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Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

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Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets