Absorb the essence of New Zealand on one of the many walks through wilderness areas and national parks, some of which are world heritage areas. See, hear and feel New Zealand as it was and give thanks that far-sighted pioneers and a small population that mean vast areas of the country are still virtually untouched by mankind.

New Zealand's walks - guided and unguided - range from the easy to the challenging which require reasonable level of fitness. Visitors aged 10 to 70, and older, enjoy this aspect of their New Zealand holiday.

World famous walks like the Milford Track, Routeburn Track, Hollyford Valley and Abel Tasman Track in the South Island are popular with locals and travellers alike. But there are literally dozens of other walks, alpine, coastal and volcanic such as the famous Tongariro day hike that each have their own charm.

Walks can be of only a few hours duration - or for the more adventurous a few days. Guided walks provide overnight accommodation and meals, bedding and transport as required. Overnight accommodations and facilities are comfortably rustic offering wholesome New Zealand cuisine and dormitory style sleeping with shared facilities in most cases and private rooms being available on the Milford and Hollyford Tracks.

Unique to New Zealand, the vast majority of accommodations have readily available access to any number of fascinating local walks that can take a few minutes through to a full day to enjoy. All that's required are sturdy boots, sensible clothing and a sense of adventure.

From a short stroll before breakfast to a multi-day hike through the wilderness Australia’s two footed adventures showcase some of the country’s most stunning views, impressive nature and shyest locals.

There is no better way to explore Australia’s cities and soak up their spirit than taking to the streets on foot. Wander Melbourne’s tiny city arcades and Perth’s clean grid of wide streets, along Brisbane’s riversides walks, through Adelaide’s green parklands and round Canberra’s blue lake. Café crawl along Sydney’s beachside promenades and picturesque foreshore walks. Amble through Darwin’s sunset markets or along Hobart’s bustling Salamanca waterfront.

Stretch your legs a little further to ramble through the rainforest, wander through the vineyards and tread lightly through world heritage wilderness.

Trek through the carpet of alpine wildflowers on your way to Australia’s summit or stroll around the rim of Tasmania’s glassy glacial lakes reflecting images of towering rugged mountains. The steep climb through Freycinet’s pretty national park is rewarded with breathtaking views over Wineglass Bay, whilst hikers who scale Lord Howe’s volcanic peak are treated to a stunning panorama over the island’s turquoise lagoon and the World’s southernmost coral reefs.

Take a walk through the canopy of Western Australia’s towering tingle trees or a stroll along the foot of the outback’s soaring Geikie Gorge. Discover the legends of the Dreamtime as you walk with the aboriginal landowners around the base of Uluru and marvel at their secrets of survival as you follow the sheer sandstone walls of the Kings Canyon Rim.

Spot koalas as you stroll along Philip Island’s treetop boardwalks or catch a glimpse of Tasmania’s shiest creatures with a nocturnal wildlife walk in the wilderness.

Walk the coastal cliffs of the Mornington Peninsula, golf club in hand or stroll along the Whitsunday’s deserted beaches, a towel slung over your shoulder. Hike through rainforests and over sand dunes to cool off in Fraser Island’s stunning lakes; or revive your tired legs in a mountain top hot tub overlooking the Hunter.

Marvel at the moods of the ocean as the Great Ocean Road walk hugs Victoria’s south east coastline, and venture just a few steps inland to rest by spring fed waterholes in the tranquil gullies of the Otway National Park.

Serious hikers are also spoilt for choice with Australia’s longer treks showcasing a similar diversity.

Across wide alpine moors, beside icy mountain streams and through millennia old pines, Tasmania’s 6 day 60km Overland Track negotiates some of the World’s most pristine wilderness. Rest your head in cosy mountain cabins and give your weary legs a break on the dramatic ferry trip across Lake St Clair to finish. Alternatively, head for State’s North West to negotiate rocky headlands and feel the soft white sand between your toes on a four day accommodated hike through the spectacular Bay of Fires.

Listen for the call of the lyrebird and look out for kangaroos as you traverse the Blue Mountains wilderness along the 45km ‘Six Foot Track’ from the cliff top village of Katoomba to Jenolan Caves’ subterranean wonderland.

From the coast to the outback, through picturesque farmland, stunning national parks and rolling vineyards, South Australia’s 1200km Heysen Trail will delight with every step.

Stretching almost 1000km from Perth to the Western Australian South Coast, the Bibbulmum Track winds through towering karri forests, down misty valleys, over giant granite boulders and along dramatic coastal headlands.

Expand your horizons as you climb over the rugged ranges of the outback, following the Larapinta Trail through the West MacDonnell Ranges’ sheltered gorges and desert tracks.

With the exception of the Overland and Six Foot Tracks, most of Australia’s multi-day treks can also be enjoyed as a series of shorter day walks, with multiple access points along the route.

So pack your boots (and your camera) and take a walk - enjoying the company of knowledgeable local guides or exploring the country at your own pace.

Note: We recommend all visitors to Australia pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. When planning a walk you should also carry suitable warm clothes and / or wet weather gear as weather conditions can change quickly, particularly in alpine areas. On longer walks, always advise someone of your planned route and estimated time of return. Stick to the marked trails and ‘take only photographs, leave only footprints’. Take all rubbish with you and check for fire restrictions. Prebooking and national park permits are required on some of Australia’s ‘Great Walks’.