The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure 16th - 20th August 2026

LOCATION South Australia
Start Date 12:00pm, Sun, 16th August 2026
Duration 5 Days
  • Description
  • Tour Plan
  • What You'll Get
  • WHY You'll LOve This
  • FAQS
  • TESTIMONIALS

Description

Join Women’s Fitness Adventures on an iconic Australian adventure designed as a gentle yet purposeful introduction to hiking, without giving up comfort.

We spend our days hiking along the Murray River, returning each afternoon to our private houseboat for the week. It’s a beautiful balance of moving well during the day and unwinding properly in the afternoons.

This adventure is graded Introductory PLUS – ideal for women who are new to hiking, returning after time away, or ready to take a confident first step beyond day walks.  It’s combined with peaceful cruising, immersing you  in a landscape rich in native fauna and flora.

Our daily hikes range from 12 – 14 km, hiked at a steady, supportive pace with plenty of time to take in the surroundings. This is about building confidence and rhythm, not rushing or proving anything.

Each afternoon we arrive back to our private houseboat. Here it’s time to relax, recover well and enjoy the simple pleasure of having moved your body through the day.  Each evening our guides prepare locally sourced three course meals paired with Riverland wines – enjoyed together on board as the day winds down. It’s relaxed, social and very much part of the shared experience.

This is a wonderful first step into multi day hiking – the chance to move well, learn what your body is capable of and experience what it feels like to be part of a supported hiking group.

How to decide if this adventure is right for you.

We encourage you to take a few minutes to read through the FAQ’s and Adventure Grading before booking.  They are designed to help you make a confident, informed decision, especially if this is your first multi day hiking experience. This isn’t about being the fastest or the fittest.  It is about understanding the pace, the distances and how this adventure fits into where you are right now.

For Women’s Fitness Adventures Members, be sure to LOG IN to access special member pricing.

Not a member yet? Click here for more information about membership to Women’s Fitness Adventures.

Tour Plan

Sunday 16th August 2026

Adelaide – Renmark

 

Today is arrival day.  We meet at Adelaide airport for a 12 noon  private transfer to Renmark where we stay overnight.

This afternoon we have time to explore Renmark before our Welcome Dinner and stay at a local hotel.

Accommodation: Hotel, Twin Share

Meals: Dinner

Monday 17th August 2026

Renmark – Headings Cliff

 

We enjoy a hearty breakfast before meeting our guides and transferring to our adventure.

We organise our backpacks and board a boat for a 14km cruise along the mighty Murray River. Our hike starts at Woolenook Bend.

We discover old horseshoe lagoons and learn about the site of the World War II internment camp during lunch on the riverbank.

Today we cross the little creeks that feed the red gum forests and box woodlands. We gently climb the sandy cliffs covered in native pine and native lilies. We soon see a magnificent view of the vast Murray River floodplain.

It’s a short transfer across the river to board our houseboat.

Each afternoon we have the option of dipping our feet in the river. Or maybe enjoying a hot spa. Or a campfire. Or local beverage and tasting plate or all of the above! What more could you want?

Tonight is a 3 course dinner paired with local wines

Accommodation: Houseboat, Twin Share

Meals:  Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Hiking Distance: 12km

Cruising Distance: 14km

Tuesday 18th August 2026

Headings Cliffs –  Chowilla Creek

 

We have an early start this morning. We are up pre dawn with our head torches on. We hike to the rim of the Murray River valley to enjoy a spectacular sunrise.

Marvel at the geological layers in the cliffs formed by wind, ocean, freshwater lakes and the river.

Returning to our houseboat we settle in for a delicious breakfast before our daily hike begins.

With lunches packed, we depart for a day of discovery.

We see Aboriginal Canoe trees, dense red gum forest and small islands hidden along the way.

Look out for the kangaroos and emus here as we forage for saltbush leaves for breakfast tomorrow.

We board our houseboat and cruise to our evening destination. It’s time to enjoy a local tasting plate as we dip our feet in the cool waters of the Murray River.

All the while soaking up the beauty of our surrounds.

Accommodation: Houseboat,  Twin Share

Meals:  Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Hiking Distance: 14km

Cruising Distance: 10km

Wednesday 19th August 2026

Chowilla Creek – Queens Bend Cliff

 

We enjoy a hearty breakfast this morning before cruising to the Chowilla Creek Environmental Regulator.

Here we learn about environmental watering and new stewardship for the river.

We hike along the meandering Chowilla Creek and visit the proposed site of the 1960’s Chowilla Dam.

Restored wetlands and waterbirds inspire us. After lunch we traverse Bunyip Reach Cliffs and capture the beauty of this landscape on route to Queens Bend Cliffs.

Queens Bend Cliffs is where we complete our hiking journey. It’s time to return to our houseboat as the late afternoon sun illuminates the cliffs.

Accommodation: Houseboat,  Twin Share

Meals:  Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

Hiking Distance: 10km

Cruising Distance: 18km

Thursday 20th August 2026

Bunyip Reach Cliffs – Renmark

 

After our last breakfast onboard we relax on the river bank or take a 2 km walk along the river.

Then we all cruise together through Lock 6 and experience the fall in river level.

We continue cruising downstream on our houseboat, enjoying a scrumptious morning tea.

It’s time to reflect on our experience, marvelling at the riverscapes we’ve just hiked along, before arriving at historic Wilkadene Woolshed.

It’s a BBQ and brewery tour here before our private transfer to Adelaide airport.

Please note that depending on flight times an extra night’s accommodation in Adelaide may be required and this will be at your own cost.

Meals: Breakfast | Lunch

Hiking Distance: 2km

Cruising Distance: 23km

Here's What You Get

During The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure, our accommodation is as below:

Hotel for one night – Renmark, Twin Share.

Private Houseboat, Twin Share.

All our accommodation is clean and comfortable. Our houseboat has shared bathroom facilities.

(Note image is for illustration purposes only and may differ from picture)

In this itinerary we have catered for all breakfasts, lunches and dinners

4 Breakfasts

4 Lunches

4 Dinners

Your alcohol whilst onboard our Houseboat is included with our dinners every night.

Remember alcohol is dehydrating and the goal is to hike each day so please be responsible with your consumption.

Should you have any special snacks that you can’t live without, you are welcome to bring these with you.

Your experienced Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W. Leader is with you all the way.

From the moment you arrive in Adelaide (or if you are travelling there with your C.R.E.W Leader) until the time you leave she will be your ultimate fan and support.

Your C.R.E.W Leader is fully trained in Remote Area First Aid and is your first point of call once you are on the adventure.

We also have local guides on this adventure and a registered skipper and crew for the houseboat.

Within a few weeks of your booking being confirmed, you will have access to your Gear and Packing list.

By sticking to the list, you will be well prepared for The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure

Each day you will be required to carry your own day pack.

If you are new to adventures and do not have the gear, we recommend you watch the Masterclasses on topics such as boots, backpacks and raincoats.

Additionally, make contact with us via the Facebook Group or by contacting the office.

Your membership gives you access to a discount with our Adventure Store partner based in Brisbane. This generous discount is available for use in store, online or over the phone – so can be accessed wherever you live.

Your C.R.E.W Leaders are carrying Emergency Communications Equipment and a group first aid kit.

Our Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventures comes complete with its very own private Facebook Group.

This is designed specifically for maximum interaction and communication to ensure you never miss a moment in the lead up.

Additionally there are online meetings designed to bring the group together, check in on your training and provide any updates

Here's Why You'll Love This...

Safety is our number one priority. Your C.R.E.W Leader is fully trained in Remote Area First Aid and your Guides hold Wilderness First Aid Qualifications.

All guides and leaders have current CPR Qualifications.

In the event of extreme weather conditions or conditions beyond our control, the adventure may vary from the itinerary. Please be aware of this and accept this as part of the adventure. Your personal safety is our highest priority.

Our  Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure comes with a dedicated, local and professional hiking guide.

Our guide, along with your Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader, who is there to support YOU, will ensure that you leave with not only knowledge of the local area, but also priceless memories.

These elements, along with our amazing C.R.E.W make our  multi day hikes transformational. Some kind of “magic” happens with the group.

From the moment you book on to the The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure, you will begin to make new friends. It all starts with the training.

Our adventurers tell us that they love the opportunities of meeting others before the adventure in the Closed Facebook Group or in person at training.

Many of our members have gone on to become great friends. You can read some of the friendship stories by clicking here.

Our multi day hikes are transformational. Some kind of “magic” happens with the group.

Here is what Drea said about her Murray River Fitness Adventure.

” I feel pretty happy to be able to hike through Riverland country sharing the adventure with a fun bunch of girls”

An introductory Multi-day hiking adventure for women ready to take their first confident step into multi day walking, with steady pacing, support and time to recover well each day.

This is an INTRODUCTORY multi day adventure, designed for women who are new to multi-day hiking or returning after time away.

The trails are well marked and travelled. Depending on rainfall or river conditions, sections may be muddy and wet underfoot.

There are a few gentle ascents and sandy dunes where you may notice your breathing increase and descents that require attention and steady foot placement. On consecutive days, leg strength becomes important, particularly on downhills.

An AVERAGE level of fitness is required with the ability to walk for several hours across consecutive days.

What this means is:

  • Being able to hike approximately 10km per day over consecutive days across varied terrain.
  • Some days involve extended time on the trail, so strength and endurance in legs is important.
  • Being able to hike with a backpack weight of approximately 5-7kg
  • Being comfortable walking on uneven surfaces and natural trails.

This adventure suits a wide range of fitness levels and is an excellent choice if you’re considering your first multi-day hiking adventure.  It’s a place to learn what multi day hiking feels like – with support, structure and time to build confidence.

Introductory Adventure Grading

Our  Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure is graded Introductory.

The walking is introductory with daily hikes ranging from 10km – 14km. The terrain is mostly flat with two gentle cliff climbs up and down a gradual 40 metre rise and descent.

An average level of fitness is required to participate fully and this is where preparation matters.

As soon as you book your Multi Day Adventure, you can begin training.

Booking early and allowing yourself time to prepare means that this adventure is an achievable and rewarding goal – even if your current fitness feels introductory. You don’t need to be at your fittest when you book, You just need to be willing to train consistently.

What’s included:

  • A 4 month hike training plan relevant to your adventure.
  • An Online Group Adventure meeting for motivation, guidance, tips and Q&A
  • Access to the private Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure Facebook Group.

By following the training and steadily moving towards your adventure, you’ll arrive feeling prepared, capable and AdventureReady.

Our training programs are developed by Women’s Fitness Adventures, drawing on decades of experience in both the fitness industry and guided hiking in the outdoors.  

Many women choose this adventure as their first step into multi-day hiking, before progressing to longer, more demanding walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will only need day packs to carry your food and water for the day.  You may also have personal items that you might like to carry along such as extra clothing, rain-jacket, sunscreen and camera. The weight of this would vary around 5-7kg.

A comprehensive gear list will be supplied to you within a few weeks of your booking being confirmed and long before the adventure so that you can feel confident that you have the right gear.

By sticking to the list, you will be well prepared for The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure

 

Fitness Level

An introduction to multi day hiking. This level suits women with a basic level of fitness, even if hiking over consecutive days is new to you.

Pre-requisite Hike

Not required.

Exercise Duration

You can comfortably walk for 2.5-4 hours at a time without feeling exhausted or overly fatigued.

Exercise Frequency

You currently exercise 3-4 times per week, primarily walking or low intensity activity.

Surfaces & Climbing

You can manage gentle hills, stairs and uneven surfaces, even if you do need to pause occasionally. Climbs (hills) are short and steady rather than sustained.

Hiking experience

You may or may not have previous hiking experience. You’re comfortable adapting to new situations and are willing to build confidence as the days progress.

Introductory Adventure Grading

If you are unsure as to your current fitness level please use this handy resource: How to find your hiking fitness level

The weather in AUGUST is cool to mild with an average daily temperature of 14 – 17 degrees and night time temperatures averaging 3 – 8 degrees.

 

The Murray is famous for its mild weather and glorious sunshine. Stunning sunrises and sunsets can be found throughout the region, with the river and forests glowing in vibrant reds and oranges.

It is important to come along with an open mind ready for an awesome experience whatever the weather, whoever the group. Weather can sometimes be unpredictable.

In the event of extreme weather conditions and other factors beyond our control, the adventure may vary from the itinerary. Please be aware of this and accept this as part of the adventure. Your personal safety is our highest priority.

The following is INCLUDED as part of the adventure:

  • All transfers that form part of the daily activity whilst on the adventure
  • Nightly accommodation for 4 nights – twin share
  • Your Women’s Fitness Adventures C.R.E.W Leader
  • Local Professional Wilderness Guide for the adventure
  • All necessary permits & Licenses
  • Public Liability insurance
  • Comprehensive First Aid kit and emergency communications equipment
  • 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches & 4 dinners
  • Alcohol is included on board our houseboat
  • Private transport from Adelaide airport to Renmark and return to Adelaide airport
  • Hike Training Plan

 

The following are not included:

  • Airfares
  • Vaccinations & medical expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Transfers other than specified
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Alcohol other than that on houseboat
  • Souvenirs & gifts
  • Meals & food not specified in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees unless specified
  • Items of a personal nature

The Mighty Murray River Fitness Adventure 16th-20th August 2026.

A Quick Guide to Our Booking Terms and Conditions.

We’re thrilled you’re considering joining us for the Mighty Murray Fitness Adventure! Here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when you book:

Payments: Start your adventure with us by securing your spot with a 35% non-refundable payment. We’ll provide the specific payment deadlines below for your convenience.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to [email protected]. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy

Please note the payment terms including the cancellation policy.

  • An initial non refundable payment of 35% is required to secure your place on this adventure.
  • Once a booking is confirmed, payment must be received within the payment terms as advised by Women’s Fitness Adventures in the table below.
  • Failure to pay within the deadline will result in automatic cancellation of your booking.
  • Payments are accepted by direct deposit, PayPal or by credit card. There are no credit card surcharges for bookings made through the Women’s Fitness Adventures website
  • When your credit card is processed by Women’s Fitness Adventures you agree to not have your payment ‘charged back’ or reversed by your credit card provider where the services have been provided.

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to [email protected]. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms

(all prices are in Australian Dollars)

Payment Due Date Amount
On Booking

(35% non-refundable payment)

$1749

(35% non-refundable payment)

April 15th 2026 $2500
June 2nd 2026 $750

 Cancellation Policy

Notification Received by

Women’s Fitness Adventures

Cancellation Charge
Before April 15th 2026 Total loss of initial payment
Between April 15th & June 2nd 2026 85% of full adventure cost
Between & Including

June 2nd 2026 & Departure Date

100% of full adventure cost
After Scheduled Adventure 100% of full adventure cost

Payment Terms and Cancellation Policy for Non-Members

All cancellations must be in writing and emailed to [email protected]. Your cancellation date is the date when written notification is received.

Payment Terms

(all prices are in Australian Dollars)

Payment Due Date Amount
On Booking

(35% non-refundable payment)

$1925

(35% non-refundable payment)

April 15th 2026 $2750
June 2nd 2026 $824

 Cancellation Policy

Notification Received by

Women’s Fitness Adventures

Cancellation Charge
Before April 15th 2026 Total loss of initial payment
Between April 15th & June 2nd 2026 85% of full adventure cost
Between & Including

June 2nd 2026 & Departure Date

100% of full adventure cost
After Scheduled Adventure 100% of full adventure cost

No refunds are provided should you have to leave the adventure early.

As our adventures are so popular, please be aware that if you cancel your place, it will most likely be taken by someone else so you should consider this carefully.

Travel Insurance: To ensure everyone has peace of mind, travel insurance is required shortly after your booking—within five days. Your policy should cover everything from medical emergencies to trip cancellations.

Itinerary Changes: Adventures are full of surprises! Sometimes, external factors may necessitate itinerary changes. While we can’t offer refunds for these changes, we strive to ensure every adventure is as amazing as planned.

If you have specific dietary requirements (including dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan), please inform us prior to booking, as additional charges may apply based on requirements from our suppliers. We’ll do our best to accommodate your needs, but some requests may require prior discussion and approval.

Once you make your first payment, we’ll send you a document with all the details of these terms. Please read it carefully, sign via JotForm, and return it to us to confirm your spot.

For all the details and to read our full terms, please refer to the PDF for this adventure.

We can’t wait to share this adventure with you.

Our fabulous adventures allow you to create memories and friendships that last a lifetime. At Women’s Fitness Adventures we are also committed to sustainable adventures so that the places and spaces we go will also last well beyond our lifetime and the many generations to follow. Sustainability starts when you join our community and never ends.

We are committed to the principles of minimal impact, leave no trace, tread lightly and give back to the local community. Here’s how we do that for all of our adventures (short and long)

Consumables

  • We encourage “no plastics” so bringing refillable water bottles, reusable cups and cutlery where applicable and using lunchboxes where plastic can be minimised
  • It’s a leave no trace principle, so all food scraps, toilet waste and rubbish items are carried out. (See our Masterclass on Toileting for the Trail)
  • We are committed to reducing paper waste inside our organisation and have implemented a paperless booking system.

Transport

  • We encourage the use of public transport or carpooling to minimise the use of motor vehicles.
  • When flying, we encourage you to offset your emissions by purchasing carbon offsets.

Minimal impact

  • We have a “tread lightly” policy where we stay on known tracks and paths, minimising our impact to bush, plants and wildlife.
  • Before we embark on an adventure or trail, we brief you on the flora, fauna and any other considerations that form the uniqueness of the environment so that you understand and appreciate the minimal impact approach.

Accommodation & Adventure Partners

  • Where possible we partner with fellow Eco Certified businesses who follow the same eco philosophies
  • Our destinations are all pre-arranged and when we camp we do so in designated campsites.
  • Our adventures have all the applicable National Park permits and licenses to operate.
  • Our “give back” policy also applies to the locations we stay – choosing local operators, businesses and townships where funds spent go directly to small business owners – doing our part to create sustainable communities.

Testimonials

“It was marvellous in every way. Challenging but surrounded by the support of good women and good humour. Fabulous guide and organisation from Women’s Fitness Adventures. It was the adventure of a lifetime. I feel happy to have a combination of challenge and safety with WFA”  Julie, Iceland July 2022

Julie McDougall

“The adventure was fabulous. Touring a beautiful part of Italy with a group of lovely like minded ladies. Also the delicious food was a bonus”. Merlene.  Trekking in Tuscany, Italy September 2022.

Merlene Madge

$5,499.00

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