Hello, Chris and Annie from Canada, preparing to do the Big Lap in a camper van starting July 2025.
We were reading about the Spirit of Tasmania and how you have to book the ferry almost 9 months in advance and we were wondering how long we should spend in Tasmania. We're thinking that a month should be plenty of time, we'll be doing a one year lap so there's no rush.
Is a month reasonable if not, what do you recommend? We're hikers and nature lovers.
Based on your "hikers" interests, I suggest a minimum of 2 months.
Tasmania is full of wonderful walking, from half an hour to a week, or more.
My personal favorite is the "Walls of Jerusalem" (allow a minimum of 3 days/nights, but a week would not be excessive and it is free) and the famous "Overland Track" (a busy trail that takes 5 days and needs to be booked with a fee), but there are literally hundreds of others to suit all skill levels and ambitions.
In addition, all of the State forests are open and free to explorers who have 4WD and are self contained.
Much too short. :) Do what we did in Europe. Buy a vehicle here and park it up when you go home to renew your visa and then come back for another go. The walking in Tasmania is a summer activity, the north of Australia is a winter destination, so it all works out well if you travel according to the seasons. Cheers, Peter
ps... walking in Tasmania is very varied. From "easy" mountains to temperate rain forest on marked trails or very difficult and very remote areas. Just watch out for the Bennets Wallabies. They know how to undo zips to raid your pack or tent.
-- Edited by Peter_n_Margaret on Friday 20th of December 2024 10:37:01 AM
We have done quite a few trips to Tasmania. Each time it was for at least 8 weeks. There is just so much to see and do down there. One time we were in the tourist information centre at Burnie when a couple came in and asked what was the best route to take to see Tasmania. The person behind the counter asked how long were they planning for the trip. They replied 6 days. The one behind the counter broke down in complete laughter. Enjoy your trip. It is great.
Well, we were wondering if a month was too long, it looks like it's too short. We most likely won't have a 4WD, there aren't that many available and buying a vehicle from overseas is complicated, Australia is big. I think we'll stick with our one month plan, it may be a bit short but it's never possible to do and see everything in a single trip.
Thanks for your comments and suggestions, it is much appreciated!
Chris and Annie
