Independent 3-Day Hike

The Walk

This challenging yet rewarding walk will take you through diverse ecosystems, sacred Ngaro Country, and to the most spectacular viewpoints in the Whitsundays.

Walk Overview

Traverse from Whitehaven Beach across Whitsunday Craig then down towards Hill's Inlet. The only way to experience the magic of the Whitsunday's away from the crowds.

View printable map

Trail Details

Total Distance:
32km
Duration:
3 days / 2 nights
Grading:
Grade 4–5
Direction:
One way only

Logistics

Max Capacity:
15 people/day
Best Season:
April to October
Start:
Whitehaven Beach
Finish:
Tongue Point
Placeholder Map of Whitsunday Islands

What to expect along the way

Please take care to check walking distances between water points so you can plan a safe walk to suit your pace (hours suggested are a guideline only and depend on your walking speed and number of stops).

 
The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool

Day 1

Whitehaven Beach to Camp 1 - Bowarri yamba (Moon Camp)

8.7 km   5 hours Grade 3/4

View Camp PlanRead More

Arrive by boat at the southern end of Whitehaven Beach, with an option to visit the Whitehaven Beach lookout. Continue along the shared track to Chance Bay to the begin the Ngaro track. The trailhead is located 100m beyond the Chance Bay camping area and offers informative signs, seating and photo opportunities. Along the way you will pass Theos point and Bari dhili (Rock eye) viewpoints offering photo opportunities and Ngaro family art installation posts.

Finish at Camp site 1 - Bowarri yamba (Moon camp), perched atop an imposing ridgeline overlooking picturesque Silica Bay.

 
Key Features
  • Whitehaven Beach Lookout
  • Chance Bay
  • Bari Dhili viewpoint
Ecosystem
Rainforest on sandCoastal views
 
The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool

Day 2

To Camp 2 - Dhula yamba (Tree Camp)

10.8 km   7 hours Grade 4/5

View Camp PlanRead More

Day 2 begins from Bowarri yamba (Moon Camp), with the trail climbing steadily toward Whitsunday Craig, reaching 353 metres above sea level. Ladders and stairs guide you to the summit, where sweeping views over isolated island bluffs and headlands make the effort worthwhile. Pause at Lower Craig and Crayfish Bay for photo-worthy lookouts and to reflect on Ngaro family art installations that share cultural storylines.

The day ends at Dhula yamba (Tree Camp), nestled in the peaceful beach surrounds of Torres Herald Bay.

 
Key Features
  • Whitsunday Craig summit (353m)
  • Chest Eye viewpoint
  • Crayfish Bay
Ecosystem
Open forestsRocky outcrops
 
The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool

Day 3

To Tongue Bay

12.8 km   8 hours Grade 4/5

Day 3 sets off from Dhula yamba (Tree Camp), beginning with a walk through the Whitsundays’ only mangrove boardwalk and past the tranquil Gumi (Ponds) wetland. Along the way, enjoy views from Murmuri bari (Round Rock) and Upper Inlet, both home to cultural art installations and scenic photo stops.

Mark your achievement at the Ngaro track photo post, before reaching the spectacular Hill Inlet lookouts, where the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach unfold below. The journey ends with a boat departure from Tongue Bay, completing your walk through Ngaro Country.

Key Features
  • Mangrove boardwalk
  • Gumi (Ponds) wetlands
  • Murmuru bari (Round Rock) viewpoint
  • Hill Inlet Lookouts
Ecosystem
WetlandsMangrovesCoastal heathland

Camp 1 - Bowarri yamba (Moon Camp)

 

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Start your Ngaro journey beneath the stars

Located at the southern end of the Ngaro Track, Bowarri yamba is the first night’s campsite and your base before the climb to Whitsunday Craig. The architecturally designed campsite is surrounded by open forest and sheltered from prevailing winds. This peaceful bush setting offers a quiet connection to Ngaro Country where you can watch the moon rise over the ocean.

Facilities

  • Rainwater tank (treat before drinking)
  • Communal shelter to prepare meals and relax
  • Composting toilet
  • Elevated timber tent platforms and earth node for tent or hammock
  • Hammock posts available at some sites

The site was carefully designed to minimise environmental disturbance. Stay on defined paths and avoid moving natural features like rocks or logs.

Fires are prohibited, fuel stoves only (penalties apply).

 

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Elevated Timber Tent Platforms

The campsites feature a mix of elevated timber tent platforms and one earth node for a tent or hammock, designed to reduce ground impact while offering a stable, low-footprint base for your overnight stay. Refer to camp map for more details and locations.

Moon camping area, The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Architecturally Designed Communal Shelter

Rest under a shaded space and connecting with fellow walkers, while blending seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Kitchen Facilities

Basic kitchen facilities are available, including stainless steel benchtops and sheltered areas for meal prep - walkers must bring their own cooking gear and fuel stoves.

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Loo With A View

A composting toilet is provided at each campsite, offering an environmentally friendly waste system that supports the track’s low-impact design.

Camp 2 - Dhula yamba (Tree Camp)

 

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Sleep beside the sand in a remote beach setting

Nestled near the shoreline of Torres Herald Bay, Dhula yamba is the second campsite on the Ngaro Track and your final overnight stop before reaching Hill Inlet. The site is backed by forest and fronts onto a secluded beach, ideal for a cooling dip or quiet reflection at the end of the day’s walk.

Facilities

  • Rainwater tank (treat before drinking)
  • Communal shelter to prepare meals and relax
  • Composting toilet
  • Elevated timber tent platforms and earth node (for tent or hammock)
  • Hammock posts available at some sites
  • Short walk to the beach

The site was carefully designed to minimise environmental disturbance. Stay on defined paths and avoid moving natural features like rocks or logs.

Fires are prohibited, fuel stoves only (penalties apply).
The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Elevated Timber Tent Platforms

Various tent platforms and earth camping nodes provide low-impact options for setting up your tent, designed to protect the surrounding environment while offering a comfortable night’s rest.

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Torres Herald Bay

Just a short walk to the Torres Hearld Bay, offering a peaceful spot to relax, explore the shoreline, and enjoy a quiet moment at the end of the day.

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Compostable Toilet & Rainwater Tank

Each campsite is equipped with a composting toilet and rainwater tank, designed to support the Ngaro Track’s low-impact ethos by providing essential amenities with low impact.

The Ngaro Track, Whitsunday Islands | Matt Horspool
Architecturally Designed Communal Shelter

The communal shelter offers a thoughtfully designed space for meal prep, rest and connection with fellow walkers. Built to complement the natural surroundings while providing comfort in all weather.

Campsite Etiquette

Ensure a positive experience for everyone by following these simple guidelines:

  • Use water wisely - supplies are limited and collected from rainwater tanks (not to be used for showering)
  • Cook with fuel stoves only, using the designated stainless steel benchtops (campfires are prohibited, penalties apply)
  • Take all food waste with you - never leave scraps behind or dispose of them in the toilets, as they can harm wildlife
  • Be considerate of others - share facilities and leave shelters and spaces clean and tidy
  • Respect quiet hours - between 9pm and 7am
Caring for Campsites

Help preserve the campsites and environments by following these simple guidelines:

  • Stay on marked tracks and use designated tent platforms - trampled vegetation can take years to recover
  • Attach hammocks or ropes only to designated posts or bollards - never to trees, as they are easily damaged
  • Use fuel stoves with care - always cook away from flammable vegetation to reduce wildfire risk
  • Store food securely in the communal shelter cupboards or hang packs on hooks to keep wildlife safe and wild
  • Always use toilet facilities - bush toileting around campsites is unhygienic
Staying Safe in the Campsites

Follow these guidelines to stay safe:

  • Be aware - marine stingers, sharks and crocodiles can be present in tropical waters
  • Keep clear of cliff edges and steep drop-offs near campsites
  • Use caution on wet or slippery rock surfaces, especially after rain
  • Always treat water before drinking, even from the rainwater tanks
  • Protect yourself from tropical insects by covering up or using repellent
  • Look up before setting up - avoid camping directly under pine trees, as branches can fall
 

Ready to Begin Your Adventure?

Limited permits available. Secure your place on this extraordinary journey through one of Australia's most pristine wilderness areas.

Ngaro Track

A 3 day, 32km independent walk across Whitsunday Island National Park created in partnership with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Ngaro People, Traditional Owners of this land and sea Country.

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Created by Ngaro Track Pty Ltd in partnership with Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Ngaro People, Traditional Owners of this land and sea Country. All rights reserved.