Walk Wadjemup - The Hike Collective
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Wadjemup Bidi Discovery Project

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Lead with purpose. Walk with meaning.

Discover the trails of Wadjemup in a new way — with story, spirit, and sustainability.

The Wadjemup Bidi Discovery Project is a collaborative initiative delivered by The Hike Collective in partnership with the Rottnest Foundation, and proudly supported by the State Government through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries.

Through a combination of guided hikes, cultural immersion, environmental stewardship, and leadership development, this project invites you to walk with purpose on Wadjemup (Rottnest Island).

Whether you’re discovering the island’s ancient trails for the first time or stepping into a leadership role as a hiking guide, you’ll be part of a community helping to protect and share the cultural and natural stories of this iconic place — now and for future generations.

Walk Wadjemup. Lead Wadjemup

Join us on the trails of Wadjemup for a powerful hiking experience that blends guided cultural walks with the chance to grow into a trail leader. Whether you’re here to walk with purpose or step into guiding with confidence, this is your invitation to connect with Country, community, and yourself.

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Walk Wadjemup

A Cultural Hiking Experience

Step onto the trails of Wadjemup and journey through land, story, and sustainability. Walk Wadjemup is a series of fully guided hiking weekends designed to connect you with the island’s ancient landscapes, living Noongar culture, and delicate ecosystems — one step at a time.

Each hiking experience includes:

  • Guided walks along the spectacular Wadjemup Bidi trail network

  • Cultural interpretation and ceremonies led by Noongar Elder, Nev Collard

  • Conservation activities and education around trail care

  • Group experiences grounded in respect, reflection, and reconnection

Choose one of the 2025 weekends:

30 August | 20 September | 18 October | 8 November

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Lead Wadjemup

A Guide Training Pathway

If you’re passionate about the outdoors and want to give back to community and Country, Lead Wadjemup is your path to becoming a hiking guide — with purpose.

This hands-on training program offers a leadership development experience for volunteers who want to:

  • Build trail guiding skills

  • Learn group management, navigation, and safety

  • Engage in cultural education and environmental awareness

  • Become part of a movement for inclusive and sustainable hiking in WA

You’ll learn by doing — shadowing experienced guides, and participating in guided hikes.

At the end of your journey, you’ll walk away with:

  • Skills aligned to the Australian Adventure Activity Standards (AAAS)

  • Practical experience and mentoring

  • A pathway to becoming a volunteer or career guide

What our guests are saying

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 davidhO268IH 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Exceptional experience that I will treasure forever We did the Karijini Journey tour in Sept 25 with Kate. It was the best experience we could have hoped for. Family with three adult daughters celebrating a milestone birthday. The tour was kept to 10 so we got very individualised care and guiding. The accommodation, food, facilities, and atmosphere were excellent. All aspects were very well catered for inc tailoring the challenges. Kate is passionate and respectful of the indigenous heritage that we were witnessing. It was the most exceptional way to spend time together as a family. Parts of it were hard but so worth it.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Tamara 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Magnificent Guide to the wonders of Karijini We started our Karijini Eco Retreat with a tour to Knox Gorge with our magnificent guide Sarah. She was incredibly friendly and informative and made us all feel at ease. Sarah opened our eyes to the curiosities of nature and what the beautiful Gorges had to offer us. She let us take our time exploring, answered all our questions, and made it a wonderful experience on our first day in Karijini. Later that night Sarah once again introduced us to the beauties of a sunset over the Gorge, topping it off with a burger made by the exceptional Chef at the Eco Retreat out under the stars whilst we marvelled at the Milky Way in our camping chairs. Sarah is an asset to The Hike Collective
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 David B 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Every day was memorable and treasured. Was a most wonderful 5 day Karijini tour, led by Kate and Kellie. Kate is the main leader and she has a daily itinerary but is completely flexible to make it work optimally with the group dynamics and wishes. The area is spectacular and the food and accommodation both excellent. You are well taken care of. Would very highly recommend.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Rajinder K 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
An amazing arvo It was such a magical afternoon being in the cave and being guided by Khrishna who was attentive & kind. Amanda did an amazing job with the hike too. Was just such a bliss being out there in nature, while learning more about the Yanchep National Park. Highly recommend!!
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Jeannie K 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
A wonderful day in nature I participated in the Zen at the Zoo event today and the whole experience was purely blissful. From the sounds of the waking gibbons welcoming a brand new day, to having the zoo all to ourselves for two wonderful hours. I thoroughly enjoyed walking around my favourite gardens in Perth and hearing all the wonderful stories about the zoo. The spot picked to do our yoga practice under the clouds was a beautiful spot and of course I enjoyed the yoga session so much. Being outdoors & hearing the sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling was magic to my ears and fuel for my soul! Thank you Hike Collective for an unforgettable experience.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Karen D 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Zen at the Zoo - a Beautiful Experience Zen at the Zoo - what a beautiful experience... the guided walk around the Zoo before opening time was magical, topped off with a beginners Vinyasa session (yoga is always invigorating) on the Oak Lawn followed by a refreshing green juice. Fabulous way to start the weekend.
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Fiona M 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Lakeside Peace The Forrestdale lake was beautiful, full of water and so peaceful. A fantastic hike to bring peace to the soul. The course is flat, so perfect for beginners, although slightly longer than advised, I found it worth the extra distance
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Karen C 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Reconnecting with Nature Leighton was a wonderful host, friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable and generously shared his experience and personal story. It was amazing to reconnect with our beautiful Kings Park and as a local I wondered why I don’t visit it more often. I enjoyed getting to know the other hikers and what a great group I was fortunate to walk with, lots of interesting conversations. The weather was rainy at times but we unitedly squelched together in our soggy shoes to reach the end. A thoroughly inspiring walk and I look forward to doing more. Thanks Hike Collective! Karen, Perth WA
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Nanette S 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Hike on Rottnest Island Leighton & David were excellent guides. Their talks were informative, funny & entertaining. They included many interesting facts about the island plus animals from other areas around Perth
  
 
  
 
 
 
 Posted on Tripadvisor Tripadvisor 
  
 
 Natalia T 
 
 
 
 Tripadvisor star 1Tripadvisor star 2Tripadvisor star 3Tripadvisor star 4Tripadvisor star 5 
Unforgettable Experience — Yoga in a Cave & Walking Tour in National Park Janchep Amazing yoga class inside the cave — peaceful, fun, and full of emotion. The walking tour after was beautiful and relaxing. A great way to connect with nature and enjoy something unique!

From The Journal

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Explore our FAQs for quick answers, and if you have more questions, don't hesitate to reach out—we're here to help!

    • Who can join Walk Wadjemup?

      Walk Wadjemup is designed for everyone — from first-time hikers to seasoned walkers. It’s inclusive of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. You don’t need any hiking experience, just a spirit of curiosity and connection.

    • How much does Walk Wadjemup cost?

      Thanks to support from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries, Walk Wadjemup is offered at the highly subsidised rate of just $25 per person. This small fee helps us deliver a quality, inclusive experience while keeping it accessible to all

    • How difficult are the hikes of Rottnest Wadjemup?

      The trails are beginner-friendly, and we are focussing on easy, family-friendly walks. Walks vary between 5km and 7km, and are paced for accessibility and enjoyment — not speed. Expect a relaxed, guided pace with regular stops for storytelling, connection, and conservation activities. Each hike is suitable for beginners with a basic level of fitness.

    • Where do we meet on the day?

      Meeting locations will be shared with registered participants via email one week before the event. All hikes begin and end near the Rottnest Island settlement area for easy access.

    • Can I attend more than one Walk Wadjemup event?

      Absolutely! While each weekend follows a similar structure, every walk offers a unique trail, story, and experience. You’re welcome to book multiple dates.

    • Will there be cultural protocols I should be aware of?

      Yes — cultural respect is central to the experience. You’ll be guided through appropriate behaviour during ceremonies and storytelling moments, including when to observe quietly and how to engage respectfully. We ask all participants to approach the day with open hearts and cultural humility.

    • Do I need to complete Lead Wadjemup to become a hiking guide?

      Lead Wadjemup is an excellent starting point, but it’s not the only path to becoming a guide. For those who complete the program, we offer ongoing opportunities for development, mentorship, and progression into formal guiding roles with The Hike Collective or our partners.

    • How do I cancel or transfer my booking?

      You can cancel up to 7 days before your scheduled event for a full refund. If you need to transfer your booking to another date, just email us — we’re happy to help if spots are available.

    Acknowledgement of Country

    The Hike Collective acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the country on which our Australian business is located and operates, and recognise and celebrate their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and thank them for protecting Country since time immemorial.

     

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