World Expeditions has been appointed as the preferred partner of two of Queensland’s most iconic walking experiences: the Ngaro Track on Whitsunday Island and Thorsborne Trail on Munamudanamy.
This dual appointment marks a significant milestone for sustainable tourism in Australia. The Queensland Government, through the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), has selected World Expeditions to deliver fully supported guided walking experiences, following a competitive tender process.
The 32km Ngaro Track, years in planning and constructed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity and Indigenous heritage of Whitsunday Island – the largest island in the Whitsunday Islands National Park and a key site within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.
Traversing ancient rainforest growing on sand, dramatic vine thickets, rocky headlands, and high lookouts like Whitsunday Craig, the Ngaro Track links the iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet.
In an Australian first, World Expeditions’ division Australian Walking Holidays will deliver an immersive 3-day/2-night, low-impact walking experience, supported by purpose-built infrastructure including two beautifully appointed campsites designed to enhance the walker experience.
The project was developed in partnership with the Ngaro People, Traditional Owners of Whitsunday Island. Their deep spiritual connection and knowledge of Country are woven into the interpretive storytelling that guides the journey. World Expeditions is committed to continuing the work of the Ngaro people to ensure that Ngaro culture and history is a prominent part of the experience for those on the track.
“Guided by the vision of Destination 2045, Queensland is leading the way in ecotourism, setting a new standard for how nature, culture, and tourism can thrive together,” Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said.
“Through our partnership with World Expeditions, we’re redefining ecotourism with experiences that are not only scenic but also smart, low-impact, and deeply respectful of culture and Country. The Ngaro Track and Thorsborne Trail deliver world-class walking adventures that connect people to place, inspire environmental stewardship, and showcase the very best of Queensland’s natural beauty.”
World Expeditions’ Ngaro Track experiences cater to a wide range of adventurers. Bookings for guided tours open mid to late-2025.
In a second major announcement, World Expeditions has also been appointed to operate fully supported 4-day/3-night guided walking tours on the Thorsborne Trail, one of Australia’s most revered wilderness trails. Spanning 32km across Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island), the trail is named after pioneering conservationists Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and is renowned for its biodiversity and untouched landscapes.
Managed under strict minimal-impact and leave-no-trace principles, the new operational partnership aims to uphold the trail’s wild ethos while improving access, education, and visitor support. The project was developed in close collaboration with the Traditional Owners of Hinchinbrook Island, the Bandjin and Girramay People.
“From ancient practices to modern reflections, every aspect of the tours will celebrate the enduring bond between the people and Munamudanamy as well as the intricate connection to the natural environment,” said the Bandjin People. “We’re looking forward to sharing its beauty and cultural significance with visitors from around the world.”
“This initiative is not only about sharing our stories with visitors, but also about creating meaningful opportunities for our community to reconnect with the island,” the Girramay People added. “Together we aim to celebrate and preserve the enduring bond between our people and Munamudanamy, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations.”
“At the heart of what we do is creating journeys that honour and protect the landscapes we explore,” Australian Walking Holidays general manager Michael Buggy said. “Both the Ngaro Track and the Thorsborne Trail represent that mission. We’re privileged to work with the Traditional Owners of Whitsunday Island, the Ngaro People, and Hinchinbrook Island, the Bandjin and Girramay People, to help shape the next chapter of these spectacular walks.”
