Lake Eyre for Older Travellers: What to Expect on the Road and on Your Feet

We get plenty of travellers in their sixties, seventies and beyond, and some of the most enthusiastic people I’ve guided have been well past retirement. The outback isn’t only for the young.

It does help to be realistic. The roads can be bumpy, getting in and out of a 4WD takes a bit of effort, and there’s some walking on uneven ground. None of it is extreme, but it’s worth thinking through honestly, especially around heat and any health conditions.

Questions to ask before you book

• How long are the driving days, and how often do we stop?
• How much walking is involved, and on what kind of ground?
• Can the itinerary be adjusted if someone needs to rest?
• What accommodation is provided, and is it accessible?

If you have a medical condition, talk to your doctor before booking, and tell the tour operator what you need. Good operators would much rather know in advance.