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FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Why should I choose High and Wild?
Established in 1989, we have safely taken more than 100,000 people on adventures ranging from 3-hour abseil sessions to multi-day snow and ice climbing courses.
We are fully insured and licensed by National Parks and Blue Mountains City Council.
We are the only company to offer accommodation packages.
Where do I meet?
At our office located inside the Blue Mountains YHA, 207 Katoomba Street, Katoomba 2780, only a 5-minute walk from Katoomba train station. Free all-day parking around the back of the hostel.
What do I bring?
Dress for the weather, wear running or hiking shoes and bring a water bottle and camera. For canyoning, bring running shoes that can get wet, swimsuit and waterproof camera. If you don’t have one we supply a waterproof camera free of charge. We also have helmets fitted with GoPro mounts.
What do I need for winter canyoning?
With winter canyoning you need to wear old running shoes (they may get wet and muddy). Thick socks, ideally wool if you have them. Leggings and shorts or quick drying long pants and shorts. On top you want to have at least 4 layers, singlet, t-shirt, fleece and a jacket of some description. Bring 1.5 litres of water. We will provide back packs and all the technical equipment you require.
How exactly does the whole clothes thing work for summer canyoning?
When you arrive at the office you should be wearing your swimwear underneath your clothes. Have on your feet socks and shoes you can get wet. Wear either shorts or light long pants, have a t-shirt on that covers your shoulders and bring a jacket of some description (ideally a fleece top).
The first thing we do is try on a wet suit to make sure it fits. When we get to the canyon we get out of our clothes and into our wet suits. Our clothes go into a dry bag and canyon pack which is provided for you. At the end of the canyon we get out of your wet suit and back into your dry clothes.
Generally as we hike out we sweat and also some water comes off the back pack so you get a little wet on your back and legs. Therefore there is no point having a change of clothes until you are back at the office.
Do you have a left luggage area?
Yes! You can safely leave your luggage with us.
What’s included?
Our full-day trips include all technical equipment (abseil gear, wetsuit, waterproof backpack, climbing shoes), lunch and transport from our office. We also include a waterproof camera for the group.
Is there an age limit?
We have had people from 6 to 86 participate in our adventures. Generally we have a minimum age of 14 years for summer canyoning trips. If you have kids under this age, please contact us to see if the canyon would be suitable.
Do I need to be fit?
You can get away with average fitness on most of our adventures apart from our Advanced Canyoning trips – for these you need better than average fitness. (If you’re unsure, please ask at the time of booking.)
Is it weather-dependant?
We still run abseiling, canyoning and survival courses in light rain. We do need fine weather for rock climbing.
Do you provide free parking?
Yes, free all day car parking is available on Edward Street. There is also a car Park at the YHA.
Do you provide accommodation?
Yes. We are located inside the Blue Mountains YHA so we can provide accommodation on our doorstep. You can also book your accommodation directly with the Blue Mountains YHA.
Who are the guides?
Our guides are outdoor enthusiasts with a passion for taking others into our remote and beautiful environment. Minimum qualifications include Certificate 3 in Canyoning, First Aid and Bronze medallion. Between them, our guides have hundreds of years of experience!
Do you cater for private groups?
Yes. We specialise in bucks’ and hens’ groups, workmates and social clubs.
What if the trip I want to do is not scheduled in the calendar?
Please contact us and we will try to organise for you.
Do you cater for vegetarians?
Yes, we do. Please ask at time of booking.
Can I cancel my trip?
We understand that sometimes things change. If you give us 48 hours’ notice there is no charge. For bush survival and group bookings we require 7 days’ notice.
Can non-swimmers participate in canyoning?
Yes, we have had non-swimmers successfully complete canyoning trips in the past. The waterproof backpack and wetsuit that we supply act as a buoyancy devices. Always contact the office for advice prior to booking.
What do I need for the 2 day bush survival course?
Shelter: Either a tent or a tarp. It’s your choice.
Whichever you decide to bring, remember you’re not being tested. A good night’s sleep is conducive to learning!!
Sleeping Bag: Appropriate for the season. It often gets below zero degrees.
Sleeping Mat: Partially Self inflating is ideal. Again we really want you to have a good nights sleep.
Clothing: You will need appropriate clothes for 2 days, think layers, ideally no cotton. Thermals are best in the cooler months.
Rain Jacket: Bring one regardless of the weather forecast. Not a poncho.
Shoes: Suitable for bush walking.
Backpack: Minimum of 60 Litres with an internal frame. (hiking Style)
Water bottles/Camel-baks: Capacity to carry 2 litres.
Mess Kit: Bowl, mug, Knife, spoon and Fork (not disposable) and hand sanitizer
Torch: Ideally a head torch with at least one set of extra batteries
Personal medications
Garbage bags: x 5 for waterproofing and other uses.
Other Items: Basic Toiletries Sunscreen/Mosquito repellent. Pen/notepad Knife Compass (optional)
Personal 1st Aid Kit (optional
If you are missing something please ask as we may be able to provide it for you. Also we provide all the food for the two days.
Can I book on the phone?
Yes, If you would prefer to book on the phone please call us, we are more than happy to do that for you.