Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zero Trace Tours? +
Zero Trace Tours is a curated marketplace, not a tour operator. We handpick the best guided adventure tours from expert local operators across Australia and select international destinations, then bring them together in one place so you can browse and book directly with the operator — we just handle the admin and the 200% restoration guarantee.
What makes these tours “Zero Trace”? +
Every booking comes with our 200% restoration guarantee. We calculate the full environmental footprint of the entire experience (travel, food, gear, everything) and fund verified landscape restoration projects that heal degraded environments twice over.
How does the 200% restoration actually work? +
We follow a clear 4-step process: Calculate (using conservative standards including GHG Protocol, DEFRA and Australia’s NGA), Double (we add a buffer for uncertainty and non-CO₂ effects), Restore (fund whole-of-landscape projects like rewilding, native vegetation recovery and watershed repair through Eden: People + Planet and Reforest.com.au), and Prove (you can see the exact projects and hectares in our public Offset Ledger on the
How It Happens page).
Is the restoration included in the tour price? +
Yes — 100%. We fund the entire 200% restoration ourselves so you don’t pay a cent extra. The price you see is exactly the same as booking direct with the operator.
How do you choose and vet the tour operators? +
Every operator goes through a thorough vetting process before they appear on the site. We check experience, licensing, safety records and genuine commitment to low-impact travel. Only operators we’d personally travel with make the cut.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my booking? +
Cancellation follows the individual operator’s policy (clearly shown on the tour page before you book). Zero Trace handles all the admin and coordinates directly with the operator — just reach out and we’ll sort it for you.
How big are the groups? +
All tours are small-group by design for a more intimate, personal and low-impact experience. Most run with a maximum of 12 people (many are even smaller).
Are the tours suitable for beginners, families or solo travellers? +
Yes. Every tour page clearly lists difficulty level, recommended age range and fitness requirements. We also have easy filters for Family-Friendly, Solo Travellers and Young Adults so you can find the perfect match.
Do you offer international tours? +
Yes — we have a carefully selected range including New Zealand and other destinations worldwide, all carrying the same 200% restoration guarantee.
Is my payment secure? +
Yes. You pay directly to the operator through secure gateways (Stripe, PayPal, Afterpay). Zero Trace never holds or processes your payment.
Is gear included or do I need to bring my own? +
Everything is clearly listed on each tour page. Most day tours include all necessary gear; multi-day trips specify exactly what you need to bring.
Do you work with Indigenous communities? +
Where welcomed and culturally appropriate, yes — we feature genuine partnerships with Traditional Owners under our Cultural & Indigenous experiences.
How does the Adventure Style Quiz work? +
It takes just 45 seconds and matches your personality, fitness and travel style to the best tours for you. You’ll also get emailed personalised recommendations.
Try the quiz here.
What makes Zero Trace different? +
We’re a small, transparent marketplace that actually restores twice what we take — with full public proof. No greenwashing, no hidden markups, just carefully vetted operators and real landscape healing funded by us.
How do I get my impact report? +
You’ll receive a personalised impact report automatically after your tour, including exact hectares restored, project details and links to the Offset Ledger.
Do you price-match? +
Yes — if you find the exact same tour (same dates and inclusions) cheaper elsewhere, we’ll match the price and still deliver the full 200% restoration.
Are the reviews real? +
Yes — 100% independently collected and verified so you see genuine feedback from real travellers.
Still have a question? +
