West Coast & Karijini National Park - 13 days
West Coast & Karijini National Park - 13 days
13 Days Starting in Perth, Australia and ending in Exmouth, Australia
Visiting: Perth, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Carnarvon, Exmouth, Cheela Plains Station, Karijini National Park
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
18-
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a 13-day adventure through Australia's stunning West Coast and Karijini National Park. Begin your journey in Perth, exploring the largest dunes in Western Australia and the limestone towers of Nambung National Park. Marvel at the vibrant Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon, spot playful dolphins at Shark Bay, and snorkel among the colorful fish of Ningaloo Reef. Stay in unique accommodations, from 3-4 star hotels to remote outposts like Cheela Plains Station and Bullara Station. Discover the dramatic landscapes of Karijini National Park, with opportunities for hiking, swimming, and stargazing. This tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Perth
Location: Perth
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Perth - Geraldton. Welcome! Our tour will begin in Perth with a welcome meeting at 8:30. . It’s very important that you’re on time, so we can set off on our adventures straight after the meeting. It’s highly recommended that you spend a night in Perth before your trip starts. 
Then it's time to depart. First, we visit Western Australia's largest dunes, which are magnificent to view. Next, we'll explore the limestone monuments known as the Pinnacles in the Nambung National Park.
During our trip, we'll stop in Greenough to see the Leaning Trees, a breathtaking natural wonder. In addition, we will visit Jurien Bay, a beautiful location where you may see sea lions.
When we arrive in Geraldton, we will take a short orientation drive around the town. This will allow us to become familiar with the neighbourhood before your first evening in Australia can be enjoyed at leisure.
Meeting point: Quality Hotel Ambassador Hotel, 196 Adelaide Terrace, Perth, Western Australia
Day 2: Kalbarri
Location: Kalbarri
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Geraldton - Northampton - Kalbarri. Following a delicious breakfast, we drive to Northampton, one of the oldest towns in Western Australia. We will admire some of the buildings dating back to the 1800s and visit a First Nations community art gallery. Our next stop is the Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon. This exquisite lake stands up to its name, with a vibrant pink colouration.
Continuing our journey, we will visit Nature's Window, the breathtaking Z-Bend Gorge and the Kalbarri Skywalk, all located within Kalbarri National Park. These sites offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Day 3: Kalbarri
Location: Kalbarri
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kalbarri - Monkey Mia. Today begins with a boat tour from Kalbarri Marina to learn about the local rock lobster industry. You'll receive hands-on experience pulling lobster pots and keeping your catch for later.
En route to Monkey Mia, we stop by Hamelin Pool Marine Nature Reserve to see stromatolites - living fossils, and to enjoy the scenic views of Shark Bay.
At Monkey Mia, you can rest or participate in water-based activities. In the evening we enjoy a unique First Nations experience, complete with traditional music and bush tucker. We dare you to try and play a didgeridoo!
Day 4: Monkey Mia
Location: Monkey Mia
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join WA Parks & Wildlife experts for an exciting morning of dolphin viewing after breakfast. After spotting these playful mammals, there is some downtime to unwind on the beach. There's an optional sunset cruise this evening - if you're lucky you may be able to spot some elusive dugongs!
Day 5: Carnarvon
Location: Carnarvon
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Monkey Mia - Carnarvon. Today we first head to the Carnarvon Space and Technology Centre for a quick photo stop. Following that, we visit the Gascoyne Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre to learn more about the region's distinctive culture.
Don't forget to take pictures of the Carnarvon Cactus Farm, one of the town's unique attractions. Later, we'll embark on the Gascoyne Food Trail, which has a range of culinary delicacies.
In the evening, take some time to unwind and go for a walk along the lovely foreshore before dining at a nearby restaurant.
Day 6: Exmouth
Location: Exmouth
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Carnarvon - Ningaloo Reef - Exmouth. Today's destination is Coral Bay, which is famous for being home to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. This is the world's largest fringing reef. During our visit, we will join a glass-bottom boat tour and enjoy a fun snorkelling experience, which will allow us to see some of the 250 different varieties of coral and 500 different species of fish that call the reef home.
Driving along the coastline, we stop to take in the beautiful views at Vlamingh Head Lighthouse before arriving in Exmouth, our base for the night.
Day 7-8: Exmouth
Location: Exmouth
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
The next two days are completely free for you to explore Exmouth and its surroundings! Get the most out of your free time with a variety of engaging optional activities. Take a swim with the legendary whale sharks, observe majestic whales, swim with graceful manta rays, or go hiking in Cape Range National Park - the choice is yours.
Please note: Some of your tour group will end their trip in Exmouth, and new travellers may join for the second part of our journey inland to Karijini National Park. Your guide and vehicle may also change at this point in the tour.
Day 9: Bullara Station
Location: Cheela Plains Station
Accommodation Name: Cheela Plains Station
Exmouth - Cheela Plains Station. Today, you'll meet our guide at 8:00, ready for our inland adventure! We'll kick off our day just right, with a morning tea stop at Bullara Station, a working cattle station where you can enjoy included tasting of fresh scones, tea, and coffee. Next, we'll head to Cheela Plains Station, making a refuelling stop at the renowned Nanutarra Roadhouse along the way.
At Cheela Plains, you'll find a lush oasis of comfort situated between Karijini National Park and Ningaloo Reef, where you can truly experience the rugged Pilbara landscape and the stunning night sky above. We can take an included walk to Sunset Hill with a sundowner in hand, sure to be a magical experience. And after dark, conditions permitting, you can enjoy unrivalled stargazing opportunities - we are many miles from a built up area, and you can really tell - spot the Milky Way if you can!
Please note: No meals are included at Cheela Plains Station or throughout the rest of this tour, due to the remoteness of the area we are exploring. Guests can dine at the onsite cafe at Cheela Plains and will also be given the opportunity to stock up on provisions before we head into the Outback, should you wish to self-cater (there is a refrigerator onboard).
Day 10: Tom Price & Karijini National Park
Location: Karijini National Park
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Cheela Plains Station - Tom Price (Karijini National Park). Prepare to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Karijini National Park, renowned for its deep gorges and crystal-clear waters. We are basing ourselves on the outskirts of Tom Price, the highest town in Western Australia and at the frontier of Karijini National Park. There will be another chance here to stock up on supplies.
Heading into Karijini National Park, we can marvel at the awe-inspiring Hammersley Gorge. Explore the area on foot, take a refreshing dip in the cooling waters, or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty. The choice is yours. We return to our accommodation on the edge of Tom Price this evening.
Day 11: Karijini National Park
Location: Karijini National Park
Accommodation Name: Permanent Tented Camp
Prepare for another day filled with awe-inspiring scenery and stunning views. The adventure begins at Weano Gorge, where we can capture spectacular photographs. Next, explore Hancock Gorge and Kermit’s Pool, a trek often described as a ‘journey to the centre of the earth’ - descend amidst steep canyon walls and decide for yourself. We also have the chance to visit Handrail Pool.
Returning to the surface, we head to Dales Gorge, where we can plunge into the refreshing waters of Fern Pool and Fortescue Falls. Afterwards, we'll make our way to a permanent private bush camp, giving you the opportunity to camp under the stars and truly experience the splendour of the southern sky and the wild Outback. Staying in permanent tents with comfortable bedding, private bathroom facilities and terraces from which to take in your surroundings, this is sure to be a highlight of your trip! Optional stargazing tours are available and there are BBQ facilities at the camp. You can purchase supplies here and there will be plenty of opportunities to stock up during the day.
Day 12: Bullara Station
Location: Karijini National Park
Accommodation Name: Bullara Station
Karijini National Park - Bullara Station. We're heading back on the road, keep your eyes peeled as this is emu country. Our journey takes us back to the remarkable Bullara Station. This working cattle station is a fantastic rest stop for travellers and a highlight of the trip. Tonight, you may have the chance to enjoy some of the live music for which the area is renowned, washed down with a local beer or two. Cheers!
You can choose to self-cater or pre-book meals at Bullara Station - your guide will take orders before arrival.
Day 13: Exmouth
Location: Exmouth
Bullara Station - Coral Bay - Exmouth. It's time to shake the red Pilbara dirt off as we head back to the coast, and return to Coral Bay. We're taking it easy today, offering you the freedom to enjoy independent snorkelling, swim in the beautiful water, grab a sweet treat from the bakery, or simply wander around and soak in the atmosphere. If you wish to book a snorkelling tour of Ningaloo Reef then our guide will be able to advise and help you find the right excursion. Afterwards, we'll drop everyone off at their connections in Exmouth, marking the end of our fantastic trip (if you wish to end in Coral Bay, you can leave the tour before we return to Exmouth).
What's Included
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7 breakfasts
7 breakfasts are included. Other meals are not included. Guests have the opportunity to self-cater on the second part of this tour, and there is a refrigerator onboard the vehicle. There are also opportunities to pre-order food and make use of cafes and other facilities along the route.
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Accommodation
Accommodation includes 8 nights in 3-4 star hotels, 3 nights in cabins and stations, and 1 night in a permanent tented camp.
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Expert local guide
The tour is escorted by an expert local guide.
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Private, air-conditioned transportation
All transportation is provided in private, air-conditioned vehicles.
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Visit to the largest dunes in WA
A visit to the largest dunes in Western Australia is included.
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Walk through the limestone towers of Nambung National Park
A walk through the limestone towers of Nambung National Park is included.
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Geraldton orientation tour
An orientation tour of Geraldton is included.
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First Nations community art gallery visit in Northampton
A visit to a First Nations community art gallery in Northampton is included.
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Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon
A visit to the Pink Lake at Hutt Lagoon is included.
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Kalbarri National Park
Visits to Z Bend, Nature's Window, and Kalbarri Skywalk in Kalbarri National Park are included.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included.
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Airport transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
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Additional meals and drinks
Additional meals and drinks are not included unless specified.
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Tipping
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities and additional attractions
Optional activities and additional attractions are not included unless specified.
Mode of Transport
Travel in private, air-conditioned vehicles throughout the tour, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey between destinations.
Accommodation
Enjoy 8 nights in 3-4 star hotels, 3 nights in cabins and stations, and 1 night in a permanent tented camp, offering a mix of comfort and unique experiences.
Age Policy
Minimum age 18Essentials tours not recommended for pax over 55 - upsell Handpicked
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
All transportation is provided in private, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey between destinations.
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What types of accommodation are included in the tour?
The tour includes 8 nights in 3-4 star hotels, 3 nights in cabins and stations, and 1 night in a permanent tented camp, offering a mix of comfort and unique experiences.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts. Other meals are not included, but guests have the opportunity to self-cater on the second part of the tour. There is a refrigerator onboard the vehicle, and there are opportunities to pre-order food and make use of cafes and other facilities along the route.
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What activities are included in Kalbarri National Park?
In Kalbarri National Park, you will visit Nature's Window, the Z-Bend Gorge, and the Kalbarri Skywalk. These sites offer breathtaking views and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
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What can I expect during the visit to Monkey Mia?
At Monkey Mia, you will have the opportunity to spot playful bottlenose dolphins and enjoy some downtime to unwind on the beach. There is also an optional sunset cruise where you may spot some elusive dugongs.
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What unique experiences are offered at Cheela Plains Station?
At Cheela Plains Station, you can enjoy a walk to Sunset Hill with a sundowner in hand and unrivalled stargazing opportunities. The station offers a lush oasis of comfort situated between Karijini National Park and Ningaloo Reef.
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What activities are available in Karijini National Park?
In Karijini National Park, you will explore Hancock Gorge, Hammersley Gorge, and Weano Gorge. You can also take a refreshing dip in the cooling waters or simply relax and enjoy the natural beauty. Additionally, you will visit Dales Gorge, where you can swim in Fern Pool and Fortescue Falls.
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What is the age policy for this tour?
The minimum age for this tour is 18. Essentials tours are not recommended for passengers over 55.
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Are there any opportunities for stargazing during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to see billions of stars and their constellations right from most of your overnight stays, free from artificial lighting. Optional stargazing tours are also available.
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What should I know about the meals at Cheela Plains Station?
No meals are included at Cheela Plains Station or throughout the rest of the tour due to the remoteness of the area. Guests can dine at the onsite cafe at Cheela Plains and will also be given the opportunity to stock up on provisions before heading into the Outback.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.