6 Day Margaret River & Esperance Tour
The crystal clear beaches will have you hooked on the beautiful town of Esperance, not to mention the nearby National Park where you can get your hiking shoes out and have an adventure.
This tour also stops off at the famous Wave Rock, Fitzgerald National Park, Cape Le Grand and the Stirling Ranges. We'll also enjoy five nights of bush camping under the stars and preparing meals with the rest of your group.
- Small Group Adventure
- Experience & Knowledgable Guide
- 5 Nights Real Bush Camping
- Meals and Equipment Included
- Vegetarians Catered for
- All Taxes & Fees
- Sightseeing as indicated
- Wave Rock
- Fitzerald National Park
- Cape Le Grand & Stirling Ranges
- Accommodation Transfers
- Trip length:
- 6 Days
- Group size:
- Max 18
- Start:
- Perth
- End:
- Perth
- Vehicle:
- Airconditioned 4WD Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Camping under the stars
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Day 1: Perth to Margaret River
Tour departs from Beaufort St Tourist Bus Stop at 6:30am
Our adventure begins as we travel south from Perth to the popular tourist town of Busselton. It’s hard to miss the 19th-century jetty stretching 1.8km into the turquoise Geographe Bay. Here we’ll have a coffee on the waterfront, stroll along the white sandy beach and chat about what exciting things are to come on your Esperance tour.
A little way down the road, meet Wardandi custodian Josh, who will introduce you to the world’s oldest living culture with his authentic and personal interpretation. Go deep down into the Ngilgi Cave for a memorable underground didgeridoo performance.
This afternoon we taste our way around the world-renowned Margaret River region. From wine and gin to coffee and beer, and chocolate and cheese. There’s also time to wander up the main street in the Margaret River township, home to an eclectic mix of shops and galleries.
Finally, arrive at Big Valley Caravan Park, where you will enjoy dinner and spend your first night under the stars of the Milky Way.
Drive time today is about 3.5 hours.
Day 2: Margaret River to Walpole
This morning, embark on an inspiring 6km hike along one of the most scenic sections of the Cape to Cape Track from Conto’s to Redgate Beach.
After a morning of hiking we head to one of the world’s most gnarly surf breaks, Surfers Point, at the Margaret River mouth to surfers carve up the ocean for a swim and picnic lunch.
This afternoon, we’ll continue south into the pristine forests of the Walpole Wilderness Region, visiting the beautiful Gloucester Tree and the largest tingle tree in Western Australia. Set up camp at idyllic Peaceful Bay and watch the sunset over the ocean. Settle in for another night of campfire tales under the stars.
There are about 4 hours of drive time today. Stay at Peaceful Bay Caravan Park, which has shower and toilet facilities.
today.
Stay at Peaceful Bay Caravan Park, which has shower and toilet facilities.
Day 3: Walpole and Albany Region
After breakfast, we’ll pack up camp and roam on to William Bay National Park. Here, turquoise water and snow-white sand are primed for swimming at Greens Pool.
Cruise along a scenic stretch of coastline to Albany, seeing how years of natural erosion have crafted incredible rock sculptures and granite bluffs. Natural Bridge and The Gap are two of our favourites. Travel to the Porongorups, which rise from the landscape like an island, then set out on a two-hour hike through the forest to Castle Rock. A bit of a climb but worth all the effort as you are rewarded with jaw-dropping views over the region. Drive through the picturesque Stirling Ranges and come late afternoon, set up camp at a private campsite at Mt Trio, which has shower and toilet facilities.
Drive time today is around 3.5 hours.
Day 4: Mt Trio to Cape Le Grand National Park
As we make our way towards Esperance, take a 40 km drive along one of the most enchanting stretches of oceanside road you’ll ever see. Take a dip at Twilight Beach, one of many breathtaking beaches along the iconic Great Ocean Drive. Grab a coffee in Esperance before we travel a little further east to Cape Le Grand National Park. Set up camp at Lucky Bay, where you will find an ocean coloured all imaginable shades of blue and sand so white and fine it squeaks between your toes. The rest of the day is at your command. Bush walk through the untamed landscape or kick back on the beach and soak up the serenity. We will stay two nights in the well-equipped camping area.
Today drive around 6 hours with plenty of stops along the way.
Day 5: Cape Le Grand National Park
Sunrise is a sacred time here, and it’s also when the friendly western grey kangaroos are at their most active. Wander onto the beach to say hello before we spend a whole day unearthing this incredible park. Traverse through lush bushland, swim at fantastic bays and coves and learn about its abundant flora and fauna. Come late afternoon, embark on one of the best hikes of the tour, climbing Frenchman Peak to watch the sunset on our last night together.
Day 6: Esperance to Perth
We have a lot of distance to cover today, so it’s up early and on our way. Stopping for lunch at a quintessential outback town, we’ll continue until we reach the 2,700-million-year-old Wave Rock. Rising 15 metres above the ground, surfing this natural granite wonder is a must-have photo opportunity.
After, it’s back on the bus to see the historic township of York. Surrounded by pretty countryside, it’s easy to see why this location was the first inland settlement for Western Australia’s early colonists. Learn about the Rabbit-Proof Fence, built between 1901 and 1907 to keep rabbits and other agricultural pests from the east out of Western Australia.
Finally, roll into Perth around 6.30 pm after travelling around 9 hours with stops along the way.
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can drop down 5 degrees celcius
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Pillow
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Passengers must provide a sleeping bag and pillow to insert into the swag.
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
- Bincolars
What is included
TRANSPORT
- 4WD - Custom-prepared airconditioned mini bus
ACCOMMODATION
- 5 nights bush camping
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- 5 breakfasts
- 6 lunches
- 5 dinners
EQUIPMENT
- Camping equipment and utensils
- Swags
- Sleeping Mattress
OTHER
- Plenty of drinking water and snacks
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How much luggage can I take?
You may bring a backpack and suitcases and it will be stored securely in our trailer or under the bus during the trip. We recommend bring a smaller day pack to store your daily essentials such as drinks, jackets and sunscreen while on tour.
Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?
During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.
If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.
Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?
Generally you will not have enough time to do laundry whilst on tour. You will be having far too much fun! However, for longer tours heading towards Adelaide involving hostel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes if really need. Please enquire by contact us directly via email or phone.
Do I need a sleeping bag?
For all camping tours in the Northern Territory you will need a sleeping bag. The Northern Territory can get very cold at night, especially during the months of June and July. If you don't have one then they are available for hire. Please refer to the "What to bring" section of the tour page for pricing.
How fit do I need to be?
Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.
Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Can I get online whilst travelling?
For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe.
This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.
For camping tours internet will not be available.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
If you are using Telstra as your mobile service provider than most likely yes! Their coverage of Australia is quite extensive so you shouldn't have too much trouble.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.
However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.
If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.
Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
How many people will be on tour?
Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Not really. The centre of Australia is quite dry and there is very few places where we are allowed to swim. However, for tours heading upwards towards Darwin there may be areas for swimming. If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information.
Cost and Fees
What does "Paid Locally" mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
What type of tent will I get?
Tents are generally designed to accommodate a minimum of 2 people. This means there is plenty of room to move about and store your luggage. However, most Uluru tours we try and encourage the use of swags and mattress rather than tents. This is the ideal way to camp in the centre of Australia; Around a campfire, under the stars!
What will the food be like?
Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve picnic sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner - This can vary between pastas, bbqs, rices and other hearty food to keep you energized! We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations.
Are there days where we travel for a long time?
During the first day we usually do a couple of hours driving to get out of the city and into the country side. However, once in the national parks, trips between attractions usually take between 30minutes to an hour.
For tours heading up to Darwin or down to Adelaide, expect periods where we drive for a few hours at a time. Australia is enormous and the distance between towns and attractions can be quite large. But don't worry, we take plenty of breaks so your able to stretch and move about.
For more accurate information please see tour itineraries.
What will the weather be like?
Between the months of April and August Central Australia is quite cold so be sure to bring warm clothing. Temperatures range from about 20c during the day right down to 2c at night.
Between October and March temperature are warm, so light clothing during the day is ok. However, night times can still be quite cool so its wise to bring light winter clothing for extra warm.
Where do I meet the tour?
Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.
What is the weather like in Western Australia?
WA is Australia’s largest state, comprising one-third of its land mass. In the north much of the landscape is barren. The Great Sandy Desert fringes the central-west coast. The Nullarbor, a vast dry plain, sweeps across the south and over the border into South Australia (SA). The southwestern corner of the state is a fertile area of forest and vineyards, and is only small in comparison to the size of the rest of WA.
Interesting variations in landscape include the Kimberley in the extreme north of the state, a wild and rugged area with a convoluted coastline and stunning inland gorges.
The Pilbara, in the northwest, is magnificent ancient-rock and gorge country from which the state derives vast mineral wealth. Away from the coast most of WA is simply a huge empty stretch of outback: along with the Nullarbor Plain and the Great Sandy Desert, the Gibson and Great Victoria Deserts cover much of the state.
It’s tropical in the north, where the Dry and Wet seasons replace winter and summer. The Dry lasts from June to August and the Wet from December to February, with monsoonal rain falling from January onwards. The rain can render roads impassable and Port Hedland weathers a serious cyclone at least every two years. In the interior the climate is semi-arid and arid. The southwest of WA is temperate. It’s often above 25°C here while the average temperature along the Kimberley coast is a heavenly 28°C. Up in the Pilbara temperatures can soar to an enthusiasm-depleting 48°C.