7 Day Perth to Ningaloo Reef & Return
The 7-day Perth to Exmouth Adventure hugs much of the state’s coastline where the outback meets some of the most deserted, yet pristine beaches in the world.
Meet the local dolphins at Monkey Mia, enjoy spectacular vistas along Kalbarri National Park’s skywalk, and snorkel your way along the marine paradise that is Turquoise Bay. Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef and its coastline appears endless and whilst there’s a lot driving to get you there, the rewards are well-worth the wait.
- Pinnacles Desert
- Monkey Mia
- Kalbarri National Park
- Coral Bay
- Ningaloo Reef
- Accommodation Transfers
- Perth to Ningaloo Reef & Return
- Visit the Best of Western Australia
- Swim with Whale Sharks
- Swim with Manta Rays
- Small Group Adventure
- Experienced & Knowledgable Guides
- Meals & Equipment
- All Taxes & Fees
- Trip length:
- 7 Days
- Group size:
- Max 21
- Start:
- Perth
- End:
- Perth
- Vehicle:
- Minibus
- Sleep:
- Hostel / Dorm Share
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Day 1: Perth to Northbrook Farm
We leave the big city of Perth and head North via the National Highway Number 1. We visit the Greenough Wildlife Sanctuary promoting conservation and animal rescue. Get up close to dingos, emus, orphan kangaroo joeys, saltwater crocodiles, handle lizards and even snakes. It’s then the 2nd largest city in Western Australia; Geraldton, to visit the HMAS Sydney memorial lookout and learn about the colourful history of this area, before arriving at our accommodation for the night at the remote post of the Northbrook Farmstay.
Accommodation
- Dorm style (with facilities) (1 night) Northbrook Farmstay
Meals Included
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is around 5.5 hours and approximately 470km. Total walking distance is approximately 2km.
Day 2: Northbrook Farm to Exmouth
Today is a long day of driving (approximately 8 hours and approximately 750km in total). Leaving the farm travel through the vast bushland and cattle stations of the Gascoyne region. This sparsely populated region is known for its red earth, tropical fruits and rich mineral deposits.
Accommodation
- Hostel (1 night) Exmouth
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is around 9 hours and approximately 750km. Not much walking today.
Day 3: Exmouth
Depending on the season, today you’ll have the option (at your own cost) to snorkel or scuba dive in search of whale sharks or manta rays, the largest rays in the world. If not, taking up one of the optional boat tours, perhaps visit Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, or soak up the sun on the pristine beach at Turquoise Bay. Explore the beauty of Cape Range National Park. This afternoon we’ll take a short trip to beautiful Coral Bay.
Accommodation
- Hostel (1 nights) Coral Bay
Included Activities
- Ningaloo Reef Marine Park
Optional Activities
- Snorkel with the Whalesharks (April to July only)
- Beach snorkelling (own expense)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is around 3.5 hours and approximately 300km. Total walking distance is approximately 2km.
Day 4: Coral Bay
Enjoy a day of freedom and relaxation. If you didn’t squeeze a snorkel into yesterday, today you get to; if you did, you get another one. Everyone wins. Ningaloo Reef is one of the world’s largest fringing reefs, meaning that it starts practically from the water’s edge. You just swim out from shore and suddenly you’re in a world of coral, fish, turtles and manta rays. Swimming above these enormous, majestic creatures is really something else. Not much of a swimmer? There’s also the option of taking in the scene on a glass bottom boat tour, along with many other optional activities. We’ll introduce you to the friendly staff at Coral Bay Eco Tours.
Accommodation
- Hostel (1 night) Coral Bay
Optional Activities
- Glass Bottom Boat Cruises
- Whale Watching – 3 hours (seasonal)
- Snorkel with Manta Rays – half day trip
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
There is no driving today, just a short walk to Coral Bay Eco Tours and water activities.
Day 5: Monkey Mia
Today we cross–over the Tropic of Capricorn. Main stop for the day is Shell Beach, which, much as name would suggest, is a beach made of shells. What’s quite incredible about the place however is the amount of shells that there are. Locals have been using them in various industries for years, yet they still cover a stretch 60km long and up to 7 metres deep. Tonight, we overnight at the Shark Bay region.
Accommodation
- Hostel (1 night) Monkey Mia
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is around 6.5 hours and approximately 600km. Total walking distance is approximately 2km.
Day 6: Kalbarri
This morning, check out Monkey Mia – part of the Peron Peninsula, which extends into part of the Indian Ocean known as Shark Bay. This popular spot is known for its world–famous dolphins that have been frequenting the beach for decades. Afterwards, continue your road trip down the West Australian coast with a short drive across the World Heritage Park. See stromatolites, the oldest living organisms in the world, then head south for the Kalbarri National Park. Time permitting, there’ll be a stop-off along the way at Murchison Gorge, where there’s the opportunity to admire the landscape through Nature’s Window and the Kalbarri Skywalk.
Accommodation
- Hostel (1 night) Kalbarri
Included Activities
- Kalbarri National Park Entrance
- Monkey Mia Dolphins
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Special Information
Total driving time today is around 5.5 hours and approximately 470km. Total walking distance is approximately 5km
Day 7: Nambung National Park to Perth
It’s a driving day today, but a spectacular one. Visit Western Australia’s own Pink Lake at Port Gregory. Cruising through the coastal gorges of Kalbarri National Park, we come to the quaint coastal town of Dongara, which sits at the head of the Irwin River. Head on to the yellow sand dunes by the strange limestone structures of the Pinnacles Nambung National Park. After a walk around here it’s on to Perth, where this adventure winds up.
Included Activities
- Nambung National Park (Pinnacles) Entrance
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Special Information
Today’s driving will take approximately 7 hours and approximately 600km (with about 2km of walking). You’ll arrive in Central Perth around 6pm and there is no accommodation planned for this evening.
Departs
Tour Starts:
From Perth CBD
- 07:30 - Ozi Inn Backpackers, Newcastle Street
- 07:30 - Billabong Backpackers Resort Hostel, Beaufort Street
- 07:30 - Britannia On William, William Street
- 07:30 - Emperor's Crown Chinese Restaurant, John Street
- 07:30 - Barrack Street Jetty
My Hotel Not Listed: Let us know where you will be staying and we will arrange the nearest pick up location for you.
Tour Finishes
Perth CBD
- 18:00 Approx - Perth
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
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
What is included
TRANSPORT
- 4WD - Custom-prepared airconditioned mini bus
MEALS
- 6 breakfasts
- 7 lunches
- 6 dinners
ACCOMMODATION
- Hostel / Shared Accommodation
INCLUDED ACTIVITIES
- Nambung National Park (Pinnacles) Entrance
- Kalbarri National Park Entrance
- Monkey Mia Dolphins
- Ningaloo Reef Marine Park
- Northbrook Farmstay
- Greenough Wildlife Park Entrance
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
- Snorkel with the Whale sharks (own expense)
- Snorkel at Turquoise Bay (own expense)
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.
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