Perth: 7 Day Exmouth Explorer & Ningaloo Reef Return Perth

Experience the Wild Beauty of Western Australia on a 7-Day Exmouth Explorer Tour

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines rugged landscapes, spectacular wildlife encounters, and pristine coastlines, this 7-day tour from Perth to Exmouth with a return via Ningaloo Reef might just be what you’re after. Led by knowledgeable guides like Doug and Bethany, you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the Pinnacles Desert, Kalbarri’s Skywalk, and Monkey Mia’s wild dolphin bay, with plenty of opportunities to snorkel, hike, and relax amid Australia’s natural wonders.

We love that this tour offers a well-balanced mix of guided walks and free time, making it suitable for curious travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The inclusion of admission to all national parks and dolphin experiences adds genuine value, especially considering the multiple scenic stops along the way. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long driving days, which are unavoidable given Western Australia’s vastness, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with extended travel periods.

If you’re eager to explore Australia’s remote coastlines, enjoy wildlife encounters in the wild, and don’t mind a bit of walking, this trip offers a memorable and comprehensive snapshot of WA’s most stunning sights. It’s particularly great for active travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, as reviews highlight guides like Monty, Bethany, and Doug for their friendly, informative approach.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: From the Pinnacles to Kalbarri’s cliffs, the scenery is extraordinary.
• Wildlife Encounters: Meet wild dolphins at Monkey Mia and snorkel Ningaloo Reef.
• Active Days: Prepare for hikes, abseiling, and walking over rocky terrain.
• Value for Money: Includes all national park fees, dolphin experiences, and guided walks.
• Comfortable Accommodation: A mix of private and shared options, mostly clean and well-located.
• Incredible Food: Enjoy meals that cater to dietary needs, with nutritious options along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Western Australia: A Deep Dive into the 7-Day Exmouth Explorer Tour

This tour is designed to take you through some of the most photogenic and wildlife-rich parts of Western Australia, beginning in Perth and ending back in Geraldton. Over seven days, you’ll experience a blend of natural beauty, wildlife thrillers, and rugged landscapes—each stop carefully chosen to showcase WA’s diverse environment.

Day 1: Perth to Kalbarri via Nambung National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a visit to the Pinnacles Desert, a landscape of otherworldly limestone formations that look like they belong on another planet. We love how the towering, weathered pillars create an almost surreal scene—perfect for photos and pondering nature’s erosive power. The tour includes a guided walk here, giving you insight into how these formations have evolved over thousands of years.

Following that, there’s a seaside lunch in Jurien Bay, where the crisp ocean air complements fresh local seafood. The drive along Indian Ocean Drive offers sweeping coastal vistas, perfect for a quick photo or just soaking in the scenery. A highlight for many travelers is the Pink Lake near Geraldton (if conditions permit), its vibrant hue making it a standout sight. The day concludes in Kalbarri, where we stay overnight at Pelicans Nest or YHA.

The long drive (around 575 km) is a significant part of the day, but the scenery and stops make it worthwhile. The walks are gentle (Grade 1-2), mostly around 2 km, perfect for those who enjoy a leisurely pace.

Day 2: Kalbarri National Park and on to Monkey Mia

Early risers can catch sunrise at Natures Window, a natural rock formation framing the Murchison River gorge—a truly iconic WA view. We loved the way guides explained the geology and flora that make Kalbarri special. The Z-Bend Gorge hike offers more dramatic cliffs and wildflower displays in spring, with some optional abseiling for adventure seekers.

After a river-side lunch, the journey continues to Monkey Mia (about 450 km from Kalbarri). The stops en route help break up the drive, keeping everyone comfortable and engaged. Many reviews praise the guide, Geoff, for his wealth of knowledge and friendly manner, making the long travel days feel more like part of the adventure.

Day 3: Monkey Mia to Coral Bay

This day is all about meeting the famous wild dolphins at Monkey Mia—an experience that draws visitors from all over. Many reviews mention how special it is to see these dolphins in their natural habitat, with some even describing the encounter as unforgettable.

Post-lunch, a visit to Shell Beach (with its millions of tiny shells) and Eagle Bluff provides stunning coastal scenery. Then, the trip heads to Coral Bay on the edge of Ningaloo Reef, where waters are clear and teeming with marine life. The accommodation options include cozy lodges or shared hostel rooms.

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Day 4: Coral Bay and the Ningaloo Reef

Snorkeling is the star activity here. You’ll have free time to explore Ningaloo Reef, one of Australia’s premier marine parks. Many travelers report memorable snorkeling experiences, especially at Turquoise Bay, where the coral and fish are abundant. Optional activities include swimming with manta rays or taking a glass-bottom boat tour—both highly recommended for marine lovers.

Day 5: Exmouth and Cape Range National Park

A short drive (about 155 km) takes you to Exmouth, where you can explore Cape Range National Park. The rugged limestone ranges, canyons, and beaches provide excellent scenery and hiking opportunities. We loved the relaxed atmosphere at Turquoise Bay, perfect for lazy snorkeling or simply soaking up the sun.

For those interested, there are seasonal options like whale shark or humpback whale swims, which many guests find to be once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The sunset visit to Vlamingh Head Lighthouse offers panoramic views and photographic opportunities.

Day 6: Exploring Exmouth and onward to Geraldton

The day includes a visit to Carnarvon, known for its banana and mango plantations, giving you a taste of local agriculture. Lunch on the waterfront offers a chance to unwind before heading to Geraldton for the night.

Day 7: Return to Perth via Lake Thetis and Green Head

The final day features visits to the Stromatolites at Lake Thetis, ancient microbial structures that are among the oldest living things on Earth. The views from Lancelin Sand Dunes Lookout provide a fitting farewell to WA’s varied landscapes before returning to Perth at about 6 pm.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Wildlife Experiences: Meeting wild dolphins at Monkey Mia is a highlight, with many describing it as moving and special. Snorkeling at Ningaloo Reef allows close encounters with marine life, including coral, fish, and possibly manta rays.

Diverse Landscapes: The journey covers everything from limestone formations and coastal cliffs to lush gorges and sandy dunes. The guided walks and optional activities provide a hands-on experience that makes each stop meaningful.

Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews highlight guides like Geoff, Bethany, and Doug for their friendly demeanor, patience, and deep knowledge of local geology, flora, fauna, and indigenous culture. Their explanations enrich the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Good Value for Money: The tour includes all national park fees, dolphin experiences, and guided walks. Most accommodations are comfortable, and meals are tailored to dietary restrictions, which many travelers appreciate.

Comfort and Convenience: The air-conditioned mini-coach makes long days manageable, and the small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere. The itinerary balances sightseeing with rest, avoiding burnout.

Possible Considerations

The extensive driving (up to 840 km on some days) might be tiring for some travelers, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to long bus journeys. The walks, while generally moderate, can involve steep, rocky terrain and high sun exposure, so a moderate to high fitness level is recommended. Also, the initial hostel stay in Kalbarri had some reviews mentioning cleanliness issues, so that’s worth noting if you have high cleanliness standards.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits active travelers who are eager to see the highlights of Western Australia and don’t mind some long travel days. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, hikers, and those wanting a guided overview of this stunning region. The emphasis on natural sights, wildlife encounters, and scenic drives makes it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of adventure and comfort. Families with older children or teens will find it engaging, especially if they’re prepared for some physical activity.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour offers a comprehensive look at WA’s most iconic and breathtaking sights. From exploring limestone pillars and rugged gorges to snorkeling alongside manta rays and meeting wild dolphins, you’ll leave with a broad and authentic appreciation for this remote part of Australia. The knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and inclusive approach make it a strong value for travelers who want a rich, active experience in a short time.

If you’re ready for adventure, love wildlife, and savor scenic landscapes, this trip will give you plenty of stories to tell and memories to cherish. It’s a fantastic way to see the wild side of Western Australia, especially if you enjoy being active and learning about the environment from passionate guides.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for children aged 8 and up, who are accompanied by an adult or guardian. The walks and activities require a moderate to high fitness level, so it’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I pack for the trip?
Bring a camera, flashlight, daypack, water, personal medication, weather-appropriate clothing, warm clothing, and hiking shoes. Prepare for high sun exposure during walks and outdoor activities.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes 6 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners, with options to accommodate dietary restrictions like gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. There is plenty of opportunity to purchase additional food along the way.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
Most nights are spent in comfortable private rooms or shared hostel accommodations, mostly clean and well-located. One of the early hostels had some cleanliness issues reported, which is worth considering.

How strenuous are the walks?
Walks are generally 2-4 km with some optional activities like abseiling or longer hikes. The terrain can be rocky and steep, often in direct sunlight, so a good fitness level is required.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention enjoying the friendly atmosphere and small group size, making it ideal for solo travelers wanting a guided, social experience.

Can I do optional activities like whale shark swims?
Yes, seasonal options like whale shark or humpback whale swims are available and can be pre-booked. These experiences are typically offered as optional add-ons.

In summary, this tour is a well-rounded, engaging way to explore Western Australia’s wild coastlines and unique landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, a mix of active and relaxing moments, and the chance to see iconic wildlife in their natural environment, it’s suited for travelers eager to see the best of WA in a manageable time.

You can check availability for your dates here: