Exmouth, Karijini National Park & Ningaloo
Head into the Outback on this 6-day tour of Western Australia, departing from Exmouth. Take in the wilderness of Karijini National Park, with opportunities for hiking and swimming in crystal clear pools. Discover remote cattle stations including Cheela Plains and Bullara and spend a night stargazing at a remote but comfortable permanent tented camp. Return to the coast to explore Coral Bay and opt for snorkelling on Ningaloo Reef, before finishing your journey back in Exmouth.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Western Australia
Day 1 Welcome to Western Australia
Arrive in Exmouth and make your way to our start hotel - check-in is from 14:00. Located at the northern tip of the North West Cape and along the Exmouth Gulf, Exmouth is a charming town, and you've got today to head out and explore at leisure. Originally established to support the nearby United States Naval Communication Station, Exmouth is now renowned for its stunning marine attractions, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef, the opportunity to swim with whale sharks, whale-spotting tours, and hiking in Cape Range National Park.
Take advantage of the afternoon to explore at your own pace. You might enjoy a swim at the nearby Town Beach, a sunset cruise on Exmouth Gulf (with a chance to spot whales during the right season!), or a visit to one of the fantastic local breweries.
Day 2 Into the Outback
Day 2 Into the Outback
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 this tour. Guests can dine at the onsite cafe 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 3 Tom Price & Karijini National Park
Day 3 Tom Price & Karijini National Park
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 4 Karijini & Outback camping
Day 4 Karijini & Outback camping
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 5 Bullara Station
Day 5 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 6 Coral Bay & Ningaloo Reef
Day 6 Coral Bay & Ningaloo Reef
Bullara Station - Coral Bay - Exmouth. It's time to shake the red Pilbara dirt off as we head back to the coast, and 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).
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth offers cosy, well-furnished rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and an en-suite. Located in the charming town of Exmouth, Western Australia, the lodge provides easy access to the stunning Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park. Guests can relax in the outdoor pool, enjoy the communal kitchen and barbecue facilities, and socialise in the shared lounge area. Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth ensures a comfortable and convenient stay for travellers looking to explore the natural beauty of this coastal paradise.
Cheela Plains Station offers comfortable, rustic rooms with essential amenities including air conditioning and bathrooms, providing a cosy retreat in the outback. Located between Karijini National Park and Exmouth in Western Australia, this family-run station is perfect for exploring the Pilbara region's stunning landscapes. Guests can enjoy hearty meals at the on-site dining area, relax in the communal lounge, and take part in guided tours and nature walks. With barbecue and laundry facilities, Cheela Plains Station offers a unique, authentic outback experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquillity and adventure.
Tom Price Tourist Park offers a variety of accommodations, including well-decorated cabins and spacious powered sites, ensuring comfort for all travellers. Located in the heart of the Pilbara region, it provides easy access to the breathtaking Karijini National Park. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, modern communal kitchen, and barbecue facilities. The park also features clean, well-maintained amenities such as laundry facilities, a camp kitchen, and a convenience store. With its friendly atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, Tom Price Tourist Park is an ideal base for exploring the rugged beauty of Western Australia.
Bullara Station Stay offers a unique outback experience with charming accommodations including cosy cottages and permanent tents. Located between Coral Bay and Exmouth on the Ningaloo Coast in Western Australia, it provides an ideal base for exploring the region's natural beauty. Guests can enjoy hearty home-cooked meals at the communal dining area, relax around the campfire, and partake in guided station tours. The property features well-maintained amenities including hot showers, a shared kitchen, and barbecue facilities. With its friendly atmosphere and authentic station experience, Bullara Station Stay is perfect for travellers seeking adventure and relaxation in a picturesque setting.
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