Perth: 7 Day Explorer Return Tour to Exmouth
Take a journey on the Exmouth Explorer along the idyllic west coast and experience a totally different side to Australia, a region many are yet to discover. Start your adventure in the most remote capital city of Perth before heading north into the nature lovers’ paradise, Western Australia. Begin your journey by visiting the Pinnacles desert, hike down to the banks of the Murchison River and peek through Nature’s Window into an ancient gorge. For those seeking a unique view over the gorge, there will also be an opportunity to test your abseil skills (own expense). Visit the World Heritage Listed region of Shark Bay which will leave you in awe of the beauty of nature. Here, marvel at a beach made entirely of tiny shells, meet the world’s oldest living fossils, the stromatolites and witness dolphins playing just offshore at Monkey Mia. The region is not only home to around 2000 dolphins but also turtles, dugongs, kangaroos and emus! Be amazed by your visit to the World Heritage Listed Ningaloo Reef, known for its diverse marine life, manta rays and whale shark visitors! Stay overnight in Coral Bay, a town right by the beach which boasts coral so close to shore you can swim out to view it. Alternatively, join a tour in search of whale sharks or manta rays. Whether you choose to join a boat tour or simply relax on the beach, the pristine beaches and turquoise waters here will leave a truly lasting impression. Follow the road as far north as Exmouth Cape, where rugged mountains flow almost down to the sea. Stand atop Vlamingh Head at the lighthouse for views over the reef and ranges. In spring, you may even spot the migrating humpback whales go by. Complete your tour of the Cape with a visit to the snorkeling haven of Turquoise Bay. From Exmouth, make your way back down towards Perth and solidify new friendships and reflect on your adventure together. Day 1 - Perth to Kalbarri Kick-off your adventure with a guided tour through the Pinnacles desert, where you can learn about the formations of the rocks. Follow up with a journey up to Indian Ocean Drive for some stunning coastal views. After a quick stop in Geraldton, it’s on to the seaside town of Kalbarri for our overnight accommodation. Day 2 - Kalbarri National Park to Shark Bay/Denham Visit the marvels of The Murchison Gorge, Nature’s Window and Z-Bend in Kalbarri National Park where water has carved its way through sandstone. Here you have the option to try abseiling (additional cost). Witness bright pops of colour during wildflower season (spring). Enjoy a great photo opportunity at Nature’s Window before strolling across a beach made entirely of tiny shells. Then, it's on to Denham for accommodation by the beach. Day 3 - Shark Bay to Coral Bay This morning, meet the famous Monkey Mia dolphins and get some amazing photos. Enjoy chill-out time on the beach here or enjoy a coffee at the restaurant before you get back on the road mid-morning. Visit the fascinating rock formations, the Stromatolites, before settling into your accommodation in Coral Bay, located right on the famous Ningaloo Reef. Day 4 - Coral Bay Spend most of the day exploring the Ningaloo Reef at your own leisure. Choose to join a boat tour or enjoy free time to experience the beautiful beaches the coral bay has to offer. Go for a stroll on the beach and check out the shark nursery, swim with the manta rays (additional cost) or go for a snorkel on the Ningaloo Reef, only metres from shore. This evening, take the short drive up the peninsula to Exmouth and check into your accommodation for two nights in the town centre. Day 5 - Exmouth Explorer Today, explore Cape Range National park, a spectacular place of rugged limestone ranges, breathtaking deep canyons and 50km of pristine beaches. Relax on the beach or choose to go snorkeling at the stunning Turquoise Bay (snorkel hire $10), visit Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, relax at Milyering Visitors Center and more before you return to our accommodation late afternoon. Day 6: Exmouth - Geraldton Visit the town of Carnarvon and one of the local banana or mango plantations (seasonal). Enjoy lunch on the waterfront of Carnarvon, before stopping off for a photo opportunity overlooking the Murchison River. Refreshments stop along the way at Billabong for coffee & ice-creams. Before arriving at our final overnight destination in Geraldton. The group will enjoy their final dinner together at The Murchison Tavern after a long day of driving, discounted meals available at guests' own expense. · Day 7: Geraldton - Perth Enjoy the HMAS Sydney Memorial with stunning views of Geraldton. Take a walk along the 3 bay walk at Green Head before wandering amongst the sand dunes of Lancelin. If you’re feeling adventurous, try out sandboarding for a bit of fun! Return to Perth late afternoon. Kick back and relax on the bus for the last stretch, take in the last views of the scenic countryside before making our way back towards Perth, with drop-off starting around 5:00 PM.