Perth: 7 Day Exmouth Explorer & Ningaloo Reef Return Perth

Planning a trip to Western Australia’s rugged and breathtaking Coral Coast can feel daunting—so many natural wonders packed into one region. This 7-day tour from Perth, operated by Autopia Tours, promises an adventure filled with incredible scenery, wildlife encounters, and unique landscapes. We haven’t personally taken this exact journey, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it looks like a well-rounded experience for those craving authentic Aussie landscapes and memorable wildlife moments.

What we love about this trip? First, the variety of landscapes—from the otherworldly Pinnacles desert to the vibrant Ningaloo Reef—is astonishing. Second, the enthusiastic and knowledgeable guides shine through in the reviews, making each stop not just a sight to see but a story to hear. A potential consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of driving, with some long days, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on their feet and with a moderate to high level of fitness.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Western Australia without the hassle of self-driving. It’s especially appealing if you love nature, wildlife, and stunning scenery but prefer group travel with expert guiding. If you’re after a leisurely, relaxed holiday, this may be a bit fast-paced. But for those ready to see a bunch in a short time, it’s a promising choice.

Key Points

• Diverse scenery: From limestone formations and gorges to pristine beaches and coral reefs.
• Wildlife encounters: Wild dolphins at Monkey Mia and snorkeling Ningaloo Reef.
• Active days: Walking, hiking, and optional activities like abseiling and snorkeling.
• Expert guides: Reviewers consistently praise their guides’ knowledge and friendliness.
• Good value: Accommodation, meals, and activities included make it a great package.
• Long drives: Expect several hours on the road, but with scenic stops that break up the journey.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Day 1: Perth to Kalbarri – First Glimpses of Western Australia’s Wonders

The tour kicks off early, with guests meeting outside the Criterion Hotel in Perth. Expect a lively start, as your guide begins sharing insights about the journey ahead. The first major stop is at the Pinnacles Desert in Nambung National Park, an extraordinary landscape of limestone spires rising from the sand—almost alien in appearance. This spot is a must-see, giving you a sense of otherworldliness particularly striking in the early morning light.

Next, the group heads to Jurien Bay for a seaside lunch, where you can enjoy fresh seafood or simple snacks overlooking the ocean. The drive along Indian Ocean Drive offers scenic coastal views, making the long hours in the bus more bearable. If conditions allow, you might catch a glimpse of the Pink Lake near Geraldton, a vivid pink due to algae, providing some fantastic photo opportunities—though it’s weather-dependent.

Arriving in Kalbarri, you’ll spend the night in a comfortable accommodation, like Pelicans Nest Private or a similar locale. Reviewers mention that the accommodations are decent, with some variability, but the focus here is on the stunning landscapes.

Day 2: Kalbarri to Monkey Mia – Gorges and Dolphins

The morning begins with a potential Natures Window sunrise view—a natural rock formation framing the river gorge, popular with photographers and hikers alike. Many reviewers rave about this stop, with one describing it as “a must-see for its iconic shape and scenic backdrop.”

The exploration continues into Kalbarri National Park, where you’ll hike to Z-Bend and through Murchison Gorge, with some walks graded as moderate to challenging. These are not just strolls; expect rocky paths and some steep sections, so a decent fitness level is recommended. Spring wildflowers and wildlife typically make these stops even more worthwhile.

After a river-side lunch, the journey continues northwest toward Monkey Mia, famous for its wild dolphin encounters. Many travelers highlight the emotional thrill of seeing dolphins swimming right up to the shore, often at sunset or early morning. The RAC Monkey Mia Resort provides comfortable accommodations, with some guests noting the privilege of hearing dolphins at night outside their rooms—a special touch.

Day 3: Monkey Mia to Coral Bay – Coral and Marine Life

The highlight here is, of course, the dolphin interaction at Monkey Mia, a cherished experience for many, as described by reviewers who mention “meeting the famous dolphins and relaxing by the beach.” You’ll also visit Eagle Bluff and walk along Shell Beach, two iconic spots known for their beauty and shell-covered shores.

Post-lunch, the tour heads south to Coral Bay, right on the edge of the Ningaloo Reef—arguably Australia’s best coral reef for snorkeling. Here, you get your first taste of the underwater world with snorkeling options at Turquoise Bay or Coral Bay itself. Many reviewers appreciate the free time to relax, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun, with some taking optional extras like manta ray swims.

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Day 4: Coral Bay to Exmouth – Snorkeling and Sea Life

This day offers free time to snorkel the reef, with optional activities like manta ray swims or glass-bottom boat rides. The area’s marine biodiversity is renowned; expect to see vibrant fish, corals, and possibly sea turtles. Many guests highlight the value of these snorkeling adventures, describing them as “absolutely worth the extra cost.”

In the evening, the group moves to Exmouth for a two-night stay. Accommodations are generally comfortable, with some guests praising the Potshot Hotel for its convenience and amenities.

Day 5: Exmouth and Cape Range National Park

The day is dedicated to exploring Cape Range National Park, with its limestone ranges, canyons, and pristine beaches. Visitors often mention Turquoise Bay again, with its excellent snorkeling, and the chance to relax or explore at your own pace.

Optional activities include swimming with whale sharks and humpback whales (seasonal), which some travelers highly recommend. The Vlamingh Head Lighthouse sunset visit is a perfect way to end the day, offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline.

Day 6: Exmouth to Geraldton – Coastal and Cultural Highlights

This is a longer travel day, with notable stops in Carnarvon to see seasonal banana and mango plantations—great for those interested in local agriculture. Lunch on the Carnarvon waterfront offers a chance to enjoy local seafood and watch the bustling harbor scene. The day ends in Geraldton, a town with historical significance and scenic spots like the HMAS Sydney Memorial and the Green Head coastal trail.

Day 7: Geraldton to Perth – Farewell, Western Australia

The last day involves visiting Lake Thetis to see the Stromatolites, some of Earth’s oldest living life forms, and taking in views from Lancelin Sand Dunes Lookout. The return to Perth in the evening caps off the tour, offering reflection on a diverse and inspiring journey.

The Real Deal: What’s the Experience Like?

Many travelers emphasize the excellent guides, whose stories and local knowledge elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. One reviewer notes, “Doug, the guide, went above and beyond, making the trip memorable,” highlighting the importance of a charismatic and informed guide.

The scenic stops are carefully chosen to showcase the natural beauty of Western Australia—whether it’s the Pinnacles, the gorges, or the coral reefs. The walks vary in difficulty, with some being fairly gentle, and others requiring a moderate fitness level, especially in hot weather or over rocky terrain. Expect to walk between 2km and 4km daily, with one longer walk of about 9.5km.

The accommodations are often described as decent or good, though some variability exists, particularly in remote areas like Monkey Mia. Many praise the meals, especially the delicious, nutritious food and the opportunity to help with cooking, which adds a communal and authentic touch.

The value for money appears quite favorable, considering the inclusion of meals, transportation, and activities like snorkeling and dolphin encounters. Some reviews mention that the trip exceeded expectations for the price paid, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious explorers.

Practical Considerations and Who Will Love This Tour

Given the long driving periods, this trip is best suited for those with a moderate to high level of fitness. The walks and optional activities can be physically demanding, and some guests mention steep or rocky paths. Travelers over 70 need to provide a doctor’s note certifying fitness.

The tour is not recommended for young children under 5 or for travelers with mobility impairments, due to safety and physical activity levels. Baggage is limited to 15kg, so pack smartly with weather-appropriate clothing, hiking shoes, and essentials like water and medication.

The group size tends to be small, often around 12 to 16 people, creating a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The experience is also highly praised for the knowledge and friendliness of guides, making the long days more engaging and less tiresome.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

If you’re eager to see some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent value. It’s ideal for adventure-minded travelers who don’t mind a fair bit of walking and driving and are seeking a mix of wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural highlights.

Those interested in snorkeling or wildlife encounters like dolphin watching and whale shark swims will find plenty of opportunities here, often describing these moments as the highlights of their trip. The inclusive nature of meals and accommodations makes it a convenient, well-organized package.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed, slow-paced holiday or have mobility limitations, you might find some of the walks and long drives challenging. Still, for most active travelers, this trip strikes a fine balance between effort and extraordinary sights.

FAQs

How much walking is involved on this tour? Many stops involve walking between 2 to 4 kilometers daily, sometimes over rocky or uneven terrain. The longest walk is about 9.5 km, so a good fitness level is recommended.

Are the accommodations comfortable? The hotels and hostels vary, with some being quite good and others more basic. Most reviewers say they are suitable for the trip’s purpose—mainly to provide a comfortable base after long days of exploring.

What is the guide’s role during the trip? Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make the trip engaging. They handle safety, organize activities, and share stories about the land and wildlife.

Can I join optional activities? Yes, optional activities like whale shark swims, manta ray snorkeling, and abseiling are available at extra cost, and many reviewers find these experiences to be worth it.

What should I pack? Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, a camera, water, personal medication, and a flashlight. Baggage is limited to 15kg, so pack light.

Is this suitable for children? The tour is generally not suitable for children under 5 and those with mobility issues because of walks and physical activity levels. Kids aged 8 and above can join if accompanied by an adult.

How long do the drives between stops take? Expect several long days with drives up to 840 km, but with frequent stops at scenic spots that help break up the journey.

Final Verdict

This 7-day tour of Western Australia’s Coral Coast offers a compelling blend of landscapes, wildlife, and cultural experiences. With standout moments like dolphin encounters at Monkey Mia, snorkeling Ningaloo Reef, and exploring the Pinnacles, it appeals to travelers eager for adventure, natural beauty, and memorable wildlife interactions.

The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, coupled with the well-chosen stops, make it a trip that’s both educational and exhilarating. For those willing to handle the physical demands of walking and long drives, this journey promises a meaningful connection with some of Australia’s most striking scenery.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this tour provides a structured yet flexible way to see the highlights of Western Australia’s coast. If you’re after a trip that combines adventure with authentic experiences and good value, it’s worth considering. Just remember to pack your hiking shoes and a sense of curiosity—you’re in for a wild, wonderful ride.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby