If you like road-tripping, sparse desert land and the chance to see camels in the wild, then this adventure is for you. You will spend hours driving through some of the most remote locations in Australia. Western Australia is incredibly picturesque, made up of mostly arid outback, the population is mostly centred around Perth. On this tour, you'll see it all as you journey south from Broome to Perth via Port Hedland and Coral Bay. Along the way, visit remarkable landmarks such as Horizontal Falls, Oxers Lookout, Ningaloo Reef and Kalbarri National Park. Chat with our friendly Australian Specialists and customise this tour today!
Aboriginal cultureAdventureBeachesClassic driving toursNational parksWildlife & natureSelf Drive Tour
This suggested tour costs from AUD$6,000 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Perth, finishes in Perth
15 days/14 nights
Apartments
Rental car included
Viewed 43 times in the last 7 days
Perth sits on the west coast and is Australia’s sunniest capital city. Soak up the sunshine at one of the white sand beaches, take a walk in leafy Kings Park - one of the world’s largest inner-city parks, or visit nearby Rottnest Island to meet the resident quokkas. For a more cultural experience head to the museum and gallery precinct, or go a little further afield to Swan Valley to experience its vineyards, art, food and history.
On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside customs exit and delivered to your Perth accommodation.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.You will be picked up from your Perth accommodation and taken to the Perth Airport.
This cost for this flight is additional to your tour, we can book this flight for you.
Broome is a coastal tourist town and a gateway to the tropical Kimberley region. It is situated on the traditional lands of the Yawuru people, and nowadays, it is a multicultural melting pot. You can visit stunning Cable Beach, laid-back breweries, pearl boutiques, and experience activities ranging from diving, kayaking, cultural guided tours, and unhurried camel rides. From March to October, when the moon is full, use your imagination to witness a staircase to the moon reflected in the mudflats of Roebuck Bay. Broome also has fascinating wildlife; if you're lucky, you can spot a rare bottlenose dolphin, as well as turtles, dugongs, or even a manta ray. The region is also famous for crocodiles, and you can meet them safely with experts at Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park.
Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. From economy hatchbacks to SUVs, we can help you decide on a car suitable for this leg of your trip. Insurance can often be included with a small excess or deductible.
Your accommodation: Seashells Broome
Secluded in a tropical garden, 300m from the picturesque white sand beaches! The fully equipped units are perfect for a holiday getaway! Explore the beach or swim in the free form island pool! Being 5 minutes from the Centre there is lots to see, explore and do!Experience the beauty and wonder of the incredible Horizontal Falls and pristine scenery of the Kimberly on your half day tour. First you will enjoy flying over the amazing islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago and Cape Leveque, before your seaplane touches down in the calm waters of Talbot Bay. You will then board your boat and cruise over the top of the exhilarating Horizontal Waterfalls and enjoy a relaxing cruise, followed by a shark display and swim in a marine viewing enclosure. You will also stop to enjoy a cooked meal on board the floating dining pontoon, before soaring back to Broome on board the seaplane.
Your accommodation: Seashells Broome
Secluded in a tropical garden, 300m from the picturesque white sand beaches! The fully equipped units are perfect for a holiday getaway! Explore the beach or swim in the free form island pool! Being 5 minutes from the Centre there is lots to see, explore and do!Depart Broome early today for your destination, Port Hedland, heading along the Great Northern Highway. There are only a few towns along the way, so pack some snacks, water, and roadtrip music. About half way through your drive after passing the Gascoyne River you will come across the iconic Sandfire Roadhouse which was established in 1970. Far more than just a rest stop, the establishment has a rich history and offers a tavern and caravan park oasis for weary travellers. If you're lucky, you might spot some of the local peacocks and camels roaming the area. Consider refuelling your vehicle here before continuing along the highway towards the northwest coast. Shortly thereafter, you drive alongside Eighty Mile Beach which, despite is name, stretches around 140 miles in length (220 kilometres). If you fancy stretching your legs for a while, take the road towards Cape Keraudren Coastal Reserve. Note: This is an unsealed road. Please ensure your rental car policy includes Unsealed Road Cover before you depart. There is a picturesque coastline with white sand and clear blue waters here. This location was the northernmost point of the famous Rabbit Proof Fence, an 1837 kilometre long barrier erected between 1901 and 1903 to keep pests out of pastoral areas. A sign marks the approximate location and some remnants of fence posts can still be seen. From Pardoo, travel for another hour and forty minutes to your final destination of Port Hedland, the second-largest town in the Pilbara.
A bustling Indian Ocean port, Port Hedland is known for its prominent resource industry, however the coastal town is just as rich in Indigenous culture, history, and natural wonders. The port itself is the largest export tonnage port in the world, and provides visitors with the unique opportunity to witness the impressive daily operations. Port Hedland is also the gateway that connects the famous Pilbara region and the Kimberley, which can be traversed along the Warlu Way. Following the path of the warlu legend, or Dreamtime sea serpent, it comprises four routes exploring sapphire seas, lush oases and soaring gorges. The warlu is said to have emerged from the sea and travelled through the red heart of the outback, forming magnificent waterways as he moved. Part of this spiritual route is the inland drive to Karijini from Port Hedland, drenched in Indigenous culture and natural wonders. To the north-west of Port Hedland exists a natural phenomenon called the Staircase to the Moon, when the full moon rises over the mud flats at low tide, creating the illusion of a staircase reaching up to the moon - a very special way to end your day in Port Hedland.
Your accommodation: Hospitality Port Hedland
Port Hedland motel provides comfortable, spacious and air-conditioned rooms close to the beach. The motel offers Wifi, BBQ facilities, licensed restaurant and outdoor swimming pool for you to relax. It is located an easy stroll from the ocean, close to local amenities, shops and cafes.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 609 kms / 378 miles : 6.4 hours
Travel south from Port Hedland and start your journey through the vast outback of the Pilbara. This part of Australia is definitely not known for the abundance of activities along the way, but let your eyes wonder over the vastness of the red sand and keep on the look out for any wildlife that you might encounter. In the hot season the land can seem harsh and dry, but driving through the desert after a bit of rain surprises you with a very different experience. The flora has learnt to survive on the tiniest amount of water and a good rain will bring out both wild flowers and abundant greenery. When you get to the cattle station of Juna Downs, you will notice it is mostly populated by cows as the mining company running the station holds a herd of 24 000 cattle. This takes you to the very outskirts of Western Australia's second biggest national park, Karijini National Park. Turn west and soon you will find yourself in the small town of Karijini.
Marvel at the natural beauty of endless rock formations, pools and waterfalls. Karijini is at the heart of the wild side of Western Australian outback. Home to Karijini National Park, the second largest national park in Western Australia, visiting is like taking a journey back in time through this 2.5 billion year old landscape. The areas traditional owners are the Banyjima, Innawonga and Kurrama peoples. Aboriginal land management practices, such as 'fire stick farming', resulted in a diversity of vegetation types that helped create the nature of the plants and animals found in the park today. The Karijini Visitor Centre is the best place to start your adventure and receive advice from local rangers of the best places to see at the time of your visit. Some of the key sites within the park include the dramatic Hamersley Gorge, the unbelievably turquoise water of Fern Pool, and the not to be missed Oxers Lookout - considered to be one of the most spectacular sights in Western Australia.
Your accommodation: Karijini Eco Retreat
Karijini Eco Retreat, situated in Western Australia's second largest national park, is 100% Traditionally Owned. The retreat offers unique outback glamping tents nestled amongst native bushland at the edge of Joffre Gorge. The property features an outback restaurant, bar and easy access to the park's trails. You are sure to feel at peace here sleeping beneath the spectacular desert night sky.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 335 kms / 208 miles : 3.6 hours
Embark on a breathtaking journey on a full-day tour of Karijini Gorge, and revel in the natural wonders of the area in a relaxed and friendly environment. Journey through the Hamersley Range to the Karijini National Park, exploring ancient land formations, gorges, and waterfalls such as Oxer Lookout, Weano Gorge, Joffre Falls, and Dales Gorge. Visit the Karijini Visitor Centre to learn about the area's cultural and natural history. Enjoy swimming at Handrail and Fern Pools, and Fortescue Falls, and take in the views from Knox and Circular Pool Lookouts.
Your accommodation: Karijini Eco Retreat
Karijini Eco Retreat, situated in Western Australia's second largest national park, is 100% Traditionally Owned. The retreat offers unique outback glamping tents nestled amongst native bushland at the edge of Joffre Gorge. The property features an outback restaurant, bar and easy access to the park's trails. You are sure to feel at peace here sleeping beneath the spectacular desert night sky.Prepare yourself for a long journey through the desert as you head west out of Karijini and towards the coast and Coral Bay. The road supplies a good few lookouts and photo opportunities along the way so make sure to stop and stretch your legs wherever possible. The small town of Tom Price offers a good stop for snacks and drinks before heading back on the road. We recommend you fill up the fuel tank here, there is a long way to go and few petrol stations along the way. Shortly after Tom Price you can find Tiger Eye Pool if you feel like a dip in the water after driving. Along your way out west you will pass through cattle stations and mining communities. The Western Australia economy was transformed by mining and the discovery of gold in the late 1800s. Since then a number of precious metals, stones and oil have been found and refined in this area. As you edge closer to the coast the environment will start to change and once you enter the Exmouth Gulf you can roll down your window and take a few deep breaths of fresh sea air. You will be welcomed to Coral Bay by wide stretched, white, sandy beaches, picturesque cafes and excellent snorkelling.
Coral Bay is a small coastal town on the Ningaloo Coast, a World Heritage-listed area on the remote western coast of Australia. The Ningaloo Reef, one of the longest near-shore reefs in the world, is home to whale sharks, manta rays, turtles, coral gardens and over 500 species of fish. Nowhere does the reef come closer to the shore than at Coral Bay, where you can wade just a few metres into the water to see coral formations and swim amongst the fish. From modern dining locations to shopping, guided tours and beachfront accommodation, Coral Bay is a tiny oasis amongst vast natural wonders.
Your accommodation: Ningaloo Coral Bay
Located in the picturesque town of Coral Bay, surrounded by coral gardens and a thriving marine sanctuary, Ningaloo Coral Bay offers lodgings by along the Ningaloo Coast. Enjoy the onsite jumping pillow, playground, swimming pool, tennis court and BBQ.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 617 kms / 383 miles : 7.6 hours
The World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef is one of the longest near-shore reefs in the world, its deep-sea canyons and colourful coral reefs teeming with whale sharks, manta rays, loggerhead turtles, and over 500 species of fish. Prior to European settlement, the Ningaloo Coast was inhabited by the Yinigudura people and is named for their word for 'deep water'. Annual gatherings of Humpback whales occur along the Ningaloo Coast from June to mid-October as approximately 30,000 of them migrate from the fertile feeding grounds of the South West to the tropical breeding grounds of the North West Shelf.
The reef stretches approximately 260km from Red Bluff to the Muiron Islands just north of Exmouth and offers a slew of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.
This two-hour snorkel and coral viewing tour takes place on board the Nhanya-Ku, a glass bottom boat designed specifically to cruise the shallow reef systems of Coral Bay. The name of this glass-bottomed boat is derived from the Yamatji languages of the Baiyungu people (the traditional occupants of the beautiful Exmouth, Coral Bay and Ningaloo region). It means ‘to gaze upon’, which you will be doing as you witness the stunning reef passing beneath you on board the boat, but also as you stop to snorkel at two beautiful reef sites. Here you can get up close with the hundreds of tropical fish and magnificent coral gardens of the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef.
What better way than to end your day with a sunset ATV ride, an experienced guide will show you around the white sandy beaches as you wind along the pristine coast of Coral Bay to view the famous sunset at the Ningaloo Marine Park. As dusk hits you will head back along the coastline into the magnificent colors of the sunset.
Your accommodation: Ningaloo Coral Bay
Located in the picturesque town of Coral Bay, surrounded by coral gardens and a thriving marine sanctuary, Ningaloo Coral Bay offers lodgings by along the Ningaloo Coast. Enjoy the onsite jumping pillow, playground, swimming pool, tennis court and BBQ.Departing Coral Bay you will head south along Minilya-Exmouth Road, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn. Take a quick stop here to get a photo with the roadside sign! Continue further south along the North West Coastal Highway and take in the scenery of the desert vastness. Heading back towards the coast you will pass through Carnarvon, which is a great place to stop for lunch and a rest from driving. If you take a quick detour as you head into town, you can stop by the iconic cactus garden and whale skeleton on the roadside. In Carnarvon you can also visit the Space and Technology Museum, which celebrates the little-known history of Carnarvon's role in the manned space program and the Australian communications industry. Back on the highway you will turn off towards the Shark Bay World Heritage area. Stop by the Hamelin Pool stromatolites which are natural phenomena known as 'living fossils'. They are among the most diverse in the world and show what marine ecosystems would have looked like 3 billion years ago. Continuing on you will then head north up the Peron Peninsula to reach your destination of Denham.
Located 837 kilometres northwest of Perth in Western Australia on the Coral Coast, Denham is considered the gateway to the Shark Bay World Heritage Area and is the westernmost town in Australia. Kite surfing, diving, snorkelling, fishing, windsurfing, boating, and swimming are in abundant supply in this truly stunning destination. The town’s roots lie in pearl fishing, before slowly evolving into the major tourist destination it is today as the first stop before exploring all that Shark Bay has to offer. A small and picturesque beach and jetty are both popular to visit for fishing and boating, and there are many restaurants and cafes for hungry travellers.
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery & Visitors Centre teaches visitors about the history and importance of Shark Bay, learning about the abundant and unique surrounding attractions. Four kilometres to the north of Denham and covering 52,000 hectares is the Francois Peron National Park. Here, the turquoise sea meets shocking red desert cliffs and boasts white beaches, sand plains, and arid desert shrubland, and is a haven for birds, rare reptiles, and marsupials.
Your accommodation: Heritage Resort Shark Bay
Shark Bay accommodation offers exceptional value to discerning travellers. All resort facilities, recreation, and dining services are first-class. As part of the World Heritage Listed Shark Bay area you can be assured of a warm welcome and personalised hospitality.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 565 kms / 351 miles : 6.0 hours
Enjoy a fun-filled day with lots of wildlife on this amazing kayaking adventure exploring the magnificent Shark Bay World Heritage Area. Your day begins as you are picked up in Denham and make the 4WD adventure out to your paddling location at Big Lagoon in Francois Peron National Park. Along the way, you will stop to look for bush foods and learn about medicinal plants, animal tracking and more. Once you arrive at your kayaking destination you will be offered morning tea, before a quick safety induction. Paddle out across crystal clear waters, and spot wildlife including turtles, rays, sharks and the elusive dugong. You will also take regular stops for a relaxing swim or snorkel in the shallow bays or walk through the stunning coastal landscapes. Your day finishes with a luxurious soak in the hot tub at Peron Homestead before being returned to your accommodation in Denham.
Your accommodation: Heritage Resort Shark Bay
Shark Bay accommodation offers exceptional value to discerning travellers. All resort facilities, recreation, and dining services are first-class. As part of the World Heritage Listed Shark Bay area you can be assured of a warm welcome and personalised hospitality.Departing Denham, head south down the Peron Peninsula and back onto the North West Coastal Highway. If you haven't stopped to see the Hamelin Pool stromatolites yet, make sure to check out these living fossils that show what marine ecosystems would have looked like 3 billion years ago. Head south on the North West Coastal Highway until you reach Ajana-Kalbarri Turnoff and drive towards Kalbarri. Before entering the town you will see the Kalbarri National Park entry, which is a must-see while you are here. Finally, arrive at the resort town of Kalbarri, nestled at the mouth of the Murchison River and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.
Kalbarri is a resort town on Western Australia's coast, nestled at the mouth of the Murchison River. The area has an ideal climate which means a plethora of coastal activities can be enjoyed all year round, including swimming, surfing, hiking, fishing and whale watching during the humpback migration season. Western Australia has the largest variety of wildflowers in the world, and Kalbarri is the prime location to experience them. Between July and October more than 12,000 wildflower species carpet the Mid-West region, transforming the dry sand plains and river gorges of Kalbarri National Park into a vivid display of colour. The park encircles the town itself, covering an area of 186,000 hectares. The inland river gorges with ancient rock formations to the north and the towering ocean cliffs to the south provide a range of spectacular terrain that caters for both the laid-back holidaymaker and experienced hikers. If relaxing at pristine swimming spot is more your activity of choice, Chinaman's Beach is the perfect spot to wade. This is a lovely sheltered beach cove where the Murchison River meets the sea, and dolphins are often spotted at sunset. The Murchison River also has numerous swimming spots in its tidal river mouth and northwards for about 1.5 kilometres. A 5-minute drive from the heart of Kalbarri is Blue Holes beach, which is a Fish Habitat Protection Area, making it the perfect spot for snorkelling. Jakes Point is one of the state's most famous surfing breaks, if you're a surfer at heart this break is likely already on your bucket list. This iconic lefthander is a National Surfing Reserve that puts on a spectacular display of 10ft swell, while Jakes Bay further down the beach offers a safer option for novices.
You will be cruising today on the Murchison River, it is a perfect way to explore this picturesque part of Western Australia. Interesting commentary will be provided about the fishing industry, history of the region and local wildlife. You can spot number of species of birdlife including ospreys, pelicans, egrets, black swans as well as kangaroos and emus. You will be cruising alongside beautiful colored rocks and narrow channel along Goat Island. There will be plenty of time to relax, take pictures and enjoy beautiful sunset.
Your accommodation: Kalbarri Edge Resort
Kalbarri Edge Resort is a great place to unwind and relax after exploring the local sites. Lounge in your comfortable, smartly-appointed room, laze in the sun by the pool or partake in a giant game of chess. With the onsite Edge Restaurant, cocktail bar and 20 channel Foxtel, there is something for everyone to make your stay comfortable.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 374 kms / 232 miles : 3.9 hours
The 186,000 hectares of Kalbarri National Park encircle the coastal resort town of Kalbarri which is nestled into the mouth of the Murchison River. The inland river gorges with ancient rock formations to the north and towering ocean cliffs to the south provide a range of spectacular terrain that caters for both the simple holiday maker and experienced hikers. Roads to the popular Z-Bend, Skywalk, Loop and Nature's Window attractions are fully sealed and accessible.
The Kalbarri Skywalk comprises two cantilevered platform structures that will have you feeling like you're floating, as you take in breathtaking views of the Murchison River Gorge 100 metres below and its spectacular surroundings. A moderate 1-kilometre return walk will take you to the popular Nature's Window, a wind-eroded opening in the sandstone that frames a stunning view of the Murchison River.
To enter the area you will need to purchase a national park day pass from either the Kalbarri Visitor Centre, the WA Parks & Wildlife Headquarters, or at the fee station at the park entrance.
Temperatures in the river gorges can reach 50 degrees celsius during summer. Remember to carry your own drinking water as it is not available in the park. It is also recommended to wear long-sleeved, loose clothing and a hat, and to hike early in the morning or late afternoon.
You will be taken for the scenic coastal ride to the Pink Lake, famous for its pink hue color. Along the way, you will have a few stops at Natural Bridge, Pot Alley and Red Bluff Beach. From June to November, watch the phenomenal Humpback Whales migrate north to warmer waters as they pass by magnificent Kalbarri coastal cliffs. Tick off the fantastic bubblegum Pink Lake off your bucket list and enjoy this fully guided tour.
Your accommodation: Kalbarri Edge Resort
Kalbarri Edge Resort is a great place to unwind and relax after exploring the local sites. Lounge in your comfortable, smartly-appointed room, laze in the sun by the pool or partake in a giant game of chess. With the onsite Edge Restaurant, cocktail bar and 20 channel Foxtel, there is something for everyone to make your stay comfortable.Head south on this scenic, coastal journey to the biggest city in Western Australia, Perth. Follow the coastline to Geraldton where you can make a great snack stop or have a look at the Museum of Geraldton or the Point Moore Lighthouse. Continue on and make sure to make use of all the little beaches and picnic spots along the way. The Indian Ocean will treat you to excellent views and if you are lucky you might spot some marine wild life on your trip. The further south you get the more greenery you will see as you pass the likes of Nambung and Moore River national parks. If you have time you can stop and enjoy some of the tracks or just enjoy the view from the road. Finish your day by entering the bustling city of Perth and enjoy all that it has to offer. Take a stroll in Kings Park or take a day tour out to the beautiful Rottnest Island to meet the curious Quokka.
Perth is the capital city of Western Australia developed on the Swan River, which is a sacred place for its traditional landowners, the Noongar people. The city has a rich history, from indigenous culture through to colonial architecture. The city is a hub for indigenous and modern art and award-winning restaurants, while a short drive will take you to some of the best beaches in Australia with white sand and crystal blue water. Just 19km off the mainland is Rottnest Island, also named Wadjemup by the Noongar people. The island is a protected nature reserve and one of the few homes to the native marsupial the Quokka, but also boasts a range of activities including skydiving, kayaking, snorkelling and historical points of interest.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 525 kms / 326 miles : 5.5 hours
There is no better way to combine a delicious lunch and a wonderful cruise on the magnificent Swan River than on this Fremantle Lunch Cruise. This unique cruise includes a buffet of Western Australia’s abundant seasonal fresh produce as well as full bar facilities on board.
Enjoy Captain's commentary during the cruise downstream to the port city of Fremantle. Upon the return journey, you are invited to enjoy the hot buffet complimented by seasonal salads, all followed by a scrumptious dessert buffet.
See the whole of Rottnest in a day with a return ferry trip combined with a full-island bus tour. The 90-minute tour visits the island’s most spectacular locations, with insightful commentary shining a light on "Rotto’s" unique flora, fauna, history, and culture. The bus stops at two key vantage points – Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End, where passengers can hop off, take a short walk, and soak up the views. You might even meet a quokka or two along the way.
Your accommodation: Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth Apartment Hotel
Nesuto Mounts Bay Perth offers fully self-contained and well-furnished apartments. The apartments are situated in a village-style environment, in the secluded Mounts Bay Village. This sanctuary of landscaped gardens is complemented by swimming pools and tennis courts, with ample undercover parking within the complex.Explore more of Perth before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.
Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!