Pinnacles Desert Private Day Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Perth and want to see something truly unique, the Pinnacles Desert is an absolute must. This private tour offers an intimate, relaxed way to explore one of Australia’s most fascinating natural sights. From the moment we read about it, two things caught our attention: the chance for personalized guidance and the flexibility to customize the stops along the way. However, given the full-day nature of the trip and the price point, it’s worth considering if this experience balances quality with value for your travel dollars.

This tour is ideal for those who appreciate natural wonders, enjoy a more tailored experience, and prefer comfort and flexibility. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to avoid the stress of self-driving and prefer having a knowledgeable guide lead the way. It’s also a good pick for anyone interested in geology, coastal scenery, and unique landscapes.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, and guides customize stops based on your interests.
• All-Inclusive Entry: The fee covers entry to the Pinnacles Desert, making it straightforward without hidden costs.
• Flexible Timing: You can spend as much time as you’d like at each stop, especially the Pinnacles.
• Additional Stops: Optional visits to Yanchep National Park, Lancelin Sand Dunes, and other spots add variety.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup can be arranged from your accommodation, and bottled water is provided for the day.
• Good Value for Money: At around $399, the price includes multiple attractions and personalized attention, which many reviews praise.

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Pickup & First Stops

The tour begins around 8:30 am, with pickup from your accommodation if arranged. This eliminates the hassle of figuring out transport, which is a big plus. From there, the journey is tailored to your interests, with the opportunity to visit several scenic stops before reaching the main event.

The first stop often is Yanchep Lagoon Beach, a beautiful sheltered spot with clear blue water and sandy shores. It’s mainly a quick photo break, but you can imagine yourself here, soaking in the peaceful coastal vibe. The water looks inviting, and it’s a chance to snap some photos of the striking coastline.

Next, optional stops at Yanchep National Park offer a chance to see kangaroos wandering freely, and explore the lush surroundings. Keep in mind, entry to the park costs $10 per person and isn’t included in the tour price—so you’ll want to weigh whether that fits into your budget. From reviews, local wildlife encounters are often a highlight, but some may opt to skip this if they prefer to focus on the desert scenery.

The Coastal Charm of Two Rocks

A quick drive takes you to Two Rocks, a quirky seaside town with a history that’s both amusing and interesting. Named after the two large limestone formations off the coast, it’s a small spot but worth passing through for the local character. A giant “King Neptune” statue overlooks the coast, adding to the town’s charm. If you’re into offbeat towns or enjoy coastal views, this is a fun, low-pressure stop.

Sand Dunes and Outdoor Fun at Lancelin

For those feeling energetic, Lancelin Sand Dunes is a highlight. You can hire a sandboard for around $10 an hour, which many guests find to be an absolute blast. It’s a good way to get some fresh air and try something a little adventurous, but it’s optional—so if sandboarding isn’t your thing, you can simply enjoy the dunes visually and move on. Reviewers have told us that the dunes are “amazing” and “a lot of fun,” especially if you’re up for a bit of a physical challenge.

The Pinnacles: A Natural Wonder

Now, the main event—the Pinnacles Desert. This 1.5-hour stop is the core reason most travelers book this tour. The landscape is nothing short of surreal. Hundreds of limestone formations, some resembling giant chess pieces, others more like abstract sculptures, stretch across the desert floor. The colors vary from pale whites to deep yellows and browns, creating a landscape that feels almost otherworldly.

What makes this stop special is the flexibility—you’re encouraged to stay as long as you want, to walk around, take photos, or just soak it in. Many reviews mention how impressive the scenery is, with one caller it “a fascinating landscape” that “must be seen to be appreciated.” The guides, like Peter, are praised for their detailed knowledge, helping visitors understand the theories behind how these formations came to be.

Lunch in Cervantes & Relaxed Afternoon

After the desert, the tour takes you to Cervantes, a small fishing town known for its local seafood and relaxed vibe. Here, you can grab a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, with options for seafood lovers—particularly lobster. The tour offers the flexibility to choose your dining spot, and the town’s laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to regroup before heading back.

Optional Further Exploration

Depending on your interests and timing, there’s the possibility to extend the day with options like visiting additional coastal towns, exploring more dunes, or even stargazing at sunset (if you book a sunset tour). But for most, the combination of the Pinnacles and a leisurely lunch is enough to fill a day.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews for this tour are glowing, consistently praising the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor. Michel_H, a reviewer, shared that “Peter’s expertise and friendly demeanor made the tour both enjoyable and educational,” which resonates with many. Others appreciated the flexible pace, with Cathy_D mentioning how “Peter tweaked the tour to suit us,” making the day feel personalized.

Many found the scenery to be breathtaking—the Pinnacles desert particularly stands out as a place that “must be experienced to be believed,” according to one review. The sand dunes also earn high marks for fun, especially with the option to hire a board and test your skills.

Value and Practicalities

While $399 might seem steep at first glance, most reviews agree that the value lies in the personalized experience and the convenience of not needing to organize multiple stops or drive yourself. The price includes the entry to the Pinnacles, and the flexibility to spend as much time as you want there. Plus, bottled water is supplied, so you’re well-hydrated for the day.

Keep in mind, meals and optional activities like sandboarding are extra, but the tour’s core attractions are covered. The tour is private, so you won’t be sharing with strangers—which many travelers find to be a big plus, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits those who value personalized attention and want to explore at their own pace. It’s perfect if you’re interested in striking landscapes, geology, or simply looking for a hassle-free way to see the Pinnacles without the stress of planning each detail.

While not specifically tailored for families with very young children, older kids and teenagers who enjoy outdoor activities and nature are likely to find this trip engaging. If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and flexible day out, this is a strong choice.

Final Thoughts

The Pinnacles Desert Private Day Tour offers a fantastic way to see one of Australia’s most distinctive landscapes without feeling rushed. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach shine through in the reviews, and the ability to customize your stops makes it feel like a truly personal experience. For travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy outdoor adventures like sandboarding, or simply want the comfort of a private tour, this experience hits the right notes.

At around $399, it’s a good investment if you’re looking for quality, convenience, and a memorable day exploring some of Western Australia’s most extraordinary scenery. Just remember to plan for optional extras like lunch or sandboarding if those appeal to you, and you’ll have a smooth, beautiful day out.

FAQs About the Pinnacles Desert Private Day Tour

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup from your accommodation can be arranged, making it easy to start your day comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 8 to 10 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

What is the price per person?
It costs around $399.35 per person, which includes entry to the Pinnacles Desert and bottled water.

Can I stay longer at the Pinnacles?
Yes, the tour offers the flexibility to spend as much time as you want at the Pinnacles.

Are the stops throughout the day optional?
Many stops, like Yanchep Lagoon or Lancelin Sand Dunes, are optional or can be skipped if you prefer.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s generally suitable for those interested in outdoor activities and landscapes; families with older children or teens will likely enjoy it.

What activities are available at Lancelin Sand Dunes?
Sandboarding is available at an additional cost, but simply walking or viewing the dunes is also enjoyable.

What kind of guide will I have?
The tour is led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide, like Peter, who is praised for his expertise and personable approach.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but there are good options in Cervantes, which you can choose based on your preferences.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera—things to make your day both comfortable and memorable.

If you’re after a day of exploring stunning landscapes with a knowledgeable guide and the flexibility to customize your experience, this private Pinnacles Desert tour is a solid choice. It combines scenic wonder with personal service, making it worth considering for your Perth adventure.