Perth to Exmouth & Return with Monkey Mia & Ningaloo Reef

Traveling across Western Australia’s spectacular coastline is a bucket-list adventure, and this 7-day tour promises to hit some of the most iconic sights. From the otherworldly Pinnacles to the marine wonders of Ningaloo Reef, it’s a trip designed for those eager to see a diverse mix of landscapes and experiences.

While this tour offers some truly memorable moments — like snorkeling with manta rays and visiting ancient stromatolites — it’s not without its quirks. We’ll share what makes it special, what to consider, and who might get the most out of this journey. If you’re after a guided exploration that covers a lot of ground, this could be a good fit. Just keep in mind the reviews suggest it’s best suited for those comfortable with long drives and basic amenities.

Two things we really like about this experience are the variety of stops — from national parks to marine parks — and the chance to learn from guides who seem passionate and knowledgeable. One potential downside is the pace of the trip, which includes long drives and some stops that might feel a bit rushed or odd. It’s worth considering whether the itinerary matches your style of travel.

If you’re someone who loves seeing a lot in a short period, appreciates a guided tour to handle logistics, and isn’t fussed about some long travel days, this tour could be a good adventure for you. It’s less ideal if you’re after a luxury experience, a slower pace, or traveling with mobility challenges.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From deserts to lush national parks and marine environments.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Long drives: Expect multiple hours in the vehicle, with some stops feeling a bit strange or unplanned.
• Includes unique sights: Pinnacles, stromatolites, and Ningaloo Reef snorkeling.
• Limited luggage: Max 10kg, so pack light.
• Mixed reviews: Some travelers loved it, others were disappointed by food and organization.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour kicks off in Perth, taking you northward along Western Australia’s coast. The first stop is at Nambung National Park, home to the Pinnacles. These limestone spires rising from the sand are a striking sight. We loved the way the tour introduces you to something that feels almost alien — it’s a reminder of how ancient and strange the landscape can be. The experience is straightforward but captivating, especially if you appreciate geological oddities.

Next, the journey continues to Kalbarri National Park. Here, the scenery shifts to deep gorges carved by the Murchison River, with Natures Window and the Z-Bend lookouts providing iconic views. If you’re up for some adventure, the option to try abseiling adds a thrill — though this isn’t included in the base package. The emphasis on natural beauty and outdoor activity is clear, and we found it a highlight for its visual drama.

After Kalbarri, the tour heads to Shark Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of the day’s highlights is visiting Hamelin Pool to see the stromatolites. These ancient microbial structures are some of the oldest living fossils on Earth, and seeing them is like peering into prehistory. The area also offers the chance to spot dolphins, dugongs, and turtles in Monkey Mia, which is famed for its friendly dolphins. One reviewer remarked, “a great way to explore Western Australia and take the hassle out of planning, so you can just enjoy.”

From Shark Bay, the focus shifts to marine wonders at Ningaloo Reef. Snorkeling here is a big draw, with plenty of marine life including turtles and manta rays just meters from the shore. The reef itself boasts 250 coral species and 500 fish species, making it one of Australia’s premier snorkeling spots. The tour’s description emphasizes snorkeling as a highlight, and while optional boat tours cost extra, many travelers enjoy simply exploring from the beach.

The adventure continues in Exmouth with the chance to explore Cape Range National Park. You can opt for swimming with whale sharks (extra cost) or simply enjoy the rugged landscapes and wildlife. The park features deep canyons, limestone ranges, and beaches like Turquoise Bay, perfect for cooling off after busy days of sightseeing.

The Farm Stay Experience

One of the more unique aspects of this tour is the stop at Northbrook Farm. Unlike typical sightseeing, this stay offers a taste of genuine country life. Here, you’ll feed animals, listen to stories from locals, and get a sense of rural Australia. It’s an authentic, laid-back experience that’s appreciated by travelers seeking something a little different from the usual.

The Return Journey

As the tour wraps up, you’ll make stops in Carnarvon for fresh seafood and supplies, then visit Geraldton to see landmarks like the HMAS Sydney Memorial and Point Moore Lighthouse. The visit to Greenough Wildlife and Bird Park allows for close encounters with rescued animals such as dingoes, kangaroos, and crocodiles. These moments often stand out as heartfelt and genuine.

The tour finishes with a scenic stop at the white dunes of the Coral Coast, perfect for last-minute photos and exchanging contacts with fellow travelers. It’s a fitting end to a whirlwind week.

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Practicalities and What to Expect

This tour is operated by Adventure Tours Australia with small groups capped at 16, which helps create a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The transport is in a comfortable vehicle, but be prepared for long driving hours — some reviews mention the drives as “irritating” and “bizarre stops,” which can test patience.

Luggage restrictions are strict: only 10kg per person, so pack efficiently. Think lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and essentials like a torch and insect repellent. Because amenities are limited in some areas, bringing a power bank and toiletries is advisable.

The tour is priced for a guided experience that covers many key sights without the hassle of planning. The value lies in the convenience, expert guides, and access to spots that might be trickier to reach independently.

Food and Accommodation

Food is generally described as good, with mentions of consistent meals and even some “delicious tapas,” which makes a difference after days of sightseeing. Accommodation varies from campsites to farm stays, often simple but comfortable enough for a basic traveler.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy guided adventures, appreciate diverse scenery, and don’t mind some long days on the road. It’s not suited for those with mobility issues or families with young children, as the itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and some unaccompanied activities.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer from the UK called the trip “a torture 85 percent of the time,” citing long drives and unprofessional behavior from the guide. But another from Australia said it was “amazing” thanks to great guides and the ability to see manta rays and dolphins. The mixed reviews highlight that your experience may depend heavily on your expectations and the group you’re with.

The Upside

Many travelers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, the variety of sights, and the chance to snorkel at Ningaloo Reef. They also valued the value for money — especially given the inclusions and the number of highlights covered.

The Downside

Some found the food mediocre, the stops a bit random or unplanned, and the long drives tiring. Plus, the extra costs for activities like whale shark swimming and boat tours can add up, so budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour from Perth to Ningaloo Reef is a solid choice if you want a guided, all-in-one exploration of Western Australia’s best. It offers the thrill of seeing rare wildlife, the beauty of ancient landscapes, and a taste of rural life. The experience of snorkeling with manta rays and the iconic Pinnacles alone make it worth considering, especially if you prefer to travel with a group and a guide handling logistics.

While it’s not perfect — some reviewers found the pace too quick, the stops odd, and the amenities basic — the highlights tend to overshadow the downsides for most travelers. It’s especially good for those new to WA or those who want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing everything themselves.

If you’re after a comprehensive, guided journey with a mix of natural wonders and cultural experiences, this trip could be just what you’re looking for. Just remember, packing light, being flexible, and going in with realistic expectations will help you make the most of it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended as it involves some walking and activities that may be challenging for those with mobility impairments.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years.

What should I pack?
Bring sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, toiletries, bathers, a towel, a water bottle, torch, insect repellent, and a power bank. Keep luggage under 10kg.

How long are the travel days?
Expect long hours in the vehicle, with some stops feeling a bit odd or random, according to reviews.

Is snorkeling included?
You can snorkel at Ningaloo Reef, which is a highlight. Boat tours are optional and cost extra.

What’s the accommodation like?
It varies from campsites to farm stays — simple but comfortable enough for most travelers.

Are meals provided?
Meals are generally described as good, with consistent options and some praise for their quality.

Can I do the whale shark swim?
Yes, but it costs extra, and you’ll need to opt in for that activity.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 16 participants, ensuring a more intimate group experience.

What’s the main benefit of booking this tour?
It covers many of WA’s top sights in a week, with guides to handle logistics and provide insights, making it easier than organizing yourself.

Traveling along Western Australia’s coastline promises a memorable blend of nature, wildlife, and scenic landscapes. This tour offers a practical way to tick a lot of those boxes, especially if you value guided expertise and a structured itinerary. Just go in with open-minded expectations, pack light, and prepare for an adventure that’s as diverse as the land itself.

You can check availability for your dates here: