6
Moderate to Challenging

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 9 days walking
Accommodation
  • 8 nights camping
  • 1 night cabin accommodation
Meals
  • 9 Dinners
  • 7 Lunches
  • 9 Breakfasts

10 Days$3399AUD

Trip Code: KNR

Trip highlights


  • Walk in the iconic Knox Gorge, Kalamina and Joffre Gorges
  • Swim in the beautiful Ningaloo Reef
  • Abundant opportunities to walk, swim and unwind
  • Explore ancient gorges with cool pools
  • Climb Mt Jarndunmunha (Mt Nameless) and visit the outback station at Cheela Plains

Explore the dramatic gorges of Karijini National park, and soak up the beauty of the Ningaloo Reef with the perfect blend of activity and rest. Starting in Paraburdoo we head north up to Karijini, where we take in some of the world's most striking features and landscapes.Our leisurely pace allows plenty of time to soak in the feel of the Pilbara and to swim in the many idyllic swimming holes. We spend four full days in Karijini walking, swimming, exploring and relaxing before we drive across to Exmouth and the fabulous Ningaloo Reef.

Activities:

Itinerary

We will pick you up from the airport at Paraburdoo and head into the beautiful Karijini National Park in time for sunset drinks and dinner. Refer above for the 2023 scheduled flight arrival times and the flight you will need to book for your trip departure to line up with the scheduled group transfer. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat campground

Meals:  D

First up today, we will head deep into the park to check out the spectacular Kalamina gorge. Though the path is rocky and uneven under foot this is one of the easier walks with a mostly gentle descent. At the bottom of the gorge, we will be rewarded by one of Karijini’s perfect swimming holes where we can cool off. After Kalamina gorge, we will take the opportunity to stop in at the Visitor’s centre to check out the information about the park and grab yourself an ice cream. After a picnic lunch, we will go to Dale’s Gorge where we will spend the rest of the afternoon. Dale’s, Circular Pool and Fern Pool are iconically Karijini. The stunning water holes with their deep red rocks and lush ferns, and waterfalls offer an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. Once we have had a fill, we will head back to camp for meal under the stars. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat campground

Meals:  B,L,D

Mt Bruce is Western Australia’s second highest peak. The Mt Bruce walk trail is a fantastic ridge walk, with some steep and rocky sections along the route. From one side you’ll have the vista of Karijini Range; from the other an iron ore mine. The 9.5 km return walk will take us most of the day and is definitely worth the effort. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat campground

Meals:  B,L,D

We’ll explore two of the most iconic gorges in Karijini – Hancock and Weano. The walks are challenging in places, but not difficult. Both involve some wading and clambering on rocks and ledges; and both reward us with fantastic jade pools nestled deep within the narrow gorge walls. Highlights include Kermits Pool and Handrail Pool. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat campground

Meals:  B,L,D

Before we say goodbye to Karijini we will walk from our campsite to Joffre Gorge. Navigating some fairly large boulders we’ll find a natural amphitheatre, with a waterfall and a delightful paddling pool. A little further down the gorge it drops into the ‘Olympic Swimming Pool’ which is around a 200m swim with sheer cliffs either side. After lunch we depart Karijini for Cheela Plains (approx. 200km drive), a true outback station stay where you will be amazed by the night sky of the desert on an included astronomy tour. Accommodation: Cheela Plains Station Stay.

Meals:  B,L,D

Time to rest the legs on a travel day. Western Australia is a big place so it will take us much of the day to get across to Exmouth. We will arrive with time to watch the sun set into the Indian Ocean. Accommodation: Yardi Homestead Caravan Park.

Meals:  B,L,D

What is a trip to Ningaloo without the opportunity to swim with the whale sharks, or snorkel in the reef? The tours are optional and extra costs apply, but highly recommended and advance booking is required - further details will be provided to you by your reservations consultant. Alternative activities will be offered for those who do not want to do these tours - arranged locally with your guides. Accommodation: Yardie Homestead Caravan Park

Meals:  B,D

Today we will explore Cape Range national park, with a series of short walks, snorkels and swims along the coast. Spot rock wallabies and an incredible array of sea life on this wonderful day. We will explore Mandu Mandu gorge and make our way to Yardi creek for a fabulous but relaxed day. Accommodation: Yardie Homestead Caravan Park

Meals:  B,L,D

Having experienced Ningaloo from the water, today we will spend a bit more time on dry land. Known locally as the Badjirrajirra Trail, this 6.8km walk will take us into the heart of the Cape Range National park. With gorges cut into the limestone karst, the trail leads us through spinifex country offering views that seemingly go on forever. Compared to some of our exploits in Karijini this trail will be relatively easy. The heat can definitely be a factor though, so we may have to augment today’s itinerary if this is the case. That said, after exploring the Charles Knife Canyon, we will head back to the blue waters of Ningaloo for another opportunity to swim and snorkel. This time visit Oyster stacks with its rich array of marine life. Hopefully we will spot a turtle! After another full day of exploring, we will head back to camp for the last night. Accommodation: Yardie Homestead Caravan Park

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast you will be transferred (approx. 30 mins) to Exmouth town (drop off: Ningaloo Centre) for an estimated arrival time of 09.30am. For those that wish we will continue the additional approx. 30 mins to the airport for estimated arrival time of 10.15am -10.30am. Please note due to guides relocating the vehicle to Tom Price this day, we can only provide the one transfer as listed above. Should Qantas reschedule their flight to require an earlier arrival at airport than 10.30am, we will move this departure transfer to earlier time to provide adequate airport check in time. For those that are dropped off in Exmouth town from our transfer and who then have a later afternoon flight you may wish to book your own transfer from Exmouth to the airport with www.exmouthbuscharters.com.au. They work their transfer around flight departures and costs currently are approx $40 per adult. Alternatively Exmouth Taxis (1800 006 707) are costed at approx. $100 for a 4 person vehicle from Exmouth to the airport. Exmouth Taxis also offer service of transfer from Yardie to the airport costed at approx. $200 for a 4 person vehicle. Should you wish to book one of these options, you are advised to book direct with them prior to departure

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.


Inclusions

  • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners and snacks daily
  • Transport in air-conditioned 4WD tour coach
  • 2 professional wilderness guides
  • 9 nights camping
  • All group camping equipment including bed, mattress, eating utensils and camp chairs (not included: sleeping bag and pillow)
  • All National Park entrance fees
  • Emergency support satellite phones and first aid kit

  • Flights to and from departure points
  • Pre or post tour accommodation
  • Travel insurance
  • Sleeping bag (can be hired)
  • Pillow
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Day packs

Accommodation


Suitability

Moderate to Challenging

6

This trip is for almost anyone with a moderate level of fitness and competent swimming ability. This adventure is designed for the enthusiastic and adventurous in search of something different. This trip has been graded at a moderate to challenging level. For the most part the walks are not particularly long however they do require walking over a lot of rocks which can be challenging for some people not used to balancing. The trails are characterised as rocky, stony and mountainous terrain requiring you to be walking each day over rugged sometimes narrow terrain with some steep ascents and descents. All walks on this trip are less than 10 km but each has its challenges, along with the rocky terrain there is lots of ascending and descending. Some days will be quite active involving steep walks for most of the day. This trek should not be underestimated as it can be challenging. Suggested preparation: We recommend one hour of strenuous exercise 4 times per week (this can be cycling, jogging or walking). At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (5–7kg) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. Your training should includes walking on steep and unstable surface eg shale, rocks and narrow paths. You will need to be prepared to use your upper body to climb, scramble and push along ledges. The best way to train for an active holiday is to simulate the activity you will be undertaking on the trip. Train for uneven terrain by finding a rough narrow bush track, even just your local park or sports field, and go for a lovely long walk in your trekking boots.


Departure dates


Notes

DN2
In addition to the World Expeditions deposit, you will also be required to pay an additional deposit of AUD$350 (paid in your local currency at the current rate of exchange).

Priceper person from

$3399AUD

Options & Supplements*
  • Sleeping Bag HireAUD$70
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour - concessionAUD$140
  • Glass Bottom Boat Tour - adultAUD$150
  • Whale Shark Interaction - APR-JUL 2024 - Observer only (stay onboard boat)AUD$250
  • Whale Shark & Ningaloo Reef - AUG-SEP 2024 - child (17yo and under)AUD$350
  • Whale Shark Interaction - APR-JUL 2024 - child (up to 17yo)AUD$400
  • Whale Shark & Ningaloo Reef - AUG-SEP 2024 - adultAUD$400
  • Whale Shark Interaction - APR-JUL 2024 - adultAUD$460
  • Whale Shark & Ningaloo Reef - AUG-SEP 2024 - Family (2 adults & 2 children 17yo or under)AUD$1380
  • Whale Shark Interaction - APR-JUL 2024 - Family (2 adults & 2 children 17yo or under)AUD$1650
*Prices listed are per person

Essential Information

Ready to book? Make sure you download and read the detailed Karijini National Park & Ningaloo Reef Adventure trip notes which contains all the essential information you need to know before booking. Once you’ve booked, we will supply you with a Pre-Departure document which contains a detailed gear list and other important information to help you prepare for your adventure ahead.


Frequently Asked Questions

The terrain is rocky and uneven, and there is a lot of ascending and descending – both for the peaks and the gorge walks.

No, however you are welcome to bring your own. Alternatively, there may be an opportunity to purchase one in Tom Price at the start of your tour (time permitting) - ask your tour guides on day 1.

This trip is for almost anyone with a moderate level of fitness and competent swimming ability. The walks are not long, but you will be walking on rocky and uneven terrain, so balance, agility and strength are very important on this trip. You will need to be comfortable walking on rocky paths, and at times, scrambling or shuffling through narrow gorges. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect.

The trip runs from April through to August, with departures in May, June and July generally being cooler and dryer. Departures up to July generally offer the best chance of whale shark sightings if you are joining the optional whale shark tour for an additional cost.

Days are usually dry in the low 30’s. However, some evenings can be very chilly, particularly in June in the Karijini, with overnight temperatures dipping to minimums of 10 - 15 deg. It can rain at any time, so please be prepared.

On day 1 we will pick you up at the airport in Paraburdoo. Flight times can vary. Refer to our Essential Information (itinerary) for the group flight time required for your departure.

There is patchy phone coverage in Karijini National Park however in some of the higher spots like Mount Bruce you may get a text away! In Tom Price and Exmouth you should be able to get reception from most service providers, however Telstra and Optus tend to be the most reliable. Optus is the most reliable service provider in Karijini National Park.

We have the ability to charge cameras/phones/ipads/kindles in the vehicle. However, we can only charge two or three at a time. Bring your own USB charging cables. Please ensure your cameras are fully charged at the start of the tour.

Drinking water is always available. Guests may bring a small quantity of alcohol. If possible please purchase beer and wine ineither cask or cans as opposed to glass. There will be an opportunity to purchase alcohol in Tom Price and Exmouth. There is limited capacity for cooling drinks.

There are washing machines at Tom Price caravan park and Exmouth Caravan Park. At the Eco Retreat Caravan Park, there is water available for bucket washing of clothes.


Trip reviews


Videos

Ningaloo Reef Whale Sharks, Exmouth, Western Australia

Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.