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5
Moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • 6 days walking
Accommodation
  • 2 nights outback Bullara Station, 3 nights glamping Karijini Eco Retreat
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts

6 Days

View Inclusions
Trip Code: KJE

Karijini National Park and Ningaloo Reef Trip highlights

  • Indulge in a refreshing swim amidst the stunning beauty of the Ningaloo Reef.
  • Explore the renowned Weano Gorge, Kalamina, and Joffre Gorges on an unforgettable walking adventure.
  • Discover ancient gorges adorned with serene swimming holes.
  • Ascend the heights of Mount Bruce, the second-highest peak in Western Australia.
  • Unwind in the evenings and enjoy a freshly prepared meal after a day of exploring.
  • Experience the charm of Bullara Station, an authentic outback station awaiting your visit.
  • Relax in cosy outback accommodations, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Why Book With Us

  • Choose the unparalleled expertise of Australia's leading tourism provider with nearly 50 years of experience, backed by countless client testimonials and prestigious awards.
  • Retreat to cosy accommodations each night, seamlessly blending comfort and style, providing a haven of relaxation after days filled with exploration.
  • Indulge in the luxury of intimate exploration with our small group sizes, granting you exclusive access to hidden gems and personalised attention throughout your Karijini and Ningaloo adventure.
  • Experience an unparalleled adventure with our guides, unmatched professionals in adventure exploration, setting us apart as the premier choice in tourism.
  • Relax and revel in the seamless flow of your expedition, where meticulous planning and attention to detail ensure a stress-free and enjoyable exploration of Karijini and Ningaloo, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime.

This adventure takes place on BANJIMA, KURRAMA and INNAWONGA Country. We acknowledge their enduring connection with this Country, as they are the traditional custodians of this land, and we journey in respect of their Country.

Embark on a captivating journey as we explore the dramatic gorges of Karijini National Park and revel in the beauty of the Ningaloo Reef, striking the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Our expedition commences in Paraburdoo, guiding us northward to Karijini, where we encounter some of the world's most remarkable features and landscapes. With a leisurely pace, ample time is dedicated to absorbing the essence of the Pilbara region and indulging in refreshing swims in its picturesque swimming holes. Spend four nights in Karijini, engaging in walks, swims, exploration, and moments of pure relaxation, before we venture across to Exmouth and the enchanting Ningaloo Reef. This tour is combined with our Karijini Explorer, and you might have some fellow travellers on this tour concluding their adventure on day 5 in Tom Price.

Activities:

Carbon Footprint

28kg of CO2-e PP per day

(170kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Itinerary

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Your Karijini adventure begins with an early morning arrival into Paraburdoo Airport, where our guides will meet you before we journey into the spectacular Karijini National Park. Our first stop is the Karijini Visitor Centre, where we’ll enjoy lunch, meet for a trip briefing and spend some time exploring the centre. It’s the perfect introduction to the park, providing insight into Karijini’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife and cultural significance before we set out on foot. After lunch, we’ll head to the spectacular Dales Gorge for our first hike. This iconic location features the stunning Circular Pool and Fern Pool, set against the backdrop of deep red rocks and cascading waterfalls, a truly unforgettable Karijini experience. Following our afternoon at Dales Gorge, we’ll make our way to the Karijini Eco Retreat, where you can settle in and enjoy dinner beneath the outback sky. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat

Meals:  L,D

Embarking on our exploration, we’ll delve into the heart of Karijini National Park, immersing ourselves in the enchanting landscape of Hancock Gorge. While the walk presents challenges in certain sections, it is well within reach for adventurers. Expect to navigate through some wading and clambering on rocks and ledges, as each step brings us closer to the breathtaking jade pools nestled deep within the narrow gorge walls. Our journey will unfold amid the stunning scenery, with a highlight being the serene Kermits Pool. This natural wonder is sure to leave an indelible impression, offering moments of tranquility and awe in the midst of Karijini’s rugged beauty. Our journey continues to the spectacular Kalamina Gorge. While the path may present some rocky and uneven terrain, this walk is generally considered more manageable, offering a mostly gentle descent. At the base of the gorge, a pristine swimming hole awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to cool off amidst the natural wonders of Karijini. Once we’ve enjoyed the serenity of Kalamina Gorge, we’ll head back to our accommodation for another delightful evening meal beneath the twinkling stars of the outback sky. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat

Meals:  B,L,D

Mount Bruce stands as Western Australia's second-highest peak, and the Mt Bruce walk trail offers a magnificent ridge walk, featuring challenging yet rewarding steep and rocky sections. Along the route, one side provides a breathtaking vista of the Karijini Range, while the other reveals the expanse of an iron ore mine. This 9.5 km return journey will occupy a significant portion of our day, and the effort invested is undoubtedly justified by the stunning views and unique perspectives it offers. In the afternoon, we'll have the opportunity to walk right from our central accommodation to explore and take a refreshing dip at Joffre Falls, adding a delightful and rejuvenating conclusion to our day of exploration. Accommodation: Karijini National Park – Eco Retreat

Meals:  B,L,D

After our exhilarating exploration of Karijini National Park, it's time to give our legs a well-deserved rest on this travel day. Given the vast expanse of Western Australia, our journey across to Exmouth will consume the whole day. However, the anticipation for what lies ahead will keep our spirits high as we traverse this magnificent terrain. Some of your fellow travellers may be concluding their adventure in Tom Price on this day before the remainder of us continue towards the Ningaloo coast. Upon arrival in Exmouth, we’ll make our way to Bullara Station, a converted cattle station offering an authentic taste of outback Australia. We’ll settle into the station’s large campground, a lively and welcoming space shared with other travellers, where evenings often feature live music and plenty of opportunity to relax and socialise beneath the outback stars. It’s the perfect introduction to the rugged landscapes and laid-back character of the region before we continue our adventure at Ningaloo Reef. Accommodation: Bullara Station | Driving Time: Approx. 8hrs

Meals:  B,L,D

Embarking on a day of exploration, we'll venture into the captivating landscapes of Cape Range National Park. Our itinerary unfolds with a series of short walks, invigorating snorkels at stunning locations like Turquoise Bay and Oyster Stacks, and refreshing swims along the pristine coastline. This immersive experience allows us to discover the coastal wonders and witness the vibrant marine life that inhabits the crystal-clear waters. As we traverse the park, keep an eye out for the elusive rock wallabies and marvel at the incredible array of sea life, creating lasting memories against the backdrop of Western Australia's coastal beauty. Our journey continues with an exploration of Mandu Mandu Gorge (3km), where the rugged scenery and unique geological features captivate our senses. Later in the day, we'll return to our accommodation at Bullara Station. This day promises to be fabulous and relaxed, offering a perfect blend of adventure and serenity in the heart of Cape Range National Park. Accommodation: Bullara Station

Meals:  B,L,D

Having immersed ourselves in the aquatic wonders of Ningaloo, today invites us to appreciate the beauty of the region from solid ground. Locally known as the Badjirrajirra Trail, this 7km walk guides us into the heart of Cape Range National Park. Winding through limestone karst, the trail unveils gorges and showcases the expansive spinifex country, treating us to panoramic views that seem to stretch endlessly. In comparison to our previous exploits in Karijini, this trail is relatively moderate. Following our exploration of the Charles Knife Canyon, we'll return to the coastal waters for a final swim opportunity, concluding with a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon (around 2-3pm), we'll drop you off at your accommodation in Exmouth, marking the transition to the next phase of your holiday. As a highly recommended activity, we suggest considering a whaleshark tour while in town. This can be seamlessly added to your tour either during the booking process or by conversing with your reservations consultant, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable experience.

Meals:  B,L

Inclusions

What's included

  • 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners + snacks
  • 3 nights glamping accommodation nestled amongst nature in Karijini National Park
  • 2 nights comfortable lodgings at charming Bullara Station
  • Emergency communications and group first aid kit
  • Transport during the trip
  • All entrance and national park fees
  • Professional wilderness guide and support staff

  • Airfares
  • Pre or post tour accommodation
  • Items of personal nature such as laundry and postage
  • Backpacks
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser

Accommodation

Karijini Eco Tents

For this journey, we'll be immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Pilbara region, spending four nights in eco tents at Karijini Eco Retreat. The Karijini Eco Retreat provides a unique glamping experience, allowing you to connect with nature in comfort. Nestled against the backdrop of Karijini's captivating landscapes, these eco tents offer a tranquil haven for a four-night stay.

At Karijini Eco Retreat, the standard eco tents provide a cosy and stylish setting, allowing you to unwind after days of exploration.

In the standard eco tents at Karijini Eco Retreat, camping takes on a whole new level of comfort. Furnished with quality beds, linen, and towels. While these tents don't have lights or power points, guests have access to clean shared ablutions featuring flushing toilets, solar hot water showers, and basins. These tents are located within around 100-200 metres maximum from the nearest shared facilities. Accommodations are on a twin share basis, with the option to request a limited number of single rooms for a supplemental fee.

Australian Walking Holidays does not require single travelers to pay a surcharge for traveling alone. We will arrange for you to share accommodation with another traveler of the same sex, and if we cannot match you up, we will provide a single room at no extra charge. For solo travelers who cannot be matched into a twin-share room, please note that the single tent option is only complimentary for the standard eco tents and does not cover the deluxe tent upgrade. If you prefer not to share, a single supplement is payable to guarantee your own room, pending availability.

Bullara Station

Nestled within the rustic charm of Bullara Station, Kapock Cottage and Shearers Lodge provide distinct lodgings, each offering a unique experience in the heart of the Pilbara region. Kapock Cottage exudes a quaint and homely atmosphere. Meanwhile, the Shearers Lodge captures the essence of outback living, providing comfortable accommodations immersed in the authentic setting of an Australian sheep station. Both lodgings feature shared bathrooms, well-appointed kitchens, cosy lounges, and inviting dining spaces, enhancing the overall comfort and communal atmosphere. Bullara Station is a lively and welcoming space shared with other travellers, where evenings often feature live music and plenty of opportunity to relax and socialise beneath the outback stars. Bullara Station invites guests to embrace the region's rich history while enjoying modern comforts in an idyllic outback setting. Accommodations are on a twin share basis, with the option to request a limited number of single rooms for a supplemental fee.

Karijini Deluxe Eco Tents

Experience one of the best glamping spots in Western Australia, nestled amongst native bush at the edge of Joffre Gorge, in the iconic Karijini National Park. Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature and discover a timeless place full of ancient energy.

This tour comes with the option to upgrade to a Deluxe Eco Tent. Deluxe Eco Tents come with quality beds, linen and towels, solar powered lights and private ensuite bathroom.

The Eco Tents are semi-permanent structures that incorporate ecologically sustainable principles and can easily be erected and dismantled in remote areas with little impact to the natural environment using recycled materials wherever possible.

Accommodations are on a twin share basis, with the option to request a limited number of single rooms for a supplemental fee. This upgrade option comes with limited spots.

Trail Surface

Rocky, stony, and mountainous terrains

Expect rocky, stony, and mountainous terrains that require daily navigation over rugged, sometimes narrow paths, featuring steep ascents and descents. While all walks are under 10 km, each poses its own challenges, including rocky terrain and varied elevations.

Suitability

Moderate

5

This adventure caters to individuals with a moderate level of fitness and competent swimming skills. Tailored for the enthusiastic and adventurous seeking a unique experience, the trip has been graded as moderate. Although the walks are generally not lengthy, they involve traversing numerous rocks, presenting a challenge for those unaccustomed to balancing. Expect rocky, stony, and mountainous terrains that require daily navigation over rugged, sometimes narrow paths, featuring steep ascents and descents. While all walks are under 10 km, each poses its own challenges, including rocky terrain and varied elevations. Preparation is crucial. We advise engaging in one hour of strenuous exercise four times a week, such as cycling, jogging, or walking. Incorporate a weekly walk with a weighted day pack (4–7 kg) for several hours to enhance leg strength and aerobic fitness. Training should encompass walking on steep and unstable surfaces like shale, rocks, and narrow paths. Be ready to utilise your upper body for climbing, scrambling, and maneuvering along ledges. Simulating the specific activities of the trip, such as walking on uneven terrain, is the most effective way to prepare for this active holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

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There is no Whale Shark tour as a part of this tour itinerary however there is an optional Whale Shark tour, available for inclusion in your itinerary after your scheduled tour has concluded. Additional costs apply. For pricing details and bookings, kindly consult your reservations consultant. The boat company provides standard adult rates, family rates, and observer-only (non-swimming) rates for your convenience. Whale Sharks are more common in the area between March and July.

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

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.

Limited flight schedules into the area necessitate group arrival flights into Paraburdoo as listed below to line up with the included group transfer. The itineraries are listed below.

FLIGHT PERTH TO PARABURDOO - ARRIVAL FLIGHT - DAY ONE OF TOUR

QF1624 depart Perth 14:50, arrive Paraburdoo 16:40

If you aren’t travelling on the group flight you must arrive BEFORE the group flight as the group cannot wait for later flight arrivals.

If you wish to explore the area further prior to your tours departure you will need to make your own way to Karijini Eco Retreat on day 1 of your tour. If you wish to choose this option, please discuss this with your reservations consultant.

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.

Any excess luggage can be stored at your pre/post tour accommodation in Perth.

Hiking poles can definitely assist you with going up and down the inclines and for stability. If you have not used them previously, we recommend that you do some training with them before you head out on the hike.

This tour is fully vehicle supported. You will carry just a day pack containing the items you need during the day (including water, sun hat, snacks, lunch, camera, waterproof and warm layers). This is likely to weigh between 4-7kg.

No. Guides will provide you with drinking water each day.

Karijini National Park and Ningaloo Reef Trip reviews

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.