23 Day Active Western Australia Adventure Tour

• Sea kayaking around Penguin Island and Seal Island
• Swimming with wild dolphins in Bunbury
• Cycling and wine tasting in the Margaret River region
• Aerial Adventure Challenge among the Karri forests
• Tree Top Walk in the Valley of the Giants and Granite Skywalk in Porongurup National Park
• Exploring Rottnest Island by bicycle and meeting its famous quokkas
• Sandboarding in the Lancelin dunes and discovering the Pinnacles
• Swimming with Australian sea lions
• Aboriginal cultural experience and Didgeridoo Dreaming Tour in Monkey Mia
• Kayak and Wildlife Adventure in Francois Peron National Park
• Exploring Kalbarri National Park and the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay
• Discovering Ningaloo Reef, with a seasonal whale shark, humpback whale or manta ray experience.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Perth

Upon arrival, make your own way to your booked hotel in the city centre. Your room will be available from 3:00 pm. The rest of the day is at leisure, giving you time to relax or begin exploring Perth independently.

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Perth, Northbridge

Day 2: Perth, Fremantle & Swan River (B)

After being picked up from your hotel, discover Perth, the sunniest capital city in Australia, situated on the banks of the Swan River. Although Perth is one of the most isolated major cities in the world, it has plenty of spectacular attractions to offer. From Kings Park, an area of natural bushland on Mount Eliza, enjoy magnificent views over Perth and the Swan River. Our subsequent city tour takes us through the business and shopping districts and along the impressive St Georges Terrace, where historic and modern architecture stand side by side. We continue through some of Perth's most attractive residential areas along the Swan River towards the Indian Ocean. Our next destination is Fremantle, where historic buildings reflect the city's colonial past. This lively port city is known for its harmonious blend of culture, maritime history and entertainment. You will have plenty of free time to explore Fremantle at your own pace. Afterwards, enjoy a comfortable and scenic journey back to Perth with Captain Cook Cruises. Admire the beautiful riverside residential areas along the Swan River before making your own way back to your hotel.

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Perth, Northbridge

Day 3: Perth – Bunbury (B)

In Shoalwater, we meet our experienced and qualified guide for today's adventure. A kayaking tour offers a unique and intimate way to explore Penguin Island and Seal Island. Get close to sea lions, paddle past pelican colonies and discover the rugged beauty of these islands. We may even spot dolphins! This enjoyable adventure is suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Afterwards, we continue at a relaxed pace to Bunbury.

Accommodation: Bunbury Hotel Koombana Bay, Bunbury

Day 4: Bunbury – Margaret River (B)

Today, enjoy the opportunity to see, hear and experience dolphins at close range! Accompanied by experienced and trained guides, we set out into the beautiful waters of Koombana Bay in search of dolphins. Once dolphins have been spotted, you may have the opportunity to enter the water and swim with wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural environment. We continue to Busselton, where we visit the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Afterwards, admire the fascinating coastal formations of Canal Rocks.

Accommodation: Grande Escape Resort, Margaret River

Day 5: Margaret River – Pemberton (B/L)

After breakfast, we explore the Margaret River region, one of Australia's best-known wine-producing areas, by bicycle. With its Mediterranean climate, relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surfing beaches, Margaret River has developed into a popular holiday destination. We have the opportunity to enjoy delicious wine tastings at renowned local wineries. In the afternoon, we travel along Caves Road through beautiful forest landscapes to Cape Leeuwin, the southwesternmost point of Australia. Here, the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. The cape is known for the strong westerly winds experienced during the winter months, locally referred to as the Roaring Forties. Looking west, there is no land between here and Africa, while to the south lies Antarctica. Leaving the Southern Ocean coastline and green pastures behind, we enter the magnificent Karri forests of the Pemberton and Walpole region.

Accommodation: Pemberton Hotel, Pemberton

Day 6: Pemberton – Albany (B)

Today, adventurous travellers have the opportunity to challenge themselves and build confidence during an Aerial Adventure Challenge among the majestic Karri trees. Climb, balance, grip and move through the forest at different heights. We then continue to Walpole. The Valley of the Giants is home to enormous trees that are between 300 and 400 years old. During a walk along the Tree Top Walk, enjoy a bird's-eye perspective of these remarkable forest giants. In the afternoon, visit William Bay National Park with its unusual Elephant Rocks and the popular swimming beach at Green Pool. The extraordinary colours and unspoilt beauty of these beaches are sure to leave a lasting impression. In the evening, we reach Albany, the site of the first European settlement in Western Australia.

Accommodation: Quality Apartments Banksia, Albany

Day 7: Albany (B)

Today, we travel to the Porongurup Range north of Albany. Our destination is a hike to the summit of Castle Rock, where the Granite Skywalk offers fantastic panoramic views. A sightseeing tour of Albany and the view from Mount Clarence over King George Sound, where the first European settlers arrived in Western Australia in 1826, provide insight into the historical significance of this southern region. To conclude the day, we explore Natural Bridge and The Gap in Torndirrup National Park.

Accommodation: Quality Apartments Banksia, Albany

Day 8: Albany – Esperance (B)

Our journey today takes us into the Stirling Range, which is home to many rare and endemic plant species due to its unusual isolated location. This mountain range forms a distinct climatic island within the surrounding dry and warm plains. There is an opportunity to hike towards the summit of Bluff Knoll, the highest peak in the Stirling Range. Afterwards, we continue at a relaxed pace to Esperance, our destination for today.

Accommodation: Hospitality Motel, Esperance

Day 9: Esperance (B)

The French word "Espérance" means hope, while the Aboriginal name for this region, "Gabba-Kyle", is translated as "the place where the water lies like a boomerang". During a drive along the fascinating Great Ocean Drive, we discover the landscapes associated with these descriptions. Highlights include Rotary Lookout, Twilight Beach and Pink Lake. Afterwards, we travel to Cape Le Grand National Park. Beautiful bays, dazzling white sandy beaches and ocean waters displaying remarkable shades of blue and green dominate this spectacular coastline.

Accommodation: Hospitality Motel, Esperance

Day 10: Esperance – Kalgoorlie (B)

Today, approximately 400 kilometres of sealed road lie ahead of us as we travel from the Southern Ocean coastline to Kalgoorlie. In Norseman, the Eyre Highway begins its 1,500-kilometre journey across the Nullarbor Plain towards Adelaide. We instead continue northwards to the famous Golden Mile in Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Visit Hannans North Tourist Mine, where we have the opportunity to try gold panning. After a short city tour, a visit to the Kalgoorlie Museum provides fascinating information about the history of one of Australia's richest gold-mining regions. North of the city, we visit the Two-up Shed, where the traditional Australian gambling game is still occasionally played.

Accommodation: The Railway Motel, Kalgoorlie

Day 11: Kalgoorlie – Hyden (B)

This morning, we take a look at the enormous Super Pit, one of Australia's largest open-cut gold mines. Here, we gain an appreciation of the remarkable technological developments in gold mining. Following in the footsteps of the early gold prospectors, we travel along the Great Eastern Highway to Coolgardie. Afterwards, we leave the atmosphere of the gold rush behind and continue along the unsealed Emu Fence Road towards Hyden.

Accommodation: Wave Rock Motel, Hyden

Day 12: Hyden – Fremantle (B)

This morning, we visit the famous Wave Rock, an enormous granite formation resembling a frozen ocean wave. There is plenty of time to explore this remarkable natural landmark and learn more about its history. Our journey towards Perth takes us through Western Australia's extensive Wheatbelt region. In York, the oldest inland town in Western Australia, a walk through the historic streets takes us back to the days of the early settlers. The beautifully preserved old buildings and their original façades still reflect the atmosphere of the pioneering era. We continue to Mundaring Weir. The dam and pipeline were constructed according to the ideas and plans of Charles Yelverton O'Connor as part of the Goldfields Water Supply Scheme, bringing precious water to the Outback town of Kalgoorlie. The Goldfields Pipeline is a remarkable engineering achievement. Walk across the dam wall and enjoy the fantastic views. In the evening, we arrive in the historic port city of Fremantle.

Accommodation: Hotel Garde, Fremantle

Day 13: Fremantle – Rottnest Island – Fremantle (B)

Enjoy the ferry crossing to Rottnest Island, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and unspoilt beaches. The island welcomes you with rugged coastlines, limestone cliffs, salt lakes and picturesque little bays. Rottnest Island is particularly enjoyable to explore by bicycle, as motor vehicle traffic is strictly limited. Discover its unique flora and fauna, including the famous quokkas for which the island is so well known. In the late afternoon, we say goodbye to this fascinating nature reserve. The deluxe ferry takes us comfortably and safely back to the mainland.

Accommodation: Hotel Garde, Fremantle

Day 14: Fremantle – Cervantes (B)

Today's journey takes us north along the coast to Lancelin. Here, we enjoy the enormous white sand dunes and try sandboarding, gliding down the slopes as quickly and as far as possible. We continue to the entrance of Nambung National Park. The Pinnacles, among the most visited natural wonders in Western Australia, rise from a flat and almost otherworldly desert landscape. During a walk in the soft light of the late afternoon, thousands of extraordinary limestone pillars, some up to five metres high, provide breathtaking photographic opportunities. Pure nature and a remarkable sense of tranquillity await us.

Accommodation: Cervantes Pinnacles Motel, Cervantes

Day 15: Cervantes – Geraldton (B)

We dedicate this morning to the sea lions along the picturesque Turquoise Coast. A short boat journey takes us close to a sea lion colony. Those who wish may have the opportunity to enter the water and swim near these playful marine animals – a truly special experience. Afterwards, we continue to Geraldton. In the centre of this port city on Champion Bay, we visit the architecturally impressive St Francis Xavier Cathedral. A visit to Mount Scott provides an overview of Geraldton and its coastline. The hill is also home to a memorial dedicated to the victims of HMAS Sydney II, the warship that sank off the Western Australian coast.

Accommodation: Hospitality Motel, Geraldton

Day 16: Geraldton – Kalbarri (B)

Sometimes bright bubblegum pink, sometimes lilac and occasionally even red, the waters of Hutt Lagoon between Port Gregory and Kalbarri can present an extraordinary sight. The lagoon's unusual colours vary with the seasons and time of day. We continue to Kalbarri National Park, where the rugged coastal formations are particularly impressive. There is an opportunity to walk along the cliffs to various viewpoints. Meanarra Hill offers beautiful views over Gantheaume Bay and Kalbarri.

Accommodation: Kalbarri Edge Resort, Kalbarri

Day 17: Kalbarri – Monkey Mia (B)

We travel into Kalbarri National Park to visit The Loop and Z-Bend. Enjoy a walk to Nature's Window, a remarkable natural rock formation offering spectacular views down into the Murchison Gorge. Depending on the season, we may encounter Western Australia's famous wildflowers as we continue towards the World Heritage-listed Shark Bay region. In the late afternoon, we reach Monkey Mia, home to the famous dolphins that voluntarily visit the beach for feeding on most days of the year. In the evening, during a short walk, a local Aboriginal guide shares stories and the sounds of the didgeridoo beneath Western Australia's magnificent star-filled sky.

Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Monkey Mia

Day 18: Monkey Mia – Kayak & Wildlife Adventure (B/L)

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local Aboriginal guide, we explore the Shark Bay World Heritage Area on a full-day Kayak & Wildlife Adventure Tour. Learn about the spiritual significance of local sites to the Traditional Owners, as well as the region's flora and fauna. After kayaking, there is an opportunity to swim and snorkel in shallow, sheltered waters. With a little luck, we may spot turtles, rays or perhaps even a rare dugong. We conclude the tour with a relaxing dip in the warm waters near Peron Homestead.

Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Monkey Mia

Day 19: Monkey Mia – Coral Bay (B)

In the morning, you have the opportunity to observe the famous Monkey Mia dolphins during their feeding and learn fascinating facts about these intelligent marine mammals. The Shark Bay Interpretive Centre offers further information about this remarkable World Heritage Area. During our onward journey, we stop at the unique Shell Beach and then at Hamelin Pool, known for its extraordinary stromatolites, structures created by some of the oldest forms of life on Earth. The landscapes of the Australian Outback accompany us on today's journey to Coral Bay.

Accommodation: Bayview Resort, Coral Bay

Day 20: Coral Bay – Exmouth – Coral Bay (Ningaloo Reef) (B)

We travel to Exmouth, one of the sunniest places on Earth, with an average of approximately 3,500 hours of sunshine each year. From Vlamingh Head Lighthouse, enjoy magnificent views over North West Cape, Ningaloo Reef and the enormous antennas of the Harold E. Holt Naval Communication Station. We then explore Yardie Creek Gorge in Cape Range National Park, keeping an eye out for rare rock-wallabies and other native wildlife. At picturesque Turquoise Bay, enjoy another opportunity to experience Ningaloo Marine Park and its colourful, diverse underwater world. Afterwards, we return to our accommodation in Coral Bay.

Accommodation: Bayview Resort, Coral Bay

Day 21: Coral Bay – Seasonal Marine Adventure at Ningaloo Reef (B/L)

Today is dedicated to the fascinating marine life of Ningaloo Reef. Depending on the season, one of the region's extraordinary ocean adventures awaits you.

March to June – Swimming with Whale Sharks: Today offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the marine life of Ningaloo Reef. After an initial snorkelling session, we set out in search of magnificent whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. Once a whale shark has been located and conditions allow, you may have the opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural environment.

July to October – Humpback Whale Adventure: During the humpback whale migration, we head out in search of these impressive marine mammals. Observe them in their natural environment and, with a little luck, witness their spectacular movements at the ocean's surface. If conditions allow and the experienced crew considers it safe, there may be an opportunity for a guided in-water encounter with humpback whales.

November to February – Swimming with Manta Rays: Today, we explore the fascinating marine environment of Ningaloo Reef in search of magnificent manta rays. With a little luck, you may have the opportunity to swim alongside these remarkable marine animals in their natural habitat. Additional snorkelling sessions provide opportunities to discover colourful coral gardens, tropical fish, turtles and rays.

Whichever seasonal experience takes place, today offers an unforgettable encounter with the unique marine life that makes Ningaloo Reef one of Western Australia's great natural treasures. Wildlife sightings and in-water encounters depend on the prevailing conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

Accommodation: Bayview Resort, Coral Bay

Day 22: Coral Bay – Dongara (B)

Today, we say goodbye to this magnificent part of Western Australia and begin our return journey south to Dongara.

Accommodation: Dongara Hotel Motel, Dongara

Day 23: Dongara – Perth (B)

After an enjoyable journey through agricultural landscapes, we travel via Moora to New Norcia. Western Australia's only Benedictine monastic town invites us to discover its distinctive Spanish-style atmosphere. This beautifully situated settlement is an important historical landmark. In the late afternoon, we return to Perth, where our 23-day adventure comes to an end.

Meals: B = Breakfast | L = Lunch

Included Services

• Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a maximum of 12 guests per vehicle

• 22 nights’ accommodation in hotels and motels

• Englsih-speaking tour guide

• National park entry fees and the following activities and attractions: kayaking tour, swimming with dolphins, Busselton Jetty, Margaret River cycling and wine-tasting tour, Cape Leeuwin, Aerial Adventure Challenge in Pemberton, Tree Top Walk & Valley of the Giants, Granite Skywalk, Hannans North Tourist Mine in Kalgoorlie, Super Pit Tour in Kalgoorlie, Wave Rock, Rottnest Island including bicycle hire, the Shark Bay and Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Areas, sandboarding, interactive sea lion tour, Didgeridoo Dreaming Tour in Monkey Mia, full-day 4WD tour of Francois Peron National Park including kayaking and snorkelling, Discovery Centre in Denham, and a glass-bottom boat tour at Ningaloo Reef

• Meals: 22 breakfasts and 3 lunches

• Complimentary drinking water in bus

• Comprehensive information resources available in the vehicle

• 24-hour English, German, French, -speaking telephone assistance.