Aerial view of kayakers paddling along the Ningaloo Coast's turquoise waters during the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari.

4‑Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition | Cape Range & Ningaloo Coast

📍 Exmouth, WA | ✅ All INCLUSIVE

Trek red rock ridges, kayak turquoise lagoons, and sleep wild under the stars.

This 4-day Cape Range & Ningaloo expedition is the ultimate land-and-sea escape.

$2,350.00
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Start and Finish

Start and Finish

Exmouth, WA

Small Groups

Small Groups

Maximum 12 People

Full Distance

Full Distance

18 km Hiking | 30 km Paddling

Difficulty

Difficulty

Moderate +

Climate +

Climate +

200% Co2 Offset

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Aerial view of kayakers paddling along the Ningaloo Coast's turquoise waters during the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari.
  • Aerial view of kayakers paddling along the Ningaloo Coast's turquoise waters during the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari.
  • Hikers explore the stunning coastline during a 3-day adventure trek along Ningaloo in Western Australia.
  • Sunset view over the Ningaloo Coast with an orange tent set in rugged terrain, perfect for adventure tours.
  • Aerial view of hikers on a rugged trail in the Cape Range, showcasing a stunning outdoor adventure.
  • Aerial view of Ningaloo Coast from aircraft, showcasing turquoise waters and reef during the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari.
  • Two snorkelers exploring vibrant coral reefs near yellow kayaks on the Ningaloo Safari coastal adventure. Great for marine wildlife encounters.
  • Group trekking along rugged cliffs in Cape Range National Park, showcasing stunning Australian wilderness.
  • Snorkelers swimming with a sea turtle in clear blue waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Tour. A top snorkeling experience in Australia.
  • Scenic view of rocky cliffs and turquoise waters at Cape Range National Park, Western Australia.
  • Close-up of a spiky thorny devil lizard crawling on a sandy path in the Australian outdoors.
  • Three adventurers hiking through rugged terrain in Cape Range, enjoying an all-inclusive outdoor trek experience.
  • Golden sand dunes at sunset along the Ningaloo Coast, a scenic stop on the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari adventure.
  • Aerial view of Ningaloo Reef's turquoise lagoons and coral formations. Highlight of the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari coastal adventure.
  • Hiker exploring rugged landscape on Cape Range, embracing adventure and the outdoors during a 3-day trek.
  • Beach campsite with tents and kayaks along the Ningaloo Coast during the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari. Perfect for outdoor camping experiences.
  • Baby sea turtle swimming in shallow water, part of the marine life seen on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour.
  • Adventure seekers hiking along the rugged beach during a group trek in Western Australia.
  • Hikers with backpacks gaze at the turquoise Ningaloo Coast during an adventurous trek in Western Australia.
  • Scenic view of rugged cliffs and greenery near a tranquil waterhole in Cape Range National Park, perfect for adventure tours.
  • Humpback whale breaching near Ningaloo Coast, a thrilling moment on the 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Safari adventure.
  • Baby turtle crawling on sandy beach, part of the wildlife seen during the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour.
  • Sea turtle gliding over coral reef, a common sight on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel coastal adventure.
  • Group of snorkelers floating above coral reef on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Tour. Ideal for marine life observation and reef tours.
  • Kayaker paddling under the sun in crystal-clear waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Great for ocean exploration.
  • Woman preparing to snorkel in turquoise waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Great for beach and ocean lovers.
  • A rock wallaby perched on rocky terrain, showcasing its unique beauty in the wild Australian landscape.
  • Pod of whales swimming in deep blue ocean, a possible sighting on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour.
  • Hiker watching sunrise over calm ocean on Ningaloo Reef Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Great for trekking and nature-focused experiences.
  • 4‑Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition | Cape Range & Ningaloo Coast
  • Aerial view of a group hiking along the sandy shore and rocky coastline of Ningaloo, showcasing adventure and nature.
  • Rugged landscape of Cape Range National Park with limestone canyons and a winding river under a bright blue sky.
  • Snorkeler gliding over coral reef in shallow waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Great for reef exploration.
  • Two wallabies basking on rocky terrain near a tranquil water source, embodying the wildlife of Western Australia's natural landscapes.
  • Close-up of coastal grass with spiky seed heads against a shimmering blue ocean background.
  • Two hikers celebrating atop a sand dune under a blue sky during an adventurous outdoor trek.
  • Woman capturing a sunset with her phone, wearing a Headsweats visor in the great outdoors.
  • Breathtaking view of Cape Range's rugged landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers on a 3-day trek.
  • Scenic view of red rock gorge and river in Cape Range National Park, part of the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour.
  • Snorkeler exploring coral reef on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Tour. A top destination for underwater adventures in Australia.
  • Two kayakers paddling over vibrant reef waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Tour. Ideal for ocean adventure seekers.
  • 4‑Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition | Cape Range & Ningaloo Coast
  • Two snorkelers exploring clear turquoise waters near rocky shoreline on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Tour. Perfect for reef discovery.
4‑Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition | Cape Range & Ningaloo Coast
Tour Overview

Ningaloo Coast & Cape Range: 4-Day Hike, Kayak & Camp

Walk high. Paddle far. Sleep wild.

This 4-day wilderness expedition is a deep dive into two of Western Australia’s most spectacular environments—Cape Range and the Ningaloo Coast. Spend two days hiking rugged gorges and red rock ridgelines with sweeping views over the reef, then swap your boots for a paddle as you kayak turquoise lagoons, snorkel coral gardens, and camp on remote beaches under a million stars.

Quick Facts

  • Duration: 4 days

  • Style: Small-group wilderness expedition (hiking • kayaking • snorkelling • beach camping)

Trip Highlights

  • Hike rugged gorges and red rock ridgelines with sweeping reef views

  • Kayak turquoise lagoons along the Ningaloo Coast

  • Snorkel coral gardens and meet world-class marine life

  • Camp on remote beaches beneath star-filled skies

  • Small-group adventure blending epic landscapes and soul-filling solitude

This small-group adventure blends epic landscapes, world-class marine life, and soul-filling solitude in one unforgettable journey by land and sea.


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Key Tour Info

Tour Itinerary
Day 1 | Into the Range

7km hiking · Grade: Moderate +

Your guide picks you up from Exmouth accommodation around 7:30am. After a quick stop to fit out snorkel and kayak gear, it’s time to drive deep into Cape Range National Park and begin your journey on foot.

From Yardie Gorge, ascend through rugged gullies and over windswept ridgelines, watching as the Indian Ocean comes into view far below. You’ll make camp at a wild, remote site perched high in Cape Range—an unmatched sunset lookout and your home for the night.

🛏 Camp high in Cape Range under the stars

🍽 Lunch, dinner & snacks included
Day 2 | Ridge to Reef

~10km hiking, short kayak introduction

After sunrise over the range, continue your descent through hidden valleys and across the sun-scorched coastal plain. Mid-afternoon, rendezvous with the Exmouth Adventure Co team and transition to sea kayaks.

Your expedition shifts from boots to boats as you launch into the calm, gin-clear waters of Ningaloo Lagoon for your first taste of paddling and an intro snorkel stop. Camp tonight is a secluded beach tucked behind the dunes.

🛏 Wilderness beach camp

🍽 Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks included
Day 3 | Paddle, Snorkel, Repeat

Distance: ~8–12km paddling

A full day of sea kayaking along the coast inside the fringing reef. Paddle past coral gardens, limestone headlands, and white sand beaches. Stop to snorkel among the reef’s 500+ fish species, spotting turtles, rays, and vibrant coral formations.

Your guides choose the day’s route based on conditions—expect secret beaches, wildlife encounters, and plenty of time to soak it in.

🛏 Second night of beach camping

🍽 Breakfast, lunch, dinner & snacks included
Day 4 | Final Paddle & Return

Distance: ~8–10km paddling

After breakfast by the sea, pack down camp and enjoy one final paddle through the reef-studded lagoon. Keep an eye out for reef sharks, dugongs (seasonal), and humpback whales breaching beyond the reef (June–Oct).

Arrive back to shore by early afternoon, then transfer back to Exmouth accommodation by around 4:00pm—sun-drenched, salt-crusted, and totally reset.

🍽 Breakfast, lunch & snacks included
Food & Accommodation

Where You’ll Be Staying

Nights Under the Stars

Forget hotels—this journey unfolds under wide skies and rust-red cliffs. Camp is set in hand-picked wilderness locations each night, from high in Cape Range to the white sands of the Ningaloo Coast.

Night 1: Remote inland campsite deep within Cape Range

Night 2: Beachfront camp on the edge of the Indian Ocean

Lightweight tents are supplied for a comfortable night’s sleep, with sleeping mats and bags included. Campsites are off-grid and wild—no facilities, just nature. All gear is carried in, packed out, and set up as a group.

What’s Cooking

Meals are wholesome, hearty, and designed for life on the trail. Think generous portions, real ingredients, and zero-fuss preparation.

Breakfasts are simple and energising—muesli, fruit, hot drinks, and bush-style favourites.

Lunches are served trail-side or at scenic rest spots, with fresh salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Dinners are nourishing and satisfying—usually one-pot meals prepared together at camp. Expect something warm, spiced, and deeply appreciated after a long day.

Snacks, trail treats, and plenty of tea and coffee are available throughout. Dietary requirements are catered for—just note them at the time of booking.

This is back-to-basics done right. No glamping, no gimmicks—just good food, wild places, and nights you’ll remember.
What's Included & What's Not

✅ What’s Included

Itinerary Activities

  • Fully guided 3-day trek from the eastern foothills of Cape Range to the Ningaloo Coast
  • Stargazing and remote camping beneath dark skies
  • Snorkelling, swimming, and beach walking along Ningaloo Reef
  • Wildlife spotting opportunities: turtles, rays, emus, wedge-tailed eagles & more

Guides

  • Experienced local wilderness guide (and naturalist)
  • Supportive, safety-focused, and deeply knowledgeable about the region’s ecosystems and stories

Accommodation

  • 2 nights wild camping in scenic, remote locations
  • Lightweight swags, sleeping mats, and sleeping bags provided
  • Campsites are off-grid and carry-in/carry-out (no fixed facilities)

Meals

  • All meals from morning tea on Day 1 to lunch on Day 3
  • Trail breakfasts, picnic lunches, and nourishing campfire dinners
  • Snacks, fruit, tea, coffee, and electrolyte top-ups along the way
  • Dietary needs catered for (please advise when booking)

Transport

  • Return transfers from Exmouth to/from the trail
  • Gear shuttling and support vehicle logistics included

Equipment & Support

  • Use of trekking poles and daypacks (if needed)
  • Dry bags, communal cooking gear, and all group equipment
  • Emergency comms and satellite safety device carried at all times

Fees & Impact

  • National Park access fees
  • Responsible trekking practices with minimal environmental footprint
  • A portion of each booking goes toward coastal restoration projects

🚫 What’s Not Included

  • Accommodation in Exmouth before or after the trip – You’ll need to book this separately.
  • Travel to/from Exmouth – Flights, buses, and airport transfers are not included.
  • Alcohol – BYO if you’d like something to sip under the stars.
  • Personal hiking gear – Bring your own clothing, boots, and water bottles.
  • Travel insurance – Strongly recommended in case of cancellation or medical needs.
Weather Expectations

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Cape Range National Park sits on the doorstep of the Ningaloo Coast, meaning conditions are often dry, sunny, and stunning—but also variable. This is wild country, and it pays to be prepared.

March to May (Autumn):

Expect warm days (25–33°C) and cooler nights (14–20°C). Winds are usually mild and sea conditions favourable for snorkelling. Occasional late-summer storms may roll through early in the season.

June to August (Winter):

Mild trekking weather with daytime temps averaging 22–28°C. Nights can dip below 10°C, especially inland, so pack a warm layer. This is the best season for wildlife spotting—whale sightings, emus, and wildflowers abound.

September to October (Spring):

Hotter, drier days creep in (28–36°C) and evenings stay mild. The land is alive with blooms and the reef still teeming with life. Earlier starts and shaded breaks help manage the heat.

Key Note:

The East–West Traverse is deliberately timed to avoid the extreme heat of summer (Nov–Feb). If the forecast spikes or unexpected weather rolls in, your guide may adjust the itinerary for safety and comfort.
⭐ Reviews

Field Notes From Fellow Travelers

Verified reviews from past tours

We had such an amazing experience! Camping up high on the magnificent range overlooking the beautiful Ningaloo reef was a real highlight. The view from camp at sunset was stunning and the star gazing at night was spectacular. There was no one else around, it felt like we had the whole National park to ourselves. We spotted whales and many rock wallabies. Ian was a fantastic guide. He is very passionate and had so much knowledge of the area, the history and the flora and fauna. Ian has included so many thoughtful touches to the trek that really made it special. I would highly recommend this experience !
Kate Cranage via Google
2023
So awe inspiring to be in this pristine place paddling to the rhythm of the wind and tidal flow. Sam who had an huge level of competency was our exceptional guide. He was an unexpected bonus with a broad body of knowledge about country, marine life, tides, winds and good food and really made our trip. He was so chilled when dealing with a group of eight with different needs and wants. Exmouth Adventure company is very lucky to have him as a guide.
jf via Trip Advisor
31 July 2025
We had the most fantastic trip last week, kayaking during the day and camping on the beach each night. I was initially very nervous about the kayaking and the logistics of taking all our gear, keeping it dry etc. But it soon became very easy. Neri, our guide, was absolutely brilliant. She is extremely experienced, put us all at ease, kept us safe and happy, was very knowledgable and accommodating, cooked us delicious meals and worked extremely hard day and night to make it all run smoothly and seamlessly. We had a wonderful time and are very grateful.
Jo C via Trip Advisor
15 September 2024
The experience I had will forever be memorable of my time in Exmouth. Hiking the Cape Range and Ningaloo coastline was an insight into the vastness and abundance of flora and fauna of the area. Being able to hike through thousands of years of history with Ningaloo’s experienced guide Ian was a treat. He is passionate and a wealth of knowledge of the area, which ensures absolute safety for those of us on the overnight hike. Being able to camp comfortably overnight on top of Cape Range on day one is incredible for both a sunset and starry night with a cup of hot chocolate, and the morning sunrise. We saw countless rock wallabies and even enjoyed sightings of dolphins as we enjoyed our lunch. This is an incredible experience which is an absolutely must if you want to experience Exmouth!
Jasmine Grdosic via Google
2022
Wow, such an awesome tour. Ian was great company and so knowledgeable. He was so keen to share his love of the country. The colours we spectacular, red sand, green/grey spinafex, blue/turquoise ocean and blue sky. We camped on the ridge and watched the sunset and sunrise whilst watching whales breaching through the binoculars. Loved every minute and I am now keen for more overnight hikes. Thank you Ian
Caroline Hick via Google
2023
If I could give 10 out of 5 stars above, I would! The adventure is planned for a maximum of 12 people, but apparently there was a group cancellation, so our tour comprised of just three of us, with our amazing guide, photographer and chef extraordinaire, Neri. The kayaks are comfortable and easy to use ( at almost 70, and overweight, I was however unable to manage getting back into the kayaks in deep water, although Neri tried many techniques to try to help me); the snorkel spots were extraordinary; Neri's photos caught all of our excitement and some stunning marine friends; the camping spots were fabulous, except for the first night at North Kurrajong (ground was hard} but Neri assisted to get tent pegs in and from then on, at our request, guided us to some beaches where our group were the only campers ( extra points for Duggy!). Every night Neri whipped up a 5-star delicious and healthy meal - as well as healthy, tasty lunches, morning teas, afternoon teas and sundowner snacks!! Your will never starve on this trip! Neri's knowledge of the reef and environs provides an amazing potted history of the last 25 million years, deep appreciation of the extraordinary marine life and opportunity to meet some of its very endearing and wonderful characters. Cannot recommend this World Heritage experience highly enough! Will need to submit some photos and videos separately, once I have processed them.
Cruiser64687790809 via Trip Advisor
23 May 2024
Just finished an incredible 3-day, 2-night trek with Ian and I’m feeling so elated from the whole experience. Cape Range National Park is absolutely fascinating. Every corner has a story, and Ian’s deep knowledge and connection to the land brought it all to life. The tour was packed with ‘wow’ moments and was so well organised from start to finish. I honestly ate better out there than I do at home! If you’re looking for a meaningful, challenging but seriously rewarding adventure, you must trek Cape Range with Ian!
Kelly Leonard via Google
Aug, 2025
Wife and myself did the 5 day kayaking and adventure tour. Wow , what a lovely place to see and go kayaking The guides , Haley and Catia really looked after us. They are a wealth of knowledge on the reef , the animals , fish as well skilled kayak operators . They cooked and prepared all the meals and I really enjoyed them. The camp site is the same each night so you don’t have to put up a tent , so we moved up the lagoon each day exploring the reef system and seeing heaps of aquatic life One day , due to strong winds/ high seas , we went inland for a walk through 2 gorges seeing the black faced wallaby’s, Osprey eagles and some amazing rock colours Great trip and really enjoyed the Exmouth , Cape Range, Ningaloo reef areas
Roland B via Trip Advisor
13 June 2023
What phenomenal trip this is! Such a unique opportunity and an experience completely unique in Exmouth and the Ningaloo region! The team were so knowledgable and accommodating, Cant wait to come bacK!
Michelle Lee Coates via Google
June, 2025
We have just finished a 5 day kayak and snorkel tour with this company and it was top class. Our guides, Katia and Hayley were fabulous. Very knowledgeable, capable, empathetic, fun, engaging and passionate people. They cooked up great healthy, tasty meals each night, and spoilt us with lovely lunches snacks, sunset platters. Our "on water" experience in this top class "nature's playground", in and around the Ningaloo reef was equally impressive. We got lots of opportunities to snorkel and the amount of marine life here is amazing. Highly recommend this company and this experience.
485mojo57 via Trip Advisor
9 June 2023
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What To Pack

What to Pack

This is a genuine wilderness trek—off-grid, self-supported, and unforgettable. What you bring matters.

Your gear should be reliable, lightweight, and suited for three days of carrying everything on your back.

🏕 Essentials:

  • 60–70L hiking pack (good condition, with padded hip belt)
  • Sleeping bag (rated to at least 5°C)
  • Inflatable or foam sleeping mat
  • Compact pillow or stuff sack with clothes inside
  • Headtorch (with spare batteries)
  • Reusable water bottles/bladder (3–4L total capacity)
  • Trekking poles (strongly recommended)
  • Dry bags or liners to keep your gear protected

👕 Clothing:

  • Lightweight hiking shirts (long sleeves for sun protection)
  • Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts
  • Thermal base layer (top & bottom for cool nights)
  • Fleece or lightweight puffer jacket
  • Rain jacket (breathable and packable)
  • Wide-brim hat + Buff or neck gaiter
  • Underwear & socks (merino or synthetic preferred)
  • Swimwear (for dips in the reef)
  • Sleepwear (warm enough for outdoor camping)

👟 Footwear:

  • Worn-in hiking boots or trail shoes (no brand-new boots!)
  • Camp shoes/sandals (lightweight, for beach and evenings)

🧼 Personal Items:

  • Toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Small biodegradable soap
  • Quick-dry travel towel
  • Personal meds & blister kit
  • Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent
  • Toilet paper + small hand sanitiser
  • Waste bags (Leave No Trace)

📸 Optional But Handy:

  • Snorkel & mask (optional – some may be provided)
  • Camera or phone (in waterproof case)
  • Notebook/journal
  • Small daypack (foldable, for beach wanders)

Your guide will carry group safety equipment, first aid, maps, and a PLB (personal locator beacon). Shared group gear and food will be evenly distributed among all guests.

Pack thoughtfully. Carry lightly. And get ready to walk where few others do.
Co2 Footprint
Your Tour Offsets drive far more than Tree Planting — We Go Climate Positive By Design | Click Here to View the Method

Zero Trace CO₂e Report — 4-Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition (Exmouth, WA)

Results Summary

  • Estimated total per person: ≈ 600 kg CO₂e
  • Offset per person (200%): ≈ 1.20 t CO₂e
  • Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 7.20 t CO₂e

Method: high-estimate with Well-to-Tank (WTT) and aviation non-CO₂ effects via RF = 1.9; includes single-origin guest flights, all meals (included + off-tour), on-tour road transfers & camp nights, and +10% uncertainty uplift.

Purpose

Conservatively estimate greenhouse gas emissions (CO₂e) across Scopes 1–3, report per person (with group totals for context), and state the 200% offset applied per person.

Key Tour Info

  • Region: Cape Range & Ningaloo Coast, Western Australia
  • Duration: 4 days
  • Start/Finish: Exmouth, WA
  • Group size used for context totals: 12 guests (site tile “Maximum 12 People”)
  • Activity distances: ~18 km hiking + ~30 km paddling
  • Difficulty: Moderate+
  • Inclusions (high level): Return Exmouth ↔ trail transfers, gear shuttling/support vehicle, 2 nights wild camping, lightweight tents/mats/bags, meals across the trek window, snacks/tea/coffee, NP fees; guided trekking, snorkeling/swimming opportunities.

Scope & Boundaries

  • Scope 1: On-tour vehicle fuel (trailhead/access transfers; gear shuttling).
  • Scope 2: Purchased electricity only if directly attributable (generally captured within accommodation factors).
  • Scope 3: Guest flights to/from the start (single-origin rule), accommodation (camp nights via room-night method), all meals (included + off-tour), and a +10% uncertainty uplift. Capital goods excluded.
  • Method frame: GHG Protocol; DEFRA-aligned factors with WTT; aviation RF = 1.9 for non-CO₂ effects.

Feeder Hub (Guest Flights) — Single Origin Rule

  • Chosen origin hub: Perth (PER) (nearest major capital).
  • Routing applied (return): PER ↔ LEA (Learmonth/Exmouth) for each person.

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

  • Flights: DEFRA distance factors (economy), WTT included, RF = 1.9 applied.
  • Road (mini-coach/utility): Higher passenger-km factor (lower occupancy assumption) to stay conservative.
  • Accommodation: Room-night method (HCMI/CHSB regional benchmarks) for 2 camp nights.
  • Meals: Meat-heavy mixed diet at ~2.5 kg CO₂e per meal (upper-bound).
  • Uncertainty uplift: +10% added where primary meter/fuel data isn’t available.

Activity Data Applied (this estimate)

  • Guest flights: PER ↔ LEA return (≈ 2,182 km total per person).
  • On-tour road: ≈ 250 km total (Exmouth pick-up/drop-off + daily park shuttles/gear moves).
  • Accommodation: 2 camp nights.
  • All meals consumed: 12 meals/person (4 days × 3/day), counted whether included or not.
  • Powered optionals: None assumed (kayaking and trekking are human-powered; snorkelling from shore).

Results — Per Person (high-estimate, no tables)

Flights (PER ↔ LEA, return; WTT + RF = 1.9): ≈ 440 kg
On-tour road (≈ 250 km; conservative passenger-km factor): ≈ 35 kg
Accommodation (2 camp nights; room-night benchmark): ≈ 40 kg
All meals (12 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 30 kg

Subtotal: ≈ 545 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 55 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 600 kg CO₂e

Reporting focus is per person. Group totals below are provided only for context. Offsets are applied per person.

Group Totals (context, 12 guests)

  • Tour total: ≈ 7.20 t CO₂e

Assumptions (transparent)

  • Origin hub fixed: Perth for all travellers (nearest major capital to Exmouth).
  • Aviation: Distance-based; WTT included; RF = 1.9 to reflect non-CO₂ warming.
  • Road: Exact km not listed; 250 km allowance reflects multi-day trailhead/gear shuttles.
  • Accommodation: Camp nights counted using room-night benchmarks to avoid underestimation.
  • Meals: We count every meal during the trip window (12/person), independent of inclusions.
  • No powered extras assumed; add separate line items if motorised boats/scenic flights are added for a departure.
  • Uncertainty: +10% uplift applied to subtotal where direct meter/fuel data is absent.

Versioning

Generated 23 Aug 2025 (Australia/Perth). Factors reviewed at least annually or when official sources update.

References

  • Tour page — 4-Day Ningaloo Trek & Kayak Expedition (start/finish, max group, distances, inclusions): Zero Trace Tours
  • UK Government — Greenhouse gas reporting conversion factors 2024 (transport/energy factors): GOV.UK
  • UK Government — Methodology 2024 (WTT; aviation non-CO₂ treatment/RF): GOV.UK
  • GHG Protocol — Corporate Accounting & Reporting Standard (Scopes 1–3): GHG Protocol
  • Australia National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors 2024: DCCEEW
  • ICAO Carbon Emissions Calculator — methodology v13 (CO₂ only; RF applied separately): ICAO
  • Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) methodology / CHSB benchmarks: Sustainable Hospitality Alliance • Hotel Footprinting
  • Dietary emissions (upper-bound mixed meals; EPIC-Oxford context): University of Oxford
  • Great-circle distance check (PER–LEA): Great Circle Mapper
Local Insights

Local Insights — Nyinggulu / Ningaloo Coast & Cape Range (Sea-Kayak Region)

Travel occurs on the lands and waters of the Baiyungu, Thalanyji and Yinigudira peoples. Move gently, follow local guidance, and respect cultural sites and seasonal closures.

Quick read (the gist)

  • Why this coast stands out: Sheltered lagoon paddling inside a fringing reef, beach camping under desert skies, and snorkelling straight from shore in clear, shallow coral gardens.
  • Natural calendar: Whale sharks Mar–Aug; humpbacks Jun–Oct (in-water tours skew later in that window); turtles nest Nov–Feb with hatching Jan–Mar; manta rays year-round (especially near Coral Bay).
  • Wind reality: Fresh afternoon sea breezes are common; mornings usually suit longer paddles.
  • Safety headline: Famous shore drifts (e.g., Turquoise Bay) can run strong—choose entry/exit with care or opt for calmer bay loops.

Sense of place

A rare meeting of desert and reef: low limestone ranges, white sand spits and lagoons so close to shore that kayaks can tie to designated moorings above coral. Expect staghorn gardens, bommies, turtles cruising the shallows—and night skies that routinely spill the Milky Way.

Natural seasons & wildlife windows

  • Whale sharks: Most reliable Mar–Aug (often peaking Apr–Jul).
  • Humpbacks: Migration Jun–Oct; licensed in-water tours usually Aug–Oct (Exmouth) / Jul–Oct (Coral Bay).
  • Turtles: Nest Nov–Feb; hatch Jan–Mar (red-light rules apply).
  • Manta rays: Year-round, especially around Coral Bay.
  • Climate cues: Warm to hot much of the year; cyclone season Nov–Apr. Plan earlier paddles, shade breaks and hydration.

Lagoon & kayak notes (region-wide)

  • Inside-reef lanes: Most routes use the sheltered lagoon between shore and reef crest, picking lee shores and tide windows.
  • Kayak trails & moorings: Marked kayak trails (Tantabiddi, Osprey, Bundegi, Maud/Coral Bay) include tie-off buoys near coral features—tie up, slip in, snorkel.
  • Signature shore snorkels: Turquoise Bay offers a calmer bay loop and a separate drift; conditions dictate the smarter option on the day.
  • Tide-smart snorkelling: Oyster Stacks is tide-dependent—snorkel only at ≥1.2 m to protect coral and for safe depth (check tide boards/Milyering Discovery Centre).

Wildlife etiquette & in-water safety

  • Look, don’t touch: No standing on coral; hands off turtles, rays and reef life.
  • Drift awareness: Know exit points before entry; fins help with decisive exits.
  • Stingers: Irukandji are uncommon but possible some summers—full-length suits when advised.
  • Sun & salt: Long sleeves/leggings, brimmed hat, zinc, steady fluids. (Reef-safe sunscreen plays nicer with corals.)

Practical logistics

  • Parks & passes: Cape Range National Park is fee-paying; separate camp bookings apply where provided.
  • Facilities: Campgrounds are generally basic; bring drinking water unless a site explicitly provides it.
  • Connectivity: Reception is patchy outside towns—download offline maps and leave a trip plan with a contact.
  • Drones: Regulated in WA parks; some areas allow recreational flying under rules, others restrict or require permission. Always check park-specific rules and CASA guidance.

Recommendations & local-style tips

  • Sunrise over the range: Drive Charles Knife Canyon for first light over Exmouth Gulf—wide horizons, easy access, knockout silhouettes.
  • Whale (and wow) at sunset: Vlamingh Head Lighthouse is the classic golden-hour perch; whale blows are common in season.
  • Gorge & wildlife combo: Yardie Creek walk or boat cruise for ospreys and black-flanked rock-wallabies tucked into ledges.
  • Windy-afternoon Plan B: When the west coast kicks up, the Bundegi side (Exmouth Gulf) can feel friendlier—good for a short paddle or mellow snorkel from shore.
  • Quiet coral: Pilgramunna Ledges often sees fewer flippers—rewarding on settled days; mind the rocks and keep hands off the ledges.
  • All-tide fallback: Lakeside is a reliable snorkel when Oyster Stacks is too shallow; follow the marked zone.
  • Kayak etiquette: Use moorings (never anchor on coral), clip tidy leashes, and give snorkellers a wide berth at tie-off buoys.
  • Tide-board gospel: Oyster Stacks has an on-site sign for permitted times—aim for ≥1.2 m or give it a miss.
  • Storytelling stops: Pair a reef day with a quick detour to the VLF towers and Vlamingh Head for Cold War and lighthouse history between swims.

Accessibility & family notes

Lagoon paddling is sheltered but still open water; basic swimming competence is essential. Beach entries are mostly sandy with occasional shorebreak. Choose calm bay snorkels for beginners; save drift sites for confident swimmers.

Do-right travel (Zero Trace)

  • Sanctuary zones: Look-but-don’t-take; never stand on coral.
  • Turtle season: No white light on beaches; use marked access points; keep distance.
  • Low-impact camps: Stay off fragile dunes; pack out all waste.
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Tour FAQ's
How fit do I need to be for this walk?

This is a genuine multi-day pack hike, so a good base level of fitness is essential. You’ll be carrying a pack weighing around 15–18 kg, covering up to 15 km per day across rugged terrain. If you’ve done overnight hikes before—or are keen to train for one—you’re in the right place.
What kind of camping is it?

Wilderness camping, off-grid and spectacular. Think stargazing from your sleeping mat, ocean breezes through your tent fly, and the hush of Cape Range at night. Tents and sleeping mats are provided.
Is this a group tour, and how many people will be on it?

Yes, this is a small-group guided tour with a maximum of 8 travellers. This ensures a more personal experience and low impact on the environment. The guides are experienced professionals who also double as cooks, storytellers, and safety leads
How do I get to the tour’s starting point, and is transport included?

You’ll be picked up and dropped off in Exmouth.
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Zero Trace Tours is a curated marketplace, not a tour operator.

We handpick the best guided adventure tours from expert local operators and bring them together in one place. Think of us as your shortcut to the world’s most unforgettable, low-impact travel experiences—without the overwhelm of researching every operator yourself.
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