Name: Ningaloo Reef Kayak & Snorkel Tour | 5-Day Explorer
Brand: Zero Trace Tours
SKU: 44684321620144
Price: 2210.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

Start and Finish

Exmouth, WA

Small Groups

Maximum 12 People

Distance

5–12 km Paddling Daily

Difficulty

Easy

Climate +

200% Co2 Offset

Woman preparing to snorkel in turquoise waters on the Ningaloo Safari 3-Day Kayak & Snorkel Tour. Great for beach and ocean lovers.

5-Day Ningaloo Reef Explorer | Kayak & Snorkle Experience

Ningaloo Coast: 5.5-Day Ultimate Safari (Sea Kayak & Snorkel)

Live inside the World Heritage–listed Ningaloo Coast for five unforgettable days.
This Ultimate Safari–style trip links sea kayaking through sheltered turquoise lagoons with guided snorkels at multiple sites daily, short bush walks in Cape Range National Park, and a comfortable off-grid base camp you’ll return to each afternoon by vehicle.

Quick Facts

Duration: 5.5 days / 5 nights
Season: Late April to early October
Start/Finish & Times: Pick-up Sunday ~2:45–3:00 pm from Exmouth accommodation (or meet at 24 Pelias St for gear fit-out); drop-off Friday ~4:00 pm in Exmouth
Daily Paddling: ~5–12 km inside the reef, broken up by morning-tea beach stops, lunch, and two snorkels where conditions allow
Base Camp: Off-grid camp inside Cape Range—spacious stand-up tents (twin-share), fridge, shade/wind shelter, picnic tables, toilet, solar showers; beach 300 m along a sandy trail

Trip Highlights

Breeze-assisted one-way paddling—more glide, less grind—via classic shore entries: Turquoise Bay, Oyster Stacks, Lakeside
Kayak-only snorkel spots you won’t find on any map, plus guided snorkels at multiple sites daily
Short bush walks: Mandu Mandu Gorge loop for reef-and-range views; late-afternoon Yardie Creek Gorge walk when black-flanked rock wallabies emerge
Evenings at a relaxed base camp with a sandy-trail stroll to the beach (sunset drink, anyone?)

Why This Trip Stands Out

One of the few Exmouth-based adventures offering a fully guided overnight camping experience inside Cape Range—a uniquely local, personal way to soak up reef and range without daily pack-downs
Wildlife encounters—turtles, rays, schools of fish, and sometimes whales, dolphins or dugong—are natural and never guaranteed, but the crystal-clear Ningaloo lagoon does its part

Logistics (Recap)

Duration: 5.5 days / 5 nights
Pick-up: Sunday ~2:45–3:00 pm from Exmouth accommodation (or meet at 24 Pelias St for gear fit-out)
Drop-off: Friday ~4:00 pm in Exmouth
Season: Late April to early October

View Operators Terms & Conditions

Inquire/Book Directly

Key Tour Info

Pick-up: 1:45–2:00pm (Exmouth accommodation or EAC base)

Arrive at Exmouth Adventure Co base (secure parking available if pre-arranged). Any luggage not needed on tour can be safely stored here. Pack light—think carry-on size bag or small duffel for camp gear.

Your guides will get you kitted out with kayak gear, snorkel kit, camping equipment and sun protection essentials. After a quick supply stop in town (yes, that includes the bottle shop), it’s an hour’s drive into Cape Range National Park to reach base camp.

Settle into your tent, enjoy a freshly cooked dinner under the stars, and get a preview of the days ahead with maps, stories, and a dose of anticipation.

Meals: Dinner, Snacks · Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Wake to coffee and breakfast in the open air, then shuttle to Yardie Creek—our launch point. After a safety and paddle briefing, it’s time to slide into your sea kayak and begin the journey north.

Today covers around 10km of coastline, with stops at some of Ningaloo’s richest snorkel sites. Expect coral gardens alive with fish, turtles gliding beneath your bow, and rays stirring up sand clouds below.

Breaks for morning tea and lunch keep things relaxed. By afternoon, kayaks are secured in the dunes and we return to camp for a solar shower, sunset snacks, and another starry-night feast.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks · Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Coffee at sunrise, breakfast in the breeze, and then back to the kayaks. Today’s paddle takes you through shallow turquoise lagoons, with snorkels along the way and long views of the ancient Cape Range gorges contrasting against the reef.

It’s a day where time blurs into rhythm: paddle, snorkel, beach stop, paddle again. Before long, kayaks are stowed high in the dunes and it’s back to camp for a well-earned dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks · Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Today features two of Ningaloo’s signature sites—Oyster Stacks and Turquoise Bay—plus a chance to slip into lesser-known snorkel spots accessible only by kayak.

After paddling, we trade paddles for boots with a sunset hike into Yardie Gorge. This short but scenic trail reveals black-flanked rock wallabies, osprey nests, fossilised coral, and sweeping gorge views. It’s a fitting reminder that Ningaloo’s magic doesn’t end at the shoreline.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks · Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

Fuel up with a hearty cooked breakfast (bacon, eggs, toast—the works). Today begins with a loop walk through Mandu Mandu Gorge, a stunning landscape carved over millennia and home to endangered rock wallabies.

After a picnic lunch at Milyering Visitor Centre, it’s back to the turquoise lagoon for more paddling and snorkelling. Another relaxed evening of food, laughter, and stars closes the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks · Accommodation: Wilderness Camping

The final day begins with a sunrise coffee and a bittersweet sense of “lasts.” Paddling north, keep your eyes peeled—this stretch is prime territory for dugong (late May–Aug), turtles, and rays.

A final snorkel showcases Ningaloo at its most vibrant, before pulling ashore for lunch and a celebratory recap of the journey. Kayaks are packed, gear is loaded, and by mid-afternoon you’re back in Exmouth, salt-dusted and glowing from six days of reef and range adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch · Accommodation: Not Included

Where You’ll Be Sleeping & What You’ll Be Eating

Sleeping — Comfortable Base Camp in Cape Range National Park

Pre-set, stand-up tents (twin-share): Spacious canvas tents you can stand in, set up before you arrive.
Bedding provided: High-density foam mattress with linens (sheets, pillow, doona) or sleeping bag + liner, as supplied by the operator.
Facilities: Shade/wind shelter, picnic tables, camp chairs, fridge, solar showers and toilet, plus lockable storage rooms.
Beach proximity: About 300 m along a sandy trail—perfect for sunset drinks or a sunrise stretch.
Power: Off-grid. Limited charging is available; arrive with devices topped up and keep phones on flight mode at camp.
Solo option: Private tent available for a $100 single supplement (limited per departure).

Eating — All Meals & Non-Alcoholic Drinks Included (BYO Welcome)

What’s covered: Healthy, delicious meals from dinner on the first night through to lunch on the final day, plus non-alcoholic drinks.
BYO: Alcohol is welcome; an ice box is available to keep drinks cold.
How it runs: Picnic-style morning teas and lunches on secluded beaches; relaxed dinners back at base camp.
Dietaries: Most requirements can be catered for with advance notice (including intolerances/allergies).
Gear included: Long-sleeve sun shirts and broad-brim hats, quality snorkel kit (wetsuits in cooler months), kayak safety equipment, dry bags—so you can pack light and focus on the good stuff.

✅ What’s Included

Itinerary Activities

Sea kayaking inside the fringing reef (double or single sit-inside sea kayaks)
Snorkelling at shore sites and kayak-only spots (conditions dependent)
Short bush/gorge walks in Cape Range NP (incl. Mandu Mandu & Yardie Creek, when suitable)
Visit to Milyering Visitor Centre

Guides & Support

Qualified, experienced sea-kayak guides
Paddling instruction & safety briefing
Complimentary tour photos taken by your guide

Camping & Facilities (Base Camp in Cape Range NP)

Pre-set, stand-up twin-share tents (spacious)
Camp gear: swags/sleeping bags & liners, pillows, high-density foam mattresses, camp chairs
Facilities: fridge, shade/wind shelter, picnic tables, toilet & solar showers
Lockable storage rooms; beach ~300 m via sandy track
Vehicle support returns the group to base camp each afternoon

Meals & Drinks

All meals (from first night dinner to final day lunch)
Non-alcoholic drinks included (BYO alcohol welcome; ice box available)

Equipment & Clothing Provided

Kayaks with rudder, paddles, PFDs (life jackets)
Sun protection gear: long-sleeve rash shirts & broad-brim hats
Snorkel kit: mask, snorkel, fins (wetsuits in cooler months)
Fingerless paddling gloves
Dry bags for personal items

Transport & Fees

Return transport between Exmouth and Cape Range NP
National park entry & camping fees

Tour Timing & Season

5.5 days / 5 nights: pick-up Sun ~2:45–3:00 pm, drop-off Fri ~4:00 pm (Exmouth)
Operating late April – early October
Group size 4–16 (plus guides/volunteers); minimum age 12; kayak limit 110 kg/person

🚫 What’s Not Included

Travel & Extras

Flights to/from Exmouth and airport transfers
Pre/post-tour accommodation in Exmouth
Secure parking at the operator’s base ($10/day; free on-street parking available)

Personal Items

Water bottle (capacity ≥1 L), sunglasses (polarised recommended)
Sunscreen/zinc & SPF lip balm (reef-safe preferred)
Towel/sarong, head torch (+ spare batteries)
Footwear for water (crocs/sandals) and enclosed shoes for walking
Bushwalking clothes & daypack; camera/chargers/spare batteries
Toiletries (biodegradable products encouraged)
Optional fishing gear (lures only; note: base camp is in a Sanctuary Zone—no fishing)

Upgrades & Supplements

Private ‘solo’ tent: +$100 (limited per departure)
Exclusive single-kayak use (experienced paddlers): +$100 (limited per departure)

Insurance & Misc.

Travel insurance and any medical expenses
Personal snacks/alcohol (BYO allowed but not supplied)
Gratuities (optional)

Operational Notes

Tour is weather- and conditions-dependent; wildlife is expected, never guaranteed
Participants must be able to lift 15 kg and walk on uneven ground/soft sand
Departures require minimum numbers

Pricing notes: Family rates apply to direct bookings only (agent bookings excluded). A 30% deposit is due at booking; balance 30 days prior to departure.

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Big picture: Desert coast + fringing reef = clear, dry days, high UV, calm mornings and breezier afternoons. This tour runs in the dry season (late April–early October) when paddling and visibility are at their best. Route direction is chosen to work with the prevailing breeze, so you glide more than you grind.

Air temps (guide, not a guarantee)

Apr–May: Days 26–32 °C, nights 17–22 °C. Warm water, light early winds—prime snorkel season.
Jun–Aug: Days 20–26 °C, nights 10–16 °C (can feel crisp at camp). A light layer for mornings/evenings is gold.
Sep–Oct: Days 24–32 °C, nights 14–20 °C. Warming trend, mellow mornings, classic reef days.

Water temps (lagoon)

Generally 22–26 °C across the season (coolest mid-winter). Wetsuits are provided in cooler months for comfort and sun protection.

Wind & sea

Mornings: Typically calmer—best for paddling and snorkels.
Afternoons: Reliable sea breeze builds; the itinerary runs one-way with the wind and uses a vehicle shuttle back to camp.
Swell/tides: Shore entries (e.g., Oyster Stacks, Turquoise Bay) are conditions-dependent; guides select the day’s sites for safety, visibility, and coral protection (some locations are only suitable at higher tide).

Sun & UV

High to extreme UV even on cooler days. Long-sleeve sun shirt, broad-brim hat (both supplied), sunglasses, and reef-safe SPF 50+ are essential. Re-apply at tea/lunch stops.

Visibility & wildlife (expectations, not promises)

Dry-season stability = generally excellent snorkel visibility.
Whale sharks: Often present mid-Mar–Aug offshore; not a focus of this trip but magical if spotted from shore.
Humpbacks: Migrate Jul–Oct; look for blows offshore on calm mornings.
Daily regulars: Turtles, rays, schooling fish; occasional dolphins/dugong inside the lagoon.

Camp comfort notes

Cool nights (Jun–Aug): pack a warm layer (fleece/puffer, beanie) for stargazing.
Dry air: Hydrate proactively—aim for 2 L+ per day; electrolytes help on active/hotter days.
Insects: Generally mild on the coast; dusk can bring mozzies near creeks—light long sleeves and repellent do the trick.

Safety & flexibility

The guides may shuffle the order of paddles/snorkels to suit wind, swell, tide and visibility. That’s normal and how you get the best days on the reef.
Wildlife is natural—expected, never guaranteed. If conditions shift, the plan adapts so the adventure stays safe and fun.

We had such an amazing experience! Camping 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. 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. Paddling 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

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

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

You bring (operator-aligned):

Water bottle with capacity for at least 1 L
Sunglasses (polarised recommended for spotting through glare)
Sunscreen/zinc & SPF lip balm — reef-safe where possible
Bathers/boardshorts
Towel or sarong (a lightweight sarong is great to drape over legs for extra sun cover)
Footwear that may get wet (crocs/sandals etc.)
Bushwalking clothes: enclosed footwear (sneakers/hiking shoes/boots), shorts or lightweight trousers, tee or lightweight long-sleeve shirt, daypack for water/camera
Head torch (+ spare batteries)
Camera (+ spare batteries/charger)
Drinks for sunset happy hour (BYO welcome; an ice box keeps things cold)
Camp clothes: shorts/tee + warm layers for cool, clear nights (from May onward think thermals, beanie, puffer; “camping uggs” totally acceptable)
Toiletries (biodegradable products encouraged: soap, shampoo/conditioner)

Optional (allowed but not a focus):

Fishing gear (lures only). Note: base camp sits in a Sanctuary Zone—no fishing there.

Nice-to-have extras (guest tips):

Power bank (charging at camp is limited/off-grid)
Reusable dry bag for personal bits on the kayak (operator also provides dry bags)
Lightweight reef shoes for tricky beach entries
After-sun/aloë, small first-aid/blister kit, and electrolytes for hotter days

Pack light, pack smart, and leave room for bragging rights.

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 — 5-Day Ningaloo Kayak Expedition (Exmouth, WA)

Results Summary

Estimated total per person: ≈ 685 kg CO₂e
Offset per person (200%): ≈ 1,370 kg CO₂e
Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 8.22 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 transport & stays, and +10% uncertainty uplift.

Purpose

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

Key Tour Info

Region: Ningaloo Coast, Western Australia
Duration: 5.5 days / 5 nights
Start/Finish: Exmouth (WA)
Group size context for totals: 12 guests (Max 12 shown; operator notes 4–16 on page)
Daily activity: 5–12 km paddling (Easy)
Meals included by operator: All meals from dinner Day 1 to lunch final day (we still count all meals consumed below)
On-tour logistics: Base-camp inside Cape Range NP; return transport Exmouth ↔ Cape Range NP; vehicle support returns group to camp daily. (Zero Trace Tours)

Scope & Boundaries

Scope 1: On-tour vehicle fuel (camp shuttles/park transfers).
Scope 2: Purchased electricity only if directly attributable (typically covered via accommodation factors).
Scope 3: Guest flights to/from tour start, accommodation (camp nights), all meals (included + off-tour), supplier logistics proxies. Capital goods excluded.
Method frame: GHG Protocol; distance-based factors with WTT; aviation RF = 1.9.

Feeder Hub (Guest Flights) — Single Origin Rule

Chosen origin hub: Perth (PER) — nearest major capital to Exmouth.
Routing applied: PER ↔ LEA (Learmonth/Exmouth) return for each guest.
Great-circle distance reference: ≈ 1,091 km each way (PER–LEA). (Zero Trace Tours)

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

Flights: UK GOV/DEFRA distance factors (economy), WTT included, RF = 1.9 applied.
Road (mini-coach/utility): Passenger-km factor set higher (lower occupancy assumption) to bias conservative.
Accommodation: Room-night method (HCMI/CHSB regional benchmarks) even for camp stays to avoid undercounting.
Meals: Meat-heavy mixed diet average ≈ 2.5 kg CO₂e/meal (upper-bound).
Uncertainty uplift: +10% added to subtotal where primary meter/fuel data is missing. (All choices intentionally err high.)

Activity Data Applied (this estimate)

Guest flights: PER ↔ LEA return (≈ 2,182 km total distance)
On-tour road: Assumed 300 km total (Exmouth pickup/drop-off + daily park shuttles)
Accommodation: 5 nights (base camp)
All meals consumed: 17 meals/person (5.5 days × 3/day, rounded up), regardless of what the operator includes

Results — Per Person (high-estimate)

Flights (PER ↔ LEA, return; WTT + RF=1.9): ≈ 440 kg
On-tour road (assumed 300 km; conservative p-km factor): ≈ 40 kg
Accommodation (5 nights; room-night benchmark): ≈ 100 kg
All meals (17 × ~2.5 kg): ≈ 43 kg

Subtotal: ≈ 623 kg
+10% uncertainty uplift: ≈ 62 kg
Estimated total per person: ≈ 685 kg CO₂e

Group total for context (12 guests): ≈ 8.22 t CO₂e. Offsets are applied per person.

Assumptions (Transparent)

Origin hub fixed: Perth for all guests to match the “nearest major capital” rule.
Aviation treatment: Distance-based; WTT included; RF = 1.9 to capture non-CO₂ warming.
Road distance: Not provided on page; 300 km assumed to conservatively cover park shuttles and pickups.
Accommodation: Camp nights treated with room-night benchmarks to avoid underestimation.
Meals: We count every meal consumed during the tour window (17/person), independent of inclusions.
No powered “extra activity” assumed (no boat/scenic flight listed for this expedition).

Versioning

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

References

Tour page — 5-Day Ningaloo Kayak Expedition (details, inclusions, logistics): Zero Trace Tours (Zero Trace Tours)

UK Government — Greenhouse gas reporting conversion factors 2024 (transport/energy): GOV.UK (Zero Trace Tours)

UK Government — Methodology 2024 (WTT; aviation treatment/RF): GOV.UK (Zero Trace Tours)

GHG Protocol — Corporate Accounting & Reporting Standard (Scopes 1–3): GHG Protocol (Zero Trace Tours)

Australia National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) Factors 2024: DCCEEW (Zero Trace Tours)

ICAO Carbon Emissions Calculator — methodology v13 (CO₂ only; RF applied separately): ICAO (Zero Trace Tours)

Hotel Carbon Measurement Initiative (HCMI) methodology / CHSB region benchmarks: Sustainable Hospitality Alliance • Hotel Footprinting (Zero Trace Tours)

Dietary emissions (upper-bound mixed meals; EPIC-Oxford context): University of Oxford (Zero Trace Tours)

Great-circle distance check (PER–LEA): Great Circle Mapper (Zero Trace Tours)

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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Active travellers with average fitness and mobility. Expect moderate activity: lifting 15 kg (kayak gear), short walks on uneven ground/soft sand, and easygoing paddling/snorkelling most days.

No. Instruction and safety briefings are provided. Basic water confidence makes the snorkelling more enjoyable; PFDs (lifejackets) are worn while kayaking and may be used while snorkelling if needed.

Pick-up Sunday ~2:45–3:00 pm (or meet at 24 Pelias St, Exmouth at 3:00 pm for gear fit-out). Return Friday ~4:00 pm to Exmouth.

Base-camp style inside Cape Range NP: return to the same comfortable camp each afternoon.

Spacious stand-up twin-share tents set up before arrival
Fridge, shade/wind shelter, picnic tables, camp chairs
Toilet & solar showers
Beach ~300 m via sandy track
Private ‘solo’ tent +$100 (limited per departure)

Can I charge devices at camp?
Limited. The camp is off-grid (solar/dual-battery). Arrive with devices charged, switch phones to flight mode, and bring a power bank.

Dietaries—can they be catered for?
Yes—most requirements, with advance notice (including intolerances/allergies).

Is alcohol allowed?
BYO welcome; an ice box keeps drinks cold. Please drink responsibly.

Can I fish?
Allowed in permitted zones using lures only; not a tour focus. Note: base camp is in a Sanctuary Zone—no fishing there.

What’s included vs what do I bring?
Included: kayaks & safety gear, sun shirts & hats, snorkel kit (wetsuits in cooler months), dry bags, all meals & non-alcoholic drinks, national-park/camping fees, transport, qualified guides, complimentary photos.
Bring: ≥1 L water bottle, sunglasses, reef-safe SPF, swimwear, towel/sarong, wet-friendly sandals, enclosed walking shoes & daypack, head torch, camera/chargers, toiletries (biodegradable preferred), camp clothes and warm layers in winter. (Full packing list provided in your booking info.)

What about phone reception and emergencies?
Mobile coverage is limited in the park. The crew carries a satellite phone for emergencies; the operator’s office can relay urgent messages.

Parking—what are my options?
Free on-street parking at 24 Pelias St, or secure fenced parking for $10/day.

What’s the season?
Late April → early October (dry season) for calmer mornings, clearer water, and reliable paddling conditions.

Wildlife & weather—what should I expect?
Turtles, rays, schools of fish—and sometimes dolphins or dugong. Wildlife is natural—expected, never guaranteed. Guides adjust daily plans to the best conditions.

Can I upgrade to a single kayak or private tent?

Exclusive single-kayak use (experienced paddlers): +$100 (limited to 4 per departure).
Private ‘solo’ tent: +$100 (limited to 6 per departure).

What are the minimum numbers and tour limitations?
Departures require minimum 4 guests. Participants must be able to lift 15 kg and comfortably walk on uneven ground/soft sand.

What’s the cancellation policy?

30+ days prior: Full refund minus any non-refundable booking/processing fees.
Within 30 days: No refund (consider travel insurance).
COVID-related (operator policy):
>14 days prior: Full refund minus fees.
≤14 days due to restrictions beyond your control: 70% refund + 30% (or deposit) as a 3-year voucher.
If travel requirements aren’t met (e.g., entry permits), no refund. Full terms apply per the operator.

Should I get travel insurance?
Strongly recommended—remote region, weather-dependent ocean activities, and limited medical facilities nearby.

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Zero Trace CO₂e Report — 5-Day Ningaloo Kayak Expedition (Exmouth, WA)

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