Optional Extras
These add-ons can elevate the west coast adventure—book ahead where noted, as spots fill fast (especially seasonal ones). Prices approximate in AUD and subject to change: pre-book recommended

• Sea Lion Swim at Jurien Bay (~AU$150–200, 2–3 h): Guided boat tour to interact with playful Australian sea lions in shallow waters—snorkel gear included, wetsuit recommended. Seasonal (Sep–May best).
• Whale Shark Swim at Ningaloo Reef (~AU$400–450, full day, Mar–Jul/Aug peak): Once-in-a-lifetime snorkel alongside the gentle giants—spotter plane, gear, lunch included. High demand—pre-book strongly advised.
• Manta Ray Snorkel at Coral Bay/Exmouth (~AU$200–250, half day): Year-round chance to glide with graceful mantas—gear and boat provided; calmer days best.
• Yardie Creek Boat Tour in Cape Range (~AU$60–80, 1–2 h): Cruise the gorge for black-footed rock wallabies and birdlife—relaxed alternative to hikes.
• Aboriginal Cultural Experience in Karijini (if available via local operators, ~AU$100–150): Guided walk with Traditional Owners sharing Dreamtime stories and bush tucker—respectful and insightful add-on.
• Skydiving over Ningaloo Reef (~AU$400+, Exmouth): Tandem jump for epic aerial views—adrenaline rush with reef backdrop.
• Camel Ride on Cable Beach, Broome (~AU$80–100, 1 h at sunset): Iconic way to end the trip—book on arrival for golden-hour vibes.
• Extra Snorkel Gear Hire or Wetsuit (~AU$20–50/day): If preferring personal fit or warmth in cooler months.
• Alcohol & Specialty Snacks: BYO or buy at roadhouses—group cooler space limited, so coordinate.

Notes: All optionals weather/season-dependent (e.g., whale sharks strictly Mar–Aug); no guarantees on wildlife sightings. Guide assists bookings; cash/card needed locally. Fitness checks for swims—basic swimming ability required.

Where You’ll Sleep

• Night 1: Camping at holiday park near Jurien Bay/Lancelin—tents provided after Pinnacles and sandboarding day.
• Nights 2–3: Hostel in Kalbarri (2-night stay)—central for national park hikes and coastal cliffs.
• Nights 4: Monkey Mia/Shark Bay—Dorms
• Nights 5: Wooramel Station—tents
• Nights 6–7: Hostel in Coral Bay—reef-close with BBQ areas (2-night stay).
• Nights 8–9: Hostel resort (e.g., Potshot) —pool and national park proximity (2-night stay).
• Nights 10–11: Shared Cabins in Tom Price (2-night stay).
• Night 12: Overnight coach (no fixed accommodation)—en route to Broome or Camping Return to Perth
• Extra nights on return variants: Tropical hostel/resort in Broome or similar stops.

Rooming & Facilities: Multi-share tents/dorms (2 person tents with mats/sleeping bags provided); mixed gender common. Shared bathrooms/showers (hot water reliable); Wi-Fi in hostels (spotty/unavailable in camps), fans/A/C varying by site—eco-focus means water/power conservation.

Solo Travellers: Shared tents/dorms standard; private upgrades possible (extra fee where available).

What You’ll Eat
Group meals funded by food kitty (AU$100 contribution covers most breakfasts, lunches, camp dinners)—participatory BBQs with fresh snags, seafood, salads, damper and billy tea cooked over campfires.

Style: Social backpacker cooking—group prep/cleanup for hearty outback/coastal feasts; 2–3 pub dinners self-funded (~AU$25–40).

Dietaries: Vegetarian/vegan/gluten-free accommodated (notify early)—adaptable BBQs and fresh options; allergies handled with notice.

Hydration & Hygiene: Filtered water on bus; reusable bottle essential (tap variable remote). Hand sanitiser/wipes for camp dust; group shops for supplies.

✅ What’s Included

• Small-Group Trip (Backpacker Adventure): Max 26 travellers (avg 15–22) with passionate local guide for social, laid-back vibes and insider tips.
• Duration & Route: 13 days one-way (Perth → Broome) or 14-day return variants via Karijini; Perth → Jurien Bay → Kalbarri → Monkey Mia → Coral Bay → Exmouth → Karijini → Broome.
• Accommodation: 12 nights in a mix of hostels, camping (holiday parks/station stays), and 1 night bus; tents/mats/sleeping bags provided for camps.
• Transport: Air-conditioned bus with USB chargers (Perth to Karijini); Integrity Coachlines night bus (Karijini to Broome); all drives and transfers.
• Meals: Most breakfasts/lunches/group dinners via shared Food Fund (AU$100/person, not included in price—covers fresh BBQ-style eats).
• Guided & Included Highlights:
  Sandboarding at Lancelin dunes and Pinnacles Desert walk.
  Kalbarri National Park hikes: Nature’s Window, Skywalk, Z Bend gorge swim.
  Monkey Mia dolphin feeding and beach time.
  Ningaloo Reef snorkelling at Coral Bay and Turquoise Bay.
  Karijini National Park gorges: Knox, Weano, Hancock hikes/swims, lookouts.
  National park entries, coastal cliffs views, pink lake stop, hot springs soak.
  
• Operations & Support: Camping gear setup assistance; flexible pacing with 2-night stays; all park fees.

🚫 What’s Not Included

• International/domestic flights to/from Perth/Broome.
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended; cover activities like hiking/snorkelling).
• Visas, vaccinations and entry fees (visa-free for many).
• Food Fund (AU$100 for most meals) and pub dinners (3 nights, ~AU$20–40 each).
• Optional activities (e.g., sea lion swim, whale shark tour, manta ray snorkel).
• Tipping (not customary, but appreciated for guide ~AU$5–10/day if exceptional).
• Departure transfers in Broome (arrange independently).
• Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, souvenirs, extra Wi-Fi).
• Baggage upgrades or excess (soft bags recommended for bus).
• Single supplements (shared dorms/tents standard; upgrades limited).

Notes: Hikes require reasonable fitness (e.g., 5.5 km uneven terrain in Karijini)—opt-outs available. Flash flooding may close gorges (alternatives provided). Seasonal wildlife (whale sharks Mar–Sep)—no guarantees. Modest swimwear for beaches; reef-safe sunscreen for snorkels.

Seasonal Weather Expectations
Western Australia's west coast shifts from Mediterranean in the south (Perth) to tropical in the north (Broome/Karijini), delivering hot, dry summers and mild winters overall—but the north flips with a wet season bringing cyclones and floods. Expect big daily swings in the outback (up to 15–20°C), intense sun and low humidity most days; pack layers, reef-safe sunscreen and a hat.

By Region

• Southern Coast (Perth to Kalbarri): Highs 18–32°C summer, lows 8–18°C; winters cooler (13–20°C highs). Rain mostly winter (50–150 mm/month Jun–Aug), dry summers (<20 mm).
• Mid-Coast (Shark Bay/Monkey Mia to Exmouth/Ningaloo): Warmer year-round; highs 25–38°C summer, lows 15–24°C; winters 20–30°C. Very dry (rain <50 mm most months), slight wet influence north.
• Northern/Inland (Karijini to Broome): Tropical; highs 30–40°C wet summer, lows 20–25°C; dry winter highs 28–35°C, lows 12–20°C. Wet season rain 200–600 mm (Dec–Mar, cyclone risk), bone-dry winter (<20 mm).

Quick month-by-month (impact on the trip)

• Jan–Mar: Hot/humid north (30–40°C), cyclone/flood risk—gorges may close, roads impassable; south milder but sticky—whale sharks peak.
• Apr–May: Transitional cooling (25–35°C), low rain—excellent for reefs/hikes, fewer crowds, wildflowers starting south.
• Jun–Aug: Dry winter peak (20–32°C), clear skies—ideal overall: comfortable camping, open parks, whale sharks/humpbacks at Ningaloo.
• Sep–Oct: Warming (25–35°C), still dry—great visibility for snorkeling, pleasant gorges before heat builds.
• Nov–Dec: Heating up (28–38°C), early storms north—possible disruptions, but fewer tourists and blooming landscapes.

Notes: UV extreme year-round (SPF 50+ must); cyclones (Dec–Apr) can flood Karijini/remotes—check BOM alerts, have flex plans. Flash floods close gorges fast; stinger suits Nov–May north. Dust/wind in dry season—masks handy. Footing slippery on wet rocks; water shoes for reefs/gorges.

What to Pack
Bags & Carry Set-up

• Large soft-sided duffel or backpack (20–25 kg max)—essential for bus storage and camp transfers.
• Daypack (20–35L) with rain cover for hikes, swims and daily gear.
• Small dry bag (5–10L) for phone/wallet during gorge swims or reef snorkels.
• Weight note: No strict flight limits, but bus space tight—pack light, no hard-shell cases.

Clothing: Layer for Coastal Heat ↔ Outback Chill

• Breathable quick-dry base layers: 5–7 tees/tops, 2–3 long-sleeve shirts for sun/bugs/dust.
• Mid-layers: 1 light fleece or jumper for cool desert nights (down to 10–15°C winter).
• Warmth for Karijini: Beanie, light gloves if shoulder season—mornings crisp.
• Shell: Lightweight rain jacket for wet-season showers or sudden storms.
• Bottoms: 3–4 quick-dry shorts, 2 lightweight trousers or convertibles for hikes/bugs.
• Swim & reef: 2–3 swimsuits, rash guard for snorkelling/sun protection.
• Underwear & socks: 8–10 pairs quick-dry; 4–5 hiking socks (wool-blend).
• Sleepwear: Light and warm options for varying camp temps.

Footwear

• Sturdy hiking shoes or boots (broken-in, good grip) for Karijini gorges and uneven trails.
• Reef/water shoes (closed-toe) for Ningaloo snorkelling and rocky swims—protects from coral/stones.
• Thongs/flip-flops for camp showers, beaches and casual downtime.

Sun, Rain & Outback Basics

• High-SPF sunscreen (reef-safe 50+), lip balm with SPF, wide-brim hat, UV sunglasses—sun brutal year-round.
• Lightweight rain poncho or jacket for wet-season downpours.
• Reusable water bottle (1–2 L) + electrolytes for intense heat and hikes.
• Head torch with red light for camp nights and early gorge starts.

Health & Outback Kit

• Personal meds + script copies; basic first-aid (plasters, blister pads, antiseptic, pain relief).
• Insect repellent (DEET 30%+) for flies/mozzies; after-bite cream.
• Rehydration salts and anti-diarrhoeal for heat/gut bugs.
• Hand sanitiser, wet wipes for dusty camp days and limited facilities.

Docs & Money

• Passport/ID + photocopies; travel insurance proof (mandatory for activities).
• Cash (AUD small notes for roadhouses/camps); card for Perth/Broome—ATMs sparse mid-route.
• Notify bank of travel; download offline maps (no signal in remotes).

Electronics

• Phone + power bank (20,000 mAh+)—long drives and camp charging limited.
• Universal adapter (Type I Australian plugs); multi-port charger.
• Waterproof phone case for swims/snorkels.
• Camera with spare batteries/memory—dust-proof bag essential.

Laundry & On-the-Go Care

• Travel detergent and a few clothes pegs/line for camp washes (2-night stays allow drying).
• Quick-dry towel (microfibre); biodegradable soap/shampoo.
• Stain remover, small sewing kit for repairs.

Nice-to-Haves

• Swag pillow or inflatable for extra camp comfort.
• Binoculars for wildlife (dolphins, whales, gorge birds).
• Book/deck of cards for campfire downtime.
• Earplugs for snorers on overnight bus or dorms.

Do Not Forget (Region-Specific)

• Reef-safe sunscreen and rash guard—mandatory vibe for Ningaloo protection.
• Old clothes/shoes you don’t mind ruining—red Karijini dust stains everything.
• Fly net for head (north flies relentless dry season).

Leave Behind (or limit)

• Hard luggage, heavy jeans—soft, light, quick-dry only.
• Valuables/jewellery—minimal for camp security.
• Hair dryers/straighteners—limited power in camps.
• Excess toiletries—buy en route at roadhouses.

Local Insights

Big-Picture Vibe

• Western Australia's west coast is raw, vast and sparsely populated—think endless horizons, red dirt meeting turquoise seas, and a laid-back outback ethos where everyone waves on the highway.
• It's a mix of adventure seekers, grey nomads and locals who embrace the isolation; expect genuine "no worries" hospitality, but services thin out fast north of Perth—perfect for those craving unfiltered nature over crowds.

Respect & Etiquette

• Greet with a casual "G'day" or nod—locals appreciate directness but value personal space.
• Road courtesy: Slow down for wildlife, pull over for oncoming vehicles on dirt, flash lights to warn of roos or cattle.
• Indigenous land: Much of the route crosses Aboriginal country—ask permission for photos in communities, respect sacred sites (guides advise).
• Beach basics: No shoes in homes/camps; pack out rubbish everywhere—"leave no trace" is serious here.
• No hassling wildlife (dolphins, turtles)—keep 30 m distance; fines apply.
• Campfire manners: Share stories, but quiet after 10pm—thin tent walls.

Useful Phrases

• Aussie slang essentials: "Arvo" (afternoon), "Brekkie" (breakfast), "Snags" (sausages), "Thongs" (flip-flops), "Mozzie" (mosquito), "Bottle-o" (liquor shop).
• Road talk: "How ya going?" (hello/how are you?), "No worries" (you're welcome/no problem), "Fair dinkum" (genuine).
• Emergency: "Triple zero" (000) for help—signal weak remote.
• Tip: Locals love a yarn (chat)—ask about fishing spots or road conditions for instant mateship.

Money & Paying

• Cash king north of Exmouth: ATMs in Perth, Kalbarri, Carnarvon, Exmouth, rare beyond—stock up.
• Cards (Visa/Mastercard) work in hostels/roadhouses, but EFTPOS only (no Amex often); fuel expensive remote (~AU$2.50+/L).
• Budget generously: Fuel/food pricier outback; camps cheap but extras add up.
• Small notes for roadhouse snacks/tips; no haggling—prices fixed.

Tipping Norms

• Not expected in Australia: Round up fuel or add AU$5–10 for exceptional guide service end-of-trip if you feel it.
• Camp cooks/hostels: No tip—group thanks or help with chores appreciated more.

Safety Quick-Takes

• Low crime, but lock vehicles/camps—opportunistic theft rare but possible.
• Driving: Fatigue kills on long straights—share shifts, stop every 2 h. Wildlife dusk/dawn—slow down.
• Heat/dehydration: Serious risk—drink 4–5 L/day, watch for headaches.
• Gorges: Flash floods deadly—never enter if rain forecast upstream; check ranger updates.
• Marine: Stingers (Nov–May north)—wear suits provided; crocs rare but no swimming unmarked waters.
• Remote signal zero—download offline maps; satellite phone on bus for emergencies.

Transport Quirks

• Long drives: 500–700 km days common—podcasts, playlists, games essential.
• Dirt roads: Karijini access unsealed—slow going, deflate tyres if 4WD (guide handles).
• Road trains: Massive trucks—pull off fully when they pass.
• Fuel stops sparse (200+ km gaps)—fill up every chance; jerry cans on bus.
• Overnight coach: Reclining seats, but bumpy—eye mask/earplugs key.

Connectivity & Power

• Wi-Fi in hostels (decent Perth/Kalbarri/Exmouth), none in camps—Telstra best coverage, but black spots entire days.
• SIMs cheap in Perth (Optus/Telstra for outback); data pricey but vital for maps/music.
• Power: 240V Type I plugs (three flat pins)—bring adapter; solar chargers on bus, but outlets limited.
• Power banks must—long days without recharge.

Photography & Drones

• People: Ask first in Indigenous areas or camps—most happy if you share the shot.
• Wildlife: No flash on dolphins/turtles; keep distance.
• Drones: CASA rules—permits needed national parks (fines AU$1,000+); no fly near animals/airports—best skip unless registered.

Festivals & Closures

• Wildflower season (Aug–Oct south): Roads busier, blooms stunning Kalbarri.
• Whale shark peak (Mar–Jul Ningaloo): Exmouth crowded—book early.
• Wet season (Dec–Mar north): Roads/gorges close floods/cyclones—avoid if possible.
• School holidays (Jul/Sep/Dec–Jan): More families, camps fuller.

Nature Etiquette

• Leave no trace: Pack out all rubbish (bins rare); no feeding wildlife—fines and disrupts ecosystems.
• Reefs: Reef-safe sunscreen only; don't stand on coral or touch marine life.
• Gorges: Stick to trails, no graffiti—sacred to Traditional Owners.
• Fires: Total bans common dry season—use gas BBQs provided.

Sustainable Choices

• Support Indigenous tours/arts where offered; refill water stations to cut plastic.
• Eco-camps chosen—conserve water/power; buy local at roadhouses.
• Offset carbon if flying in; stick to paths to prevent erosion in fragile gorges.

City-by-City Micro-Gems

• Perth: Fremantle markets for coffee, then Kings Park sunset over skyline.
• Kalbarri: Pink Lake (Hutt Lagoon) flyover views; Nature’s Window golden hour.
• Monkey Mia: Dawn dolphin feeding—arrive early for front row.
• Coral Bay: Sunset over Bill's Bay—quietest reef access.
• Exmouth: Yardie Creek boat tour for black-footed rock wallabies.
• Karijini: Spider Walk in Hancock Gorge—thrilling narrow squeeze (conditions permitting).
• Broome: Cable Beach camel ride at dusk—iconic red pindan cliffs.

CO₂ Footprint
1. Results Summary (Topline)

• Estimated per guest 3.9 tCO₂e
• Estimated per tour 85.8 tCO₂e (assumed group size of 22)
• Counter-impact applied 200%
• Method note DEFRA-aligned, includes WTT, RF=1.9 for aviation, +10% uplift

2. Purpose
To transparently estimate the environmental impact of this tour, enabling sustainable travel decisions.

3. Tour Header
Perth to Broome West Coast Bus Adventure | Perth → Broome | 13 days one-way | Australia | Backpacker Adventure

4. Scope & Boundaries
Includes return flights from feeder hub to Perth, all internal ground transport, accommodations, included/group meals via kitty, and small activities allowance. Excludes personal travel to hub, optional extras, alcohol/snacks, shopping.

5. Feeder Hub — Single Origin City
SIN (Singapore)

6. Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults

• Aviation effective factor with RF+WTT ~0.30 kg CO₂e/pax-km for short/med as our conservative default
• Ground/bus factor ~0.10 kg
• Accommodation ~12 kg/night
• Meals ~2.5 kg/meal
• Activities allowance small fixed, once

7. Activity Data (applied)
Distances, nights, meals, allowance: aviation 8380 km, ground 4200 km, nights 12, meals 36, activities 50 kg

8. Results — Per Guest

• Aviation: 2514 kg
• Ground: 420 kg
• Accommodation: 144 kg
• Meals: 90 kg
• Activities: 50 kg
• Subtotal: 3218 kg
• +10% uplift: 322 kg
• Rounded total: 3.9 tCO₂e

9. Results — Per Tour
Assumed guest count 22: 85.8 tCO₂e

10. Assumptions
Distances great circle return SIN–PER (~8380 km total); ground km split across group; average occupancy high for bus; meals fully via kitty; camp nights same as hostels.

11. Versioning
Method version v1.0, date December 30, 2025

Tour-Specific FAQs

Where does the tour start and end, and what's the departure time?
The tour starts in Perth with a morning pickup (typically 9am Day 1 from central hostels/hotels). Ends in Broome around midday on Day 13 (one-way) or with return variants looping back. No fixed departure transfer—arrange flights/buses post-arrival in Broome.

What fitness level is required for the activities?
Moderate fitness needed: Daily hikes (2–6 km on uneven/rocky terrain in Karijini/Kalbarri), gorge scrambles/swims, and snorkelling (basic swimming ability). Opt-outs available for tougher sections—guide assesses on Day 1. Not suited for mobility issues due to remote trails/steps.

How do camping and swags work?
Multi-share tents (2 person, provided with mats/sleeping bags) at holiday parks/eco-camps; some safari tents in Karijini. Group helps setup/takedown—simple and social. Shared facilities (hot showers/toilets); one overnight coach with reclining seats.

What's the food kitty, and how does it work?
AU$100 contribution (cash to guide Day 1) funds group breakfasts/lunches/dinners—fresh groceries bought en route for participatory BBQs. Covers most meals except 2–3 pub dinners (~AU$25–40 self-funded). Dietary needs accommodated if notified early.

Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Yes—vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and allergies handled (notify at booking). Plenty of adaptable BBQ/veggie options; seafood heavy on coast. Guide shops accordingly—carry extras for very specific needs.

What's the baggage limit and what bag is best?
No strict kg limit, but soft duffel/backpack (60–80L max) essential for bus storage—no hard cases/wheels. One main bag + daypack; you'll carry short distances to camps.

Is there a single supplement or private accommodation?
Shared dorms/tents standard (mixed gender); private upgrades rare/limited in remote camps (extra fee ~AU$300–500 where available, book early). Solo travellers paired same-gender.

What's the tipping policy?
Tipping not customary in Australia—no obligation. If guide exceptional, AU$5–10/day voluntary end-of-trip gift appreciated (pooled).

How safe is the trip, especially remote areas?
Very safe overall—low crime in tourist spots. Guide trained in remote first-aid; sat phone on bus. Risks: Heat/dehydration (hydrate heavily), wildlife (no feeding), flash floods (gorges close if rain)—follow advice. 24/7 emergency support.

What currency and money access is there?
AUD cash essential north of Exmouth (ATMs sparse); cards in Perth/Kalbarri/Exmouth/Broome. Stock small notes for roadhouses. Budget extra for optionals/pub meals (~AU$300–600).

Can I do laundry on the trip?
Limited—hand-wash quick-dry items at 2-night stops (lines/pegs handy). Paid machines rare in hostels (~AU$5–10); pack for 4–5 day gaps.

What if bad weather affects activities?
Wet season (Dec–Mar north) may flood roads/gorges—alternatives like extra beach time or scenic drives. Dry season dust/wind common. Guide flexes safely—no refunds for nature closures.

What's the group size and age range like?
Max 26 (avg 15–22), mixed international backpackers—typically 18–39 but all ages welcome if fit. Social campfire vibe; solo travellers common (80%+).

How good is phone signal and Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi in hostels (decent Perth/Kalbarri/Exmouth), none camps. Telstra best coverage—black spots days in Karijini/Pilbara. Download offline maps/music; power banks crucial.

Are there many bugs or flies?
Flies relentless dry season (head nets advised north); mozzies evenings—strong repellent must. No major stinger issues with suits provided Nov–May.

Is travel insurance mandatory?
Strongly required—cover medical/evacuation (remote areas), activities (hiking/snorkelling) and cancellation for weather. Proof recommended.

Can I join late or leave early?
Fixed itinerary—no late joins/mid-departures due to remotes. Extensions in Broome easy independently.

What's the vehicle and drive days like?
Modern A/C bus with USB/trailer; long drives (400–1000 km some days)—stops every 1-2 h, playlists/games encouraged. One overnight coach section.

Any COVID or health rules still?
Minimal—no vax proof needed. Masks optional; sanitiser on bus. If unwell, isolate—guide handles flexibly.

Can I bring alcohol or buy en route?
Yes—BYO or roadhouse buys (cooler space shared). Dry communities rare on route; moderate for camp harmony.