What is the departure point and time for the tour?
The tour departs from Criterion Hotel, 560 Hay St, Perth at 8.00 AM. Multiple pick-up locations are available across Perth city and Northbridge; please refer to the pick-up list provided.
What time does the tour return to Perth?
The tour returns to Perth at approximately 6.30 PM on Day 4. Drop-off is at the same location as the departure point unless otherwise arranged.
What is a suitable age for this tour?
Child policy for this tour is 6 years old and over, due to the nature of this tour, it’s not suitable for infants or children 5 years and under. Children aged between 6 to 17 years old are required to stay in standard private accommodation and must be accompanied by a legal guardian or adult.
Do you cater to special dietary requirements?
While we endeavour to cater to most dietary needs, passengers must advise dietary requirements to their booking agent at the time of booking. As we are venturing to remote areas we are very limited in what we can source once the tour departs, therefore prior notice is required. ie. Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten Free, Lactose Intolerant.
What type of food do we eat on tour?
Guests will enjoy a relaxed-paced Continental breakfast hosted by the accommodation providers. All other meals except for the final Day4 lunch will be at their own expense. There will be plenty of opportunities to dine out and try some local restaurants or cuisine along this coastline.
How fit do I need to be for this tour?
A minimum moderate fitness level is necessary to complete the walks, which range from 1 km to 2 km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 4.5km walk is included in this tour. Walks will be conducted at the guide’s discretion for guest safety. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
Where do we stay overnight on this tour?
We support several accommodation providers along Australia’s coral coast given the limited options available.
This trip has a fixed number of rooms allocated with each property, in the event we are not able to use our normal accommodation we will try to find a like-for-like substitute property. Solo travellers who book separately into Shared Accommodation will be paired with another solo traveller in a twin share room, where possible of the same gender but not guaranteed.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting?
Yes! This tour offers excellent chances to see dolphins, dugongs, emus, kangaroos, turtles, sea birds, and more in their natural environments.
Will I see the dolphins at Monkey Mia?
Yes, the tour includes the Monkey Mia Dolphin Experience. Dolphin sightings are common, though as wild animals, interactions are not guaranteed.
Why is Shark Bay a World Heritage Site?
Shark Bay is recognised by UNESCO for its exceptional marine biodiversity, ancient stromatolites (the oldest living fossils), and critical habitat for dugongs, dolphins, and turtles.
What makes Shell Beach so unique?
Shell Beach is made up of billions of tiny white cockle shells, stretching for over 70 km. The beach is stunningly bright and crunchy underfoot—unlike any other beach you’ll likely experience.
What are the Pinnacles, and how were they formed?
The Pinnacles are thousands of limestone spires rising from golden sands in Nambung National Park. They were formed over millions of years through a combination of natural erosion and fossilised marine life.
How long will we spend at the Pinnacles?
You’ll have ample time to walk among the formations, take photos, and learn about their geology and significance from your guide.
What’s special about the Lobster Shack lunch?
The Lobster Shack in Cervantes is famous for its fresh Western Rock Lobster and seaside location. You’ll also get a guided tour of the processing factory, offering a unique insight into the WA lobster industry.
What is Nature’s Window and the Kalbarri Skywalk?
Nature’s Window is a natural rock arch that perfectly frames the rugged Murchison River gorge. The Skywalk is a cantilevered platform extending over the edge of the gorge with incredible panoramic views.
Why is the Hutt Lagoon lake pink?
The vivid pink colour of Hutt Lagoon comes from naturally occurring algae called Dunaliella salina, which produces beta-carotene. The colour intensity can change with light, cloud cover, and time of year. No, swimming isn’t allowed, but you’ll have a fantastic photo opportunity at this unique spot!
What is the Geraldton HMAS Sydney II Memorial?
It’s a striking monument that honours the 645 sailors lost in 1941 when HMAS Sydney was sunk during WWII. It offers sweeping views over Geraldton and a moving tribute to Australia’s naval history.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours operate in most weather conditions. In cases of extreme weather or park closures, the operator may modify the itinerary for safety. No refunds are provided due to weather unless the tour is cancelled.
What is the minimum number of passengers required in order to operate?
A minimum of six people is required to operate our 4-Day Perth to Monkey Mia Tour. Our maximum number of passengers carried on this tour will be twenty three passengers. In the event that a tour is cancelled due to insufficient passenger numbers being met, we will transfer all monies paid for your departure.
What kind of vehicle do we travel in for this Perth to Monkey Mia?
We operate this tour with an average of 28 passengers, our standard vehicles are 28-seater Yutong midi-coaches. These vehicles are designed for safety and comfort on long journeys (air-conditioned), with large passenger windows for unobstructed views and USB charging ports. It is possible that the trip will be conducted in a smaller 24-seater such as a Mitsubishi Rosa bus.
How much luggage can I bring on tour?
We ask that guests travelling on short break/extended tours bring small soft overnight bags and hand luggage only as we have limited storage onboard our vehicles. Large suitcases and oversized luggage can be left at your hotel whilst you are on tour. We will allow passengers to bring a maximum of 15kg if they are travelling in one-way directions and finishing in a different location than the starting point. This tour is not suitable for anyone who requires the use of a mobility aid, wheelchair, walker, and or stroller.
Can I bring my CPAP machine on this tour?
While we understand the importance of CPAP machines for restful sleep, our accommodation providers will allow you access to electricity sources. Generally, there are limited power outlets in each room, and they may not be located close to the bed, making standard CPAP machines unusable. We recommend portable lightweight battery operated devices should you not be able to travel without one.
Are National Park fees included in the tour cost?
Autopia Tours includes Parks Australia fees in all our multi-day tour prices, this covers our guests for a 3 x National Parks which include Nambung National Park, Kalbarri National Park, Monkey Mia Conservation Marine Reserve. Park Passes are not available for purchase by guests not travelling onboard our tours.
Are Service Dogs allowed?
Guide dogs, hearing dogs and assistance dogs may be brought into the park but must be kept on a leash not more than three metres long. Formal Documentation needs to be provided.
Do I require travel insurance for this tour?
It is highly recommended that all passengers have personal travel insurance, given we’re exploring remote parts of Australia some regions have limited access to health professionals in the event of sickness or injury. Autopia Tours is not authorised to provide information on the type of plan or policy options available. This can be provided by an accredited local travel agent or from your preferred insurance company.
What is the temperature like in Western Australia?
The weather in Western Australia can fluctuate and be extreme at times. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius during the day and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.
Is it safe to travel in Australia’s outback? (Acceptance of Risk)
Australia is home to many dangerous creatures, extreme weather conditions, and varied terrain. Experiencing these dangers while camping, hiking, or passing time outside may increase your personal risk. Safety is our number one priority, and our guides are highly trained to ensure passenger safety at all times. Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or accident caused by passengers onboard Autopia Tours. In Western Australia, children must be at least 6 years old for day trips and 6 years old for overnight tours. Children under the age of 18 must always be accompanied by an adult, legal guardian, or caregiver. Despite all care being taken, the responsibility for children on tour lies entirely with their parents or caregivers. Passengers, including children, must wear shoes, sunscreen, and hats at all times.
What is your Vaccination Policy?
In accordance with current Government regulations, it is no longer a requirement to be double vaccinated, although we do highly recommend it.
