Island Birds, Whale Sharks & Ningaloo Coast Wildlife

Arrive in Exmouth and meet your guide and fellow travellers for an evening briefing. Settle in and prepare for a week focused on wildlife, conservation and coastal exploration in the Ningaloo region.

Begin your marine exploration in the turquoise waters of the Ningaloo Lagoon. Cruise through coral-rich shallows and out toward the offshore islands in search of manta rays, leopard sharks, turtles, dolphins and, with luck, dugongs or humpback whales (in season). Seabirds and Wilson’s storm-petrels may be seen foraging above the water. Optional snorkelling is supported by an experienced crew.

Discover the western side of Cape Range National Park, where red gorges, limestone walls and white sand beaches frame a remarkable arid ecosystem. Join your guide on foot in a secret gorge to monitor Black-footed Rock-wallabies and record sightings as part of a conservation project. Keep watch for western bowerbirds, lizards, geckoes and early-morning dingoes, as well as raptors such as spotted harrier, osprey and wedge-tailed eagle. Visit mangroves and coastal lagoons for waders and shorebirds before exploring Yardie Creek Gorge.

Join a dedicated whale shark research and swim vessel for an unforgettable day on the Ningaloo Reef. Spotter planes guide the boat to feeding whale sharks, offering an excellent chance of viewing these gentle giants. Travellers who choose to swim receive full instruction and guidance from marine experts, while non-swimmers can observe from the deck and enjoy additional snorkelling locations. Along the way, look for turtles, rays, sea snakes, dolphins and colourful reef fish. All sightings contribute to the tour’s ongoing wildlife monitoring.

Travel to the eastern side of Cape Range, where deeply incised canyons cut through ancient limestone and offer sweeping views over Exmouth Gulf. Explore ridgetop paths and canyon floors while documenting flora and fauna. Look for kangaroos, goannas, Bustards and a wide range of arid-zone birds including finches, galahs, corellas, honeyeaters and fairy-wrens. This day highlights the dramatic geological contrasts that make Ningaloo unique.

Return to the western side of the Cape to explore more of the Ningaloo Coast World Heritage Area. With so much wildlife, geology and coastal scenery to discover, this second day provides flexibility to revisit high-interest areas, search for additional species or simply enjoy the region’s pristine beaches and coral-fringed lagoons.

Enjoy a relaxed final morning before departing Exmouth. Optional scenic flights over the Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range can be arranged, offering spectacular aerial views of the landscapes and wildlife experienced throughout the week.