If you’re already in Exmouth, Cape Range National Park is easy to visit for a day of bushwalking or snorkeling. If you’re planning to visit from Perth, there are several 5- to 10-day tour options that take you to additional destinations such as the Pinnacles, Monkey Mia, and Shark Bay. If you’re short on time, flying from Perth is also possible.
In the park, highlights include exploring Yardie Creek by boat, swimming at Turquoise Bay, driving through Charles Knife Canyon or Shothold Canyon, and bushwalks at Mandu Mandu Gorge or on the Badjirrajirra Loop Trail. Potential wildlife sightings include red kangaroos, wallaroos, emus, and birds such as mangrove fantails.
*This area of Australia can be as hot as 120°F (50°C) in the summer. *Make sure you have plenty of water and sun protection. *The main park road is sealed and suitable for 2-wheel-drive vehicles; 4-wheel-drive is required to cross Yardie Creek. *When driving, watch carefully for wildlife, especially in the early morning, evening, and at night.
Cape Range is 30 miles (50 km) from Exmouth. The park is 800 miles (1,300 km) straight up the coast from Perth, amounting to a 14-hour drive. Flights are available from Perth to Exmouth’s Learmonth Airport.
Summer makes it hard to enjoy outdoor activities with the scorching heat, so opt for fall, winter, or spring; hiking and walking in the park should only be done between April and September. Winter is wildflower season. The Ningaloo Whale Shark Festival takes place in and around Exmouth in May.
