Pinnacles Desert Private Tour

Exploring the Pinnacles Desert in a private tour from Perth offers a tailored experience that’s perfect for travelers craving flexibility, comfort, and a richer understanding of this surreal landscape. We’ve reviewed this full-day excursion to see if it truly lives up to its reputation, and from what we found, it’s a compelling choice for those wanting an immersive and hassle-free adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the fact that it’s private means you can set your own pace—no crowded buses or rigid schedules. Second, the variety of stops, from wildlife encounters to sandboarding and gourmet tastings, promises a diverse and memorable day. Third, the high praise from previous guests about knowledgeable guides and stunning views hints at a well-organized, high-value experience. That said, keep in mind that lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan for that.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, wildlife, and quirky landscapes, but also appreciate comfort and personalized attention. If you’re after a comprehensive, flexible day trip with plenty of special stops, this private Pinnacles tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Customizable experience with private transportation and flexible pacing
• Includes visits to wildlife parks, sand dunes, and the Pinnacles Desert
• Sandboarding on the Lancelin dunes is included, perfect for adventure seekers
• Gourmet tastings of regional wine, chocolate, and fresh seafood are highlights
• Value lies in the personalized service and all-inclusive nature (excluding lunch)
• Expert guides make the journey more informative and engaging

What to Expect from the Pinnacles Desert Private Tour

This full-day adventure covers roughly nine hours, starting with a comfortable pickup from your Perth accommodation. The tour is operated by Libertino Travel, well-known for their attentive, private excursions that prioritize your group’s comfort and interests. For $363.71 per person, you get a lot of value—private transport, entry fees, bottled water, and activities like sandboarding included.

Morning Drive: From City Lights to Coastal Views

Your day begins with a personalized pickup around 9:30 am, after which the scenic drive kicks off. As you leave the city behind, you’ll pass through leafy suburbs, glide past Lake Monger, and then cruise along the coast, visiting popular beaches like Scarborough, Trigg, and Sorrento. This stretch isn’t just transit; it’s a chance to soak in Perth’s vibrant coastal lifestyle before heading north.

Lancelin Sand Dunes: A White Desert Adventure

Lancelin’s spectacular white dunes are a highlight—and a favorite among reviewers. You’ll stop at a dirt track right next to these towering sands, perfect for photos, strolling, or climbing. For the more adventurous, sandboarding is included, with sandboards provided, making it a fun, adrenaline-filled activity. One reviewer mentioned, “We could climb and walk along the dunes, and the sandboarding option really added an extra thrill.”

The dunes’ brightness and vastness are truly captivating, and the tour allows you just enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Whether you take photos or just marvel at the landscape, this stop is a visual feast.

Cervantes: Seafood, Relaxation, and Local Flavors

Next, the journey takes you to Cervantes, a tranquil fishing village famous for its fresh seafood. The group typically stops for a seafood lunch at Lobster Shack, offering delicious local lobster—though, since lunch is at your own expense, you may want to bring some snacks or plan to dine there. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to indulge in regional flavors, with one noting, “The lunch spot overlooked the water, and the lobster was fresh and flavorful.”

If seafood isn’t your thing, there are other menu options available, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. This stop also provides a relaxed break before heading into the more surreal part of the tour.

Nambung National Park and the Pinnacles Desert: Moonlike Marvels

The core of this adventure is the unique landscape of the Pinnacles Desert. Thousands of limestone formations, some up to four meters high, are scattered across the yellow rippled sand, creating an otherworldly scene. The tour includes a drive through the desert, with stops for photos and wandering among the formations.

A visit to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre offers insightful exhibits on the geology, flora, fauna, and cultural history of the area. Guests love the opportunity to learn about the formations’ origins and the desert’s ecological significance. One review mentioned, “The guide took us to interesting spots and shared fascinating facts about the desert’s geology and wildlife.”

The 4 km dirt track around the desert provides ample chances to explore and photograph this moonscape-like environment up close. This part of the trip is particularly popular for its surreal beauty—many describe it as a landscape straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Returning to Perth

After a full day of exploration, the tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to Perth, arriving in the early evening. The private nature of the trip means you can unwind and reflect on the day’s highlights without the rush of a larger group.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $363.71 per person may seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included—private transport, entry to the Pinnacles, sandboarding, bottled water, and the variety of stops. Without the need to pay for multiple tickets or be herded through crowded tours, you get a tailored experience that’s both convenient and enriching.

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who make a point to share insights beyond the typical script. One reviewer mentioned how the driver was “very friendly and took us to interesting and informative places.” This personal touch enriches your understanding of each stop and makes the experience more memorable.

Additional Activities and Tastings

The tour’s focus on regional wine, chocolate, and seafood tastings elevates it beyond just sightseeing. Sampling local flavors is a great way to connect with the region’s culture. The luxury tastings are not just filler but a genuine highlight, especially for food lovers.

Flexibility and Privacy

The private aspect of this tour means you can choose to spend more or less time at each stop, ask questions, or skip certain parts if you prefer. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families wanting a more intimate experience than a crowded bus tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is best suited for travelers with a curiosity for natural landscapes and wildlife, those who enjoy a mix of adventure and relaxation. If you appreciate personalized service and high-quality experiences—like tasting regional wines or exploring unusual landscapes—you’ll find this tour worthwhile. It’s also ideal if you’re traveling in a small group or want to avoid the crowds typical of larger tours.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

We believe this tour offers excellent value for those who want a comprehensive, flexible, and personalized day trip from Perth. The combination of wildlife encounters, stunning geological formations, and regional tastings makes it a well-rounded experience. Plus, the private nature guarantees a more relaxed and tailored journey.

Travellers who are keen on discovering the quirkiest landscapes Western Australia has to offer, while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guides, will find this tour particularly satisfying.

FAQs

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch at Cervantes is at your own expense, but there are plenty of tasty options at the Lobster Shack and nearby eateries.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately nine hours, starting at 9:30 am and returning in the early evening, providing a full day of exploration.

What activities are included?
Activities include visits to wildlife parks, sandboarding on the dunes, exploring the Pinnacles Desert, and regional tastings of wine, chocolate, and seafood.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but check with Libertino Travel for specific age restrictions or considerations.

What is the transportation like?
The tour uses private, air-conditioned vehicles, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Are there any additional costs?
Lunch is not included, so you’ll need to budget for that. Other than that, the entry fees and activities are covered.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through Viator, with most bookings made about 31 days in advance.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Final Thoughts

This Pinnacles Desert private tour offers a beautifully curated day that balances adventure with comfort and learning. Its personalized approach, combined with diverse stops—from wildlife parks to the lunar-like landscape—provides a well-rounded experience for curious travelers. Whether you’re into wildlife, geology, or regional food, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Western Australia’s natural charm in a relaxed, intimate setting.

If you’re after a hassle-free, engaging, and flexible way to explore these iconic sights, this private tour might just be your best bet.