Exmouth, on Australia’s northwest coast, is a fantastic place for lovers of nature and outdoor adventures. Its proximity to Cape Range National Park and the Ningaloo Reef means you can enjoy a variety of experiences, from trekking through rugged canyons to stargazing under pristine dark skies. We especially love that the area offers intimate small-group tours, like the Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure, which provides personalized insights away from crowds. Whether you’re after a physically active day or a relaxed night under the stars, Exmouth has options to match your travel style.
Below, you’ll find a curated list of the top three national park tours in Exmouth, each offering a different way to experience this spectacular part of Australia. From full-day trekking to astronomy nights, these tours highlight the region’s natural beauty and unique landscapes.
1. Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure
This full-day trekking tour offers an immersive experience into the heart of Cape Range National Park. On this small-group outing—maximum of six people—you’ll explore the park’s magnificent gorges, canyons, coastal plains, and dunes. The tour kicks off with hassle-free hotel pickup from your Exmouth accommodation, ensuring a relaxed start. During the day, your guide shares in-depth insights into the landscape, helping you appreciate the geological and ecological significance of the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Coast.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on walking through less-visited paths, away from the crowds. Guests rave about the personal attention and knowledge of guides like Ian, who is described as “really interested in the people on his tour” and shares stories that bring the landscape to life. The itinerary includes stops at Cape Range National Park, Ningaloo Reef, and meeting points in Exmouth, making it a well-rounded day for those who enjoy active exploration. Expect a day packed with stunning scenery, fresh air, and meaningful insights.
Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, active way to see Cape Range’s gorgeous gorges and coastal scenery, this tour offers maximum value for its moderate price.
2. Exmouth Milyering: Cape Range National Park Astronomy Tour
For those who prefer to leave the daytime adventures behind and look up instead, this astronomy tour offers a memorable night under the stars. With a focus on pristine dark skies in Cape Range National Park, the tour features premium telescopes and laser-guided tours that reveal the constellations, planets, and celestial wonders.
This relaxed, inclusive experience is perfect for anyone curious about the night sky, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner. Traditional star stories are shared alongside explanations of contemporary science, making it both educational and entertaining. The group size is limited to five guests per scope, ensuring everyone gets a good view and plenty of personalized attention. The tour lasts about two hours, making it ideal for a short evening activity after a day of exploring.
Guests appreciate the storytelling aspect, with one noting that the experience connects science, culture, and wonder seamlessly. The dark skies in this part of Australia are among the best you’ll find, making this a highlight for night owls and star lovers.
Bottom Line: This astronomy tour is perfect if you want an accessible, engaging way to see the Southern Hemisphere’s starry sky with experts guiding the way.
3. Ningaloo: Private Wilderness Charter with Local Guide
If you’re after a fully customizable experience and prefer to set your own pace, this private wilderness charter offers the freedom to explore Ningaloo’s coastline and Cape Range with a local guide. The tour lasts around eight hours, giving you plenty of time to tailor your day based on your interests, fitness level, and preferred activities.
Your guide will help you learn about the region’s unique biodiversity, deep-time geology, and cultural stories. You can choose to relax and enjoy the scenery or take on more challenging hikes and water-based activities. The flexibility of this private tour means you can prioritize what excites you most—whether that’s snorkeling in Ningaloo Reef, visiting secluded beaches, or exploring canyons on foot.
While reviews are limited, the appeal is clear: this is ideal for travelers seeking a more personalized, in-depth experience with a local expert. The tour’s value lies in its adaptability, making it suitable for families, adventurous hikers, or anyone wanting a tailored day in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bottom Line: For those who want total control over their adventure and personalized insights into Ningaloo’s biodiversity and geology, this private charter is hard to beat.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and travel style. If you prefer active daytime exploration and enjoy walking through scenic landscapes, the Cape Range National Park Full-Day Trekking Adventure is your best fit. For night sky enthusiasts, the Astronomy Tour offers a unique, awe-inspiring experience. Those seeking customized, private exploration will appreciate the flexibility of the Wilderness Charter.
Budget, time, and physical fitness are also key considerations. The trekking tour offers great value for a full day, while the private charter provides a tailor-made experience at a higher cost. The astronomy night is short but memorable, perfect for adding a special touch to your trip.
Booking early is recommended, especially for the private tours and the popular stargazing evenings, to ensure availability during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Exmouth’s national parks offer a range of adventures, from energetic treks through stunning gorges to serene stargazing under some of the clearest skies in Australia. If you’re a physically active traveler eager to see the landscape firsthand, the Cape Range Trekking Tour is a fantastic choice. For those who love astronomy or want a relaxing evening activity, the Astronomy Tour provides an unforgettable night out. And if you want a personalized, flexible day exploring Ningaloo with a local, the Private Wilderness Charter is ideal.
Whatever your interests, Exmouth’s natural beauty delivers. Be sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, so you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences in one of Australia’s most scenic regions.