Island Explorer
A guided West coast adventure tour with a mix of Outback, culture, history and island life.
Duration
12 Days
Region
Shark Bay, Kennedy Ranges
Group Size
Max 3 cars
Season
Apr - Oct
About This Adventure
The Island Explorer takes you on an unforgettable journey through Western Australia's stunning coastal archipelagos. From the turquoise waters of the Dampier Archipelago to the remote beauty of the Montebello Islands, this adventure showcases some of the most pristine marine environments in the world.
Over twelve days and eleven nights, you'll cover roughly 2,900 kilometres, driving through terrain that shifts from rugged ranges to vast coastal plains. Every stop reveals another face of Western Australia – remote, diverse, and full of character.
Travelling in our purpose-equipped Land Cruisers, we access remote areas that few visitors ever see. Depending on the season and conditions, you might snorkel in clear lagoons, spot marine life offshore, fish in secluded bays, or hike through ancient valleys. Weather, tides and road access shape each experience. No two Island Explorer trips are the same.
With comfortable camping setups and all meals prepared by our experienced guides, you can focus on what matters most: immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this remarkable region.
Key Information
Itinerary
Perth to Melangata Station
The journey begins early in Perth, where your Proudback guides meet you for an introduction and vehicle handover. After a short briefing, you'll take the wheel of your Land Cruiser 79 Series and head north. Most of the day is spent on sealed roads, allowing you to get comfortable with the vehicle's handling before the terrain turns remote. Stops along the way offer a taste of small-town Western Australia and a first sense of the distance and scale of the outback. By late afternoon, you'll arrive at Melangata Station, a working sheep station set within the Murchison region. This will be your base for the next two nights. Your Melangata team will welcome you with a 3 course homemade dinner and you have time to settle in and experience the nostalgia of station life staying in the historic heritage-listed Homestead rooms. As evening settles, you'll gather around the fire and enjoy your first night in the Australian Outback.
Melangata Station
After breakfast, the day begins with a full introduction to outback driving, led by your Proudback guides. You'll learn how to handle your Land Cruiser across different terrain, manage tyre pressures, engage four-wheel drive systems, and safely recover a vehicle if required. The session also covers essential outback travel skills, from navigation and communication to vehicle checks and the safe use of recovery gear. Training extends beyond driving. You'll learn efficient ways to manage supplies and water, and understand how Proudback ensures safety and comfort in remote environments. Every exercise is practical and based on real conditions you'll encounter in the days ahead. The afternoon is reserved for exploring the vast Melangata property. Evening brings another shared meal in the historic homestead, with time to talk through the coming days and the journey that lies ahead.
Melangata Station to Kennedy Range
After breakfast, vehicles are checked before the group heads north across the open plains toward Gascoyne Junction. The day's drive follows remote gravel roads through the red heart of Western Australia. Along the way, there's time for a relaxed stop and a picnic lunch surrounded by the quiet of the outback. The road offers long stretches with few signs of civilisation and a clear reminder of how vast this region truly is. By mid-afternoon, the group reaches the eastern gorges of Kennedy Range National Park, arriving in time to set up camp and watch the sun set over the range. In the evening, a community campfire brings travellers together to share stories and enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the outback.
Kennedy Range
Spending the day in the Kennedy Ranges, this is a no-driving day. After a big breakfast at camp, we set out on several short walks into the gorges and up onto the ridge. The tracks give a clear view of the range's structure and the scale of the surrounding plains and your guides share the story of the region's geology and its long cultural history. The afternoon is unhurried, with time to return to the ridge for golden hour, when the cliffs shift from deep red to soft orange as the sun drops. Camp remains in the same location for the night. The afternoon is relaxed at camp, followed by dinner and a quiet evening with the group. Nights can be cold in this region, and the stillness of the range makes it one of the standout camping locations of the trip. April Route Variation: In April, when inland temperatures make the Kennedy Range inaccessible, we drive straight to Wooramel River Retreat and spend the extra days in Dirk Hartog Island, exploring Francois National Park as a day trip from there.
Kennedy Range to Wooramel River Retreat
Leaving the range, the track turns south toward the Wooramel River Retreat, where the landscape changes again from stone and sand to the softer floodplains that follow the river. The final stretch is relaxed and open, passing through deep red country dotted with acacia scrub before reaching camp by early afternoon. The evening is spent at Wooramel River Retreat, with a hearty outback meal prepared by the Wooramel team, live country music, relaxing artesian baths and comfortable beds in Eco Tents for a solid night's rest.
Wooramel River Retreat to Steep Point
After breakfast, we leave Wooramel River Retreat and continue west toward the coast. The drive follows long stretches of gravel and sand, leading into the Shark Bay World Heritage area. As we turn toward Steep Point, the route becomes one of the region's standout four wheel drive tracks, marked by soft sand, limestone sections and tight, winding climbs. Tyre pressures are lowered and the technical driving begins in earnest. By afternoon, we reach Steep Point, the westernmost tip of mainland Australia. The area is known for its high cliffs, powerful ocean swells and remote setting. Camp is set on the beach at Shelter Bay, where the group prepares for the next day's crossing to Dirk Hartog Island.
Steep Point to Dirk Hartog Island
Before sunrise, we prepare the vehicles for the barge transfer across South Passage to Dirk Hartog Island. Loading the Land Cruisers onto the barge and reversing onto the island's sandy beach is an experience in itself and a hands-on start to the next stage of the journey. The crossing offers a chance to take in the marine life that defines this coast. Depending on the season, it's common to see dugongs, rays, turtles, dolphins, and occasionally whales in the clear shallows. Once on the island, we drive to the Dirk Hartog Island Homestead, home to the Wardle family, custodians of the island for three generations. A stop at The Inscription bar, known as Australia's most remote bar and café, offers time for a coffee and a look around before the convoy continues north. By afternoon, we reach our first island campsite – a quiet stretch of beach with sand dunes and uninterrupted ocean views. Swags are set up on the sand, and the evening is yours to settle into the rhythm of island life.
Dirk Hartog Island
After breakfast, we begin the off-road journey north toward Cape Inscription, following sandy coastal tracks through low dunes and rugged terrain. At the cape, we visit the historic lighthouse, the lighthouse keeper's cottage, and the replica of Dirk Hartog's pewter plate, left here in 1616 to mark his landing – a cornerstone of Australia's early exploration history. In the afternoon, the track continues to Turtle Bay, an important nesting site for the endangered Loggerhead turtles and a perfect spot to swim and snorkel. The drive offers a mix of soft sand and rocky sections, with wide views over the Indian Ocean. By evening, we return to our beachside campsite. Those keen on fishing can try their luck straight from the shore, often rewarded with a fresh catch from the clear island waters.
Homestead Bay
After breakfast, we pack down camp and begin the drive south toward Homestead Bay. The route follows familiar island tracks, giving one last look at Dirk Hartog's rugged coastline before reaching the comfort of the homestead area. The rest of the day is easy-going. There's time for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, or simply relaxing by the beach. Back at the homestead campsite, travellers can enjoy a few well-earned comforts like warm showers and proper facilities. As evening settles in, we gather for a private gin tasting at The Inscription bar, featuring spirits made from the island's native botanicals. It's a relaxed and memorable close to the island leg of the journey.
Marine Safari, Sharks and Blowholes
Day ten is dedicated to exploring Dirk Hartog Island's marine life. If conditions allow, we join a marine safari across the waters of Shark Bay, home to some of Western Australia's most remarkable species. The tour offers the chance to see dolphins, turtles, manta rays, sharks and, during the right season, whales in their natural environment. Those who prefer to stay on land can spend the day relaxing by the beach or visit the island's Return to 1616 conservation project, which works to restore native wildlife and vegetation. The island is now home again to several endangered species, including rare nocturnal marsupials once thought lost from the area. You can also snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, or simply relax by the water. In the afternoon we drive across the island to visit the blowholes, where the ocean forces water through the rock ledges in powerful bursts. The next stop is the shark nursery, a shallow bay where young sharks can often be seen close to shore. From there, we continue to Herald Heights for wide coastal views and the island's final sunset. On the return to camp, there's a chance to spot some of the island's reintroduced wildlife before one last evening together at the campfire.
Return to Mainland and Dongara
Day 11 brings an early start as we pack up and take the barge transfer back to the mainland. The drive south passes through Edel Land before returning to sealed roads. The final night is spent in Dongara. After checking in our hotel rooms for the night, you've got the chance to stretch your legs on the Dongara Heritage walk. That evening we gather for a farewell dinner to mark the end of the expedition. It's a relaxed close to the journey, a chance to reflect on the kilometres covered and the experiences shared before the return to Perth the next day.
Dongara to Perth
After breakfast, we begin the final stretch south to Perth. The drive follows the coastal highway before reaching the city by early afternoon. This marks the end of the journey. Vehicles are returned, gear is unloaded, and the group parts ways after twelve days covering some of Western Australia's most remote and memorable terrain.
Where Will We Go
Our 12-day journey covers approximately 2,900km through Western Australia's stunning Coral Coast and Gascoyne regions.
Pricing
All-inclusive pricing per group, in Australian Dollars.
Family
2 adults, 1-2 children aged 8–17
Total, all-inclusive
Couple
Party of 2
Total, all-inclusive
Solo
Single traveller
Total, all-inclusive
Prices cover guiding, vehicle, fuel, permits, camping setup and all meals on tour. See What's Included for the full list.
What's Included
- •Your own 4WD vehicle
- •Fuel for your whole trip
- •Basic car insurance
- •Experienced local guide throughout the tour
- •11 nights accommodation (mix of camping and eco-lodges)
- •All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
- •Barge to Dirk Hartog Island
- •National park entry fees
- •Fishing equipment
- •Camping equipment (swag, sleeping bag, pillow)
What's Not Included
- •Flights to/from Perth
- •Travel and health insurance (recommended)
- •Premium car insurance options
- •Alcoholic beverages
- •Personal expenses and souvenirs
- •Optional activities (e.g., scenic flights, Marine Safari)
- •Gratuities for guides (optional but appreciated)
Weather
The Shark Bay and Coral Coast region enjoys a semi-arid climate with warm temperatures year-round.
Best Season
April to October
Temperature
18°C - 32°C
Rainfall
Low, occasional showers
Water Temp
20°C - 26°C
We recommend bringing layered clothing, a sun hat, and reef-safe sunscreen. Evenings can be cool in the outback, so pack a warm jumper for stargazing nights.
Before You Go — Common Questions
Can I participate in a Proudback tour if I don't have 4WD experience?
Absolutely! No prior 4WD experience is required. Our experienced guides provide comprehensive briefings and are with you every step of the way, offering guidance and support throughout the journey. You'll quickly gain confidence behind the wheel.
Do we sleep outdoors and if so, what are the sleeping arrangements?
We camp under the stars in some of Australia's most spectacular locations. Each vehicle is equipped with high-quality swags (single or double) with comfortable mattresses. We also stay at established campgrounds and station stays that offer additional facilities.
Do we have access to toilets and showers on Proudback tours?
Yes! We carry portable toilet facilities for remote camping, and many of our campsites and station stays have toilet and shower facilities. Hot showers are available at most overnight stops, and we always ensure dignified and comfortable arrangements.
As we're remote, what happens if there's an emergency or I need to get in contact with friends/family/work colleagues?
Safety is our priority. All our vehicles carry satellite communication devices (satellite phones and/or PLBs) for emergency contact. While mobile coverage is limited in remote areas, we can facilitate emergency communications when needed. We recommend informing family of the tour dates and that contact may be limited.
What if I have dietary requirements? How does the catering work?
We cater to all dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergies. Simply let us know your needs when booking. Our guides prepare fresh, hearty meals using quality Australian produce, and we pride ourselves on our camp cooking.
Join the Island Explorer
Enquire now to check availability and secure your place