by Dawn Teh
posted on October 10, 2024
A Perth to Karijini road trip will take you through some of Western Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes. From the turquoise waters and pristine beaches of the Coral Coast to the rugged red terrain of the Pilbara region, you’ll experience a stunning contrast of scenery that shifts from coastal to outback before finally arriving at gorge country in Karijini National Park.
Whether you’re looking for a quick 4-day getaway or prefer a more relaxed 7-day exploration, we’ve got the itinerary to suit your needs.
In this guide, you’ll find all the essential information to plan your trip, including driving routes, top attractions, dining spots, and accommodation options, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth and memorable journey to Karijini.
Jump ahead:
- An overview of the Perth to Karijini road trip
- Perth to Karijini drive map
- Other ways to get to Karijini from Perth
- Flight to Karijini from Perth
- Take a bus from Perth
- Top tips for driving from Perth to Karijini
- The perfect Perth to Karijini road trip itinerary: Choose your route
- Route 1: A stunning 4-day road trip to Karijini from Perth
- Route 2: A captivating 7-day road trip to Karijini from Perth
- Top stops along the Perth to Karijini road trip
- Frequently asked questions about road tripping to Karijini from Perth
An overview of the Perth to Karijini road trip
Before we get into the details of planning this road trip, here’s some top-level information to help you understand your journey.
- Distance between Perth and Karijini: Between 1,656 km and 2,187 km depending on what route you take.
- Drive time: 14 hours and 34 minutes (if you take the most direct route, not including any stops).
- Overview of road conditions:Roads are paved on the main roads, but you might find dirt or gravel roads at the entrance to natural attractions. You’ll find many unsealed roads in Karijini National Park.
- Best time of year to do this road trip: Autumn and Spring are the best times to visit. Winter is also a pleasant time to drop by for wildflowers and hiking, but it will be too cold to swim in the pools. Avoid summer months (Nov to Mar) as temperatures can rise to 40 degrees Celsius.
- Cost to drive to Karijini: Between $200-$300 for fuel each way, depending on your type of car. $150 to $250 a night for accommodation (if you’re booking motels and hotels), camping sites are cheaper ($20-$50).
- Choosing the right route option for yourself: Both routes take you along the breathtaking Western Australian coastline (instead of going inland through the Great Northern Highway) before heading east towards the Pilbara region. The main difference between the two options is the amount of time you’ll spend at major highlights on this journey.
- 4-day route: Best for those who have less time and prefer to see Ningaloo Reef from Coral Bay.
- 7-day route: Great if you have more time and would like to spend an extra day at Karijini National Park. Plus, you’ll see Ningaloo Reef from Exmouth instead of Coral Bay.
- Do I need a 4WD to drive from Perth to Karijini? A 4WD is not required to drive from Perth to Karijini and even within Karijini National Park itself. However, if you choose to explore some off-road attractions along the way, a 4WD is recommended.
Perth to Karijini drive map
4-day road trip itinerary
7-day road trip itinerary
Other ways to get to Karijini from Perth
While driving is one of the best ways to enjoy the journey from Perth to Karijini, here’s an overview of some of your other options to get there.
Flight to Karijini from Perth
The closest airports to Karijini are Paraburdoo Airport and Newman Airport. Once you arrive, you’ll need to hire a car to enter Karijini National Park.
Flight time and cost for Perth to Paraburdoo Airport: 1 hour 50 minutes ($800-$900)
Flight time cost for Perth to Newman Airport: 1 hour 45 minutes ($800-$900)
Take a bus from Perth
Integrity Coach Lines runs a bus service between Perth and Tom Price (about a 26-hour ride). From there, you can hop on another bus tour to explore Karijini National Park.
Top tips for driving from Perth to Karijini
Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper or a first-time traveller, your Perth to Karijini journey requires careful planning and preparation. From navigating long stretches of open roads to figuring out how to prep your car, there’s a lot to consider before hitting the highway. Here are some tips to help you make your epic drive along Australia’s west coast a safe, enjoyable, and unforgettable one.
Safety precautions when driving to Karijini
- Prepare your car: Ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Go for a thorough service check, and equip it with spare tyre along with basic safety tools.
- Don’t drive tired: Take regular breaks (stop at least every 2 hours), switch drivers if possible, and avoid driving during peak fatigue times, like late at night.
- Stay with your car if you break down: Your vehicle provides shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you. Don’t attempt to walk for help.
- Let others know about your road trip: Inform friends or family of your itinerary, including expected travel routes and check-in times.
- Bring a first-aid kit: Ensure it’s well-stocked and includes supplies for treating common outback injuries, like bites, stings, and burns.
- Have paper maps (or at least off-line maps): Mobile coverage can be unreliable, so have detailed maps to navigate without GPS.
- Consider a satellite phone: If you can’t get a satellite phone, try using the Telstra network as it has the best coverage in remote areas.
- Have enough food and water: Carry sufficient supplies for each leg of your trip (plus a little extra) in case of emergencies.
- Plan fuel stops: Know your vehicle’s fuel range and plan your route to include stops at fuel stations, ensuring you never run low.
- Ensure your car has the appropriate insurance and towing coverage: Verify that your insurance policy includes coverage for towing in remote areas.
- Research about driving on unsealed roads: There are sections of dirt and gravel roads on this journey (especially in Karijini National Park). Learn the proper techniques for driving on unsealed roads which can help you stay safe and conserve fuel.
Petrol stations and EV chargers between Perth and Karijini
There are sufficient petrol stations and EV chargers at the major towns along this journey. So you shouldn’t need to fill up jerry cans along the way.
However, there are sections along where refuelling and recharging facilities may be more spaced out (about 100 km between stations). This is especially so when heading inland towards Karijini.
Note that your last stop for refuelling or recharging before heading into Karijini National Park will be at the outback mining town of Tom Price.
You can check out Google Maps and PlugShare’s EV charger map to plan your refuel/recharge stops.
Vehicle checks and maintenance
It’s essential to do a basic vehicle check before setting off on a long journey like this one. Here are some key things to assess:
- Tyres: Check tyre pressure, tread depth, and ensure the spare tyre is in good condition.
- Fluids: Check your engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid.
- Battery: Ensure the battery is in good health, the terminals are clean, and it’s securely mounted.
- Lights and indicators: Test all headlights, tail lights, indicators, fog lights, and hazard lights.
- Windscreen and wipers: Check the windscreen for damage and ensure wipers are working.
- Basic tool kit: Carry a basic tool kit with items like car jack, wheel brace, and safety triangle.
For more information about preparing your vehicle for a road trip, check out this guide.
Cruise through your Perth to Karijini journey in a range of road trip-worthy vehicles like 4WDs and SUVs when you book on Turo. Explore car rental in Perth on Turo.
The perfect Perth to Karijini road trip itinerary: Choose your route
Whether you’re looking for a quick 4-day getaway or a more leisurely 7-day exploration, this guide will help you craft the perfect itinerary from Perth to Karijini. Both routes take you along Western Australia’s magnificent Coral Coast before heading inland towards the Pilbara Region where the crown jewel of the trip awaits — Karijini National Park.
Route 1: A stunning 4-day road trip to Karijini from Perth
Embark on a remarkable 4-day road trip from Perth to Karijini National Park, one of Western Australia’s most stunning destinations. Over the course of this adventure, you’ll experience the breathtaking Western Australian coastline and captivating national parks that define this incredible region. From breathtaking gorges to endless horizons, this adventure offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
- Distance: 1,656 km
- Time: 17 hours 45 minutes
- Route: Takes you along the Coral Coast up to Coral Bay before heading inland towards the Pilbara region through Tom Price
- Best for: Those who are short on time, top highlights on the Coral Coast and Karijini National Park
Day 1: Perth to Geraldton
On the first day, you’ll leave Perth and head north. As you make your way along the stunning Coral Coast, you’ll be greeted by coastal towns and dramatic desert landscapes.
- Distance: 420 km
- Time: Approximately 4.5 hours
- Top Attractions:
- Yanchep National Park: Serene walking trails, caves, and wildlife
- Lancelin sand dunes: Slide, bike, or four wheel down these massive dunes
- The Pinnacles: These striking limestone formations in Nambung National Park create a surreal landscape perfect for walking and photography
- Jurien Bay: Take a short break to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and spot local marine life, including sea lions and dolphins
- Where to Eat:
- The Lobster Shack (Cervantes): Fresh seafood
- Laian Restaurant (Geraldton): Middle Eastern cuisine with an Aussie twist
- Old Man & the Sea Rooftop Bar (Geraldton): Have a meal with expansive views of the ocean
- Where to Stay:
- Ocean Centre Hotel (4-star hotel with great ocean views)
- Geraldton Belair Gardens Caravan Park
- Greenough Nature Stay
Day 2: Geraldton to Carnarvon
Continue your journey north along the Coral Coast, passing the scenic Kalbarri National Park and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shark Bay. Kalbarri offers towering cliffs and colourful wildflowers, while Shark Bay provides unique natural attractions like Shell Beach and the stromatolites at Hamelin Pool. As you approach Carnarvon, you’ll notice the shift from coastal beauty to the fertile landscapes of this agricultural hub, known for its fresh produce and tranquil riverside setting.
- Distance: 480 km
- Time: Approximately 5 hours
- Top Attractions:
- Kalbarri National Park: Detour slightly to explore Kalbarri National Park’s diverse scenery featuring famous coastal cliffs and gorges; stop by Nature’s Window for an unforgettable photo opportunity with the Murchison River
- Hamelin Pool stromatolites: Marvel at the stromatolites which are one of the world’s oldest and rarest forms of life
- Shell Beach: Requires a bit of a detour, but this stunning stretch of coastline is breathtaking as it’s made entirely of small, white shells
- Where to Eat:
- The Jaffle Shack (Geraldton): A popular local cafe known for its creative toasted sandwiches and great coffee
- Sails Restaurant: Delicious seafood dishes sourced locally and fresh seasonal produce
- Mar E Sol Cafe Bistro: Hearty, pub meals
- Where to Stay:
- Carnarvon Motel (3-star hotel)
- Coral Coast Tourist Park (Cabins and caravan)
- Discovery Parks Carnarvon (Cabins and caravan)
Day 3: Carnarvon to Tom Price
On day three, you’ll begin your journey along the coast with a stop by the quiet beach town of Coral Bay before heading inland into the Pilbara region. Expect a drastic change in scenery as you leave the ocean views behind and venture into the Australian outback where you’ll encounter dramatic rock formations and vast stretches of red earth.
- Distance: 785 km
- Time: 8 hours 40 minutes
- Top Attractions:
- Coral Bay and Ningaloo Reef: Enjoy the pristine white sand beaches, diverse marine life, and vibrant coral reefs at this coastal paradise.
- Where to Eat:
- Fin’s (Coral Bay): Grab a quick brunch/lunch and coffee
- Red Plains Cafe and Dining (Cheela Plains Station): Rest stop for cake and coffee
- Red Breeze Restaurant: Serves Asian (mostly Thai) food
- Where to Stay:
- Tom Price Tourist Park
- Tom Price Hotel Motel
Day 4: Tom Price to Karijini National Park
The final day of your road trip is a short but exciting drive to Karijini National Park, one of Western Australia’s most iconic destinations. It would usually take 3-5 days to fully explore the park. But if you’ve only got a day, here are the top sites to see. Prepare for a day filled with incredible gorges, natural swimming holes, and unforgettable hikes.
- Distance: 100 km
- Time: Approximately 1 hour
- Top Attractions:
- Karijini Visitors Centre: This should be your first stop when exploring the park. Staff there will advise you which gorges or trails are currently open or closed. Some sites may not be safe for exploring because of weather damage.
- Dales Gorge: Experience the best of Karijini at this one location. Enjoy stunning Dales Gorge and Gorge Rim walking trails, admire the cascading Fortescue Falls, and take a refreshing dip in the refreshing waters of Fern Pool.
- Where to Eat:
- It’s best to pack food for this day, as options within Karijini are limited and there are plenty of scenic picnic areas around the park. There is only one restaurant at Karjini Eco Retreat, and bookings are essential.
- Where to Stay:
- Karijini Eco Retreat: Offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from unpowered camping sites to glamping-style luxury tents.
- Dales Campground
Route 2: A captivating 7-day road trip to Karijini from Perth
This 7-day itinerary follows much of the same route as the 4-day journey. However, you’ll have more time to explore the Coral Coast’s most famous destinations (including Shark Bay and Exmouth), along with an extra day at Karijini National Park.
- Distance: 2,187 km
- Time: 23 hours 25 minutes
- Route: Takes you along the Coral Coast up to Exmouth before heading inland towards the Pilbara region through the gold mining town of Tom Price
- Best for: You want a more in-depth exploration of the Coral Coast and Karijini National Park, you prefer to see Ningaloo Reef Marine Park from Exmouth
Day 1: Perth to Geraldton
The first day follows the same itinerary as the 4-day route. As you head north from Perth, top stops include Lancelin and the Pinnacles (Nambung National Park) which feature desert landscapes and other-worldly geological structures. You also have the option to drop by Jurien Bay to admire the local marine life, including the famous playful sea lions.
- Distance: 420 km
- Time: Approximately 4.5 hours
Day 2: Geraldton to Shark Bay
This day will be jam-packed with some of the best coastal and inland attractions on this trip. Start off with a quick visit to the famous pink lake before checking out Kalbarri’s beautiful gorges. Then, swim with dolphins, check out living fossils, and head out on a marine adventure at Shark Bay UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Distance: 410 km
- Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Top attractions
- Hutt Lagoon: The famous and highly Instagrammable pink lake.
- Kalbarri National Park: See Murchison River from a unique vantage point at Nature’s Window, and enjoy breathtaking views from Kalbarri Skywalk.
- Shark Bay: Meet the Monkey Mia Dolphins, explore the natural beauty of Francoise Peron National Park, try snorkelling at Dirk Hartog Island, see the cool Hamelin Pool Stromatolites, and enjoy the amazing tiny shells that form Shell Beach.
- Where to eat
- Finlay’s Kalbarri: Seafood restaurant with a laid-back outdoor setting.
- Shark Bay Bakey: Good for a quick bite.
- Oceans Restaurant: Hearty meals with great views.
- Where to stay
- Shark Bay Caravan Park
- Tasman Holiday Parks (Denham)
- Shark Bay Seafront Apartments
Day 3: Shark Bay to Carnarvon
Spend the morning finishing up the remaining activities in Shark Bay before exploring Carnarvon. This key agricultural town in Western Australia is known for its bananas and fresh produce. This peaceful stopover will have you enjoying the coastal breeze, sampling local flavours, or exploring the calming Gascoyne River.
- Distance: 330 km
- Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Top attractions
- Fruit Loop drive trail: Stop by the roadside stalls along this route to sample some of the region’s freshest produce.
- The Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum: Learn about the role Australia has played in NASA’s space programs.
- Point Quobba, Blowholes: Witness this powerful spectacle of ocean water spraying out high into the air as it passes through narrow rock crevices.
- Where to eat
- 6701 Waterfront Cafe: Cafe with scenic ocean views
- Miss Fang Cafe and Restaurant: Asian-inspired flavours
- Where to stay
- Coral Coast Tourist Park
- Carnarvon Motel
- Outback Oasis Caravan Park
Hire a car on Turo for your Karjini adventure. Choose from a range of SUVs, 4WDs, and more. Explore car rental in Perth on Turo.
Day 4: Carnarvon to Exmouth
As the gateway to Ningaloo Reef, Exmouth offers extraordinary opportunities to snorkel or dive amongst the vibrant reefs and marine life. If you have time, hop over to Cape Range National Park to explore the breathtaking limestone ranges.
- Distance: 365 km
- Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Top attractions
- Ningaloo Reef: Snorkel or dive alongside vibrant coral reefs and encounter incredible marine life, including whale sharks, manta rays, and turtles in one of the world’s most pristine underwater ecosystems.
- Cape Range National Park: Explore rugged limestone ranges, hike through deep gorges, and catch glimpses of the wildlife (including wallabies and emus) that calls this place home.
- Where to eat
- Exhale Exmouth: Great fresh seafood and interesting cocktails.
- Whalebone Brewing Company: Craft beers and pizzas.
- Where to stay
- RAC Exmouth Cape Holiday Park
- Ningaloo Caravan and Holiday Resort
- Ningaloo Lodge Exmouth (3-star hotel)
- Yardie Homestead Caravan Park
Day 5: Exmouth to Tom Price
Today, you’ll venture inland towards the Pilbara region and stop over at the mining town of Tom Price. This drive takes you into the heart of the outback, where the landscape shifts to dramatic deep red earth and rugged terrain. Tom Price, located near Karijini National Park, is the ideal base for exploring the surrounding gorges and nature.
- Distance: 570 km
- Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Top attractions
- Mount Nameless: Hike (total walking distance of 4.5km, 3-hour return) or drive (4WD only) to the summit of Mount Nameless for panoramic views of Tom Price and the vast Pilbara landscape.
- Rio Tinto Mine Site Tours: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the operations and machinery of iron ore mining at the Rio Tinto Mine Site Tours.
- Where to eat
- Red Breeze Restaurant: Asian-inspired meals
- Mean Bean Coffee Shop: Sandwiches, pastries, and coffee
- Daffy’s Coffee: Opens early, good coffee
- Where to stay
- Tom Price Tourist Park (Powered campsites, chalet, cabins)
- Tom Price Hotel Motel
Day 6: Tom Price to Karijini National Park
You’ve finally reached the highlight of the trip — Karijini National Park. Prepare to be amazed by the spectacular gorges, waterfalls, and ancient rock formations that await you.
- Distance: 570 km
- Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Top attractions
- Karijini Visitors Centre: This should be your first stop when exploring the park. Staff there will advise you which gorges or trails are currently open or closed. Some sites may not be safe for exploring because of weather damage.
- Dales Gorge: Experience the best of Karijini at this one location. Enjoy stunning Dales Gorge and Gorge Rim walking trails, admire the cascading Fortescue Falls, and take a refreshing dip in the refreshing waters of Fern Pool.
- Where to eat
- It’s best to stock up at Tom Price and bring your own food and drinks to the park.
- Where to stay: You can either continue staying at Tom Price and head into Karijini National Park the next day, or spend a night at the park itself at these locations:
- Karijini Eco Resort (ranges from unpowered camping sites to luxury tents; bookings essential)
- Dales Campground
- Karijini Overflow Campground (only open from April to October)
- Important tips when visiting Karijini National Park:
- Facilities are minimal at the park. Bring enough food and water with you, and always take your trash with you.
- Stop by the Karijini Visitor Centre first before exploring the rest of the park. Staff there will be able to provide you with the latest information about the park’s attractions (some may be closed due to weather conditions).
Day 7: Explore Karijini National Park
Spend your final day fully immersed in the natural beauty of Karijini National Park. After exploring the eastern side at Dales Gorge the day before, devote today to discovering the western end, where you’ll encounter more dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear natural pools.
- Top attractions: Hamersley Gorge, Hancock Gorge, Knox Gorge, Red Gorge, Joffre Falls, Handrail Pool, Spa Pool
Top stops along the Perth to Karijini road trip
From coastal towns to ancient gorges, there are plenty of things to see and experience along your Perth to Karijini road trip. Here are the top stops you shouldn’t miss on this adventure.
Yanchep National Park
Kick off your adventure by wandering through Yanchep National Park (just 45 minutes from Perth). Explore the historic limestone caves, get up close to native wildlife like koalas and kangaroos, head out on a bushwalk, or even get your adrenaline pumping at the Treetops Adventure high ropes course.
Jurien Bay
Spend the day snorkelling, fishing, and even swimming with sea lions at this peaceful coastal town that’s famous for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.
Kalbarri National Park
From dramatic coastal cliffs to inland gorges and scenic lookouts, Kalbarri National Park covers a wide range of natural attractions that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty. Take a hike to Nature’s Window, views at Kalbarri Skywalk.
Shell Beach
This unique beach (just 45 km from Denham) is made up entirely of tiny white shells stretching over 100 kilometres. The calm, shallow waters also make it perfect for a relaxing stop and an ideal spot for photos.
Shark Bay
There’s plenty of marine adventure at the Shark Bay World Heritage Site. Spend the morning meeting dolphins at Monkey Mia, explore the untouched landscapes of François Peron National Park, or join wildlife tours to spot dugongs and turtles.
Hamelin Pool Stromatolites
Walk along a 200m boardwalk to see these fascinating rock-like living fossils formed by cyanobacteria. They’re said to be some of the oldest lifeforms on Earth and offer a rare glimpse into the early history of our planet.
Point Quobba, Blowholes
Watch as powerful ocean swells force water through the narrow holes of the sea caves below, creating a spectacular water fountain that reaches up to 20 meters in height. You can spot this amazing natural phenomenon just 75 km out of Carnarvon.
Coral Bay
Just 2.5 hours north of Carnarvon, Coral Bay is your gateway to some of the most breathtaking marine and coastal adventures you’ll ever experience. Stroll along the idyllic Coral Bay Beach or explore the area on a dune buggy before heading off on a Ningaloo Reef tour.
Ningaloo Reef
Snorkel and dive in the world’s largest fringing reef and meet some of Australia’s most amazing sea creatures. Join a tour and swim with the manta rays, sea turtles, and even the majestic humpback whales in the area’s crystal-clear waters. If you’re not keen to get into the water, hop on one of the equally amazing glass boat tours.
Dales Gorge (Karijini National Park)
At Dales Gorge, you can access several of Karijini’s most iconic attractions. Take a walk around the Gorge Rim trail, admire the majestic Fortescue Falls, and have a refreshing swim in Fern Pool.
Frequently asked questions about road tripping to Karijini from Perth
How many days do you need at Karijini?
It’s best to spend at least 3 to 4 days in Karijini National Park. This will allow you enough time to hike the gorges, swim in the waterholes, and visit key attractions like Dales Gorge and Oxer Lookout.
Do you need a 4×4 to go to Karijini?
A 4×4 is not strictly necessary to reach Karijini as most roads are accessible by 2WD. However, a 4×4 is recommended for exploring the park itself as most of the roads are unsealed within the grounds.
What is the best month to visit Karijini?
The best time to visit Karijini is between May and October when the weather is cooler and perfect for hiking. This period avoids the extreme summer temperatures which can rise to 40 degrees Celsius on some days.
Where do you stop from Perth to Karijini?
Popular stops between Perth and Karijini include Geraldton, Kalbarri, Monkey Mia, Carnarvon, and Exmouth, each offering unique attractions like coastal views, wildlife encounters, and marine adventures.
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
