mt augustus tours

Burringurrah - Mt Augustus Explorer

Encompassing only 9,168 hectares, Mount Augustus National Park may be small in size, but it features one of the region’s biggest attractions, Mount Augustus—known to the Wajarri as Burringurrah. 

At a height of 1,105 metres above sea level, this charismatic mountain joins the league of WA’s highest peaks. Extending about 14 kilometres in length, with an average width of five kilometres and towering up to 715 metres above the surrounding plain, Mount Augustus looks like a massive island rising out of a green ocean of acacia scrubland.

Join us and...

...enjoy a lunch stop at the Kennedy Range with time to see some of its amazing features. 

...stay at Mt Augustus Tourist Park and spend a full day at the mountain tailored to the likings and fitness level of the group – with eleven walk trails to choose from and many other rewarding activities such as bird watching, stargazing and photography.

...go wildlife spotting: with over 100 bird species and some charismatic reptiles to discover. 

...visit engrossing Aboriginal art sites and learn about the Wajarri`s spiritual connection to the land and about the history of the first European pioneers.

...experience memorable sunrises and sunsets.

Detailed Itinerary (from Carnarvon)

7.30 am: Pick up from your accommodation in Carnarvon.

7.30 am – 9.30 am: Follow the Carnarvon-Mullewa Road to the small settlement of Gascoyne Junction where you enjoy morning tea on the banks of the Gascoyne River.

11 am – 1 pm: Arriving at Kennedy Range National Park. Visit the amazing Honeycomb Gorge and (time permitting) wander through the colourful Temple Gorge before enjoying some delicious lunch in front of the majestic escarpment.

1 pm – 5 pm: Continue on your journey to Mt Augustus (a further 250 km on dirt roads) and enjoy a relaxing drive in a comfortable air-conditioned car with plenty of time for an informative talk. Afternoon tea will be served on the way. 

5 pm – 8 pm: After your first glimpse of the majestic mountain and a photo stop on an elevated lookout proceed to the Mt Augustus Tourist Park. Here you can settle down in your accommodation and refresh while your guide prepares dinner. Dinner will be served under the stars (weather permitting) with silhouette of Mt Augustus in the background.

A full day of exploring tailored to the likings and the fitness level of you and the other passengers of the tour. Whether you are energetic enough to conquer the summit or whether you would prefer a variety of smaller walks (there are eleven amazing trails to choose from); whether bird watching, nature photography or botany is your preference, your guide will be on your side and make sure you make the most of your visit.

Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be served at scenic location around the mountain, depending on your choice of activity.

Enjoy sunset drinks (BYO) at a lookout and then return to the Tourist Park for dinner. End the day chatting to fellow travellers around the campfire or enjoy a hot cuppa at the foot of the mountain while star gazing and learning about the wonders of the night sky (weather permitting).

Day THREE  

5 pm – 8 pm: Enjoy a different view for sunrise from the lookout on Yallowerie Hill, 6 km north of the Tourist Park (optional). Breakfast will be served back at the Tourist Park. After packing up it's time head home. Enjoy morning tea while taking in some pastoral history at Cobra, visit the old shearing shed and nearby ruins of an out station.

11 am – 6 pm: Return to Carnarvon via the same route but this time with multiple stops along the way to appreciate the unique Outback. Marvel at some intriguing rocky plains, sweeping views up to the horizon, inland rivers and wildflowers (in season). Lunch and afternoon tea will be served along the way.

Morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are included in the tour. If you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, please notify us at least three days in advance.

See also our General Terms and Condistions.  

What to bring...

Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, long-sleeved Shirt.

Warm clothes (in winter): Remember that in winter the evenings and nights in the inland can be very cold and that you will spend most of the day outside (including the evenings!).

Sturdy footwear: The surface of most walking trails is rocky and uneven.

Daypack: Suitable for hiking. 

Camera & binoculars: There will be lot's of opportunities to use either of These.

Please limit your luggage. Take only soft bags that should not exceed the weight of 10kg.

PO Box 27, Denham WA 6537, Australia

Mobile: 0427 385 178

www.naturetimetours.com

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Outback Coast and Mt Augustus Tour – 11 Days

Perth – Kalbarri – Monkey Mia – Denham – Denham/Francois Peron National Park  – Gascoyne Junction – Mt. Augustus  – Carnarvon – Denham – Geraldton – Perth

Tour Overview

Take a colour-filled road trip where yellow moonscapes, ancient red gorges and wildflower blooms meet Indian Ocean blues. Mount Augustus National Park may be small in size, but it features one of the region’s biggest attractions, Mount Augustus. You will also encounter one of Australia’s most unique landscapes, the Pinnacles Desert. And all that in a small group up to 12 passengers only.

Pinnacles (Nambung National Park)

Kalbarri national park, shark bay world heritage area with shell beach and stromatolites, monkey mia dolphins, kennedy range national park & mt. augustus national park, carnarvonspace & technology museum, aboriginal art sites, wildflowers (seasonal).

Tour dates:

Every Tuesday

Guaranteed departure:

Min. 2 passengers

Private tours:

Can be booked as a private tour (May – September) – surcharge apply

Combine this tour with:

• All day tours
• 2 Days Margaret River Tour
• 2 Days Margaret River Wine Tour Exclusive
• 2 Days Margaret River Cycle & Wine Tour
• 2 Days Barna Mia Nocturnal Wildlife Tour
• 3 Days Southern Experience Tour
• 8 Days Best of the South West Tour

Block out dates:

04.04.2023 / 11.04.2023 / 01.12.2023 – 31.03.2024

Price per person incl. GST in double room: on request Price per person incl. GST in single room: on request

Services Included

Transport & accommodation.

Transport in an air-conditioned bus or 4WD with a maximum of 12 passengers per vehicle

Accommodation during the tour 8x in Hotel/Motel

Accommodation during the tour 2x in Cabins (Mt. AugustusTourist Park)

Entry fees National Parks, World Heritage Area Shark Bay, catamaran cruise in Monkey Mia, Shark Bay Interpretive Centre, Space & Technology Muesum Carnarvon

Meals (10x B – Breakfast / 7x L – Lunch / 3x D – Dinner)

Free drinking water

Comprehensive information kit in vehicles

English speaking guiding

German  speaking guiding

French  speaking guiding and other languages on request only

24/7 English/German/French emergency assistance

Day 1 Perth – Kalbarri

We begin today’s journey via Perth’s wine growing region, the picturesque Swan Valley. New Norcia, the only Benedictine Mission in Western Australia and its Spanish atmosphere will invite you to a break. This carefully chosen, beautiful piece of land represents an important era of Australian history. We head north towards Geraldton, the sunniest town in W.A. Cruising along the coastal road we enter the Kalbarri National Park via Port Gregory. You can experience some of the most picturesque grazing land as well as the rough coastline. In the early evening we will arrive in the “laid back village” of Kalbarri.

Accommodation: Kalbarri Palm Resort, Kalbarri (Breakfast)

Day 2 Kalbarri – Monkey Mia

After breakfast we farewell Kalbarri. We continue into the Kalbarri National Park with breathtaking views down to the Murchison Gorge. Drive to the World Heritage area of Shark Bay where we stop at Hamelin Pool where the world best known colony of stromatolites can be admired. In the afternoon we arrive in Monkey Mia, home of the well-known dolphins. We will take a cruise on a catamaran to experience the silent sensation of sailing and capture the five-star view of the coastline.

Accommodation: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Shark Bay (Breakfast)

Day 3 Monkey Mia – Denham

In the morning you have the opportunity to come face to face with these famous dolphins. In Denham we pay homage to this World Natural Heritage area with a visit to the Shark Bay Interpretive Centre. The afternoon is for leisure.

Accommodation: Shark Bay Seafront Apartments, Denham (Breakfast)

Day 4 Denham – Francois Peron National Park

Today we will be exploring the close-by amazing Francois Peron National Park. It allows immersing you in nature and feel the energy of this world class park to where the red sand from the desert kisses the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. We visit Point Peron and spectacular Skipjack Point. We look for turtles, rays and dugongs (seasonal). On the way back, we will watch out for lizards, birds and rare and endangered wildlife.

Accommodation: Shark Bay Seafront Apartments, Denham (Breakfast / Lunch)

Day 5 Denham – Gascoyne Junction

Today we are heading north. Near Wooramel Roadhouse we leave the highway towards the Outback settlement of Gascoyne Junction on the banks of the Gascoyne River. A nearby waterhole offers good bird watching opportunities and makes a great spot to enjoy sunset.

Accommodation: Junction Tourist Park, Gascoyne Junction (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Day 6 Gascoyne Junction – Mt. Augustus

In the morning we visit the impressive Kennedy Range National Park. After exploring the fascinating Honeycomb Gorge, we marvel at some unusual rock formations and intriguing Aboriginal petroglyphs. Lunch is served at a special place with commanding views of the magnificent escarpment. After lunch we set off to Mt. Augustus.

Accommodation: Mt. Augustus Tourist Park, Mt. Augustus (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)

Day 7 Mt. Augustus

Enjoy a full day of exploring the magnificent mountain tailored to the likings and fitness level of the group. Walk some of the eleven amazing trails, visit engrossing Aboriginal art sites and learn about the Wajarri’s spiritual connection to the land and about the history of the first European pioneers. For sunset drinks we settle down on a little hill which offers breathtaking views of the mountain and, finally, after dinner it’s time for stargazing.

Day 8 Mt. Augustus – Carnarvon

Today we enjoy the magnificent sunrise from a lookout before we slowly make our way back to the coast. Return to Carnarvon via the same route but this time with multiple stops along the way to appreciate the unique Outback. We marvel at some intriguing rocky plains, enjoy sweeping views up to the horizon, cross some beautiful inland rivers and enjoy carpets of wildflowers (seasonal).

Accommodation: Hospitality Motel, Carnarvon (Breakfast / Lunch)

Day 9 Carnarvon – Denham

We start the day with a good look around in Carnarvon, visiting the Space & Technology Museum. The Museum offers a fascinating insight into the early stage of manned space travel and Australia’s contribution. After the visit it is time to head back to Denham.

Day 10 Denham – Geraldton

Today we will visit amazing Shell Beach. A visit to Mount Scott gives you the opportunity of an outlook over the town of Geraldton and Grey’s Bay. Here is also the memorial for the victims of the sunken warship HMAS Sydney II.

Accommodation: Hospitality Motel, Geraldton (Breakfast)

Day 11 Geraldton – Perth

Our sightseeing this morning brings us to the architecturally interesting St. Francis Xavier Cathedral in the town centre. Leaving Geraldton, we head south along the coast via Leeman and Jurien Bay towards Cervantes. Here we visit the “Lobster Shack” and – after a delicious lunch – we get a lot of insights into this multimillion dollars export industry. In the afternoon we will visit Nambung National Park. The Pinnacles are among the most visited natural wonders of the state. Thousands of limestone pillars rise out of a stark landscape of yellow sand. There is ample time to explore the area and to take some colourful photos from these amazing formations. These impressions of lights and colours will stay with you for many years to comeWe arrive back in Perth early evening when you will be transferred back to your chosen hotel where our round trip concludes.

Please note:

Please do not take any suitcases on tour to Mt. Augustus. Luggage for 5 days / 4 nights is sufficient. The remaining luggage can be stored at your hotel in Denham.

Outback Coast and Mt. Augustus 11 Day Tour EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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MORE TOURS!

Darwin to Perth 19 Days Tour

Perth to Darwin 19 Days Tour

Broome to Perth 10 Day Tour

P : +61 (8) 9331 3933 E : [email protected] W : want-tours.com.au A : 32 Paitt St, Willagee, WA 6156

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• Australia's Golden Outback

Mount Augustus National Park

We recognise and acknowledge Wajarri people as the traditional owners of Mount Augustus National Park.

Discover the colour and sounds of Mount Augustus. Take a relaxing drive around the base or choose from one of the many walk trails to discover ancient Aboriginal rock engravings, wonderous wildlife and incredible scenery along the way.

No park entry fee

• Need to know

About this park

Attractions, maps and brochures.

Marvel at the sheer scale and fascinating ancient geology of Mount Augustus on a 49km 2WD friendly Loop Trail, which allows access to all places within the park including Aboriginal rock engravings (petroglyphs), gorges and open plains. 

You might be lucky enough to see wildlife including bungarras (goannas), perenties, euros and birds of prey - particularly at dawn and dusk. With the landscape ablaze with vibrant hues, your selfies will never look better. 

Choose from the many walks on offer from a saunter through shady groves of gnarly white-barked river red gums. In cooler months, fit and appropriately equipped experienced bushwalkers take on the challenging climb to the summit to soak up the views.  

Take a refreshing dip or unload the canoe at Cattle Pool – a natural permanent pool bustling with birdlife including blue-winged kookaburras and sacred kingfishers. 

Review - Simply Stunning 

This is one of those places I had been wanting to go to for a long time and I was not disappointed. The fact that is it a long way away from anywhere adds to its allure. The remoteness of the location is awe inspiring.  KeithMac – Trip Advisor

Safety information

Plan  when to visit . Read this safety information about  hiking at Mount Augustus ,  bushwalking  and  paddling . Consider travelling with a personal location beacon (PLB). In the event you need to be rescued it could save your life! 

The risks from exposure and dehydration are significant in this area. During the hotter months (September to April) these risks are extreme and temperatures can often exceed 40°C. Radiant heat from the rocks can increase the temperature by 5-10 degrees celsius. Prepare well for your hike:

• Avoid hiking in hot weather – hike in the coolest times of the day. Temperatures can be extreme, exceeding 40°C. Radiant heat from the rocks can increase the temperature by 5 – 10 degrees Celsius.
• Plan and prepare – Use this form to provide a trusted responsible person with enough detail of your travel plans so they can get help if required. Ask them to raise the alarm if you haven’t returned and/or contacted them by the agreed time.
• Start slowly - spend a few days hiking shorter trails before considering longer hikes.
• Hike in groups - of three or more experienced hikers to allow for emergencies and stay on marked trails.
• Physical fitness - Use trail classification information to choose trails that match your fitness level. Know your limits!
• Water - Carry and drink a minimum of one litre per person, per hour when hiking and more in hotter weather. There is no drinking water in the park.
• Dress appropriately - Wear a broad brimmed hat, loose long-sleeved clothing, sturdy footwear and sunscreen.
• Carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) - or satellite phone, it could save your life. Mobile phone coverage is extremely limited.
• Weather - Take note of the weather before you leave and be prepared for unexpected weather changes.
• Take care – only walk as fast as your slowest group member and watch out for their wellbeing. Stop frequently to let them catch up and rest.

If attempting the Summit Trail:

• Spend a few days hiking shorter trails before considering your ability to tackle this challenging trail.
• Only very fit and experienced bushwalkers should attempt this full day, very challenging hike .
• Fill out the Summit Hiking Form  and leave on your vehicle dashboard. Also available from Mount Augustus Tourist Park.
• Heat stress can kill - some hikers have not survived this trail.
• I t’s hard work going up –  it’s even harder coming back down.
• Rescues put other lives at risk and can take time as there is no rescue helicopter in this region.

The Summit Trail is :

• open – May to August.
• closed after 7am – September, October, March and April. Start your hike before 7am in these months.
• closed – November to February.

• Know your limits and turn back if you feel fatigued.

Mount Augustus

Smartreka maps

Smartreka Maps, by  WA Parks Foundation , make it easier for you to navigate your way around some of Western Australia's national parks. 

Before you go, download free, geo-referenced maps of Mount Augustus National Park to your mobile device and locate yourself without the internet. Download the Avenza Maps app from the App Store or Google Play .

Park feature article

Read the  LANDSCOPE  article about Mount Augustus National Park .  

Bushwalking

There are a range of trails of varying degrees of length and difficulty. Spend a few days doing shorter hikes before considering the longer and much more difficult trails. All trails in the park are essentially unmodified, often steep and with limited directional signage on the difficult trails. Hikers should download the Mount Augustus National Park Burringurrah visitor guide and visit Trails WA for more information on each trail. The following walking trail classifications apply to Mount Augustus hikes. Please respect the Wajarri Traditional Owner’s request that visitors do not walk the mount at night for reasons of safety and heritage protection. Class 3

Moderate hiking trail with clear directional signage. May include minor natural hazards such as short, steep sections, steps, and unstable or slippery surfaces. An average level of fitness is needed.

Challenging, rough, unformed trail with very difficult sections and limited directional marking. You may encounter natural hazards such as long, steep sections, rock scrambles, and frequent unstable or slippery surfaces. Only for self-reliant, very experienced bushwalkers with a high level of fitness.

Canoeing and kayaking

Plants, wildlife and fungi.

Visit the Atlas of Living Australia for a list of species recorded in Mount Augustus National Park.

Traditional Owners

Beedoboondu

Experience Mount Augustus from the base to the summit.

There are large and graceful river gums along a boulder strewn gully and impressive views from Edney's Lookout.

A short trail leads to a rock wall with Aboriginal engravings called petroglyphs.

Shady old-growth River Red Gums are a feature.

Views over the Lyons River and the plains beyond.

A natural basin used by drovers from the early 1900’s for holding cattle.

Permanent water in the tree-lined Lyons River attracts a diversity of wildlife including water birds.

Saddle Trail - The Pound

The Saddle Trail is an 800m return hike involving loose rocks, unstable and slippery surfaces and crosses a usually dry creek bed. A good level of fitness is needed to climb a moderate slope to the saddle that provides a view over the Lyons River valley to the north.

Summit Trail

The very difficult 12.5km Summit Trail located in Mount Augustus National Park takes walkers to the top of the biggest ‘rock’ in the world. Only very fit and experienced bushwalkers should attempt this full day very difficult hike. Expect a very steep unformed trail with rock scrambling. The trail ascends over 650m to the summit that offers extensive views of the surrounding plain and distant ranges.

Gum Grove Trail

This short 500m return trail winds through a shady grove of river red gums with some steps, loose rocks and slippery surfaces. Turn around when you reach the edge of the shady gum trees and return to the carpark. Its main point of interest is an expansive grove of mature river red gums which attract the birdlife.

Edney's Trail

Edney’s Trail involves lengthy rocky sections of rough unformed trail, very steep slopes and rock scrambling to reach Edney’s Lookout. This trail is suitable for those seeking impressive panoramic views without tackling the much longer, very difficult Summit Trail.  

Flintstone Rock Trail

Flintstone Rock is an Aboriginal cultural site that takes about 30 minutes to explore including stops. The 650m return walk follows along a water-smoothed rocky creek bed.

Corella Trail

The 500m return Corella Trail follows the south bank of tranquil Cattle Pool has some steps and slippery surfaces. Look and listen for corellas and other birds in their natural habitat. This is an important site to the Wajarri Aboriginal people. Please remain on the designated trail.

Goordgeela Trail

For those wishing to get good views but finding the longer Summit Trail a bit intimidating, the Goordgeela Trail could be for you. This difficult 3km return hike passes through open acacia shrubland for 550m, then scrambles up a long and steep rocky watercourse. A steep ascent takes you to a lookout with views to the north.

Kotka Gorge Trail

Kotka Gorge Trail is a 2.7km return hike which continues on from the edge of the shady Gum Grove Trail to the gorge entrance that provides views of the east. The rough unformed trail involves steep rises and scrambling over rocks.

Ooramboo Trail

The Ooramboo Trail is a 550m return hike that leads to a low escarpment where you can view Aboriginal artwork (petroglyphs). It is accessed from the Loop Drive at the southern end of Mount Augustus. Be prepared for some steps and unstable, loose rocks. 

Petroglyph Trail

This short return hike has some steps and unstable loose rocks. A moderate slope leads you to petroglyphs on a rock wall where you can quietly observe without touching these Wajarri symbols.

Discover a Winter Wonders holiday in 2024!   Click here to   browse holiday tours.

Scenic Bidoon Hills, New Norcia and the world’s largest rock

22 to 29 August 2024

75 villabucks

Trace the original 1924 route of the mail run from Meekatharra to Carnarvon, celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of Sir Charles Kingsford Smith. This unforgettable adventure features the Mount Augustus National Park, and offers awe inspiring views of the world's largest rock. Through pastoral regions and mining areas, to the original mail stops of Cobra Station and Gascoyne Junction, and the fruit bowl of Carnarvon.

Guide: B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

eg. BLD indicates three meals included on that day of the itinerary.

PPTW is per person twinshare accommodation.

Dates & Pricing

$475 single option, • midday prayer with the monks, new norcia • new norcia museum and art gallery • new norcia guided tour • mount augustus national park • carnarvon space and technology museum • 4wd coach,   • pre/post tour transfers (ex perth, wa) • 19 meals • 7 nights accommodation • tours and attractions • professional villa tour leader, download the, 2024 autumn update magazine.

Duration: 8 Days

Dates:  22 to 29 August 2024

Activity Level: Active

Earn: 75 villabucks

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 B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Submit Tour Enquiry

Tour activity levels.

With such a diverse collection of travel options, we want to ensure you choose the right holiday for you.

Our tour activity levels are a guide to the required fitness level for each of our holidays.

Look out for the feet when reading about a tour!

Suitable for travellers with lower mobility.

You will be required to embark/disembark coaches, trains and other transport via steps unaided. You must be able to carry your own luggage and walk short distances. Stairs may need to be negotiated at times. Travellers with walking aids (sticks and walkers) are welcome and those requiring accompanying assistance and/or carer may consider these holidays.

Required to walk confidently and unaided.

Expect guided walking tours of attractions with occasional inclines and stair climbs, some long days and multiple hotel changes during the holiday. Your accommodation may require access via stairs, a short walk to reach hotel facilities and have showers over baths. Walkers are ok unless there is overnight rail or cruising included in the tour.

Requires some fitness. Involves longer days filled with activities, excursions requiring standing and walking for extended periods of time and nature-based activities. You will be required to walk confidently over uneven ground and surfactant at a timely pace.

Highly Active

Requires good general fitness. Excursions will be over more difficult terrain and require a certain level of agility. You will be required to walk confidently for up to 3 hours over uneven surfaces including soft sand, rocky surfaces and creek crossing. Some itineraries will explore remote locations. No walkers allowed.

Challenging

A high level of fitness is required. Tours have an emphasis on active pursuits and often explore remote locations which are challenging to access. You will be required to walk confidently for up to 6 or more hours per day and have experience in outdoor pursuits. No walkers allowed.

Your health, wellbeing and enjoyment of the holiday is very important to us. In order to protect the health and wellbeing of our staff and suppliers, electric scooters and buggies are not permitted on Villa tours.

Anyone providing care or assistance to others must be fit and able to provide the required support and care.

A leading West Australian travel company for travellers over 55

Quick Links

2/2 Fairbairn Rd, Busselton 

Western Australia 6280 [email protected]

1800 066 272

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Villa Carlota Travel | Terms & Conditions

Western Explorer

We travel from Broome to Perth through WA’s typical outback country. Rugged ancient landscapes including isolated and harshly beautiful Karijini National Park, Mt Augustus and the Kennedy Range, are not places you can just swing by. Our 12 day tour from Broome to Perth, which coincides with the northern wildflower season, is an ideal way to explore all three in one go.  

We spend three nights at the magnificent Karijini National Park, famous for its spectacular gorges, waterfalls and cool swimming holes. It boasts an abundance of plant life and is also home to a variety of marsupials, including the endemic Pilbara Ningaui (Ningaui timealeyi) and Little Red Antechinus (Dasykaluta rosamondae).  

Measuring at over twice the size of Uluru, Mt Augustus is a dramatic peak. The stunning colours change at dawn and dusk; bright pink, orange and red with the occasional green reflect the changes in its mood. The vegetation is open mulga shrubland with several endemic plant species, including a native hibiscus, a Mulla-Mulla and a striking native foxglove.

The Kennedy Range is one of the world’s most ancient land formations, with delicate patterns on rock faces due to water and wind erosion. The area is a biological hotspot, from twisted fig trees in gorges and spinifex atop the plateau, to the wattles, mallee and wildflowers across the surrounding plain. The area is also home to wildlife and you may be lucky enough to see Euros and rock-wallabies living in caves.  

Download Trip Dossier Here

Extended trip details, availability, places available.

๏  Well-maintained vehicle with all front facing, seat- belted, mostly reclining coach style seats

๏  4 crew – naturalist guide, driver/cook and 2 camp support crew members

๏  Easy Camping included (camp is set up and packed away each day for you)

๏  Self-inflating air mattress and stretcher bed

๏  All eating utensils

๏  Meals as per itinerary: breakfast (B), lunch (L), dinner (D)

๏  Morning teas

๏  Fruit available on board the vehicle throughout the day

๏  Campsite fees

๏  All national park entrance fees

Trip Reviews

“I am now back home after an interesting time in WA. I enjoyed the Broome to Perth trip very much, saw a lot of places that I would have never got to otherwise and found Karijin National Park especially attractive. I also enjoyed seeing the plants many of which were in flower and we were lucky to see the mass flowering at Coal Seam National Park. The wildlife, especially the bird life was also most interesting. And we were most fortunate to have plant and wildlife experts – Wayne and Ray, with us and they were able to identify most species for us.

While the drives were long at times we did end up at most interesting places at the end of each day. I understand that the intended route was changed a little – we stayed at Murchison Junction Motor Camp which was very good and at Coal Seam National Park – which again was an excellent place and enabled us to see the spectacular displays of wildflowers.

The fellow travelers where all good company and most helpful to me when needed. As were Ray and Wayne. So, overall an excellent trip.

So, thanks for giving me the opportunity to see most interesting areas of WA”.

“We have just returned home from our Western Explorer trip from Broome to Perth. Just thought we would let you know how much we enjoyed our time. We do at least one such small group trip each year – here and overseas – 8 all up now, and this is the best we have done.

We were impressed with the strong client focus, the attention to individual needs and the skills of the staff. Little things like having ‘nibbles’ for hiking days, a good supply of fresh fruit and a ‘nothing is too much trouble’ approach. We usually travel with 12 or fewer parties and the size of 9 this time was a bonus – good bonding. You are fortunate to have the two Peters. They were great individually and worked really well as a team.”

“I want to let you know how much I enjoyed my recent trip. It all seems like a dream now, back in wet and cold Perth, but perhaps I can manage another one sometime in the future.

The two Peters were great – Peter B was a safe and patient driver, efficient packer and unpacker and fantastic cook and Peter C did a great job with the birds and plants and tour participants, leading the way into the pools (brrr) and up the hills (groan) and amusing us with his tall tales. I knew less than anyone but got a big cheer when I saw the first emus from the bus on the second last day!”

“We thoroughly enjoyed the recent Kennedy Range – Mt Augustus tour. Everything is so well organised. Having knowledgeable naturalists on board makes the trip so much more meaningful.

The natural wonders of WA are really special, and your tours do it justice. We got quite a good bird list including a new one, thanks to Rick. Also being a morris dancer/musician was a big bonus! Many thanks to Rick and Steve, great meals too. Thank you.”

“Having just returned from the Kennedy Ranges and Mt Augustus tour, I felt I must tell you that I enjoyed it very much. Each place we visited was full of interest and I felt we were most fortunate to have Rick as our tour leader followed by Steve who fed us so well. Thank you for such a well organized trip and of course we were so lucky to have a great supply of wildflowers.”

Call 1800 676 016

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Mt augustus: a guide to the summit trail of the biggest rock in the world.

Jane Pelusey

Jane traded her job as a trauma nurse for adventure and travel. With her photographer husband and based in Perth, they have travelled 50 countries, writing over 90 books, and learning how to map trails along the way. Trails are her thing: hiking, 4WDing, and gourmet.

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The biggest rock in the world is Uluru, right? Depending on geological terminology, the far less known Mt Augustus or Burringurrah in Western Australia’s Gascoyne region is, well, much bigger. Here’s how to hike the Mt Augustus Summit Trail.

We acknowledge that this adventure is located in the traditional Country of the Wadjari peoples who have occupied and cared for these lands and waters for thousands of years. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.

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About mt augustus.

Mt Augustus is a super impressive rock in the middle of a flat desert landscape. In fact, it’s the biggest rock in the world, two and a half times larger than Uluru. The rock is almost half way between Meekatharra and Carnarvon in the Gascoyne Region of Western Australia .

Mt Augustus History

The Wadjari people tell a dreaming story of a young boy named Burringurrah, running away from his initiation ceremony. For punishment, he was speared in the leg and eventually died. The rock forms the shape of his body.

Francis Gregory was the first European to lay eyes on Mt Augustus in 1858 while exploring the Gascoyne Region. He named it after his brother Augustus Gregory. Mount Augustus Station was settled in 1887.

How to Get to Mt Augustus

There are two main routes to Mount Augustus, with some of the drive on gravel roads.

Drive 980km from Perth to Carnarvon, then head east on the Carnarvon Mullewa Road. From there it’s turn left on Cobra Diary Creek Road, 430km to Mt Augustus.

The other route is on the Great Northern Highway, 756km from Perth to Meekatharra. Then it’s 360km to Mt Augustus along the Kingsford Smith Mail Run. Both routes are largely unsealed, but the mail run is generally rougher and more suited to AWD or 4WD .

Summit Trail Route

This is a challenging, steep-climbing, rocky trail with a 654 metre elevation gain. It’s a marked 12km return hike that usually takes about six hours to complete.

Read more: Remember to leave no trace !

Places to Stay at Mt Augustus

Mount Augustus Tourist Park is part of an active cattle station. As well as caravan and camping sites, there are twin rooms, queen and family units. Facilities include hot showers, toilets, a laundry as well as a small shop and BBQ facilities. In winter and spring, the Mt View Cookhouse serves cold beverages and Shorthorn beef from the station. Travel wise, the station has petrol and diesel fuel, gas refills and minor tyre repairs. All that and a view of the rock. Mount Augustus Tourist Park is 16km from the start of the summit walk.

Things to do at Mt Augustus

The Summit Trail is the main activity for experienced hikers, but there are other activities available;

Drive 49km around Mount Augustus

The Loop Drive joins the Mount Augustus Road. There are information bays on the two corners.

Edney’s Trail

Edneys Trail is another way to get a good view. It’s only 6km return so easier than the Summit Trail. The trail starts with a 500m easy walk to Ooramboo Aboriginal artwork. The trail becomes rockier (Grade 4) as you climb 2.5km up to a bump on the western side of the rock.

Kotka Gorge Trail

Kotka Gorge Trail is a 2.7km rock hop up to a seasonal waterfall. It starts with an easy 500m walk to a beautiful grove of River red gums named Warrarla. Then start climbing and rock hopping to a cool shaded area. The rocks are smoothed from the seasonal rain.

Goordgeela Trail

If you want views without doing the Summit Trail or Mt Edneys, this 3km hike has views to the north. The rough trail passes through open acacia shrubland for 550m, then scrambles up a very steep rocky watercourse with minimal directional signage. A steep ascent takes you to a lookout with views to the north.

Relax by Cattle Pool

Cattle Pool is a permanent billabong on the Lyons River and walk along the Corella Trail . Sit and watch the birdlife such as corellas and eagles. Swimming is at your own risk.

Short Walks

There are a series of shorter walks under one kilometre such as the Petroglyph Trail , The Saddle at the Pound and Flintstone Rock, Beedoboondu .

Visit Mount View Cookhouse

Have a post-hike, cold beer and a meal at the Mount View Cookhouse.

Watch Sunset From Emu Hill Lookout

Emu Hill Lookout is in the best position for sunset. In wildflower season, the foreground is covered in fields of everlastings. From this slightly elevated position, you can fit all of Mt Augustus into a photograph!

Mt Augustus Summit Trail

Heeding the clear warnings, we leave early to minimise our heat exposure. We notify staff at nearby Mt Augustus Tourist Park of our intention to hike the Summit Trail before driving around the 49km loop circumnavigating Mount Augustus.

From the Flintstone-Beedoboondu car park, we start walking to Flintstone Rock. It’s a short and easy stroll to a large flat rock over a stony creek bed. Crawling under it, we see Indigenous engravings. It’s cool and shady under here but we can’t linger long. Although it’s only around 8am, it’s already nudging 30°C and the climb hasn’t even begun.

From here, there’s a choice between the Summit Trail or the Gully Trail. Both lead to the summit, but the Gully Trail is more challenging and takes the creek route with plenty of rock hopping. The Gully Track has been closed since mid-2022 and until further notice because extreme rain events have made the ascent from this direction dangerous. So we chose the Summit Trail route, a 650m climb to the top.

We follow the blue circle trail markers up the uneven rocky path that isn’t always obvious. We’re mindful of losing concentration and are careful around the steep cliffs as we look for the next marker.

As we climb higher, the odd spindly tree gives way to unrelenting sun, and our broad-brimmed hats provide the only shade.

The heat radiating off the bare red rock is much hotter than the 35°C shade temperature indicated. I can only imagine how it’d feel up here a couple months later into summer when 50°C plus is not uncommon.

We’re not alone up here as plenty of lizards move quickly out of our way and we spot two majestic Wedge tail eagles soaring effortlessly on rising thermals off baking rock.

Now into the third hour, our rest stops become more frequent as fatigue and sweat increase with elevation, but they’re a great opportunity to admire views across a starkly beautiful landscape.

At last we reached the summit. We get a sense of how this mighty rock dominates the vast plains around us. We can see tiny lines that are dirt roads leading off into the distance and a green strip of trees lining the Lyons River far below. Now it’s time to turn around and head back down again, our knees feeling it, although walking poles certainly help.

After a long day on the trail, we relax with drinks in hand, watching the colours change over Mt Augustus at sunset.

Skill Level

Experienced

The Summit Trail is for experienced and well-prepared hikers. At the junction, The Summit Trail route is a grade 4 and the Gully route is grade 5. The Gully route is currently closed due to flood damag e.

Distance Covered / Duration / Elevation Gained

12.5km return / 5-8 hours / 650m

Essential Gear

• Water, at least 4 litres
• Good hiking boots
• Loose fitting clothing
• Insect repellent
• First aid kit
• Something to eat
• Camera, optional
• A hiking buddy

Tips For Visiting Mt Augustus

Beware the heat.

Several people have died of heat-related issues doing this hike, so hikers must come prepared with sufficient water, sun protection, and knowledge of the hike’s difficulty! Start early to avoid most of the heat.

Read more:  Hiking in Hot Weather

Mt Augustus FAQs

Is mt augustus the biggest rock in the world.

Yes it is, depending on what geological terminology is being used.

What is the difference between Uluru and Mt Augustus?

Both rocks are known as inselbergs or lone mountains. However Uluru is a single rock or monolythe. It has no vegetation or scree slopes, just bare rock. Mt Augustus is a monocline, a rock formed from uplifted layers, some 1000 million years ago. It has vegetation on its slopes and is made up of different rock types.

What is the closest town to Mt Augustus?

Meekatharra is the closest town.

Can you climb Mt Augustus?

Yes you can climb Mt Augustus by following the Summit Trail.

Where is Mt Augustus located?

In the Gascoyne region of Western Australia.

How do you get to Mt Augustus?

To reach Mt Augustus, drive from Meekatharra (360km) or Carnarvon (430km).

When is Mt Augustus Summit Trail open?

The Summit Trail is open all year round, but should be avoided on very hot days.

Is Mt Augustus Summit Trail good for beginners?

Mt Augustus Summit trail is for experienced hikers only.

Can you drive up Mt Augustus?

No, there are only hiking paths on the rock, no roads. How long does it take to climb Mt Augustus?

Depending on fitness, the average time is about 6 hours return.

How big is Mt Augustus?

The summit is 717 metres above the surrounding plain. From end to end, the rock is about 8km long.

MORE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Mt Augustus / Karijini National Park – Not to Be Missed

• August 3, 2022 August 3, 2022

When you mention travel to the biggest rock in the world, most people automatically think of Uluru, but the biggest rock is in fact, Mt Augustus, and it’s right here in Western Australia!

Mt Augustus is situated in the middle of the Gascoyne area of WA, and it rises 715 metres out of the surrounding plain. It is a magnificent sight and the 49 km drive around the rock reveals stunning rocky creeks, gorges, open plains, Aboriginal rock engravings and a whole variety of flora and fauna including white-barked river gums, mulga, gidgee, spinifex pigeons, crimson chats, mulga parrots, babblers, emus, wild turkeys, bungarras and red kangaroos.

It’s quite an underrated destination and yet when you read reviews on Trip Advisor about this place you’ll notice that anyone who has visited the Rock has nothing but glowing reports about it. Words like “beautiful red colours”, “amazing walks”, “well worth the visit”, “loved the remoteness”, “truly something I will never forget” and so on….

Aussie Redback Tours has travelled to Mt Augustus several times and we are never disappointed. The colours are stunning – red earth, bright blue sky, campfires under star-filled skies at night – and the flora and fauna in the area is so unique and beautiful. The silence and remoteness is awe-inspiring.

Aussie Redback Tours will be travelling to Mt Augustus again this year – on the Mt Augustus / Walga Rock tour from 14 to 18 August (just two seats left) and then the Mt Augustus / Karijini tour from 11 to 20 September. This tour includes the very popular Karijini National Park with its spectacular gorges, creeks and chasms. This is a spring tour, making it a great time to see wildflowers along the way and back again. With good winter rains, the scenery can be stunning with carpets of flowers in many locations. Read more about the tour here: Mt Augustus / Karijini

If you would like to join Aussie Redback Tours on either of the tours above, or if you’d like one of our brochures sent to you, please phone 1300 662 026 or email [email protected] .

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