This tour is conducted at a medium-fast pace. Some long travel days may be required to complete this itinerary and you will typically spend two nights at each destination, with some one night stays required. This trip includes a mix of sightseeing and free time to explore at your own pace. You will be required to move about unassisted, including getting on and off vehicles, walking up and down stairs and some activities will be conducted on uneven or steep terrain. You will be required to handle your own luggage.
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.
✓ Enjoy the flexibility of independent travel
✓ 11 nights accommodation at comfortable mostly 4-star properties.
✓ 9 breakfasts and 2 lunches
✓ Full day tour of Rottnest Island, including lunch, a 90-min Island Discovery Coach Tour and walking tour
✓ Wildlife cruise of Recherche Archipelago off Esperance
✓ Full day Mt Barker Grape Escape tour; including lunch, winery visits, coffee and an expert guide
✓ 9 days medium-size car rental, including unlimited kilometer (NIL damage excess including glass & tyres and waives liability for theft or loss to vehicle)
✓ 7 Day cooling off period. See under Fine Print for more information
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Make your way to your accommodation. You can arrive at any time as there are no activities arranged for the day.
Check in & arrival information.
A taxi or Uber from Perth airport to your accommodation costs approximately $55 to $60 per car. Hotel check in is at 2pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
This morning, please make your way to AVIS city depot to collect your vehicle. Today will see you driving east towards Wave Rock. Your accommodation for tonight is at Hyden, only a short drive from Wave Rock.
Approximate driving distance: 350 km - 4hrs
Today you are heading south towards Esperance. You may want to make a rest-stop at Lake King. Take a little detour and drive the extraordinary Lake King Causeway, spanning 10 kilometres of salt lakes studded with natural scrub and wildflowers.
Approximate driving distance: 420 km - 4.5 hrs
Make your way to Taylor St Jetty by 9am to join your Esperance wildlife cruise. You will make your way around Lovers Cove, West Beach & Blue Haven before heading out to various islands in the Recherche Archipelago. Enjoy a full commentary throughout the cruise whilst viewing wildlife in their natural environment. Regular sightings include New Zealand Fur Seals, Australian Sea Lions, Cape Barren Geese, Common and Bottlenose Dolphins, White-bellied Sea Eagles and whales (season dependent). Enjoy morning tea in the protected bay of Thomas or Cull Island . Snorkeling equipment is provided for those wanting to enjoy the water. The vessel will also spend time in the incredible turquoise bay of Blue Haven for those wanting to experience swimming in some of the world's clearest water. You will then cruise through remaining islands to view wildlife before returning to Esperance by 12.30pm.
Itinerary note. As this activity is subject to weather conditions and meeting minimum numbers, you may be rescheduled to tomorrow. In the unlikely event that this activity doesn't operate at all, you will be refunded the value of this activity accordingly. Please contact this tour operator (details will be provided with your final documentation) 24 hours prior to commencing this activity.
Gear up for the longest driving day of your trip. Today you will be heading west towards one of the region’s gems: Albany.
Approximate driving distance: 480 km - 5.5 hrs
Today, you will embark on a winery tour of the Mt Barker sub-region of the Great Southern appellation; known for its Rieslings. This region has a characteristically cool climate with slow ripening times which allows for the development of rich flavors and quality grape juice.
Wine tasting begins at Gilbert Wines, home to the ‘lads’ and where a morning coffee might be preferred. At Plantagenet wines you are taken to the tasting bench to choose your wine and make your purchase to accompany a scrumptious shared platter lunch of local produce. Onwards the tour will take you to Galafrey Wines, another family-owned winery and home to prominent female wine-maker Kim Tyrer. From there to West Cape Howe where you can sample wine from their extensive range, olive oil or their own brand of coffee! Our Busy Blue Bus Tour guide will take care of the skipper duties, whilst you relax and enjoy the scenery and the sensational flavors of the region.
Spend today at your leisure - some recommendations of self-driver itineraries are (lunch not included in any of the below itineraries):
The Bremer Canyon plays host to the largest congregation of Killer Whales in the Southern Hemisphere. It is believed that a very deep Antarctic flow, the Flinders Current, enters the canyon gathering bio carbons which create a nutrient rich environment which collides with the Leeuwin Current flow and the topography of the canyon creates an oceanic eddy. This interaction creates nutrient rich upwelling waters where phytoplankton develops and an intense food chain for marine life prospers. Killer Whales are at the top of that food chain. The Bremer Canyon, Hood, Henry & Knob Canyon’s intersect with the Continental Shelf just 20 nautical mile (37 kms) off the coastline and this ‘Patch’ is where Giant & Colossal squid spawn. These cephalopods are a main source of food for the Killers Whales and other toothed Whales including Beaked, Sperm & Pilot Whales, unfortunately the Killer Whales also prey on the Beaked Whale as a food source. Some of the local pod’s are known to be generalist Orca’s (Killer Whales), which means they feed on a varied diet including other cetaceans, however in the summer time they predominantly feed on the giant and colossal squid that come into the ‘Patch’.
Tour includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea with all drinks. A complimentary glass of wine, champagne or cold beer is offered on the journey home.
Departing from Bremer:
Departure time: 8am from Bremer Bay Boat Harbour, Swarbrick Road, Bremer Bay. Please arrive 30’ prior to departure. Boarding Gate closes 5 minutes prior to departure.
Duration: 7 hours
The Bremer Canyon plays host to the largest congregation of Killer Whales in the Southern Hemisphere. It is believed that a very deep Antarctic flow, the Flinders Current, enters the canyon gathering bio carbons which create a nutrient rich environment which collides with the Leeuwin Current flow and the topography of the canyon creates an oceanic eddy. This interaction creates nutrient rich upwelling waters where phytoplankton develops and an intense food chain for marine life prospers. Killer Whales are at the top of that food chain. The Bremer Canyon, Hood, Henry & Knob Canyon’s intersect with the Continental Shelf just 20 nautical mile (37 kms) off the coastline and this ‘Patch’ is where Giant & Colossal squid spawn. These cephalopods are a main source of food for the Killers Whales and other toothed Whales including Beaked, Sperm & Pilot Whales, unfortunately the Killer Whales also prey on the Beaked Whale as a food source. Some of the local pod’s are known to be generalist Orca’s (Killer Whales), which means they feed on a varied diet including other cetaceans, however in the summer time they predominantly feed on the giant and colossal squid that come into the ‘Patch’.
Tour includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea with all drinks. A complimentary glass of wine, champagne or cold beer is offered on the journey home.
Departing from Albany:
Departure time: 5:30am from your hotel in Albany - 180km drive in each direction.
Duration: 12 hours
Today, continue driving west towards Margaret River - one of Australia's largest wine regions. With more than 200 vineyards, Margaret River produces more than 25% of Australia’s premium wine.
Approximate driving distance: 370 km - 4.5hrs
It’s the wine and nature lovers’ experience with the works. Limited to only 6 guests, travelling in a luxury 4WD,this is the tour for people who don’t do tours.We demystify the French wine concept of Terroir and discover why the Margaret River produces some of the world’s best wine. Connect with nature then match your favourite wine with fresh local produce while we lunch in the barrel room at one of the region’s emerging superstar wineries.
Start the day with a canoe trip down a stunning section of the tranquil Margaret River. You won’t get wet, dirty or fall in. It’s a peaceful beginning to our day of highlights.
We then head to the beach to see how the winemakers relax – a coffee while we check the surf at one of the region’s top beach breaks.
Our next stop is an ancient waterhole to spot freshwater Marron and wildlife and to taste local honey while we reflect on Aboriginal history dating back more than 30,000 years.
Lunch at one the region’s most celebrated emerging superstar wineries –Fraser Gallop Estate – is our next highlight. We have exclusive access to the working winery and vineyard and savour some of the best wines in the region matched with local produce while seated among barrels of ageing wine.
We finish our day with a 4WD adventure and walk on a spectacular section of the Cape to Cape Track – the Wilyabrup Cliffs. We have special government approval to use a 4WD track that offers stunning cliff top views. High above the Indian Ocean the epic scenery, fresh sea breezes and surrounding ancient soils provide a deeper understanding of the unique terroir of the Margaret River region. Dolphins, sharks, whales, kangaroos, eagles and wildflowers are seasonal, but all possible.
Duration: 6 hours
Departs: 10am ex Margaret River Visitor Center
Returns: 4pm ex Margaret River Visitor Center
Inclusions: gourmet lunch, premium wines
Today is free for you to continue exploring the area. If wine is the name of the game, take your time to explore some of the 90 cellar doors in the region.
Alternatively, exploring the caving system is also a popular activity in Margaret River. It is difficult to choose the best cave. You can marvel at the reflections on Lake Cave’s permanent lake, be dwarfed in Jewel Cave’s enormous chambers and take it easy on the Mammoth Cave self- guided tour. At Yallingup’s Ngilgi Cave, you will learn the Aboriginal legend as you look up at limestone shawl formations– or delve deeper into the cave on an adventure tour. Cave opening hours and tours start from 9am and finish between 4pm and 5pm. Entry fee is approximately $22.50 per adult.
If travelling between late July and August, you want to consider a cruise to witness the mighty Humpback on their migration path. This tour departs from Augusta, 50km south of Margaret River.
Start the last driving leg of your trip.
On the way north, you may want to stop at Busselton Jetty. This 150+ year old timber jetty stretches 1.84km into the Geographe Bay - making it the longest timber jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Whether you walk to the end or take the jetty train, make sure to check out the Underwater Observatory for a glimpse of the sea life that inhabits this artificial environment.
Further north, you may want to pay a visit to the Dolphin Discovery Centre, in Bunbury. Walk down to the “interaction zone” for an opportunity to say to the many dolphins that visit this bay all year round. There is no entrance fee but please make sure you follow the instructions of dolphin volunteers
If you’re feeling peckish, you may want to explore Bunbury Farmers market, which opens daily from 7.30am to 5.30pm.
Upon arriving into Perth, drive to the car rental depot (located around the corner from Perth Hotel) to return your rental vehicle.
Approximate driving distance: 278 km - 4hrs
Today, you will make your way to Pier 2 Barrack Street Jetty, in time for your 8:45am ferry departure to Rottnest Island and your tour.
Explore the beauty and tranquility of Rottnest as you sit back and relax in the comfort of an air conditioned coach. This 90-minute circumnavigation of the island takes you out to some of Rottnest’s most spectacular locations including the Wadjemup Lighthouse and the rugged West End and provides you with a complete interpretation of the island through passionate and knowledgeable crew.
This tour will provide you with an insight into Rottnest’s cultural and historical heritage, diverse wildlife and fauna and social heritage. You will also have a chance to step outside and have a stroll along the boardwalk at the majestic look-out point at West End.
Arrival back at the Barrack Street Jetty will be 5pm.
Today your South Western Australia Deluxe Road Trip comes to an end. Farewell Perth as you make your own way to the airport for your onward flight or to continue the next part of your journey.
All Renters and any additional drivers must present a full, valid national Drivers License that meets the following requirements:
1. The Drivers License for all drivers must be presented at the time of rental
2. Drivers License must be in English
3. If not in English, it must be accompanied by an International Drivers License or Permit by a certified English translation
4. Chinese Driver’s Licenses are acceptable, but they must have a China Notarial Certificate (CNC):
a. Is valid for driving the vehicle;
b. Is not a learner’s permit;
c. The driver has held for at least twelve consecutive months; and
d. Satisfies any other conditions on the Rental Agreement or in any additional terms
Digital Drivers License
A Digital Drivers License is not accepted. Drivers require a hard copy license until further notice
Deposit
All rentals are subject to a deposit to cover additional costs. A min of AU$200 applies for Metro Locations, $200 for Remote Locations, $200 for Licensee locations and $400 for 4WD locations in Sydney and Melbourne if using a credit card in the name of the renter. A cash deposit is not accepted.
Rates Include
Unlimited Kilometres, Maximum Cover (MAX), Admin Fee Recovery (AFR), 24Hr Breakdown Roadside Assistance, Goods & Service Tax (GST)
Rates Exclude
Airport/Ferry Concession Fee Recovery (ACFR), Fuel, One Way Fees, Optional Extras (baby seats, snow chains etc), applicable Locations Fees.
Damage Excess for Cars
NIL
Young Renters Fee
Where a renter is aged between 21-24 a young driver fee of $16.50 inclusive of GST (Capped at $115.50 in each 30 day period) will apply for Standard passenger vehicles.
Avis full Rental Terms & Conditions can be found HERE
Upgrade to a AVIS Intermediate SUV / Group K vehicle
You may want to upgrade your car hire to Intermediate SUV - Group K / IFAR with AVIS (Mitsubishi Outlander or similar) for an extra $300 per person, or $600 for solo travellers.
Bring Your Own Vehicle (No Car Rental Included)
A total of $300 per person (two people booking) or $600 (one person booking) will be reduced from the total price. As this trip is on request, this adjustment will be reflected in your confirmation invoice.
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, click here.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,374.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply by clicking HERE.
Note that Inspiring Vacations cannot provide advice with regards to any insurance product.
Children
Children must be 5 years or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Group Size
This package is made up of multiple components which will be provided by different operators throughout your trip. As such, group size will differ between operators and can be as intimate as 2 people or as lively as up to 60 people, depending on the activity and advertised inclusions. There may be unique cases where your selected travel date exceeds the expected group size for special events or types of activities, particularly during popular times of travel. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is a Independent style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
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