Tour Description

Whales and Head of Bight

(Combined Departure)
Five Days: 9th – 13th August 2024

Twin Share: $2035 per person. Sole Use: $2240 per person.

Included in the tour:
  • Home pick-ups & set downs (most metro areas – please contact us for details)
  • Picnic-style morning teas & all meals
  • All accommodation & admissions to all attractions
  • Experienced & informative tour driver/guide.

 

The Embark on a captivating journey with our Whales and the Head of Bight tour, where the serene beauty of South Australia’s west coast unfolds in a series of unforgettable experiences. Witness the majestic Southern Right Whales in their natural sanctuary against the dramatic back drop of the Bunda Cliffs. Delve into the rich tapestry of history and natural wonder across the Eyre Peninsula and immerse yourself in a unique exploration of Australia’s coastal marvels.

 

Day One – FRIDAY 9 AUGUST 2024

The adventure begins early this morning with personalised, chauffeured pickups from your doorstep, setting the tone for an expedition marked
by comfort and convenience. As we leave the urban embrace of Adelaide, our journey unfolds through the picturesque locales of Port Wakefield, Snowtown and Port Pirie.

The morning journey is punctuated by a delightful lunch in Port Augusta, where the stark beauty of the desert meets the sprawling ocean, offering a moment of reflection and wonder.

Our voyage then delves deeper into the heart of the Eyre Peninsula, a land of stark contrasts and natural wonders. En-route, we make strategic stops at the enigmatic Waddikee Rocks and Darke’s Memorial, each a testament to the region’s rich tapestry of history and its enduring connection to the natural world. These sites, set against the peninsula’s rugged landscape, offer a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse ourselves in the stories etched into the land.

As the sun dips below the horizon, our first day’s journey culminates at the tranquil Gawler Ranges Motel (08 8680 2090) in Wudinna. Here, we gather for dinner, a time to share the day’s experiences and forge connections that will deepen over the coming days.

Day Two – SATURDAY 10 AUGUST 2024

As dawn ushers in the second day of our adventure, we gather for breakfast at the hotel. Eager for the day, we embark towards the Great Australian Bight, tracing routes through the iconic locales of MinnipaPoochera and Ceduna. These towns, each with their own story and charm, serve as beacons on our journey to the Head of Bight, where the arid beauty of the desert converges with the vast expanse of the ocean.

After our lunch at Penong, the afternoon is earmarked for an awe-inspiring session of Whale Watching at the Head of Bight. At the juncture where pristine white sand dunes and sprawling beaches embrace the towering Bunda Cliffs along the Nullarbor, a remarkable spectacle unfolds.

Here, from June through to October, the waters teem with up to 100 Southern Right Whales, including their young calves, gathered for their annual breeding migration. This breathtaking natural assembly offers a unique glimpse into the migratory patterns and the intimate beginnings of whale life against a dramatic coastal backdrop.

As the sun dips below the horizon, we retreat to the Nullarbor Hotel Motel (08 8625 6271) for the evening. Positioned close for optimal whale watching, the hotel is conveniently located, where we can unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences at dinner.

Please note: As it can get quite windy and cold at the Head of Bight, we strongly recommend bringing a warm coat, hat and gloves so you can enjoy this wonderful experience in comfort.

Day Three – SUNDAY 11 AUGUST 2024

Fuelled by an early breakfast, we eagerly embark back to the Head of Bight, seizing another chance to marvel at the Southern Right Whales. This visit includes a serene morning tea by the ocean, where the rhythmic sounds of waves and the sight of whales breaching offer a moment of unparalleled connection with nature.

Bidding farewell to the magnificent whales, we head back to the Eyre Highway and veer east towards Nundroo, where a lunch stop awaits us.

The journey then transitions to Ceduna, a gem that epitomizes the peaceful coexistence of history and natural beauty. Here, we immerse ourselves in the local culture, visiting landmarks that narrate the town’s rich heritage and exploring the marina, where the waters of Murat Bay offer stunning vistas.

In the afternoon, our adventure takes us along the picturesque Flinders Highway to Streaky Bay. Known for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, Streaky Bay is a haven for photographers and nature lovers alike. We take time to stroll along the bay, perhaps catching sight of local fishermen returning with their day’s catch, a testament to the town’s vibrant maritime culture.

Our evening finds us at the Streaky Bay Hotel Motel (08 8626 1008), where the day’s discoveries culminate in shared stories over dinner. This cozy accommodation not only provides a restful end to a day full of exploration but also sets the stage for the next day’s adventure into the heart of the Eyre Peninsula.

Day Four – MONDAY 12 AUGUST 2024

Our exploration deepens as the sun rises over Streaky Bay, a coastal gem wrapped in layers of history and natural wonder. The day’s agenda kicks off with a captivating guided tour of Streaky Bay National Trust Museum, where each exhibit and artifact tells a part of Streaky Bay’s storied past, from its Aboriginal heritage to its establishment as a vibrant fishing port. The tales of early explorers and settlers come alive, offering us a tangible connection to the epochs that shaped this region.

Following morning tea, our journey leads us to the remarkable geological formations known as Murphy’s Haystacks. These ancient wind-sculpted inselbergs, set against the backdrop of the Eyre Peninsula’s agricultural heartland, are believed to be between 1400 and 1500 million years old. Our guide shares fascinating insights into their geological significance and the myths woven into their history, making this visit a highlight of our day.

The afternoon’s adventure continues to Elliston, where we are greeted by a local guide eager to unveil the town’s layered heritage. Strolling through Elliston, we encounter historical buildings and monuments that narrate stories of resilience and community spirit. The town’s picturesque setting along the rugged coastline adds a serene beauty to our exploration.

As the day winds down, we journey back to Wudinna, where the Gawler Ranges Motel awaits us. Over dinner, we share stories from the day.

Day Five – TUESDAY 13 AUGUST 2024

As dawn breaks, we bid farewell to Wudinna, setting off towards Kimba, where the magnificent Kimba silo art awaits, a testament to the artistic spirit that pervades even the most remote corners of Australia. This stop offers a moment of reflection on the intertwining of nature, art, and community that has characterized our journey.

A final lunch in Port Augusta serves as a fitting conclusion to our exploration, providing one last opportunity to enjoy a meal together on tour.

Journeying by the majestic Southern Flinders Ranges, passing through Port Pirie, and along the highway towards Port Wakefield, the expansive Gulf of St Vincent soon comes into view once more.

The drive back to Adelaide marks the closing chapter of our extraordinary expedition. Upon arrival, the experience is made all the more seamless and comfortable with the provision of being chauffeured home.

This tour, from the awe-inspiring sights of the Southern Right Whales at the Head of Bight to the rich cultural tapestry of South Australia’s west coast, has been a journey of discovery and wonder.