Cape to Cape Track, WA
Australia
Between the lighthouses of Cape Naturaliste and the isolated coves of Gnoocardup, this trek takes you along one of the most spectacular coastlines in Western Australia.
Trip duration:
8 days
Challenge duration:
7 days
Challenge grade:
3/5
Departure months:
March-May, September-October
Accommodation:
Twin-share in 3-4 star hotels, with shared bathrooms
Hiking the Cape to Cape
Over 7 days, you will trek through breath-taking coastal and forest scenery, across this ever-changing landscape—witnessing the fascinating geological cliffs, caves, rock formations and headlands.
You’ll make lifelong friends as you share this experience with a team of like-minded people, all connected by their passion for the cause.
Perched atop the coastal cliffs, you’ll immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of this region and experience some of the highlights it has to offer, including Cape Naturaliste, Quinninup Falls, karri forest, and many more sights. With a stop at Gracetown—one of the few spots along the Margaret River coast that offers calm, turquoise waters for swimming, you’ll enjoy each destination as much as you’ll enjoy the journey.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Tackle the breathtaking track, stretching all the way from Cape Naturaliste to Boranup Forest
- Experience the boundless natural beauty of this stretch of coastline
- Explore Gracetown, Cape Mentelle and the sparkling waters of Hamelin Bay
- Raise vital funds for a cause you’re passionate about while you tick off your bucket list
Trip notes
Day 1: Depart Perth – Cape Naturaliste to Yallingup
Get ready to put your best foot forward – one of Australia’s most magnificent walks awaits! You’ll meet your guide and the other members of your group at 8am in Perth CBD. From here, we make the drive to the headland of Cape Naturaliste. Our first stop is a fresh picnic lunch at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Take some time to get to know your new trekking buddies, and then it’s time to lace up your boots and hit the trail for the first leg of the Cape to Cape Track. Today’s walk will be pretty easy going, giving you a chance to find your feet as we walk over clifftops and across beaches, watching out for dolphins off the coast. The energy of the waves crashing on the shore is contagious and provides an exhilarating soundtrack to your walk. We finish up your day of walking in Yallingup, a coastal town known for its beaches and limestone caves. From here, we make our way to Margaret River, our home for the next week.
Transfer Time: 3 ½ hours
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Lunch
Day 2: Yallingup to Moses Rock
Today will be all about soaking up spectacular coastal views, so make sure your camera is charged up and ready to go! We begin our trekking in Yallingup, passing by giant red granite boulders, pristine white sand beaches and a colourful collection of wildflowers along the way. Stop off at Injidup for lunch, a spot known for amazing surf and a natural spa. After lunch, we pay a visit to the beautiful Quinninup Falls, then continue to Moses Rock, our ending point for the day.
Trekking Distance: 10km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Moses Rock to Gracetown
After breakfast, we transfer back to Moses Rock for another day of incredible clifftop coastal trekking. The terrain will be fairly gentle today, with just a few hills and some sandy spots. You’ll enjoy more unforgettable views of the ever-changing coastal landscape, and the sight of the rugged red Wilyabrup Cliffs against a glittering backdrop of turquoise waters is certainly one to remember. If the weather calls for it, you may like to cool off with a dip in the sea at Gracetown’s sheltered bay, or perhaps just sit back and soak in the peaceful surroundings, ready for another exciting day of the Cape to Cape track tomorrow.
Trekking Distance: 16km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Gracetown to Margaret River Mouth
We set off from Gracetown today, walking through vibrant coastal heath and arriving at the Ellensbrook historic homestead. Here you’ll take a step back in time and learn the interesting story of the homestead, enjoy some morning tea, and take some time to explore the delightful grounds. We then return to the track and venture inland for a different taste of the area’s diverse landscape. After making a stop for lunch, we head back to the coast and walk across a stretch of beach which will lead you to Cape Mentelle. Today’s journey ends at the mouth of the Margaret River, where you may like to take a refreshing swim to round off the day.
Trekking Distance: 12km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Margaret River Mouth to Boranup Forest
Today is our longest day of trekking, however the gentle terrain and varied views make it incredibly enjoyable. We kick off the day by heading inland and making a stop by the Boodjidup Brook for a scenic morning tea. Next, we veer back to the coast and walk across the beach. By now, we’ve all built up quite an appetite, making this the perfect place to stop for lunch in Redgate. This afternoon, we carry on across the stunning clifftops to Contos Campground where we’ll have some afternoon tea, before hitting the trail once again for the final leg of the day, through the beautiful and shady Boranup Karri Forest.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Boranup Forest to Cosy Corner
We begin today with a peaceful morning walk through the karri forest, marvelling at soaring eucalyptus trees as far as the eye can see. Today’s trek will lead us to Hamelin Bay – this is as close to paradise as it gets. The sand is perfectly white, and the water is an unbelievably bright shade of blue, making for a wonderful spot to enjoy a picnic lunch and take it all in. After lunch, we set off towards the Foul Bay Lighthouse. This hike is short yet challenging, but it’ll all be worth it once you see the fantastic views back along the coast! Today’s walk will draw to a close in Cosy Corner.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Cosy Corner to Cape Leeuwin
This morning’s trek will take us along a limestone edge by the sea, and if the wind hits right, the blowholes along the coast will put on an amazing show for you. From here, we cross a long stretch of beach, venture inland, before returning to the coast at the historic Cape Leeuwin Water Wheel, the finishing point of Cape to Cape Track – you’ve now completed one of Australia’s great walks! If time permits, we’ll venture up to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, a wonderful spot to take a moment and reflect on all you’ve accomplished in the past week. Tonight will be all about celebrating your massive achievement!
Trekking Distance: 21km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: Return to Perth
Enjoy a well-deserved lie-in and a leisurely breakfast this morning, and then we’ll walk into Margaret River to pick up some lunch or souvenirs to remember your adventure. Then it’s time to head back to where it all started and make the drive to Perth. You can expect to arrive at around 3pm, at which point your trip will come to an end.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 1: Depart Perth – Cape Naturaliste to Yallingup
Get ready to put your best foot forward – one of Australia’s most magnificent walks awaits! You’ll meet your guide and the other members of your group at 8am in Perth CBD. From here, we make the drive to the headland of Cape Naturaliste. Our first stop is a fresh picnic lunch at the Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. Take some time to get to know your new trekking buddies, and then it’s time to lace up your boots and hit the trail for the first leg of the Cape to Cape Track. Today’s walk will be pretty easy going, giving you a chance to find your feet as we walk over clifftops and across beaches, watching out for dolphins off the coast. The energy of the waves crashing on the shore is contagious and provides an exhilarating soundtrack to your walk. We finish up your day of walking in Yallingup, a coastal town known for its beaches and limestone caves. From here, we make our way to Margaret River, our home for the next week.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Lunch
Day 2: Yallingup to Moses Rock
Today will be all about soaking up spectacular coastal views, so make sure your camera is charged up and ready to go! We begin our trekking in Yallingup, passing by giant red granite boulders, pristine white sand beaches and a colourful collection of wildflowers along the way. Stop off at Injidup for lunch, a spot known for amazing surf and a natural spa. After lunch, we pay a visit to the beautiful Quinninup Falls, then continue to Moses Rock, our ending point for the day.
Trekking Distance: 10km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Moses Rock to Gracetown
After breakfast, we transfer back to Moses Rock for another day of incredible clifftop coastal trekking. The terrain will be fairly gentle today, with just a few hills and some sandy spots. You’ll enjoy more unforgettable views of the ever-changing coastal landscape, and the sight of the rugged red Wilyabrup Cliffs against a glittering backdrop of turquoise waters is certainly one to remember. If the weather calls for it, you may like to cool off with a dip in the sea at Gracetown’s sheltered bay, or perhaps just sit back and soak in the peaceful surroundings, ready for another exciting day of the Cape to Cape track tomorrow.
Trekking Distance: 16km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4: Gracetown to Margaret River Mouth
We set off from Gracetown today, walking through vibrant coastal heath and arriving at the Ellensbrook historic homestead. Here you’ll take a step back in time and learn the interesting story of the homestead, enjoy some morning tea, and take some time to explore the delightful grounds. We then return to the track and venture inland for a different taste of the area’s diverse landscape. After making a stop for lunch, we head back to the coast and walk across a stretch of beach which will lead you to Cape Mentelle. Today’s journey ends at the mouth of the Margaret River, where you may like to take a refreshing swim to round off the day.
Trekking Distance: 12km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5: Margaret River Mouth to Boranup Forest
Today is our longest day of trekking, however the gentle terrain and varied views make it incredibly enjoyable. We kick off the day by heading inland and making a stop by the Boodjidup Brook for a scenic morning tea. Next, we veer back to the coast and walk across the beach. By now, we’ve all built up quite an appetite, making this the perfect place to stop for lunch in Redgate. This afternoon, we carry on across the stunning clifftops to Contos Campground where we’ll have some afternoon tea, before hitting the trail once again for the final leg of the day, through the beautiful and shady Boranup Karri Forest.
Trekking Distance: 14km (or 25km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Boranup Forest to Cosy Corner
We begin today with a peaceful morning walk through the karri forest, marvelling at soaring eucalyptus trees as far as the eye can see. Today’s trek will lead us to Hamelin Bay – this is as close to paradise as it gets. The sand is perfectly white, and the water is an unbelievably bright shade of blue, making for a wonderful spot to enjoy a picnic lunch and take it all in. After lunch, we set off towards the Foul Bay Lighthouse. This hike is short yet challenging, but it’ll all be worth it once you see the fantastic views back along the coast! Today’s walk will draw to a close in Cosy Corner.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Cosy Corner to Cape Leeuwin
This morning’s trek will take us along a limestone edge by the sea, and if the wind hits right, the blowholes along the coast will put on an amazing show for you. From here, we cross a long stretch of beach, venture inland, before returning to the coast at the historic Cape Leeuwin Water Wheel, the finishing point of Cape to Cape Track – you’ve now completed one of Australia’s great walks! If time permits, we’ll venture up to the Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse, a wonderful spot to take a moment and reflect on all you’ve accomplished in the past week. Tonight will be all about celebrating your massive achievement!
Trekking Distance: 21km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8: Return to Perth
Enjoy a well-deserved lie-in and a leisurely breakfast this morning, and then we’ll walk into Margaret River to pick up some lunch or souvenirs to remember your adventure. Then it’s time to head back to where it all started and make the drive to Perth. You can expect to arrive at around 3pm, at which point your trip will come to an end.
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Cape to Cape trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.
Much of the trekking will be on soft sand, but other sections will be on rocky headlands.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and Training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly country for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3- to 4-star hotels and you can expect all of the usual amenities. Bathrooms are shared but very comfortable.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What to expect
What is the food like?
Breakfast will alternate between continental and cooked breakfasts. For continental breakfasts, you can expect a spread of cereals, toasts, spreads, stewed fruit and yoghurt. Lunch will be a variety of fresh and healthy sandwiches and wraps, and fresh fruit and baked goods. Some dinners will be eaten at our accommodation, others at local restaurants. The menu is constantly changing but can include curry, pasta and seafood barbeques.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Is there mobile phone reception?
There is reliable phone reception during the majority of the trek, however it can be patchy in some spots. Usually Telstra is most reliable. Wi-Fi is available at our accommodation, but you may use this as a good opportunity to switch off and get back to nature.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What will the weather be like?
During the trekking season, the weather averages between 20-26℃. Keep in mind there is very little shade on the track. As much of the trek is along the coast, it is exposed and so it is important to keep a close eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your adventure.
Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels based on twin-share with shared bathrooms
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water on trekking days
- Local expert guide
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages - Tips and gratuities
Is the travel cost guaranteed?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
The inclusions do cover everything you will need for the duration of the adventure. However, we recommend budgeting about $100 total to cover the cost of souvenirs, alcohol or any other small purchases you may wish to make. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train.
The Cape to Cape trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. Much of the trekking will be on soft sand, but other sections will be on rocky headlands.
You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
What is the general age range of participants?The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84 take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly country for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3- to 4-star hotels and you can expect all of the usual amenities. Bathrooms are shared but very comfortable.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What is the food like?
Breakfast will alternate between continental and cooked breakfasts. For continental breakfasts, you can expect a spread of cereals, toasts, spreads, stewed fruit and yoghurt. Lunch will be a variety of fresh and healthy sandwiches and wraps, and fresh fruit and baked goods. Some dinners will be eaten at our accommodation, others at local restaurants. The menu is constantly changing but can include curry, pasta and seafood barbeques.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.
Is there mobile phone reception?
There is reliable phone reception during the majority of the trek, however it can be patchy in some spots. Usually Telstra is most reliable. Wi-Fi is available at our accommodation, but you may use this as a good opportunity to switch off and get back to nature.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What will the weather be like?
During the trekking season, the weather averages between 20-26℃. Keep in mind there is very little shade on the track. As much of the trek is along the coast, it is exposed and so it is important to keep a close eye on the weather forecast in the days leading up to your adventure.
Please check local forecasts in the weeks leading up to your adventure for up-to-date weather information as the seasons can be unpredictable and highly variable week to week.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Transfers as per itinerary
- Accommodation in 3-4 star hotels based on twin-share with shared bathrooms
- Meals as per itinerary
- Water on trekking days
- Local expert guide
- Entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages - Tips and gratuities
Is the travel cost guaranteed?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a tailored fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with your travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
The inclusions do cover everything you will need for the duration of the adventure. However, we recommend budgeting about $100 total to cover the cost of souvenirs, alcohol or any other small purchases you may wish to make. It is possible to travel well on a smaller budget and you can always withdraw more money while away.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is not compulsory, and you are encouraged to tip only an amount you find appropriate.
Do I need to have insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Responsible travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
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