Pilbara

7 DAY TOUR

We begin this tour on the edge of the Western Desert, the town is dominated by Mount Newman (1053 meters) and is the largest modern mining town in the east Pilbara. Within minutes of riding out of town we are exploring true Pilbara country, riding through rich red earth and crossing freshwater streams with a maze of tracks that eventually leads to a natural amphitheatre gorge that will be our overnight camp. What a backdrop, towering cliffs with some of the most amazing rock formations famous to the Pilbara region.

The Pilbara is famous for the richness and ruggedness of its landscapes and the riding through these landforms is mesmerising. The hidden swimming holes and running water to wash off a days ride is a stark contrast to the surrounding environment, and a welcome finish to a day.

SEE TOUR CALENDAR

ITINERARY

DAY 1: NEWMAN – KALGANS

From the gold rush towns of the 1880s to the largest modern mining town in the East Pilbara, Newman is where we start our adventure.

Sitting on the edge of the Western Desert, the town is dominated by Mount Newman (1053 meters) and named after the explorer Aubrey Woodward Newman. In 1957 a huge iron ore deposit was discovered at Mt Whaleback, which is now the site of the largest single open-cut iron ore mine in the world.

We ride out of town and within 10 minutes are exploring true Pilbara country, riding rich red earth and crossing freshwater streams through a maze of tracks that eventually lead to a natural amphitheatre gorge that will be our overnight camp. What a backdrop, towering cliffs with some of the most amazing rock formation famous to the Pilbara region. You will have had your appetite wet for adventure with the unbelievable scenery and at times challenging surfaces including red pindan, rocks and water crossings.

DAY 2: KALGANS – TALAWANA TRACK

This morning we head north through station tracks opening and closing gates behind us on route to the Talawana Track. We are going to ride a variety of surfaces today from overgrown station tracks to graded access roads on route to the Karlamilyi National Park. It is Western Australia’s largest and most remote national park. Karlamilyi is the Martu Aboriginal word for the Rudall River, and the park encompasses over 1.3 million hectares between the Great Sandy Desert and the Little Sandy Desert. The Department of Parks and Wildlife advises that visitors to Karlamilyi need to be well organised with at least two vehicles and radio or satellite communications. Visitors must be self-sufficient with all supplies and equipment including fuel, water, food, medical supplies, etc. Visitors should not enter the area unless they are confident about navigation and driving in remote locations. We have all of this covered and can’t wait to show you a unique part of Western Australia that only the very few are lucky enough to experience. We camp under the stars along the Talawana tonight and relive the stories of the days ride around the fire while pondering tomorrows adventure.

DAY 3: TALAWANA TRACK – KARLAMILYI

Leaving the Talawana Track behind the riding becomes more technical, using old rarely driven tracks that traverse the breakaway country with dry creek beds linking the country together and providing evidence of how the wet seasons shape our outback.

As we ride through the Karlamilyi National Park you could be mistaken you are in Nevada with Ruddall Rivers very unique landscapes and mystical feel. The surface is constantly changing from the rich red Pilbara soil, to quarts encrusted breakaway hills with their creek systems and polished rocks.

Our camp for the night is amongst a tight group of breakaways and the photo opportunities are endless. We watch the sun slip below the breakaways and settle in around the fire for a gourmet meal and look forward to tomorrows ride to Desert Queen Baths.

DAY 4: RUDDALL – QUEEN BATHS

The riding today starts out with weaving our way across vegetated plains dotted with groves of white gum attracting the odd camel sheltering in the shade. Then before you realise, we have entered a new world. The landscape is breakaways as far as the eye can see, with our narrow trail meandering its way through the maze of wash aways and creeks. We eventually cross the Rudall River, named by early explore Frank Hahn after the surveyor William Frederick Rudall, who he met while searching for men missing from the Calvert Expedition party. This area is not only some of the most amazing riding we have experienced but is also rich with history.

By the time we reach our destination Desert Queen Baths we are all ready and deserving of a refreshing swim in the natural oasis to freshen up for lunch.

The riding after lunch is different again as we navigate the river bed itself for a short section and then the richly vegetated flood plains adjacent. This leads us to our next overnight camp with its lush green river gums and backdrop of breakaway country.

DAY 5: RUDDALL – RUNNING WATERS

There is the option of an eighty-kilometre special stage today that loops east and then north again to re-join the main track heading north. This deviation encompasses an old mining settlement and explores very remote tracks and an environment very rarely driven. The aim today is to make the most of the Karlamilyi National Park before heading west to finish the day swimming in a warm natural spring to sooth the days riding away. It is a tranquil lush environment, in stark contrast to the absolutely amazingly rugged country we ride through on the track in. This is our camp for the night and provides those who are keen for another warm spa and freshen up in the morning before we head further west.

DAY 6: RUNNING WATERS – SKULL SPRINGS

This has become a way of life that is hard to give up. Watching the sunrise over outback Western Australia, riding our amazing pieces of equipment through nothing less than the best the Pilbara has to offer, we are the luckiest people on earth. The lush green trees and warm springs of Running Waters is hard to leave behind, however, the next two days are full of adventure and amazing riding. The ride to Skull Springs has both open scenic riding and technical components to enjoy .

DAY 7: SKULL SPRINGS-NULLAGINE

We ride a twisting winding route today with plenty of changes in elevation. The route is bordered by hills and scenery that will have you wanting to deviate and really get amongst the scenery. We will fossick amongst historic gold mines and their history of machinery and diggings, reliving their “gold fever.” We are riding our last one hundred and fifty kilometers today through true Pilbara country and you will find yourself reminiscing of the past six days and its one thousand kilometers of outback Western Australia. The memories we have made will be with us a lifetime. This is a chance to soak it all in, the amazing and memorable riding, landscapes and great times had along the way. We hope you will have enjoyed the adventure.

PRICING

Choose from BYO bike or ALL INCLUDED options.

Full details in FAQ section below.

BYO: $5,400

Supply your own bike spares & equipment required for the adventure.

Organise your own travel to & from start & finish locations.

All food, meals, accommodation, fuel & support services supplied.

ONLY 20% DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO SECURE A BOOKING

BOOK NOW

ALL IN: $7,000

Supplied KTM 500 EXC-F desert prepared and ready for the adventure.

Flights from Perth & return includes all transfers while on tour.

All food, meals, accommodation, fuel & support services supplied.

ONLY 20% DEPOSIT REQUIRED TO SECURE A BOOKING

BOOK NOW

FAQ

What’s the “All In” Option?

With the All In option, we will have your KTM 500 EXC-F desert prepared and ready for adventure. The 500 is undisputedly the bike of choice for “Outback Australia and will make the adventure a memory for life. Our service starts long before you reach the tour start line. Your return flights Ex Perth, transfers once on tour are inclusive and all other logistical requirements will be catered for. We have every aspect of a desert adventure covered all your required to do is “gear-up” and ride!

What’s the BYO Option?

We welcome the use of your own licensed motorbike that is fully maintained and prepared for the desert adventure. Supply your own bike spares and equipment required for you to carry out basic maintenance (filters ,chain etc.) Organise your own travel to and from start and finish locations for yourself and your equipment. We can assist with the information required to arrange travel to and from these tour locations as an alternative to our ALL IN tours.

Support Team?

DACA TOURS has a range of adventures that cater for anyone with a sense of adventure and suitable motorbike licence. All tours have an experienced and passionate support team consisting of lead riders sweep riders & back up crew. We all have a comprehensive knowledge of the tour route and are qualified and capable of first aid. Our DACA team are there to assist with any riding challenges & support you require. We know the area well and you can have peace of mind amongst the most remote areas of Australia we have the knowledge and infrastructure to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. The DACA team takes pride in making sure your day is all about riding through the outback while we take care of the rest.

What is an Adventure Tour?

DACA TOURS strives to make your adventure the most memorable riding experience yet, with some of the most remote and scenic locations in Australia. We are privileged to be part of the very few who get see and experience these hidden riding treasures. Each day will end sitting around the camp fire, sharing the days stories with your fellow riders, content and ready for tomorrows adventure.

What sort of gear do I need to bring?

Total Luggage not to exceed 20Kg, keep clothing to a minimum. Riding gear during the day suitable for all conditions including DOT approved Helmet, goggles, gloves x2, pants, motocross/enduro boots, suitable socks, knee guards and body armour/enduro jacket. A good quality 3 litre hydration pack with ability to carry small items such as snack bars. Something comfortable after hours, track pants shorts shoes. Camera/Go-pro for all the action. Thermal Clothing Is Advised for unexpected wet weather riding. All personal luggage to be carried by HINO back-up truck.

We will send you a more detailed list of what to bring when you make your booking. If supplying your own motorbike you will need a small, but comprehensive spares kit including basic tools for minor repairs to your own bike, tubes, levers, spark plug, chain link and spare air filters etc.

Support Vehicles?

DACA Operates the HINO SERIES 500 DUAL CAB 4×4 truck as a support vehicle that is equipped with everything we require to support you on your outback adventure, including a spare bike. We also run a sweep vehicle Toyota Landcruiser 79 Series Single Cab Ute that travels close to the bikes to pick up any small repairs to keep everyone tracking, and provide for lunches & refreshments. OUR support vehicles are equipped with SAT phone between vehicles and lead rider, satellite tracker, UHF radio for support crew operations,HF radio and personal EPIRB enabling us to provide an effective and safe adventure.

What happens to my luggage?

The Hino 500 truck carries your gear bag and we will issue you with a small dust/water proof bag to stow your after riding clothing into that is easily accessed.

Menu?

There is always enough food to tame the heartiest of appetites. We pride ourselves on the quality of produce chosen and understand amazing flavours and memorable meals are all part of a great holiday. There is a choice of Continental or fully cooked breakfast, fresh sandwiches, wraps or a sneaky steak sanga is on the cards for lunches. Majority of evening meals are BBQ, pasta, curry, fish & camp oven secrets around the campfire. There is always a variety of fruit and snacks throughout the day to stow in your backpack. Coffee, tea and juices are available throughout the days stops and our vehicles carry in excess of 1000 litres of water. All meals & drinks are on DACA while on tour.

Accommodation?

Outback is what DACA is about so you will be under the stars on a comfortable camp stretcher tucked into your swag. Hot shower facilities with a new outback view are available every day. With a country pub thrown in here and there.

Riding Ability?

A valid motorcycle license for the motorbike your riding is a must. We have had a range of skill levels amongst previous riders, from experienced enduro riders who have crossed the Simpson, to less experienced riders who have limited off-road experience. However considerable experience with off-road riding is recommended as almost every kilometre of our adventures are remote and off-road. Everyone rides at their own pace and our guides will ensure all ability levels are catered for. Several stops each day ensure all levels of rider can enjoy the remoteness and isolation at a pace that is comfortable for them.

Insurance?

DACA requires all our riders to take out a short term travel insurance that covers riding a motorbike, health/accident and trip cancellation/interruption. This will be peace of mind when you are riding the most remote tracks you have ever experienced. Or in the event of unforeseen circumstances close to the departure date interrupt plans.

What happens after I book a Tour?

When you have completed your booking, DACA will send an information package with all the specific tour requirements, and follow up with pre-booked flight details for riders booking the “All IN” tours

What will I need to pay for while on tour?

All accommodation and meals are included while on tour. Regional flights to and from tour are inclusive on the “ALL IN” tours. Enough cash for emergency or souvenirs only. Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price, but we can organise it for you.

A valid motorcycle license for the motorbike your riding is a must. We have had a range of skill levels amongst previous riders, from experienced enduro riders who have crossed the Simpson, to less experienced riders who have limited off-road experience. Considerable experience with off-road riding is recommended as almost every kilometre of our adventures are remote and off-road. Everyone rides at their own pace and our guides will ensure all ability levels are catered for. Several stops each day ensure all levels of rider can enjoy the remoteness and isolation at a pace that is comfortable for them.

Payment for tour?

Payments can be made using Credit Card or Over The Phone. A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Full payment for the tour is required 30 days prior to the departure date.

A security deposit of $2000 in the event of damage to your hire motorbike caused by yourself is required on top of the tour deposit, 30 days prior to departure date and is refundable upon return of your hire bike in satisfactory condition agreed by DACA scrutineer. We understand normal wear and tear is part of all riding this is to cover bent and broken components as you would on your own equipment.

Cancellation?

A 20% non-refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. Full payment for the tour is required 30 days prior to the departure date.

Cancelling after booking confirmation, yet prior to final payment,the 20% deposit is non-refundable

Cancelling after the final payment has been received:

# More than 21 days prior to departure date – 75% of payment is refunded.

# Between 21 and 14 days prior to departure date – 50% of payment is refunded.

# Between 14 and 7 days prior to departure date – 25% of payment is refunded.

# Less than 7 days prior to departure date – No refund

Please note most travel Insurance will cover the cost of cancelled tours but check with your individual insurer

PILBARA