rottnest island aboriginal tours

Rottnest Island Aboriginal Tour

Discover the Noongar connection to Wadjemup that predates the last ice-age.

Connected to the mainland before sea levels rose during the last ice-age, Wadjemup was easily accessible and holds an ancient and deep spiritual connection for the Whadjuk Noongar people. Learn about the island’s significance in Dreaming stories and cultural beliefs and later as a penal settlement where countless Aboriginal people were enslaved and incarcerated in the early days of colonisation.

Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) Aboriginal Walking Tour

Walk with us at 'Wadjemup', This surprising 60min walking tour is guaranteed to heighten your appreciation of ‘Wadjemup’- the local Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island. From a unique Aboriginal perspective, you’ll discover the cultural significance of the island and the relevance of many of the historic buildings and infrastructure that tells of the island’s notorious past.

60 min. | 100 max. persons | Bookings essential | Departs from the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre, Rottnest Island | T&Cs apply.

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Rottnest Island tours

Rottnest Fast Ferries Round-Trip Tickets: Rottnest Island to/from Perth or Fremantle with Optional Bike Hire

• A 30-min ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Enjoy a day off the coast of Western Australia with return ferry transfers.
• No need to be a morning person! The ferry departs on a flexible schedule, plus ditch the baggage claim – store your luggage on the ferry and chill.
• The Rottnest ferry isn't just a ride, it's a wildlife adventure! Keep your eyes peeled for New Zealand's fur seals, seabirds, humpback whales, and dolphins!
• Feel the wind on your face and discover more corners of the island than you can on foot. Upgrade your ticket for a bike and cycle your way around the island.
• Channel your inner Indiana Jones and explore hidden coves. Explore shipwreck sites and say hi to furry quokkas that have been selfie-snapped with the likes of Margot Robbie.
• Round-trip ferry transfers to Perth/Fremantle
• Entry to Rottnest Express boat
• Luggage storage
• Entry to Rottnest Island
• Bike hire (optional)
• Tip: You may spot long-nosed fur seals basking and playing in the water from the viewing platforms at Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh.
• Facilities: Luggage storage, pram/stroller accessible
• Guide dogs are allowed onboard. However, as Rottnest Island is an A-Class reserve you should contact the rangers there for further advice on service dog allowance.
• Single pieces of luggage up to 22kg and no larger than 800mm x 500mm x 400mm can be stowed in the vessels’ luggage crates.
• Single carry-on items must be no larger than 600mm x 400mm x 300mm.
• 1 piece of luggage is permitted per person. Additional luggage will incur an excess luggage charge.
• No ‘piggy-backing’ of luggage is permitted (eg: attaching a sleeping bag to a suitcase).
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Guided Tour of Rottnest Island with Round-Trip Ferry Transfer

• Craving a tour packed with sunshine, scenery, and the cutest marsupials on earth? Go for the Rottnest Island guided trip, complete with ferry transfers from Perth or Fremantle.
• Hop on a comfy, AC bus for a 90-min tour while your guide regales you with the tales of Rottnest's indigenous history, military past, and unique flora and fauna.
• As you circle the island, admire views of the Wadjemup Lighthouse. Breathe in the fresh ocean air and soak up the vastness of the Indian Ocean.
• Stop by West End and take a quick stroll down the boardwalk to meet adorable quokkas with their permanent grins, offering a chance for a once-in-a-lifetime photo.
• 90-minute guided island tour
• Round-trip ferry transfer to Perth/Fermentle
• English-speaking guide
• Snorkel equipment
• Bike rental
• Tip: Make sure to bring your swimsuit and dive into the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.
• Lockers are available for hire at the back of the Visitor Centre should you need to store luggage or bags during your visit.
• This experience is pram/stroller accessible.

Full-Day Tour of Rottnest Island with Bicycle Hire from Perth

• A short ferry ride along the Swan River from Perth and you arrive in paradise: Rottnest Island. Gear up for a full-day cycling tour exploring this idyllic escape!
• Pack a nice lunch, then choose from the incredible bays and beaches. Your other task for the day is to spot a quokka— a small marsupial only found on the island.
• Pedal towards the rugged West End and explore the beauty of Rottnest with a scenic walk along the boardwalk. Get ready for some insane coastal panoramas!
• Upgrade your ticket for a snorkel experience and explore one of Western Australia's best coral reefs with all the equipment you need.
• Spot turtles, encounter pods of dolphins, and with a bit of luck, witness humpback whales during their annual migration.
• Day tour of Rottnest Island
• Self-guided tour
• Return ferry transfers to Rottnest Island from Perth
• Bike hire with helmet and security lock
• Snorkel equipment (optional)
• Tip: If you like a touch of mystery with your underwater explorations, grab your mask, snorkel, and head straight to Henrietta Rocks.
• Guests under the age of 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
• Bikes with baby seats can be requested and are subject to availability.
• Children's bikes are suitable for children between the ages of 4 to 7. Children aged 7 or older can usually use adult-sized bikes.

• Rottnest Island Guided Segway Tour with Round-Trip Ferry Transfer
• Glide through 7000-year-old Rottnest Island on a Segway tour with a knowledgeable local guide and convenient return ferry transfers.
• Discover the island's military history at Bickley Battery and Jubilee Lookout, unveiling Rottnest's strategic role in World War II.
• Soak in the beauty of this nature reserve with its pristine beaches and bays, boasting vibrant marine life and stunning landscapes.
• Make your tour unforgettable by capturing an endearing quokka selfie, and explore other photo spots to snap up lifelong memories.
• Choose your ferry departure from Fremantle or Perth for a smooth and convenient island getaway.
• Rottnest Island Segway Tour
• Local guide
• Round-trip ferry transfers from Perth (optional)
• Round-trip ferry transfers from Fremantle (optional)
• Protective helmets
• Food and drinks

From Fremantle

• 9:00am: Ferry departs B Shed, Fremantle
• 9:30am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
• 12:30pm: 1.5-hour Fortress Adventure Segway commences from The Settlement.
• 2:00pm: Tour concludes back at The Settlement - Free time
• 4:00pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
• 4:30pm: Ferry arrives at B Shed, Fremantle
• 8:30am: Ferry departs Pier 3, Barrack Street Jetty
• 10:00am: Arrive at Rottnest Island and make your way to The Settlement (Behind Dome Cafe)
• 4:15pm: Ferry departs Rottnest Island
• Tip: Maintain a respectful distance with quokkas, let them approach you, and resist the urge to feed them.
• Children under 12 and guests weighing below 45kg are not permitted to participate in this tour.
• This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.
• The tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments.
• Pets are not allowed on this tour.
• Guests can bring one carry-on item on board per person.

• Rottnest Island Day Tour with Adventure Boat Tour
• A quick ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle whisks you off to Rottnest Island, a paradise waiting to be explored. With the return ferry included, enjoy a day on the Western Australian coast.
• On your scenic cruise down the Swan River from Perth, listen to onboard commentary about the local history, hidden gems, and fascinating attractions.
• Your ticket includes a 90-minute Eco Express boat tour to the island’s wild side where you can see the rugged coastline and see New Zealand Fur Seal Colony out at Cathedral Rocks.
• Unwind as the turquoise waters of Basin and Parakeet Bay lull you into serenity and take a broadwalk to meet the island's absolutely cuddly residents–quokkas.
• Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, playful pods of dolphins, and, if you're lucky, majestic humpback whales on their annual migration.
• Return ferry transfers to Fremantle/Perth
• Rottnest Island admission fee
• 90-min Eco Express boat tour
• Guided tour
• Hotel drop-off
• Tip: Pack a delicious picnic and find a scenic spot overlooking the ocean or nestled among the island's picturesque landscapes.
• Guests under 4 are restricted from participating in this experience.
• Guests under 4 cannot participate in this experience.

Top things to do in Perth

Weekend getaway at Rottnest Island

An ancient island surrounded by turquoise waters, Rottnest Island is a tiny strip of land that offers many adventures! Sign up for tours on boats, segways, and bicycles to explore the island’s native wildlife, unspoiled beaches, historic streets, and more. We unpack this unique Australian getaway, sharing everything you need to know before you book your Rottnest Island tour! 

Why visit Rottnest Island?

• Sun and sand: Made up of sandy beaches and rocky bays that open out to turquoise and deep blue waters, Rottenest Island is perfect for a day of swimming and sunning. 
• Adventure island: Rottnest Island tours offer you fun ways to explore the island. There are segway, boat and bicycle tours. You can also spend time here snorkelling, fishing, diving and hiking. 
• Quokka encounters: Roaming freely all around the island, the quokkas are small, marsupials that make for an adorable sight. 
• History on segways: Discover the 7000-year history, Aboriginal ties and World War II structures of the island as you zip around on segways. 
• Catch a shipwreck: Over 13 ships have met an unfortunate demise around Rottenest Island and some like the Shark, near Henrietta Rocks, and Uribes, near Philip Point, are easily accessible.               
• Salt lakes: Discover 12 salt lakes that are even saltier than the sea and feature rich bird and plant life.

What Rottnest Island tour should I pick?

If you’re with kids

Go For: Fast ferry tickets Duration: Flexible Transfers: Yes Guide: No 

• Offering flexible timings, the fast ferry will give you quick access to Rottnest Island so you can make the most of your trip. 
• Get a comfortable experience with pick-ups from hotels in Perth and Fremantle. 

Recommended tours: 

• Rottnest Fast Ferries Round-Trip Tickets: Rottnest Island to/from Perth or Fremantle with optional Bike Hire

If you are an adventurer

Go For: Adventure boat tour Duration: Full-day tour Transfers: Yes Guide: No

• Cycle the length and breadth of the historical island discovering sandy beaches, salt lakes, and shipwrecks. 
• If you prefer to roam the waters instead, sign up for the Adventure Boat Tour - a 90-minute ride that takes you through the gorgeous waters around the island. 
• Full Day Tour of Rottnest Island with Bicycle Hire from Perth

If you are a history buff

Go For: Guided tours Duration: Full-day tour Transfers: Yes Guide: Yes

• Walk through the streets of the island learning about the history of the place, admiring its abundant natural beauty and meeting up with quokkas. 
• If you want an extra dose of thrill, you can also sign up for tours on segways. 
• Guided Tour of Rottnest Island with Round-trip Ferry Transfer

Cancellation policy 

• Most Rottnest Island tours allow you to cancel the tickets 24 hours before the start of the tour. Check your tickets while booking for accurate cancellation information.

Rottnest Island highlights

Segway tours

Strap on your helmet,  hop on your segway and glide past sand dunes and historic streets to explore Rottnest. On these unique, eco-friendly adventures, stop by Thompson Bay thronged by beach bums, grab a pint at one of the island’s OG bars and swing by military landmarks like Bickley Battery and Jubliee Lookout that were part of the World War II efforts.

Hiking trails

Leave the sunny beaches behind and take any of the five marked-out hiking trails on the 45 kilometres of roads on the island. Choose from a variety of trails like Gabbi Karniny Bidi that introduces you to the intrinsic lake system or the short Karlinyah Bidi that takes you to the northern coasts. Ngank Wen Bidi that loops through Narrow Neck and Ngank Yira Bidi talks about the history of the island, including its naval gun bases.

Rottnest’s gorgeous waters lapping against jagged, limestone bays and fine-sand beaches bring in swimmers, snorkelers and divers. Explore the popular Basin, Geordie Bay and Pinky Beach. For a more serene outing, head to Parakee Beach, Fish Hook Bay and Mary Cove. The waters are home to 400 different species of fish, green turtles, and western rock lobsters that make their way through piles of seaweed and coral.

Twelve, large salt lakes dot the north-eastern bit of Rottnest Island. Even though they are highly saline, the lakes boast unique plant life and a wetland ecosystem that nurtures life. Walk on cleverly constructed boardwalks that give you the feeling like you are walking on water. In summer, many of these lakes transform into pink and white salt pans that are worth stopping by especially if you have a weakness for spectacular sunsets.

As if a standing testament to its rich naval history, the coasts of Rottnest Island are populated with shipwrecks that can be easily explored by snorkelers. At Henrietta Rocks, swim along with tiny schools of fish to make your way to the seaweed-laden ‘Shark’ shipwreck that is a short swim from the shore. Another easily accessible wreck site is Uribes that stands close to the beachfront at Philip Point.

A protected wildlife sanctuary, Wadjemup - the Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island - is home to diverse creatures including the quokkas, bats, and migratory birds. Chief among these are the quokkas - that look like smaller versions of kangaroos - and populate the island. At Rottnest, these creatures roam freely and you can get close enough to get an adorable picture. However, touching or petting the animals can attract huge fines so steer clear!

Navigating Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island is a 19 km island that is just off the coast of Perth. It is surrounded by the Indian Ocean. There are many ways to get to the island from Perth, including ferry, air taxis, and boats.

Find it on Maps

Closest ferry stop: Rottnest Island

• Perth: Barrack Street Jetty (90 minutes to Rottnest Island)
• Fremantle: Victoria Quay (25 minutes to Rottnest Island) 
• North Fremantle: Rous Head (25 minutes)
• Hillarys Boat Harbour: (45 minutes)

To get the most value for your money, we recommend you sign up for a Rottnest Island tour that includes ferry rides. 

For those of you looking to arrive in style, there are several flight options to Rottnest Island.

Rottnest Air-Taxi: This is a 10-minute flight available every day from Perth. 

Corsaire Aviation: Take a thrilling helicopter ride that gives you the chance to look out at Rottnest Island’s spectacular landscape from above. Daily departures from Jandakot Airport, Crown Towers, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour are available. 

Air Charters West: These luxurious private charters take off from Bunbury Airport. The short, 30-minute flight includes a champagne breakfast. 

Swan River Seaplanes: These are seasonal sightseeing planes available from Perth. The 20-minute flights offer sweeping views of Perth and the expansive sea before landing in Rottnest Island.

Private Boats are allowed to travel to Rottnest Island and dock at several points. However, they do attract larger fees. Do check out the Rottnest Island Authority website for detailed information. 

Rottnest Island is primarily a car-free island. There are few asphalt roads and connectivity on the island is mostly on foot, segways, bikes and buses. There is no road that leads directly to the island either, so you will be unable to access Rottnest Island by car.

Since Rottnest Island is car-free, visitors rely on other modes of transport to make their way around the island. You can pick from:

Bikes:   Once you get off the jetty, you can head to Pedal & Flipper Hire to hire out bikes. They have a range of bikes. However, we recommend you hire out an e-bike as it simplifies navigating the island’s rugged terrain. 

Quokka coaches: These are hop-on and hop-off buses that stop at around 19 points in the island. You can get your tickets at the Main Bus Stop between 8:30 AM and 3 PM and can stop by the island’s key landmarks including Henrietta Rocks, the Lighthouse, and Cape Vlamingh. 

Quokka hopper:  If you prefer private transfers, you can hire the Quokka Hopper - electric carts - that drives through Thomsan Bay, Kingstown and Geordie Bay. They operate between 8 AM and 10 PM every day and we recommend you make a booking in advance if you want to avoid delays.

Plan your Rottnest Island tour

The Island is open throughout the year and on all days of the year.

If you are taking a Rottnest Express Ferry from nearby points, you should know that the first from Perth (towards Rottnest) is at 8:45 AM and the last ferry towards Perth is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the ferries start at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM. 

Best time to visit

To experience the best beach life, head to Rottnest Island during the summers (November to January) or even Autumn (March to May). These are the best months to soak in the warm sun and sign up for the long line-up of beach activities. However, prices tend to be on the higher side during these times, especially during summer, and you can expect sizeable crowds even on weekdays. While the wetter and colder months (June to August) are less crowded, the rains and the cold weather might mean that you are stuck indoors.

Restrooms: Available at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Showers: Located at the Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Changing rooms: Henderson Avenue and Thomson Bay

Water refill stations: The Settlement, Army Jetty, Kingstown Barracks, The Basin, Vlamingh Lookout and Geordie Bay.

Baby changing facilities: Thomson Bay and Geordie Bay

Barbecue facilities: Thomson and Geordie Bays

• Ferries: All ferry services are wheelchair accessible. 
• Beaches: Most beaches and bays are fitted with ramps and wheelchair-friendly pathways. 
• Toilets: Accessible toilets are available at Visitor Centre, Thomson Bay, Stay Rottnest Campground, The Basin, Geordie Bay, Parker Point, Stark Bay, West End
• Showers: Bedford Avenue and Thomson Bay are equipped with accessible showers. 
• Guide dogs: Service dogs are permitted but the local rangers have to be informed in advance since this is a Class A Reserve. 
• Accommodation: Discovery Resorts - an island accommodation - offers accessible tents. 
• Coaches: Quokka Coaches - the shuttle service around the island - offers wheelchair accessibility.

Dome Cafe : A breezy, pretty-looking cafe by Thomson Bay serving up soups, sandwiches, all-day breakfasts and desserts along with chilled beer and wine. 

Lontara: Upscale dining option, near The Settlement, serving Asian flavours and delectable cocktails.

Isola Bar e Cibo: Traditional Italian dishes made from fresh local ingredients, this seaside place is best known for its jumbo prawns, succulent lamb and fresh pasta. 

Geordie’s Cafe and Art Gallery : Located near the busy Geordie Bay, this is a laidback cafe with outdoor seating, serving up hefty burgers, fresh salads, and loaded milkshakes.

• Alcohol consumption: Street drinking is not permitted on the island. 
• Camping: Camping is only allowed in designated spots. 
• BBQ: Barbecuing is not allowed except in the designated areas. 
• Pets: Domestic pets are not allowed on the island. 
• Wildlife interactions: Touching wildlife and swimming with long-nosed fur seals is not permitted and attracts heavy fines.

Visitor’s Tips

• Beach properties: Longreach Beach is closer to the island’s hotels and accommodations if you are looking for a property close to a beach. 
• Photo point: The West End is the western-most point of the island and we recommend a stop by for dramatic views of the blue waves crashing against the rocky coves that line the shore. 
• Quokka alert:  The island’s cutest inhabitants - the quokkas - are in the habit of grabbing food and things that are kept on the floor or at a low level so make sure you keep everything out of reach! 
• Day at the museum: The Wadjemup Museum pays moving tribute to the island’s history - tracing the lives of the Aboriginals who were imprisoned and buried on Rottenest, highlighting its military tunnels and its WWII gun battery. It is a must for history buffs! 
• Seal spotting: Hop on to the Eco Express Boat Tour that jets through the clear, turquoise waters and also packs in an encounter with long-nosed fur seals. 
• Whale watching: If you’re visiting the Island between August and December, then head to the Cathedral Rocks or Cape Vlamingh, peel your eyes on the waters and wait for the whales to come by!

Frequently Asked Questions about Rottnest Island Tours

The prices of tours to Rottnest Island depend on the experience you are signing up for. Rottenest Island ferry tickets start off at about AU$ 78. And experiences like the bike , segway and boat tours are slotted between AU$ 137 and 208.

Rottnest Island tours can easily be booked online. There are also multiple options including bike, segway and boat tours .

Rottnest Island tours are best booked online for their various advantages, such as, - Advanced planning: Rottnest Island is ideal for a day trip or a weekend getaway and having your bookings in place helps you plan in advance and flesh out the details of your trip.  - Avoid Disappointment: Accessible from Perth, Fremantle and Hillarys Boat Harbour, the tickets to Rottnest Island can sell out fast on weekends. This is because Rottnest Island ferries are the most popular way to access the island and other tour tickets are limited. - Convenience: Many of the Rottnest Island ferries and tours offer you the flexibility of fully refundable cancellations up to 24 hours.

The inclusions under the Rottnest Island ticket depend on what you have signed up for. Usually, Rottnest Island ferry tickets will bring you back and forth from the island. However, tour tickets often include to-and-fro ferry rides, pickups from CBD hotels, and specific tour experiences. There are also guided tour options available.

Rottnest Island is a very popular getaway and discounts may not be available. However, Rottnest Island tours often offer great value for money, packing in ferry trips, unique experiences, pick-ups and drops and guided tours in one ticket. You may also enjoy some online discounts while booking that you may not get in offline bookings.

Yes, there are! Guided Tours include a tour of the island and an introduction to its history and encounters with its wildlife. There are also guided segway tours that stop by the island’s best-known landmarks.

A handful of the tours offer cancellations up to 24 hours of the experience. However, the guided tours cannot be cancelled once booked.

Rottnest Island is open throughout the year and around the clock. However, if you are accessing it from Perth, the first ferry leaves after 8 AM and the last ferry back is at 7:30 PM. From Fremantle, the first ferry is at 7:30 AM and the last ferry back is at 8:15 PM.

Rottnest Island is easily accessible by ferries from Perth, Fremantle, and Hillarys Boat Harbour through ferries, and boats. There are also scenic flights available for slightly higher prices. However, there is no car access to the island.

Absolutely! Perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway, Rottnest Island is a small but breathtaking island, just off Perth. It offers visitors the chance to dive into its turquoise and blue waters, explore underwater caves and shipwrecks, discover unique wildlife and chill out on sandy beaches.

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Rottnest Island

Home to the happiest animals on earth - quokkas – Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) is a holiday haven of pristine beaches, aquamarine bays, bike tracks and walking trails. The best part? The car-free, conservation-minded Class A reserve is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle in our capital city, Perth and an unforgettable adventure for every visitor.

Whadjuk Noongar people are the original Custodians of Wadjemup, and the island holds a rich and complex history for Aboriginal people across WA. Join an immersive Aboriginal tour or visit the Wadjemup Museum and connect to the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the island.

Ferries bound for Rottnest Island (Wadjemup) depart from Perth, Fremantle (Walyalup) and Hillarys Boat Harbour , while light planes and helicopters offer scenic transits from various locations. Once you’ve crossed the 19-kilometre channel between Perth and the island, get about on foot, with a hired bicycle or e-bike, use the shuttle, or board the hop on-hop off bus, which loops around the 11 kilometre-long island. Rottnest’s beaches are like a slice of paradise, with blindingly white sand, water so clear you can see down to your toes, and majestic coves formed by naturally sculpted rocks. In all, there are 63 secluded, sandy havens, linked by paved riding and walking trails. The Basin , Geordie Bay and Little Parakeet Bay are favourites close to Thomson Bay settlement, while those towards West End have a raw, rugged appeal. From certain spots, you’ll see humpback whales breaching (they migrate from September to November), seals floating or dolphins bobbing. Beneath the waterline, there are numerous species of coral, tropical fish and abundant seagrasses. Both Parker Point and Little Salmon Bay have snorkel trails dotted with underwater panels. Signposted walking trails also criss-cross the island’s heart, with more than 45 kilometres of connected trails and boardwalks to follow. The main attraction, of course, is the highly photogenic quokka, a friendly marsupial that appears to smile. Not only the subject of countless celebrity selfies, the Western Australian icon is also responsible for the island’s name: 17th century Dutch sailors mistook the cute creatures for large rats.

By night, relax in eco-glamping tents, historic cottages, a beachfront hotel or, bring your camping gear to enjoy the simple life as city lights twinkle across the ocean.

Tourism Western Australia acknowledges Aboriginal peoples as the traditional custodians of Western Australia and pay our respects to Elders past and present. We celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal West Australians and honour their continuing connection to Country, culture and community. We recognise and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by First Nations peoples across many generations in shaping Western Australia as a premier destination.

Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) Aboriginal Tour

Rottnest Island Visitor Centre, Rottnest Island, Western Australia

Continue your journey of learning about ‘Wadjemup’- the local Noongar name for Rottnest Island, its notorious past and on-going spiritual significance to Noongar People.

DESCRIPTION

This surprising 60min walking tour is guaranteed to heighten your appreciation of ‘Wadjemup’, the local Aboriginal name for Rottnest Island. From a unique Aboriginal perspective, your Noongar guide explores the Island’s pre-eminent significance to Noongar People prior to its notorious recent past life as the Rottnest Island Aboriginal Establishment. Beginning with a traditional Aboriginal sand ceremony at the first settlement, your walk also includes a Dreamtime story, traditional song and Noongar language.

Please wear a hat, water, umbrella (if required) and sunscreen. BYO water bottle.

Where to meet your guide:  

At the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre on grass, Rottnest Island.

IMPORTANT NOTE WHEN BOOKING YOUR PUBLIC (WADJEMUP) TOUR WITH US:  

• Ferry transfers are not included in your booking and will need to be purchased separately. 
• No third party bookings.
• Your confirmation + payment receipt will be sent through by our team, once reviewed and accepted. Allow 5 business days for your online booking submission to be processed. 
• Minimums apply, note that this tour will operate with minimum 10 persons+. 
• You will be sent your confirmation + payment receipt through the online platform you booked through once reviewed and accepted by our team. 
• All online bookings will only receive a digital payment receipt. If you require a tax invoice for your booking, please contact our bookings team via email [email protected] to manually process your booking and invoice. Note: If you proceed through the online booking portal and payment link you will not receive a tax invoice, only payment receipt. 

Rate / booking information: 

Not recommended for children under 12 years. Children 12+ charged at child rate. 

Children 16+ will be charged at  concession rate (please provide student concession card) 

Peak Season: September – April | Off Season: May – August

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Tours Perth

Go Cultural Aboriginal Tour & Experiences

Details & Facilities

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An authentic wholly Aboriginal-owned and operated tour operation in the Perth City limits.

Description

Award winning tour operators Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours are set to share their culture and traditional knowledge with Western Australian’s in a series of upcoming tours around Perth. Run in collaboration with the WA Visitors Centre, and with support from the Rottnest Island Association, these tours will allow families to discover the fascinating Aboriginal history of Karrgatup (Kings Park, and Goomup (Elizabeth Quay) on alternate Sundays throughout May and June. Adults are also welcomed to Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) on Premium Saturday walking tours which include a traditional sand & water ceremony, Dreaming story, and much more. Join Walter, your Noongar guide, and discover the land of the Whadjuk people right on your doorstep. For more information on the tours, which run until 20th June, visit the Go Cultural website, or the Western Australia Visitor Centre.

Cancellation Policy

BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS Go Cultural Aboriginal Tours and Experiences (GCATE) Tours All dealings with GCATE will be on these Terms and Conditions (Terms) unless otherwise agreed in writing with GCATE. 1.Clothing recommendations 1.1.Weather conditions from April to November may require an umbrella and/or coat. At all other times it is recommended you wear suitable clothing good walking shoes and bring a camera sunscreen hat insect repellent and water bottle. 1.2.Extended tours or tag along may require additional equipment and supplies that you will be expected to bring for example: own folding chair picnic blanket food and drinks. 2.General considerations 2.1.All prices include GST. 2.2.Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian(s) at all times. Excluding school group bookings children under 6 years of age are free of charge. 2.3.Participants belongings and personal items whilst on the tours are their own responsibility. 2.4.Tours will not proceed should GCATE decide that the weather makes participation in the tour unsafe or for any other reason. Tours may be cancelled at short notice in which case a full refund of fee will apply. 3.Terms of Payment 3.1.Full payment is required on booking. 3.2.Bookings can only be changed up to 24 hours prior to the original tour date and changed only by time or date to another available time or date and not reduction in number of participants. 3.3.Participants older than 16 years will be charged at adult rates. Identification as proof of age may be requested on booking. 3.4.Concession rates apply to holders of senior or pensioner cards and full-time students. Card membership numbers must be quoted at time of booking. 3.5.We accept PayPal Bankcard MasterCard & Visa. 4.Cancellation 4.1.Non-arrival/cancellation fee applies. 4.2.Elizabeth Quay Walking Tours require minimum number of 4 participants to operate. In circumstances where minimum numbers are not reached a tour may be cancelled. 4.3.If you fail to join a tour or join it after departure or leave it prior to its completion no tour refund can be made. 4.4.Cancellation Fees Walking and Extended Tours are as follows: 4.4.1. 16 29 days prior to tour; 25% of total price 4.4.2. 15 2 days prior to tour; 50% of total price 4.4.3. 24 hours to less than 2 hours to tour; 100% of total price 5.Departure point 5.1.1.5hour walking tours depart from Elizabeth Quay adjacent to V Burger Cafe. 5.2.3-hour tour participants will be met by GCATE guide at chosen location at time of booking. 6.Requirements to participate in GCATE tours 6.1.All Participants on the tour must hold a valid receipt. Entry may be refused if receipt is damaged or defaced in any way or not purchased from an authorised point of sale. Verbal promises by booking agents or clerks will not be recognised. 6.2.All Participants will be required to disclose to GCATE guide prior to the commencement of the service whether the participant suffers from any medical condition which may prevent the participant undertaking the tour including but not limited to epilepsy dizziness limb or back injury angina or other heart condition severe or uncontrolled asthma visual impairment depression or recovering from recent surgery. 6.3.All participants acknowledge and agree that they participate in the service at their own risk. 7.Terms of Participation 7.1.All Participants must obey the directions and instructions of the GCATE guide must not disturb other Participants or interfere with the GCATE guide???s ability to conduct the service in a safe manner. 7.2.GCATE guide reserves the right to refuse service to any person/s who appear to be overly intoxicated or under the influence of illicit substances. 8.Changes in tour times 8.1.GCATE reserves the right to cancel or vary this service in any way without notice. However reasonable effort will be made to maintain arrangements as advertised. 8.2.GCATE reserves the right to refuse any person for whatever reason participation in the service in its absolute discretion whether or not they have previously purchased a tour. A person will be reimbursed for tours previously purchased should they be refused permission to participate on grounds other than those set out above. 9.Indemnity 9.1.GCATE have current liability insurance with Sportscover Australia Pty Ltd. 10.Miscellaneous Terms 10.1 All participants acknowledge and agree that the GCATE is expressly authorised to take photographs of participants during the tour and utilise such photographs for the purpose of advertising including but not limited to being displayed on the GCATE website. 10.2 Photographs remain copyright to GCATE and may only be used or reproduced by participants for private or domestic purposes and must not be used for any commercial purpose including promotion of any supplier or any supplier's products or services without GCATE???s prior written permission. 10.3 Participants are not to record in any manner or take notes throughout the duration of the tour as the information imparted on the tour is the intellectual property of GCATE. 10.4 GCATE tours must be paid for at the time of booking unless otherwise agreed by GCATE in advance.

Map & Directions

Elizabeth Quay, Perth, WA 6000

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Wadjemup (Rottnest Island) Immersive Experience

• Duration: 120 Minutes (approx.)
• Location : Perth , Western Australia
• Product code: WAE01

Explore this iconic island from the unique Aboriginal perspective as your Noongar guide explores the Island’s pre-eminent significance to Noongar People prior to and despite of it's notorious recent past. Beginning with a traditional Aboriginal sand ceremony at the first settlement, your walk also includes a Dreamtime story, traditional song and Noongar language. Join us for an immersive journey which includes a Noongar Smoking Ceremony. 

Please wear a hat, water, umbrella (if required) and sunscreen. BYO water bottle.

Where to meet your guide:  

At the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre, Rottnest Island.

IMPORTANT NOTE WHEN BOOKING YOUR PUBLIC TOUR WITH US:  

• Ferry transfers are not included in your booking and will need to be purchased separately. 
• No third-party bookings.
• Your confirmation + payment receipt will be sent through by our team, once reviewed and accepted. Allow 5 business days for your online booking submission to be processed. 
• Minimumsapply. Please note that this tour will operate for 10 persons+. 
• You will be sent your confirmation + payment receipt through the online platform you booked through once reviewed and accepted by our team. 
• All online bookings will only receive a digital payment receipt. If you require a tax invoice for your booking, please contact our bookings team via email  [email protected]  to manually process your booking and invoice. Note: If you proceed through the online booking portal and payment link you will not receive a tax invoice, only payment receipt. 

Rate / booking information: 

Not recommended for children under 12 years. Children 12+ charged at  child rate. 

Children 16+ will be charged at  concession rate (please provide student concession card) 

Peak Season: September - April | Off Season: May - August

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