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Sal Salis Australia
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Safari Camp is a luxurious eco-retreat located in the sand dunes of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Coast, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Ideally located for those looking to explore the Ningaloo Reef, which is home to an abundance of marine life, including whale sharks, humpback whales, dolphins, and turtles. The camp can arrange whale shark swims and other marine adventures, as well as guided hikes and wildlife encounters. The camp also offers a range of guided activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, and bushwalking, to explore the surrounding reef and landscape.
Sal Salis is a testament to eco-conscious living, being the sole resort within the World Heritage Cape Range National Park. The camp relies on solar power, limits water usage to 20 liters per person per day, and encourages guests to stick to designated paths, all aimed at minimise its environmental impact.
With over 500 species of fish, 250 coral varieties and 600 types of mollusc there is plenty to marvel at. The area near the camp is also a major breeding spot for Hawksbill, Green and Loggerhead Turtles. Keep your eyes peeled, and you might even spot a red kangaroo grazing among the dunes.
Lodge Details
Sal Salis Location
Sal Salis is in the Cape Range National Park, in Western Australia.
How to get to Sal Salis
Sal Salis is a 90-minute drive from Exmouth Airport, or an hour drive from Exmouth town. Transfers can also be arranged from the nearest airport, Learmonth Airport.
Sal Salis Accommodation & Facilities
- Accommodation at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef Safari Camp consists of nine spacious tents, each featuring comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms with eco-friendly amenities, and private decks with stunning ocean views.
- Each spacious tent features a comfortable bed adorned with fine linens, and the expansive views of the surrounding dunes create a breathtaking backdrop.
- The tents are designed with a minimalist and eco-friendly style, using natural materials and solar power to ensure a low environmental impact.
- The camp offers a range of facilities, including a central lodge with a dining area, lounge, and bar, and a campfire area for evening drinks and stargazing.
- Perched above the sand with captivating views of the reef and the Indian Ocean, the main lodge serves as a gathering spot for meals and relaxation. It houses a small reference library, board games, and a cozy lounge area with a self-service bar.
- Sal Salis is open from mid-March to mid-November.
Sal Salis Activities
- Enjoy included activities at the accommodation. The coastal reef and inshore waters of Ningaloo Reef provide one of Australia’s great marine experiences.
- If you want to experience something special on your trip each year between mid-March and July you can swim with Whale Sharks, the world’s largest fish. Fortunately for most sea-dwellers (and for us) they feed primarily on plankton and krill, taking in huge gulps of water and filtering out their microscopic meal.
- A guided Kayak tour is a perfect way to explore more of the reef. Head further out in your kayaks to snorkel at some of the deeper lagoons. The lagoons in the Reef are some of the best snorkelling spots, showcasing the life cycle of the reef as well as stunning marine life.
- From August to October, the magnificent Humpback whales swim through the waters of the Ningaloo Marine Park. They can be seen from the camp or you can experience a swim right alongside them. Stretching 260km the Ningaloo Reef is the longest fringing coastal reef in the world. At high tide, you only have to wander 10 metres offshore to reach it. All snorkelling gear and wetsuits are provided for you.
- Explore some of the backcountry in the Cape Range, and venture down the coast. Your guide will share their knowledge of local flora and fauna with you as they quietly sneak up on the resident colony of rare black-footed rock wallabies in Mandu Mandu Gorge, or explain the local geomorphology and fossil history during a hike up Yardie Creek, one of the only sources of permanent water in the Cape Range National park and bursting with life.
Sal Salis Dining
- The main dining area at Sal Salis is an open-air, communal space located just a few steps from the beach. Dine with views of the Indian Ocean, often accompanied by the sound of waves and the sight of kangaroos grazing nearby.
- The atmosphere is casual yet refined, with a focus on creating a communal and welcoming environment.
- A hearty breakfast is served each morning, offering hot and cold options, including freshly baked bread, cereals and fruits.
- Lunches are typically lighter with fresh salads and sandwiches and may be served in the main dining area or as a packed picnic out on an excursion.
- Dinner is three course meal and may include a starter, main course such as grilled fish or lamb, and a dessert featuring local fruits or Australian treats.
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Australia Wildlife Highlights
Australia’s unique wildlife is as a result of many contributing factors; its prolonged geographical isolation and unique climate affecting its soil just to name a couple. A visit to Australia can put you up close and personal with the wombat, the echidna, the duck-billed platypus, the Tasmanian devil, the Spotted Quoll, the Koala, the dugong and a multitude of different kangaroo and wallaby species.
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When to Visit Australia
The best time to visit Australia depends on the area you plan to see. A country of two climates, Australia’s northern half is driest and most accessible between April and September. Warm, sunny days show the national parks and beaches at their very best, providing opportunities for swimming and barbecues. The north is humid from October to March, with more rainfall, but this is offset by the active wildlife, and reinvigorated rainforests and wetlands.
In the southern half of Australia, the summer months (December to February) bring hot weather. Autumn (March to May) is also a lovely time, with numerous festivals and the busy grape harvest. Winter (June to August) is less busy and generally attracts a temperate climate that’s ideal for hiking, while spring (September to November) often sees more wildlife activity.
Your included whale shark experience begins with a transfer to Tantabiddi Boat Ramp (about 25 minutes’ drive) where you will meet your experienced skipper and crew for the day. Morning tea is usually served as you motor out into the Indian Ocean to begin the search for the whale sharks, this is aided by a spotter aircraft that relays sightings to the skipper. The crew will help you get kitted out in wetsuits and snorkel gear; they will also provide a thorough briefing. During the day, your crew will watch out for turtles, dolphins, dugongs, rays and sea birds, and there is usually time for a snorkel at the back of the Reef. A delicious lunch featuring fresh Western Australian produce is provided.