Itinerary
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
Ubirr Rock, Australia
Depart Darwin and travel across the sweeping wetlands of the Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park. Visit the sacred site of Ubirr and explore its galleries of ancient Indigenous rock art. The magnificent rock faces have been continuously painted and repainted since 40,000BC, with most created approximately 2,000 years ago.
Cannon Hill, Queensland, Australia
With a local guide, cross the East Alligator River into spiritual Arnhem Land to experience the natural beauty of the region. Later, return to Kakadu and enjoy the art and billabongs of Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming.
Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia
Travel to stunning Kakadu, the Northern Territory’s best known national park. Cruise the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Here, wildlife abounds and local a guide will give you great insights into how the Bininj people use the flora and fauna to support their way of life. Later travel to Katherine and enjoy canapés and drinks at the beautiful Cicada Lodge, before indulging in an exceptional gourmet three-course meal.
Kununurra, Western Australia, Australia
Head to the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park, before boarding an unforgettable cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as you learn about their spiritual culture.
Ord River, Western Australia, Australia
Travel to the majestic Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a spectacular wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover a fascinating ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations to create an area rich in wildlife, flora and undeniable beauty.
Echidna Chasm, Purnululu, Australia
Travel to the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range. Hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Your accommodation for the next two nights is at APT’s luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, boasting outstanding access to the spectacular beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, Picaninny Creek, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge. The lodge features comfortable tented cabins with a private en suite with hot water and a flushing toilet, as well as a private deck to sit and admire the scenery of the surrounding bush. Who says you have to compromise on comfort out in the wilderness?
Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
Darwin is Australia’s most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it’s a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia’s shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It’s a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia’s Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.
Ubirr Rock, Australia
Depart Darwin and travel across the sweeping wetlands of the Marrakai Plains to Kakadu National Park. Visit the sacred site of Ubirr and explore its galleries of ancient Indigenous rock art. The magnificent rock faces have been continuously painted and repainted since 40,000BC, with most created approximately 2,000 years ago.
Cannon Hill, Queensland, Australia
With a local guide, cross the East Alligator River into spiritual Arnhem Land to experience the natural beauty of the region. Later, return to Kakadu and enjoy the art and billabongs of Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming.
Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia
Travel to stunning Kakadu, the Northern Territory’s best known national park. Cruise the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Here, wildlife abounds and local a guide will give you great insights into how the Bininj people use the flora and fauna to support their way of life. Later travel to Katherine and enjoy canapés and drinks at the beautiful Cicada Lodge, before indulging in an exceptional gourmet three-course meal.
Kununurra, Western Australia, Australia
Head to the beautiful Nitmiluk National Park, before boarding an unforgettable cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Discover the music, stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as you learn about their spiritual culture.
Ord River, Western Australia, Australia
Travel to the majestic Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. Join a spectacular wildlife cruise on the mighty Ord River. From a modern shaded vessel, discover a fascinating ecological system that has developed from the damming of the Ord River at two locations to create an area rich in wildlife, flora and undeniable beauty.
Echidna Chasm, Purnululu, Australia
Travel to the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungle Range. Hike to Echidna Chasm, a spectacular natural cleft in the rock. Your accommodation for the next two nights is at APT’s luxury Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, boasting outstanding access to the spectacular beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle Range, Picaninny Creek, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge. The lodge features comfortable tented cabins with a private en suite with hot water and a flushing toilet, as well as a private deck to sit and admire the scenery of the surrounding bush. Who says you have to compromise on comfort out in the wilderness?
Piccaninny Creek, Purnululu, Australia
Explore the magic of Purnululu for yourself and discover the depth of the Bungle Bungle Range. Created by the constant erosion of river movements over 20 million years, the range has both geological and Indigenous cultural significance. Start with a walk along Piccaninny Creek, before stopping at Cathedral Gorge.
Signature Experience – Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range
There’s no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.
Enrich Your Experience – Bungle Bungle Helicopter Flight
Experience breathtaking views of World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park from above on a scenic helicopter flight. (own expense)
El Questro Station, Western Australia
Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and travel towards El Questro, a million-acre cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Spend two nights immersed in this breathtaking, ancient landscape.
Enrich Your Experience – Upgrade Your Stay
Upgrade your stay at El Questro with an all-inclusive two-night stay at The Homestead, a secluded oasis perched above the Chamberlain River. Be treated to a stay defined by exceptional dining, curated experiences, and access to some of El Questro’s most breathtaking landscapes.��
El Questro Station, Western Australia
This morning hike to Emma Gorge where you’ll be rewarded with a swim beneath a towering droplet waterfall. Enjoy lunch, before relaxing at Zebedee Springs. Enjoy dinner this evening back at Emma Gorge Resort.
Signature Experience – Zebedee Springs
Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro’s wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.
Mitchell Plateau, Western Australia, Australia
Journey along the Gibb River Road to APT’s luxury Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy the facilities of the lodge’s Ungolan Pavilion, where you can relax in the lounge, treat yourself to a drink or read up on the local culture.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Discover Mitchell Falls, a true highlight of your Kimberley adventure. Where possible, a local Indigenous guide will join you, providing a unique insight into the region. Begin with a hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rare Aboriginal art. Continue on to Big Mertens Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls.
Signature Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above. By gaining a bird’s-eye view of this remote region, you’ll not only see this iconic four-tiered Kimberley attraction, but also the surrounding gorges, emerald water pools, and soaring red cliffs. ��
King Edward River, Western Australia, Australia
Re-join the Kalumburu Road and travel to Drysdale River Station.
Signature Experience – Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) Rock Art
Admire ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art that dates back thousands of years at a gallery in Mitchell Plateau. This artwork stakes a claim as some of the earliest figurative art, distinguished by its depiction of stick-like human figures.
Galvans Gorge, Western Australia
Journey to the beautiful Manning Creek where you can spot local birdlife as you enjoy lunch in the shade of a gum tree. Continue to Galvans Gorge, where a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole. Admire the rock art adorning the gorge walls or indulge in a leisurely swim.
Piccaninny Creek, Purnululu, Australia
Explore the magic of Purnululu for yourself and discover the depth of the Bungle Bungle Range. Created by the constant erosion of river movements over 20 million years, the range has both geological and Indigenous cultural significance. Start with a walk along Piccaninny Creek, before stopping at Cathedral Gorge.
Signature Experience – Sunset Drinks at the Bungle Bungle Range
There’s no better way to end a day of discovery than by watching the sunset over the Bungle Bungle Range. With a glass of sparkling in hand, see the massive beehive-shaped domes cast in a golden glow at this time of day.
Enrich Your Experience – Bungle Bungle Helicopter Flight
Experience breathtaking views of World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park from above on a scenic helicopter flight. (own expense)
El Questro Station, Western Australia
Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and travel towards El Questro, a million-acre cattle station in the heart of the Kimberley. Spend two nights immersed in this breathtaking, ancient landscape.
Enrich Your Experience – Upgrade Your Stay
Upgrade your stay at El Questro with an all-inclusive two-night stay at The Homestead, a secluded oasis perched above the Chamberlain River. Be treated to a stay defined by exceptional dining, curated experiences, and access to some of El Questro’s most breathtaking landscapes.��
El Questro Station, Western Australia
This morning hike to Emma Gorge where you’ll be rewarded with a swim beneath a towering droplet waterfall. Enjoy lunch, before relaxing at Zebedee Springs. Enjoy dinner this evening back at Emma Gorge Resort.
Signature Experience – Zebedee Springs
Venture through a pre-historic forest of Livistona and pandanus palms before arriving at a true oasis, Zebedee Springs. This permanent natural thermal spring is tucked away in a secluded pocket of El Questro’s wilderness. Enjoy time to relax as you soak in the hot springs and leave feeling refreshed.
Mitchell Plateau, Western Australia, Australia
Journey along the Gibb River Road to APT’s luxury Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge. Enjoy the facilities of the lodge’s Ungolan Pavilion, where you can relax in the lounge, treat yourself to a drink or read up on the local culture.
Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge, Western Australia, Australia
Discover Mitchell Falls, a true highlight of your Kimberley adventure. Where possible, a local Indigenous guide will join you, providing a unique insight into the region. Begin with a hike to Little Mertens Falls to view rare Aboriginal art. Continue on to Big Mertens Falls before arriving at Mitchell Falls.
Signature Experience – Mitchell Falls Scenic Helicopter Flight
Set out on a thrilling helicopter flight to see Mitchell Falls in all its splendour from above. By gaining a bird’s-eye view of this remote region, you’ll not only see this iconic four-tiered Kimberley attraction, but also the surrounding gorges, emerald water pools, and soaring red cliffs. ��
King Edward River, Western Australia, Australia
Re-join the Kalumburu Road and travel to Drysdale River Station.
Signature Experience – Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) Rock Art
Admire ancient Wandjina and Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art that dates back thousands of years at a gallery in Mitchell Plateau. This artwork stakes a claim as some of the earliest figurative art, distinguished by its depiction of stick-like human figures.
Galvans Gorge, Western Australia
Journey to the beautiful Manning Creek where you can spot local birdlife as you enjoy lunch in the shade of a gum tree. Continue to Galvans Gorge, where a short walk leads to a picturesque waterhole. Admire the rock art adorning the gorge walls or indulge in a leisurely swim.
Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges, Australia
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Sitting approximately 300 metres above sea level, Bell Gorge is an idyllic natural spot for swimming and photography. Here you can also enjoy a spot of bird-watching. Should you be feeling particularly energetic, you may take the opportunity to hike to the lower pool of the gorge and enjoy a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge, Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges, Australia
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where stunning cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Sitting approximately 300 metres above sea level, Bell Gorge is an idyllic natural spot for swimming and photography. Here you can also enjoy a spot of bird-watching. Should you be feeling particularly energetic, you may take the opportunity to hike to the lower pool of the gorge and enjoy a relaxing dip below the cascading waterfall.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Broome, Western Australia, Australia
Broome, a coastal town in Western Australia, is famous for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. Located on the Indian Ocean, it boasts Cable Beach, known for its white sand, turquoise waters, and iconic camel rides at sunset. Once a pearling hub, Broome retains its multicultural heritage, reflected in its cuisine and architecture. The town is also the gateway to the Kimberley region, offering breathtaking landscapes and unique natural attractions like the Staircase to the Moon. With warm weather year-round and a laid-back atmosphere, Broome is a perfect destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.