Gulf Savannah Tours Darwin to Cairns via Lost City 14 days - via Ngukurr / Roper Bar, Pungalina – Seven Emu Sanctuary, Cape Crawford, Lost City, (optional heli flight)  Caranbirini Nature Reserve, Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, Hells Gate, Borroloola, Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields, Lawn Hill National Park, (now Boodjamulla National Park), Cruise Lawn Hill Gorge,  Adel’s Grove (2 nights), Bourke & Wills Last Camp 119, Normanton, Gulflander & Savannah Lander Railways, Karumba, Gulf Carpentaria sunset cruise, Cobbold Gorge and gorge cruise, Undarra Lava Tubes to Cairns.

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED OR COMBINATION - SELECT ACCOMMODATION AS EXTRAS WHEN BOOKING

Gulf Savannah Way Darwin to Cairns tour 14 days …

Day 1 – Meet us in Darwin and join your fellow travellers at 6 pm for an introduction and drinks at our hotel. Enjoy a delicious meal together getting to know your crew and travelling companions.

Day 2 – Depart Darwin 8am via Stuart Highway to Pine Creek (gold and railway history –  and great coffee and cakes at the Railway Cafe) then Katherine, NTs 3rd largest town. On to Mataranka for the Elsey’s history of “We of the Never Never” fame. We then depart the highway for Roper Bar and Ngukurr community for overnight BLD

Day 3 – Today we take a helicopter flight to visit the “Ruined City”, a vast sandstone rock formation, with guidance from traditional owners sharing the significance of this special place – also known as Baroonja. Enjoy a look around Roper Bar on the banks of the Roper River and the border of Arnhem Land. Connect with the local indigenous culture and people, and the more recent steamboat history (supplying the building of the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1860s & 70s) and popular fishing destination. It was also a major cattle droving route from the grasslands to Queensland and southern markets and includes some of the Durack’s massive cattle drive to the Kimberley. After an informative boat cruise on the river, we enjoy another night at Ngukurr community BLD

Day 4 – Today we head to the Limmen National Park for a walk and optional swim at scenic Butterfly Falls – and a morning cuppa.  Its then on to the “Southern Lost City” for a 4-6 km walk among these stunning giant columns of sandstone. Enjoy lunch here  before heading further south to overnight at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park  BLD

Day 5 – Lorella Springs is a huge 4,000-square kilometre (one-million acre) Outback Australia cattle station surrounded by the Limmen National Park, Aboriginal land, and many kilometres of pristine Northern Territory Gulf of Carpentaria coastline, rivers and waterways. It has numerous beautiful rock pools and thermal pools for swimming and we check out Flying Fox swamp and the latest popular spot, Nannys Pool. Enjoy a relaxing adventure day here with the birdlife before overnight. BLD

Day 6 – We continue south through the Limmen National Park to arrive at the township of Borroloola for supplies. At Borroloola we view the museum and history of this once wild frontier town, now a popular fishing destination. The population is around 800 (about 200 whites and 600 Aboriginal), with Aborigines living in camps around the town. Borroloola has some very different Aboriginal cultures ie the Yanyuwa and Mara are ‘saltwater people’ from the nearby islands while the Kurdanji and Karawa people are ‘mainland people’.The town is also the main support town for the McArthur River mine – one of the world’s largest zinc, lead and silver mines, situated about 70 kilometres southwest of Borroloola. We head toward the Gulf and visit King Ash Bay on the MacArthur River –  a top spot to experience the atmosphere of the Gulf and a shady lunch place by the river. Time permitting and passengers keen, we visit the Lost City near Cape Crawford, (optional heli flight) and the Caranbirini Nature Reserve for more sandstone pillars.The Lost City can be explored by helicopter from base at the Heartbreak Hotel at Cape Crawford, with an amazing 15 or optional 30 minute flight over these ancient sandstone pillars, formed when all this area was underwater. Overnight at Boroloola BLD

Day 7 – We now head east to Pungalina-Seven Emu Station. Seven Emu Station has partnered with a neighbouring property to create the first private nature reserve in the Gulf of Carpentaria, called the Pungalina-Seven Emu Wildlife Sanctuary. In a landmark partnership between a not-for-profit conservation organisation and an Indigenous landholder, Frank Shadforth has subleased 110,000 hectares of Seven Emu – almost half the area of the pastoral lease – to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC). The station’s cattle are kept out of this conservation zone.

Note that Seven Emu Sanctuary has limited access and may not
be available – alternative nearby will be substituted if unavailable.

The whole sanctuary comprises an unbroken stretch of 305,000 hectares from the sandstone uplands to the coastal waters of the Gulf. It protects a suite of habitats along an important ecological gradient in one of the highest-priority regions in Australia, as well as delivering significant socio-economic benefits for Indigenous communities.

We tour some of the highlights of this property including the in the stockmen’s camp sites overlooking the stunning Robinson River. These authentic rustic camps are made by stockmen as they have for most of their lives. With bough sheds for shelter, open fires and a “donkey” to heat your shower, your camp will be the real deal. From the cliff face – with a sweeping view of the Robinson valley, watch the bull sharks hunting schools of salmon … crocodiles swimming up and down on the hunt …and watch the eagles and jabirus flying below you! Seek out the secretive Purple-crowned Fairy Wrens, Azure Kingfishers and wading birds.

We travel east over several river crossings, passing the Redbank (copper) Mine via Westmoreland (uranium deposits) and enter Queensland at Hells Gate, where police were stationed to provide escorts for settlers to the escarpments of Hell’s Gate, beyond which the Aboriginals were considered fierce. Hells Gate is the routes most western settlement in Queensland and now is a popular stopover with a grassy oasis and refreshments, and nearby Aboriginal rock art and caves.Overnight Hells Gate BLD

Day 8 – We travel through forest and river crossings to the large Aboriginal community of Doomadgee, then south to Adel’s Grove for 2 nights. It was originally gazetted in 1904 as a Miners Homestead Lease. In 1920 Albert de Lestang took up the property as an experimental Botanical Garden (hence the name “Adel” arose from Albert’s initials). Albert planted many species of trees and shrubs and supplied the Botanical Gardens of the world with the seeds produced by his nursery. This is adjacent Lawn Hill National Park (now Boodjamulla National Park) where we walk, canoe or swim in the beautiful lagoon and river with waterfalls.

Day 9 – Today we take a tour to visit the amazing Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields and immerse in this unique landscape. Alternatively enjoy a relaxing day of walks and swims – your choice. Overnight Adels Grove BLD

Day 10 – Departing Adels Grove we travel via Gregory Downs to Burke & Wills last camp 119, an historic site with a fascinating history and stories to tell.

Enjoy a break in the frontier town of Burketown, named after Burke of the Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860 who reached the gulf near here in February 1861. Burketown was established in 1865 to service new pastoral holdings established in the region.

We reach the Leichardt River, named after Ludwig Leichardt who walked this country in 1845. We check out the Leichardt Falls then travel across the “Plains of Promise” named when H M Brig Beagle (the famous ship which had carried Charles Darwin on his voyage) visited here in 1841. On to Normanton, and view the old Burns Philp store, and the 1870 railway history from the goldrush days, plus the Purple Pub. Arriving  Karumba on the edge of the Gulf of Carpentaria, we enjoy a sunset river cruise. Karumba was the base of the gulf Barramundi and prawning industry and home to many salt water crocodiles. Overnight Karumba BL – Dinner at own expense in local restaurant – great fresh fish and prawns here !

Day 11 – We follow the Gulflander Railway line via the Gulf Development Road through Croydon which in goldrush days had 7000 people and 122 pubs.Travel via  Georgetown and the multi award winning, Terrestrial – the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection, the largest minerals collection in the world. Overnight Cobbold Gorge on Robin Hood Cattle station BLD

Day 12 – Cobbold Gorge is unique, hidden away within the rugged sandstone formations of North Queensland. This gorge is extremely narrow, closing to only two metres in places, with spectacular 30 metre cliffs on either side. The overall length of the gorge is about six kilometres and includes a series of water-holes and rock falls, with the the last 500 meters is accessible by flat bottom boat. Great walks, swimming and relaxing or optional canoeing. Overnight Cobbold Gorge on Robin Hood Cattle station. BLD

Day 13 – Undarra Lava Tubes tour. The Undara Lava Tubes were formed some 190,000 years ago when a major volcano erupted, its molten lava flowing down a dry river bed. As the top layer quickly cooled and crusted, the fiery magma below continued to flow through the tubes taking it further and further from the volcano. The Undara tubes are the world’s longest lava flow.

The word Undara means ‘a long way’ in the Aboriginal language. One of the lava flows from Undara extends over 160 kilometres (or 100 miles). This makes it one of the longest lava flows from a single volcano on our planet in modern geological time. The original tube formed by the flow extended for approximately 100kilometres, and several sections are accessible. After our 2 hour tour and tasty lunch, we travel via the Atherton Tablelands to Cairns for a celebration dinner together at our Cairns Hotel. BLD

Day 14 – After a good nights sleep and an easy breakfast, we can transfer your to airport or other hotels if staying on in Cairns. Tour completes 10am. Or join our Cape York & Thursday Island Adventure

14 days  Accommodated or Camping or combination available

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED OR COMBINATION - SELECT ACCOMMODATION AS EXTRAS WHEN BOOKING

Cape York Thursday Island Tours, with Horn Island, Weipa, Daintree, Quinkan Rock Art, Cairns to Cairns Tour - 8 day tour Cairns returning to Cairns overland, including Laura Rock Art, Weipa, & Billys Landing, Thursday & Horn Island ferries & day tours, including Twin & Fruit Bat Falls (on Old Telegraph Track) and last night accommodated in Cairns. Includes Cooktown, Lakefield National Park, Daintree Rainforest. Join us to travel by luxury 4WD to the northern most tip of Australia at Cape York & Thursday Island & Horn Island cruise and island tours. Explore Quinkan Rock Art, then Cooktown, Weipa, Lakefield National Park & the Daintree Rainforests, Mossman Gorge, Bloomfield Falls.

Tour is all accommodated

Cape York Thursday Island Daintree Rock Art Cairns Tour details

Day 1 – Cape York Thursday Island Tours – Depart Cairns 730 am and travel through the rainforests and the Atherton Tablelands via picturesque Kuranda and Mareeba via the Palmer River area famous in the gold rush days, to the Laura Dance Festival site (time at festival available if dates match – biannual event). You can choose to spend the day here, or travel the short distance to the Quinkan Rock Art Reserve, and an afternoon tour of this amazing rock art site. Overnight Lotus Bird Lodge, Lakefield National Park BLD

Rock Art Walk – Explore some of the Quinkan Aboriginal Rock Art at the Split Rock art site or the Quinkan rock art at Jowalbinna in Queensland’s premier rock art sites The areas include –

• Giant Wallaroo – “The Cycle of Birth and Death”: Spectacular landscapes and paintings on a walk into Pine Tree Creek valley and up to the opposite escarpment wall.
• The Brady Creek Escarpment – “Many Clans, Many Totems”: Includes Death Adder, Honeymoon Cave, Red Lady, Garfish Sorcery and Tent Shelter rock art sites, near refreshing Brady Creek.
• Emu Dreaming – “The Emu Ancestor enters the Land”: An accessible site featuring ancient abstract engravings and occupation evidence.
• Yam Dreaming – “The Archaeologists’ Choice”: A fascinating archaeological dig site on fertility ceremonial grounds, involving a challenging walk and climb into the site (available for exclusive touring only).

Day 2 – Depart up the Peninsular Development Road for the Old Telegraph Track (OTT) heading for Cape York. We travel via the Hann River Roadhouse, and check out the Musgrave Telegraph Station. Musgrave was first built as an overland telegraph station in 1887, along with Palmerville, Fairview, Coen, Mein, Moreton, McDonnell and Paterson. It was named after Sir Anthony Musgrave (1828 – 1888) who was Governor of Queensland from 1883 to 1888. These stations were  repeater stations, with great banks of batteries and a generator to boost the power in the telegraph line.  Beyond the township of Coen we pass the old Quarantine Station, and begin to pass a number of exciting creek crossings. We pass through the Mungkan Kandju National Park, a large wilderness park that stretches from the McIlwraith Range foothills, between the Archer and Coen rivers, and consists of open eucalypt woodlands, melaleuca swamps and various rainforest types. The Wik Mungkan, Kaanju and Ayapathu Aboriginal peoples, the Traditional Owners of the park, welcome you to their land and ask that you respect their culture and country during your visit. We take a break at the Archer River Roadhouse, and cross the Piccaninny Plains and Savannah country to arrive in Weipa for a tour of the massive bauxite mine operated by Rio Tinto. Weipa is the largest town on Cape York Peninsula, and has approx 3000 people supporting the mining and export of bauxite and cattle. Nearby is Duyfken Point, where Dutch explorer Willem Janszoon recorded the Australian coast in 1606, 164 years prior to James Cook. BLD Overnight Weipa

Day 3 – Depart Weipa to the OTT, crossing the Wenlock River.  After a stop at the Moreton Telegraph Station, we turn off the OTT to the Bamaga Rd and enter the Jardine National Park and the Heathlands. Be entranced by the unusual change in the landscape. The Heathlands is a vast area of 2 metre high wet anddry heath vegetation which live side by side and is home to an abundanceof wildlife. Enjoy a break at Eliot Falls before we cross the notorious Jardine River. We pass through the administrative centre for the region, Bamaga to Siesia, the “Gateway to the Torres Strait”. Today we also travel on to the farthest northern point of Australia to stand on Australia’s northern most tip at Cape York , view the numerous islands of the Torres Strait, and the meeting place of the Arafura and Coral Seas. Overnight Punsand Bay Resort, Barmaga, Cape York BLD

Day 4 – At 8 am depart by fast cat ferry for the 1 hour 10 min ride to Thursday Island, passing Friday and seeing Wednesday Islands enroute. Thursday Island is known as Waiben, meaning ‘no water or place of no water’. In 1877, TI  was an administrative centre for the Torres Strait Islands established by the Queensland Government. In the early days over 1000 Japanese pearl divers were operating here. In 1880, Thursday Island acted as a defence post for Australia and old canons remain on the Island. On TI, a 1 hour island tour is included, highlighting local history and landmarks, then free time to enjoy the Torres Strait Islander cultural centre, and pearl, souvenir or window shopping. After lunch, (own cost) the return ferry departs at 2:30 from Engineers Wharf, arriving approximately 3:40. Enjoy free time this afternoon till dinner. Optionally, from Thursday Island your can join the Horn Island tour which visits WWII sites including a WWII museum. This tour also meets the last & only return ferry, and does not give time to look around Thursday Island. If you choose, you can overnight here and join us early next morning (additional cost) BD Overnight Punsand Bay Resort, Barmaga, Cape York

Day 5 – Heading south we visit the WWII aircraft wrecks of Bamaga, and skirt the Jardine River National Park, take the Jardine River crossing then a rest stop at Fruit Bat Falls.  We visit the beach at Captain Billy’s Landing located on the east coast, and arrive Moreton Telegraph Station for a few yarns, a great meal and overnight. BLD

Day 6 – Today we explore Lakefield National Park. The park is home to threatened species including the red goshawk, Lakeland Downs mouse and spectacled hare-wallaby. Hann and Kalpowar crossings are two of the many significant Aboriginal cultural sites found in the area. Barramundi abound here if you are feeling adventurous, and many waterbirds inhabit Low Lake. Enjoy this rich nature and great waterholes for swimming. Arrive Cooktown late afternoon for overnight. BLD

Day 7 – Cooktown to Cairns via the Bloomfield Track & Daintree Rainforests. The Daintree Rainforest encompasses an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometres, from the Daintree River north to Cooktown and west to the Great Divide, representing the single largest block of tropical rainforest in Australia. The area protected under World Heritage listing covers an area of approximately 12,000 square kilometres, stretching from Townsville to Cooktown 75 per cent of which is tropical rainforest, an area equivalent to about the size of Sydney. We explore and discover the magic of rainforests on our Daintree Rainforest Discovery centre walk.

Cooktown was first established for the goldfields on the Palmer River in 1872, although its also famous for when Captain Cook repaired his ship, The Endeavour, after hitting coral on the Great Barrier Reef. We check out some key local landmarks, including the Vera Scarth-Johnson Gallery, whose artwork consists of illustrations of the flowering plants from the region, the Grassy Hill Lighthouse which is home to the Cooktown lighthouse, built in England and shipped to Cooktown in 1885, the sun dial which is actually a ‘Global Positioning Monument’ and Captain Cook’s Grassy Hill Monument. Also, the James Cook Museum, including canon and the anchor from from Cooks ship, the HM Barque Endeavour and Chinese, Pastoral, Mining, and Indigenous artefacts.

We depart Cooktown via the coastal road (4WD only) and witness Black Mountain National Park, home to mysterious Aboriginal legends. We visit the heritage-listed Lions Den Hotel built in 1875, then spectacular Bloomfield Falls at the Bloomfield River crossing.  This track was the site of many protests and the Daintree Blockade in 1983. The Bloomfield track takes us to Cape Tribulation and on to the ferry to cross the Daintree River. Time permitting, we travel through Mossman and visit Mossman Gorge, and a side trip via Port Douglas. Overnight Cairns. BLD

Day 8 – Tour ends in Cairns after breakfast for flights home or join us to travel from Cairns to Darwin via the Lost City, Undara Lava Tubes and Savannah Way Tour

Undara Lava Tubes – Volcano Valley – Volcanic lava over 300,000 years, has created a remarkable tunnel system that lies beneath the  rich grasslands of Undara. See them on the Lost City, Undara Lava Tubes and Savannah Way Tour If travelling to Cairns join Spirit Safaris to meet this tour from Alice Springs, explore the Plenty Highway on the edge of the Simpson Desert, the Min Min experience in Boulia, the mighty Diamantina River and the Dinosaur Trail as we travel on to Cloncurry (Qantas birthplace) Undara Lava Tubes & Cairns. If travelling from or to Darwin, explore the Lost City, Lawn Hill, Adel’s Grove, Cobbold Gorge, Dally Waters, Mataranka Hot Springs ( and “We of the Never Never” homestead) & Katherine. Optionally Kakadu via Cooinda (with Yellow Waters Cruise) to Darwin. (meets Darwin to Broome tour departure) Cape York, Thursday Island, Weipa, Daintree Rainforest, Quinkan Rock Art from Cairns 4WD Tour

8 Day Cape York Thursday Island Daintree Rock Art Cairns Tour  from Cairns to Cairns  8 day tour Cairns returning to Cairns overland, including Laura Rock Art, Weipa, & Billys Landing, Thursday & Horn Island ferries & day tours, including Twin & Fruit Bat Falls (on Old Telegraph Track) and last night accommodation in Cairns. Includes all meals, entry & park fees, professional guide, ferry to & from Thursday Island, luxury 4WD transport. Prices are per person (couple or twin share) and all accommodated

Call  1300 763 188 or email any questions  info@spiritsafaris.com

Gulf Savannah Tours Cairns to Darwin via Lost City 14 days - via Ngukurr / Roper Bar, Pungalina – Seven Emu Sanctuary, Cape Crawford, Lost City, (optional heli flight)  Caranbirini Nature Reserve, Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, Hells Gate, Borroloola, Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields, Lawn Hill National Park, (now Boodjamulla National Park), Cruise Lawn Hill Gorge,  Adel’s Grove (2 nights), Bourke & Wills Last Camp 119, Normanton, Gulflander & Savannah Lander Railways, Karumba, Gulf Carpentaria sunset cruise, Cobbold Gorge and gorge cruise, Undarra Lava Tubes to Cairns.

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED OR COMBINATION - SELECT ACCOMMODATION AS EXTRAS WHEN BOOKING

Gulf Savannah Way Cairns to Darwin tour 14 days … REVERSE OF BELOW ITINERARY

Day 1 – Meet us in Darwin and join your fellow travellers at 6 pm for an introduction and drinks at our hotel. Enjoy a delicious meal together getting to know your crew and travelling companions.

Day 2 – Depart Darwin 8am via Stuart Highway to Pine Creek (gold and railway history –  and great coffee and cakes at the Railway Cafe) then Katherine, NTs 3rd largest town. On to Mataranka for the Elsey’s history of “We of the Never Never” fame. We then depart the highway for Roper Bar and Ngukurr community for overnight BLD

Day 3 – Today we take a helicopter flight to visit the “Ruined City”, a vast sandstone rock formation, with guidance from traditional owners sharing the significance of this special place – also known as Baroonja. Enjoy a look around Roper Bar on the banks of the Roper River and the border of Arnhem Land. Connect with the local indigenous culture and people, and the more recent steamboat history (supplying the building of the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1860s & 70s) and popular fishing destination. It was also a major cattle droving route from the grasslands to Queensland and southern markets and includes some of the Durack’s massive cattle drive to the Kimberley. After an informative boat cruise on the river, we enjoy another night at Ngukurr community BLD

Day 4 – Today we head to the Limmen National Park for a walk and optional swim at scenic Butterfly Falls – and a morning cuppa.  Its then on to the “Southern Lost City” for a 4-6 km walk among these stunning giant columns of sandstone. Enjoy lunch here  before heading further south to overnight at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park  BLD

Day 5 – Lorella Springs is a huge 4,000-square kilometre (one-million acre) Outback Australia cattle station surrounded by the Limmen National Park, Aboriginal land, and many kilometres of pristine Northern Territory Gulf of Carpentaria coastline, rivers and waterways. It has numerous beautiful rock pools and thermal pools for swimming and we check out Flying Fox swamp and the latest popular spot, Nannys Pool. Enjoy a relaxing adventure day here with the birdlife before overnight. BLD

Day 6 – We continue south through the Limmen National Park to arrive at the township of Borroloola for supplies. At Borroloola we view the museum and history of this once wild frontier town, now a popular fishing destination. The population is around 800 (about 200 whites and 600 Aboriginal), with Aborigines living in camps around the town. Borroloola has some very different Aboriginal cultures ie the Yanyuwa and Mara are ‘saltwater people’ from the nearby islands while the Kurdanji and Karawa people are ‘mainland people’.The town is also the main support town for the McArthur River mine – one of the world’s largest zinc, lead and silver mines, situated about 70 kilometres southwest of Borroloola. We head toward the Gulf and visit King Ash Bay on the MacArthur River –  a top spot to experience the atmosphere of the Gulf and a shady lunch place by the river. Time permitting and passengers keen, we visit the Lost City near Cape Crawford, (optional heli flight) and the Caranbirini Nature Reserve for more sandstone pillars.The Lost City can be explored by helicopter from base at the Heartbreak Hotel at Cape Crawford, with an amazing 15 or optional 30 minute flight over these ancient sandstone pillars, formed when all this area was underwater. Overnight at Boroloola BLD

Day 7 – We now head east to Pungalina-Seven Emu Station. Seven Emu Station has partnered with a neighbouring property to create the first private nature reserve in the Gulf of Carpentaria, called the Pungalina-Seven Emu Wildlife Sanctuary. In a landmark partnership between a not-for-profit conservation organisation and an Indigenous landholder, Frank Shadforth has subleased 110,000 hectares of Seven Emu – almost half the area of the pastoral lease – to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy (AWC). The station’s cattle are kept out of this conservation zone.

Note that Seven Emu Sanctuary has limited access and may not be available – alternative nearby will be substituted if unavailable.

The whole sanctuary comprises an unbroken stretch of 305,000 hectares from the sandstone uplands to the coastal waters of the Gulf. It protects a suite of habitats along an important ecological gradient in one of the highest-priority regions in Australia, as well as delivering significant socio-economic benefits for Indigenous communities.

We tour some of the highlights of this property including the in the stockmen’s camp sites overlooking the stunning Robinson River. These authentic rustic camps are made by stockmen as they have for most of their lives. With bough sheds for shelter, open fires and a “donkey” to heat your shower, your camp will be the real deal. From the cliff face – with a sweeping view of the Robinson valley, watch the bull sharks hunting schools of salmon … crocodiles swimming up and down on the hunt …and watch the eagles and jabirus flying below you! Seek out the secretive Purple-crowned Fairy Wrens, Azure Kingfishers and a wide variety of wading birds.

We travel east over several river crossings, passing the Redbank (copper) Mine via Westmoreland (uranium deposits) and enter Queensland at Hells Gate, where police were stationed to provide escorts for settlers to the escarpments of Hell’s Gate, beyond which the Aboriginals were considered fierce. Hells Gate is the routes most western settlement in Queensland and now is a popular stopover with a grassy oasis and refreshments, and nearby Aboriginal rock art and caves.Overnight Hells Gate BLD

Day 8 – We travel through forest and river crossings to the large Aboriginal community of Doomadgee, then south to Adel’s Grove for 2 nights. It was originally gazetted in 1904 as a Miners Homestead Lease. In 1920 Albert de Lestang took up the property as an experimental Botanical Garden (hence the name “Adel” arose from Albert’s initials). Albert planted many species of trees and shrubs and supplied the Botanical Gardens of the world with the seeds produced by his nursery. This is adjacent Lawn Hill National Park (now Boodjamulla National Park) where we walk, canoe or swim in the beautiful lagoon and river with waterfalls.

Day 9 – Today we take a tour to visit the amazing Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields and immerse in this unique landscape. Alternatively enjoy a relaxing day of walks and swims – your choice. Overnight Adels Grove BLD

Day 10 – Departing Adels Grove we travel via Gregory Downs to Burke & Wills last camp 119, an historic site with a fascinating history and stories to tell.

Enjoy a break in the frontier town of Burketown, named after Burke of the Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860 who reached the gulf near here in February 1861. Burketown was established in 1865 to service new pastoral holdings established in the region.

We reach the Leichardt River, named after Ludwig Leichardt who walked this country in 1845. We check out the Leichardt Falls then travel across the “Plains of Promise” named when H M Brig Beagle (the famous ship which had carried Charles Darwin on his voyage) visited here in 1841. On to Normanton, and view the old Burns Philp store, and the 1870 railway history from the goldrush days, plus the Purple Pub. Arriving  Karumba on the edge of the Gulf of Carpentaria, we enjoy a sunset river cruise. Karumba was the base of the gulf Barramundi and prawning industry and home to many salt water crocodiles. Overnight Karumba BL – Dinner at own expense in local restaurant – great fresh fish and prawns here !

Day 11 – We follow the Gulflander Railway line via the Gulf Development Road through Croydon which in goldrush days had 7000 people and 122 pubs.Travel via  Georgetown and the multi award winning, Terrestrial – the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection, the largest minerals collection in the world. Overnight Cobbold Gorge on Robin Hood Cattle station BLD

Day 12 – Cobbold Gorge is unique, hidden away within the rugged sandstone formations of North Queensland. This gorge is extremely narrow, closing to only two metres in places, with spectacular 30 metre cliffs on either side. The overall length of the gorge is about six kilometres and includes a series of water-holes and rock falls, with the the last 500 meters is accessible by flat bottom boat. Great walks, swimming and relaxing or optional canoeing. Overnight Cobbold Gorge on Robin Hood Cattle station. BLD

Day 13 – Undarra Lava Tubes tour. The Undara Lava Tubes were formed some 190,000 years ago when a major volcano erupted, its molten lava flowing down a dry river bed. As the top layer quickly cooled and crusted, the fiery magma below continued to flow through the tubes taking it further and further from the volcano. The Undara tubes are the world’s longest lava flow.

The word Undara means ‘a long way’ in the Aboriginal language. One of the lava flows from Undara extends over 160 kilometres (or 100 miles). This makes it one of the longest lava flows from a single volcano on our planet in modern geological time. The original tube formed by the flow extended for approximately 100kilometres, and several sections are accessible. After our 2 hour tour and tasty lunch, we travel via the Atherton Tablelands to Cairns for a celebration dinner together at our Cairns Hotel. BLD

Day 14 – After a good nights sleep and an easy breakfast, we can transfer your to airport or other hotels if staying on in Cairns. Tour completes 10am. Or join our Cape York & Thursday Island Adventure

14 days  Accommodated or Camping or combination available

CAMPING OR ACCOMMODATED OR COMBINATION - SELECT ACCOMMODATION AS EXTRAS WHEN BOOKING

Channel and Corner Country Adelaide Mungo Broken Hill Tibooburra Cameron Corner Innamincka Birdsville Boulia Alice Springs 10 Day Tour

• Join tour from Alice Springs or Uluru, to Adelaide, Mildura or Broken Hill (rail option to Sydney)
• Fully accommodated hotel rooms or outback cabins at Tobermorey
• Genuine small group - 2-4 per 4WD
• NOT a Bus
• Tour Operation since 1993
  

Overnights Stops are - Tobermorey, Boulia, Birdsville 2N, Innamincka, Tibooburra, Broken Hill 2N Mungo NP, Adelaide

This Small group luxury 4WD travel via Channel and Corner Country Adelaide Broken Hill Innamincka Birdsville Alice Springs 10 Day Tour runs from Adelaide to Alice Springs via Mungo National Park, Darling River Run via Pooncarie and Menindee Lakes, Burke and Wills camp, Broken Hill, Silverton, Milparinka, Tibooburra, Cameron Corner, Moomba, Innamincka, Dig Tree, Coongie Lakes (access allowing) Mungerannie, Birdsville, Bedourie, Boulia, Tobermorey, Plenty Highway to Alice Springs.

Explore in the footsteps of Burke & Wills (visit the Dig Tree) in this remote and fascinating area around the junction of the NSW, QLD & SA borders and beyond. This tour includes Big Red sandhill viewing the Simpson Desert, Cooper Creek cruise, Boulia, Min Min lights encounter and Plenty Highway desert travel and Gemtree minerals visit.

Visit the famous Dig Tree & historic reserve, plus Burke's Grave on the banks of Cooper Creek. this remote and fascinating area around the junction of the NSW, QLD & SA borders, known as Cameron Corner. Travel through giant sheep stations from over 100 years ago, witness the Moomba oil fields & mighty Cooper Creek at Innamincka. Travelling in our luxury 4WD Landcruisers, you can stand at the famous Cameron Corner adjacent the Dog Fence. Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art sites and hear the tales of the great Cattle drives as we travel the Strzelecki Track - pioneered by Captain Starlight as he stole 1000 cattle from Queensland QLD in 1870. Later, Sidney Kidman & Co and many others made their fortunes on the track pioneered by Starlight.

Includes 2 hour Cooper Creek cruise at Innamincka if operating

ITINERARY DETAILS  - FROM ALICE OR ULURU SOUTH BOUND 

Day 1 - Depart Alice Springs and travel via Gemtree (mineral fossicking) and the Plenty Highway to Tobermorey, a remote cattle station nestled in the stunning Outback landscape. As you journey through the vast expanses, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged terrain, with giant termite nests dotting the horizon. Arrive at Tobermorey and settle into your accommodation, surrounded by the peacefulness of the Outback. Take a moment to enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings before an evening under the star-filled sky. LD

Day 2 - Continue your adventure as you make your way to Boulia, a charming Outback town with a rich pioneering history. Explore the town's historic landmarks, such as the Stonehouse Museum, which offers insights into the early days of settlement. Visit the Min Min Encounter, a captivating theatre presentation that delves into the mysterious phenomenon of the Min Min lights, a phenomenon that has intrigued and baffled locals and visitors for decades. The exhibition sheds light on the stories and legends surrounding these strange lights, adding an air of intrigue to your journey.  Continue south via Channel Country lakes and rivers with rich birdlife to Overnight Bedourie BLD

Day 3 - Your journey takes you to the iconic Birdsville, a remote outpost renowned for its connection to Outback exploration and adventure. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this remote town, which comes alive during the annual Birdsville Races, a legendary horse racing event. Visit the Birdsville Hotel, an iconic Outback pub steeped in history, and listen to the stories of the old drovers and explorers who once passed through this rugged region. You'll have the opportunity to climb Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert. As you conquer its sandy slopes, be rewarded with panoramic views of the vast desert landscape stretching out as far as the eye can see. Explore the local attractions, such as the Burke & Wills marked tree, a significant historical site marking the ill-fated expedition of these explorers. Discover the remnants of Australia's most famous thermal power station, a testament to the ingenuity and challenges faced in this harsh environment. Take a moment to soak in the stunning views of the vast red dunes that surround the town, offering a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Simpson Desert. Overnight Birdsville  BLD

Day 4 - Depart Birdsville and make your way to the historic town of Innamincka, located on the banks of the legendary Cooper Creek. Immerse yourself in the rich history of this region, where explorers such as Burke and Wills ventured into the unknown. Visit the Dig Tree, a poignant memorial to the ill-fated expedition, and learn about the challenges and triumphs faced by these early pioneers. Take a leisurely cruise along Cooper Creek, marvelling at the tranquil beauty of the waterway and the diverse birdlife that calls it home. Overnight Innamincka BLD

Day 5 - Spend another day in Innamincka, exploring the captivating landscapes and engaging with the local community. Discover the stunning Coongie Lakes if the access route is open, a haven for birdlife and a sanctuary of natural beauty. Delve deeper into the history of Innamincka, with its connections to early European settlement and the Indigenous cultures that have thrived in this region for thousands of years. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the Innaminka Hotel and immerse yourself in the stories and legends that have shaped this unique Outback town. Cooper Creek cruise option if running Overnight Innamincka BLD

Day 6 - Depart Innamincka and venture toward Tibooburra, a historic Outback town nestled amidst the rugged Jump-Up country. Travel via Moomba oil and gas fields, the Strzelecki Track and Cameron Corner then via Sturt National Park and the Wild Deserts wildlife restoration project. In Tibooburra, explore the National Park Museum, which showcases the region's rich  heritage and the resilience of those who lived and worked in this harsh environment. Admire the unique geological formations of the Jump-Up country, characterized by flat-topped mesas and sweeping views that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Take a moment to appreciate the serenity of this remote region, where time seems to stand still. Overnight Tibooburra BLD

Day 7 - Today, your journey takes you to Milparinka, an old gold mining town south of Tibooburra. From there to Broken Hill, a vibrant city with a fascinating mining history and a thriving artistic community. Discover the famous Silverton, a small town that has captured the imaginations of filmmakers and artists alike. Visit the Living Desert sculptures, an impressive outdoor gallery that showcases the artistic talents of local and international artists against the backdrop of the Outback landscape. Explore the Pro Hart Gallery, dedicated to the works of one of Australia's most renowned artists, and gain insights into the region's artistic heritage. Overnight Broken Hill  BLD

Day 8 - Enjoy another day in Broken Hill, where you can delve deeper into the city's rich history and cultural offerings. Explore the Railway & Historical Museum, which sheds light on the importance of the railway in connecting remote Outback communities. Visit Menindee Lakes, a series of interconnected waterways that provide a vital lifeline to the region's flora and fauna. Learn about the rich biodiversity and the significance of these lakes to the local ecosystem. In the evening, enjoy a well-deserved dinner at one of Broken Hill's iconic establishments, where you can savour delicious cuisine while reflecting on the experiences of your Outback journey.  Overnight Broken Hill

Day 9 - Depart Broken Hill and make your way to the stunning Mungo National Park, a World Heritage-listed site of immense cultural and natural significance. Explore the Walls of China, a striking formation of ancient lunettes that bear witness to the region's Aboriginal heritage and the stories of its traditional custodians, including Mungo Man and Mungo Woman. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the park, including the restored woolshed, which offers insights into the region's pastoral heritage. As you explore the park, take in the sweeping views of the vast Mungo landscape, shaped by millennia of natural processes. Overnight Mungo National Park

Day 10 - Today marks the final leg of your journey as you make your way to Adelaide, the vibrant capital of South Australia. Travel through the scenic Barossa Valley wine country, renowned for its world-class vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Sample the region's renowned wines and indulge in delectable gourmet experiences along the way. As you approach Adelaide, take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes, rich history, and unique experiences that have defined your Outback adventure. Tour completes Adelaide. Accommodation own arrangements.

This fully inclusive tour is by small group luxury 4WD travel.

Inclusions

• Genuine small group 2- 4 per car, in 4WD Landcruisers up to 3 cars
• Professional and experienced driver / guides
• Long established relationships with local Aboriginal people enriches experiences
• Access to remote areas and rock art sites unreachable by most tour vehicles
• Ensuite hotel/motel accommodation except possible 1 night camping at Tobermorey if booked out.
• All Delicious meals on tour, including vegetarian options.
• All World Heritage and National Park entry and accommodation fees
• Contributions of tour price support Outback Kids and nature care programs.
• You – and Your involvement in a creation much bigger than most can imagine

Exclusions

• Alcohol
• Flights to and from departure points

HIGHLIGHTS

• Start Uluru or Alice Springs - Complete Adelaide, Mildura or Broken Hill - please ASK
• Fully accommodated hotel rooms if booked early
• Genuine small group - 2-4 per 4WD
• NOT a Bus
• Tours operation since 1993
  

Join tour from Alice Springs or Uluru, to Adelaide, Mildura or Broken Hill (fly or rail options to Sydney or other cities)

Gulf Savannah Tours Darwin to Cairns via Lost City 9 days - via Ngukurr / Roper Bar, Lost City, (optional heli flight)  Caranbirini Nature Reserve, Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, Hells Gate, Borroloola, Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields, Lawn Hill National Park, (now Boodjamulla National Park), Adel’s Grove, Gregory Downs, Bourke & Wills Last Camp 119, Normanton, Gulflander & Savannah Lander Railways, Karumba, Gulf Carpentaria sunset cruise, Undarra Lava Tubes, Millaa Millaa Falls to Cairns.

FULLY ACCOMMODATED

Gulf Savannah Way Darwin to Cairns tour 9 days …

Day 1 – Depart Darwin 8 am via Stuart Highway to Pine Creek (gold and railway history –  and great coffee and cakes at the Railway Cafe) then Katherine, NTs 3rd largest town. On to Mataranka for the Elsey’s history of “We of the Never Never” fame and optional dip in the nearby hot springs. Overnight Mataranka  LD

Day 2 – We Depart the highway for Roper Bar and Ngukurr community and take a helicopter flight to visit the “Ruined City”, a vast sandstone rock formation, with guidance from traditional owners sharing the significance of this special place – also known as Baroonja. Enjoy a look around Roper Bar on the banks of the Roper River and the border of Arnhem Land. Connect with the local indigenous culture and people, and the more recent steamboat history (supplying the building of the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1860s & 70s) and popular fishing destination. It was also a major cattle droving route from the grasslands to Queensland and southern markets and includes some of the Durack’s massive cattle drive to the Kimberley. 

We head to the Limmen National Park for a walk and optional swim at scenic Butterfly Falls – and a morning cuppa.  Its then on to the “Southern Lost City” for a 4-6 km walk among these stunning giant columns of sandstone. Enjoy lunch here  before heading further south to overnight at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park  BLD

Day 3 – Lorella Springs is a huge 4,000-square kilometre (one-million acre) Outback Australia cattle station surrounded by the Limmen National Park, Aboriginal land, and many kilometres of pristine Northern Territory Gulf of Carpentaria coastline, rivers and waterways. It has numerous beautiful rock pools and thermal pools for swimming and we check out Flying Fox swamp and the latest popular spot, Nannys Pool. Enjoy a relaxing adventure day here with the birdlife before overnight. BLD

Day 4 – We continue south through the Limmen National Park to arrive at the township of Borroloola for supplies. At Borroloola we view the museum and history of this once wild frontier town, now a popular fishing destination. The population is around 800 (about 200 whites and 600 Aboriginal), with Aborigines living in camps around the town. Borroloola has some very different Aboriginal cultures ie the Yanyuwa and Mara are ‘saltwater people’ from the nearby islands while the Kurdanji and Karawa people are ‘mainland people’.The town is also the main support town for the McArthur River mine – one of the world’s largest zinc, lead and silver mines, situated about 70 kilometres southwest of Borroloola. We head toward the Gulf and visit King Ash Bay on the MacArthur River –  a top spot to experience the atmosphere of the Gulf and a shady lunch place by the river. Time permitting and passengers keen, we visit the Lost City near Cape Crawford, (optional heli flight) and the Caranbirini Nature Reserve for more sandstone pillars.The Lost City can be explored by helicopter from base at the Heartbreak Hotel at Cape Crawford, with an amazing 15 or optional 30 minute flight over these ancient sandstone pillars, formed when all this area was underwater. Overnight at Boroloola BLD

Day 5 – Today we head east over several river crossings, passing the Redbank (copper) Mine via Westmoreland (uranium deposits) and enter Queensland at Hells Gate, where police were stationed to provide escorts for settlers to the escarpments of Hell’s Gate, beyond which the Aboriginals were considered fierce. Hells Gate is the routes most western settlement in Queensland and now is a popular stopover with a grassy oasis and refreshments.

We travel through forest and river crossings to the large Aboriginal community of Doomadgee, then south to Gregory Downs, our base to explore Adel’s Grove which was originally gazetted in 1904 as a Miners Homestead Lease. In 1920 Albert de Lestang took up the property as an experimental Botanical Garden (hence the name “Adel” arose from Albert’s initials). Albert planted many species of trees and shrubs and supplied the Botanical Gardens of the world with the seeds produced by his nursery. This is adjacent Lawn Hill National Park (now Boodjamulla National Park) where we walk, canoe or swim in the beautiful lagoon and river with waterfalls.

Day 6 – Today we take a tour to visit the amazing Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields and immerse in this unique landscape. Alternatively enjoy a relaxing day of walks and swims – your choice. Overnight Gregory Downs BLD

Day 7 – We travel to Burke & Wills last camp 119, an historic site with a fascinating history and stories to tell. Enjoy a break in the frontier town of Burketown, named after Burke of the Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860 who reached the gulf near here in February 1861. Burketown was established in 1865 to service new pastoral holdings established in the region.

We reach the Leichardt River, named after Ludwig Leichardt who walked this country in 1845. We check out the Leichardt Falls then travel across the “Plains of Promise” named when H M Brig Beagle (the famous ship which had carried Charles Darwin on his voyage) visited here in 1841. On to Normanton, and view the old Burns Philp store, and the 1870 railway history from the goldrush days, plus the Purple Pub. Arriving  Karumba on the edge of the Gulf of Carpentaria, we enjoy a sunset river cruise. Karumba was the base of the gulf Barramundi and prawning industry and home to many salt water crocodiles. Overnight Karumba BL – Dinner at own expense in local restaurant – great fresh fish and prawns here !

Day 8 – We follow the Gulflander Railway line via the Gulf Development Road through Croydon which in goldrush days had 7000 people and 122 pubs.Travel via  Georgetown and the multi award winning, Terrestrial – the Ted Elliott Mineral Collection, the largest minerals collection in the world. Overnight Georgetown BLD

Day 9 – Undarra Lava Tubes tour. The Undara Lava Tubes were formed some 190,000 years ago when a major volcano erupted, its molten lava flowing down a dry river bed. As the top layer quickly cooled and crusted, the fiery magma below continued to flow through the tubes taking it further and further from the volcano. The Undara tubes are the world’s longest lava flow.

The word Undara means ‘a long way’ in the Aboriginal language. One of the lava flows from Undara extends over 160 kilometres (or 100 miles). This makes it one of the longest lava flows from a single volcano on our planet in modern geological time. The original tube formed by the flow extended for approximately 100kilometres, and several sections are accessible. After our 2 hour tour and tasty lunch, we travel via the Atherton Tablelands visiting the Millaa Millaa Falls on our route to Cairns for a celebration dinner together. BLD Accommodation own arrangements.

Channel Country Birdsville Lake Eyre and Dinosaurs Cairns to Adelaide Tour 5 Days

Highlights include - 

• Birdsville Big Red and Birdsville Track
• Channel Country and Diamantina River country
• Marree and Mungerannie
  
• Dinosaurs at the Flinders Discovery Centre
  
• Hughenden with Muttaburrasaurus
• Kronosaurus Korner Richmond 
• Larks Quarry Dinosaur stampede, 
• Fully accommodated Cairns to Adelaide

Itinerary

Day 1: Cairns to Hughenden – A Journey Back in Time

Depart from Cairns in a luxurious 4WD Landcruiser, designed for comfort and adventure. Enjoy the scenic drive through Queensland’s lush landscapes as you head towards Hughenden. Arrive in Hughenden, a town renowned for its rich prehistoric past. Visit the Flinders Discovery Centre to see impressive fossil displays, including a life-size replica of the Muttaburrasaurus. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around town, soaking in the charming outback atmosphere.

Dinner at a local eatery, featuring hearty Australian cuisine. Overnight stay at a comfortable local motel, ensuring a restful night for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Hughenden to Jundah – The Outback Awaits

 After a hearty breakfast, continue our journey to Richmond and visit Kronosaurus Korner, home to some of the world’s best-preserved marine fossils. Explore the fascinating exhibits, including the skeleton of a Kronosaurus, one of the largest marine reptiles to have ever lived.

From Richmond we travel to Winton, then Larks Quarry to view the dinosaur stampede. This occurred some 95 million years ago, when herds of small two-legged dinosaurs came to drink at the lake. There were at least150 dinosaurs of two different kinds - carnivorous coelurosaurs about the size of chickens, and slightly larger plant-eating ornithopods, some of them as large as emus. They were attacked by a meat-eating theropod – and the stampedes preserved at Larks Quarry

From here we then travel towards Jundah.Marvel at the changing landscapes as you traverse through the heart of Queensland’s outback. Dinner at a local pub, where you can mingle with locals and share stories. Overnight accommodation in a cozy outback lodge.

Day 3: Jundah to Birdsville

Depart from Jundah, a charming outback town, and drive through the heart of the Queensland outback, passing expansive cattle stations and striking red landscapes. Arrive in Birdsville, check into your accommodation, and enjoy a relaxing meal at the famous Birdsville Hotel. Optional scenic flight over Lake Eyre is available, offering breathtaking views of Australia’s largest salt lake. Also visit Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert, and experience the stunning desert panorama. Optional .Also explore the local area and its rich history. and an optional Lake Eyre flight. Overnight in Birdsville.

Day 4: Birdsville to Marree via Birdsville Track

After breakfast, visit the Burke and Wills Tree by the Diamantina River then begin your journey down the iconic Birdsville Track, offering an authentic outback experience with vast landscapes and historic landmarks. Visit Mungarannie and cross the Cooper Creek floodplain after travel through the Stoney Desert and Tirari Desert Arrive in Marree, a historic outpost with a rich Aboriginal and Afghan heritage. Explore the town, including the old Ghan Railway station and the Marree Hotel. Enjoy a hearty dinner and relax under the clear, star-studded sky. Overnight in Marree.

Day 5: Marree to Farina, Ochre Pits, Kanyaka Ruins, and Hawker and Adelaide

Depart Marree and head towards the historic ghost town of Farina. Wander through the ruins and imagine life in this once-thriving settlement of 300 people that supported s. Kidman & Co moving 500 catte a week to the Adelaide markets. . Continue to the Ochre Pits, a significant Aboriginal cultural site, and learn about the traditional uses of ochre. Visit the Kanyaka Ruins, a haunting reminder of the early settler’s challenges in the harsh outback environment. Arrive in Hawker, a small town at the edge of the Flinders Ranges.

Depart Hawker and drive to Quorn, a historic railway town. Explore the Pichi Richi Railway and its heritage steam trains history. Continue your journey south through picturesque landscapes, passing through small outback towns and rolling hills. Arrive in Adelaide and journey end approx 6pm

Next day options - Enjoy the city’s attractions, such as the Adelaide Central Market, North Terrace, and the beautiful parklands. Reflect on your incredible outback adventure over dinner in one of Adelaide’s renowned restaurants. Overnight in Adelaide (accommodation not included in this itinerary).

Highlights Include

• Comfortable Travel: Journey in a GXL 4WD Landcruiser, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable ride.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Savor delicious outback meals throughout the tour, from hearty breakfasts to local specialties.
• Unique Accommodations: Stay in comfortable motels and lodges, offering a perfect blend of outback charm and modern amenities.
• Expert Guides: Learn from knowledgeable guides who bring the prehistoric past to life with fascinating stories and insights.
• Diverse Landscapes: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Queensland’s outback, from lush rainforests to rugged deserts.
• Exclusive Access: Enjoy special access to museums and attractions, providing an intimate and enriching experience.

Book your seat on this extraordinary adventure today and embark on a journey through time and landscapes, tailored
for the discerning traveller who seeks both comfort and adventure.

Adult price is based on twin or double sharing a room. If one person, single rate applies.

Call Now: 1300 763 188

Kimberley Darwin (or Kununurra) to Broome

Option to meet tour departing from Kununurra from Darwin by air or coach

Overnights  Lake Argyle,  Fitzroy Crossing,

Day 1 – From Darwin we From Darwin travel via the Stuart Highway through Adelaide River and Pine Creek with its gold mining history and railway history. Continuing south to Katherine (NTs 3rd largest town) we check out the hot springs in the Katherine River and take a break here. From Katherine we head west on the Victoria Highway through the spectacular Victoria River escarpment country, following the river for some distance. Then to the remote town and Aboriginal community of Timber Creek. Travelling on passing by awesome rocky outcrops we cross the NT / WA border and gain an hour a half to arrive in Lake Argyle for a swim and dinner 

Day 2 – Kununurra (airport or town pickup for 1030 flight arrival from Darwin is available). Kununurra is a prosperous centre of mining, agriculture, tourism and Aboriginal art. We take a short tour through the Ord River Scheme of irrigated crop lands, then head for Fitzroy Crossing via Halls Creek with its gold mining history including the tale of Russian Jack, before the local Aboriginal Art Centre. This is Mesa country with impressive views over the vast grassland plains,  we pass the Tanami Track to Wolfe Creek crater and the “shortcut” to Alice Springs. Take a break at the scenic and bird lovers Marys Pool on the Mary River.  We continue westward on the Savannah Way then lunch at the picturesque Ngumban Cliffs.

An optional 2 hour Aboriginal guided cultural experience at Mimbi Caves (subject to availability) can be included if pre-booked – requires rocky walk in dark cave. Heading west we arrive at Fitzroy Crossing which is an education and supply centre for surrounding cattle stations and Aboriginal communities.  Our afternoon is topped off with a relaxing Darngku Geike Gorge sunset river cruise on the vast Fitzroy River, where we marvel at the high cliffs, annual flood records, stunning wildlife and river tales from our knowledgeable local guide. Overnight Fitzroy River Lodge BLD

Day 3 – Today an optional Geike Gorge cruise is available before the 4 hour jorney via Giant boabs to Broome.

Inclusions

• Darwin or Kununurra to Broome via Halls Creek
  
• Cruise option on Lake Argyle plus Geike Gorge on Fitzroy River
• Bungle Bungles Domes walk to Cathedral Gorge and Piccanniny Creek
• Accommodation in high quality local venues
• All fees, meals except 1, 2 nights fully accommodated

Exclusions for Kimberley Kununurra to Broome Lake Argyle Mitchell Falls 8 Day Tour

• 1 dinner own purchase in restaurant. Alcohol
• Flights to and from departure points
• Last nights accommodation in Broome

SAVE - DEDUCT $500 IF PAID IN FULL WHEN BOOKING

FULLY ACCOMMODATED

Gulf Savannah Way Darwin to Cairns tour 9 days …

Day 1 – Depart Cairns traveling via the scenic Atherton Tablelands to Undarra Lava Tubes, where we explore these fascinating formations created by ancient volcanic activity some 190,000 years ago. The lava tubes are part of the world’s longest lava flow from a single volcano in modern geological time.After a 2-hour tour and lunch, we head west through Georgetown, with its multi-award-winning Ted Elliott Mineral Collection, before arriving at George town for an overnight stay. BLD

 

Day 2 – Karumba & Gulflander RailwayToday we follow the Gulflander Railway line, traveling via the Gulf Development Road. We explore Croydon, once home to 7,000 people and122 pubs during the gold rush era. Continuing west, we reach Normanton,a town steeped in history with its Burns Philp store and the iconic Purple Pub. We then head to Karumba, located on the edge of the Gulf of Carpentaria, where we enjoy a spectacular sunset river cruise.Overnight in Karumba, where you can dine at a local restaurant famous for fresh seafood. BL (Dinner at own expense)

 

Day 3 – Burke & Wills Last Camp and Gregory Downs We travel through historic frontier towns, stopping at Burke & Wills Last Camp 119, the site of the explorers' final camp before their ill-fated journey. We visit Burketown, a town established in 1865 to serve new pastoral holdings, then cross the Plains of Promise, a region visited by the H.M. Brig Beagle in 1841. Crossing the Leichardt River, named after the explorer Ludwig Leichardt, we continue to Gregory Downs for our overnight stay, where we base ourselves to explore Adel’s Grove and Lawn Hill National Park (Boodjamulla National Park). BLD

 

Day 4 – Adel’s Grove and Lawn Hill National Park - Today we visit Adel’s Grove, originally an experimental botanical garden established by Albert de Lestang (ADEL) in 1920, before exploring Lawn Hill National Park. Enjoy walks, canoeing, or a swim in the stunning lagoons andrivers with picturesque waterfalls. In the afternoon, we explore the Riversleigh Megafauna Fossil Fields, one of the richest fossil deposits in the world,revealing a fascinating prehistoric landscape. Return to Gregory Downs (or the "Helton" at Hells Gate Roadhouse for overnight. Hel;ls Gate is an iconic landmark where settlers once needed police escorts due to the fierce local Aboriginal tribes.  BLD

 

Day 5 – Hells Gate and Borroloola - We head west toward the Northern Territory, (on the dirt Highway 1) crossing many rivers in the Gulf region via the MacArthur River mine to Borroloola,known for its fascinating mix of Aboriginal cultures and frontier history, which we see on display in the old police station. Overnight Borroloola  BLD

 

Day 6 – Lost City and Lorella Springs Wilderness Park - Today, we enter Limmen National Park to explore the spectacular Southern Lost City, and walk amongst these giant columns of sandstone that look like an ancient city, formed when the region was once underwater. An optional helicopter flight over these impressive sandstone pillars may be available- please advise if interested.Then we enjoy a relaxing evening at the beautiful Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, with its many rock pools and thermal springs. BLD

 

Day 7 – Lorella Springs Wilderness Park - Spend the day at Lorella Springs, a one-million-acre outback cattle station surrounded by pristine wilderness. You can relax in the numerous thermal pools, explore the nearby Flying Fox Swamp, or visit the popular Nanny’s Pool. The area is a haven for birdlife, and there are many opportunities for adventure and exploration. Overnight at Lorella Springs. BLD

 

Day 8 – An early morning soak in the nearby hot springs could suit you, before departure for Roper Bar and Matarranka We depart Lorella Springs, to scenic Butterfly Falls named diue to the massive numbers of butterflys that breed here. Traveling north with stop at Roper Bar, an historic location on the Roper River and the border of Arnhem Land. Learn about the area's steamboat history and its role in supplying materials for the Overland Telegraph Line in the 1860s and 1870s. Overnight at Mataranka. BLD

 

Day 9 – Mataranka to Darwin On our final day, we enjoy Mataranka, famous for its hot springs and the setting of the novel "We of the Never Never." Take a dip in the refreshing thermal waters or enjoy learning about the area's history before continuing to Katherine, the Northern Territory’s third-largest town. We then travel via Pine Creek, known for its gold and railway heritage, before arriving in Darwin to conclude the tour. BL Accommodation own arrangements

 

Inclusions:

• 8 nights Fully accommodated 
• All meals as specified (BLD = Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Expert professional guides

Kimberley Broome to Broome Accommodated Tour via Gibb River Road via Fitzroy Crossing Halls Creek Bungles Bungles, El Questro Zebedee Springs Pentecost River Windjana Gorge Leopold Range Imitji Tunnel Creek Derby. Maximum 4 adults per 4WD

Includes ....

• 6 Nights Accommodation - Motels or Station Cabins or permanent Safari Tents
  
• Best of Gibb River Gorges - Emma, Bell, Galvans, Manning, Windjana, Geike
  
• Bungle Bungles 4x4 tour and walk into Cathedral Gorge, Piccanniny Creek & Echidna Gorge
  
• El Questro Emma Gorge, Zebedee Hots Springs
  
• Geike Gorge cruise at Fitzroy Crossing,
  
• Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge walks
  
• Aboriginal Art Centres 
  
• Remote and pristine waterholes and swimming opportunities
  
• Genuine Small Group - usually Max. 4 in luxury Landcruiser GXL vehicle
  

 

Day 1 - Departs Broome via the Savannah Way through expansive Savannah woodlands and grasslands, we cross the Fitzroy River at Willare and stop here for a morning cuppa. We travel on Windjana Gorge in the 300 million year old Devonian Reef known as the Napier Range, and and take a walk in this erie ancient landscape where the dinosaurs roamed. Here we usually see scores of crocodiles basking in the sun.This is where the Aboriginal freedom fighter Jandamarra and the Bunuba Resistance was centred in the 1890s, depicted in 2 novels and a stage production. After a walk in the gorge by the Lennard River enjoy lunch in this special environment in the National Park. We then travel the short distance along the Devonian Reef and majestic boab trees to Tunnel Creek here we don our waterproof shoes and headlight torches to take a walk through the underground river system with amazing stalagtites and stalagmites..We travel then to our comfy night at the the Fitzroy River Lodge at Fitzroy Crossing.  LD

Day 2 - This morning and early start to catch the best of the wildlife on a  a relaxing Geike Gorge Fitzroy River cruise. Marvel at the high cliffs, annual flood records, stunning wildlife and river tales from our knowledgeable local guide. If open visit the local Aboriginal Art Centre for unique art works by local artists. Travelling east, we stop for the view and photos at Ngumban Cliffs a picturesque lookout between the Devonian Reef and ancient Kimberely sandstones and mesas. We stop at Marys Pool for lunch which is a haven for birds and crocs before Halls Creek with gold mining history and Aboriginal art centre. Time permitting we visit to the fascinating quartz rock intrusion through the landscape, known as the China Wall, then overnight at Halls Creek. BLD

Day 3 - All aboard for the scenic route through the ranges and deep into Purnululu National Park and the Bungle Bungles to Cathedral Gorge. Learn of the Bungle Bungles heritage and hear some of nature’s hidden secrets. Be amazed on your easy walk into the stunning Cathedral Gorge, and Piccaninny Creek where a popular Qantas advertisement was filmed, you will be surrounded by the Beehive Domes for which the park is so famous. After lunch an optional walk in Echidna Chasm or to a nearby Osmand Lookout Optional scenic helicopter flights available – 18 mins approx $300) Overnight Warmun / Turkey Creek. BLD

Day 4 -  Depart via Turkey Creek via the incredible Ragged Ranges past the well hidden Argyle Diamond Mine plus nickel and iron ore mines. We now arrive on the Gibb River Road for El Questro Station, a million acres of spectacular Kimberley scenery, rivers and gorges. It's here that the movie Australia was filmed, nestled under the Cockburn Ranges. Theres time to relax under the palm trees in the Zebedee Hot Springs before lunch at Jackaroos Waterhole by Moonshine Creek. This afternoon take an optional; Chamberlain River Cruise or just relax by the pool at El Questro or take an afternoon walk. Dinner own at own expense at the El Questro restaurant. Overnight El Questro BL

Day 5 – This morning  we take a walk up Emma Gorge, or alternative Amalia Gorge, with beautiful waterfalls and great swimming holes before we journey the scenic and spectacular Gibb River Road via the Cockburn Range. We pass by many boab trees to cross the largest river crossing in the Kimberley, the mighty Pentecost River. We take  a break from a high vantage point to view this amazing scene. passing via Home Valley Station the days journey takes us through varying terrain including high mountains and "jump ups", and some great river crossings, including the Durack River. as we travel from East to West Kimberley. Enjoy a break and birdspotting by the Durack. We take a left turn at the Kalumburu Road intersection and cross the Hann River, then a look in at Gibb River Station and a chat with the locals at the local Aboriginal community store, with local Aboriginal artwork. Overnight here or depending on availability at Mt Elizabeth Station. BLD

Day 6 - Nearby Manning Gorge waterhole is a beautiful site surrounded by large paperbark trees and is the largest accessible waterhole on the Gibb River Road. Spend some quality time here, and visit nearby Aboriginal Rock Art before we visit Mount Barnet Roadhouse, at the middle of the Gibb River Road, and a local hub and Aboriginal community centre. We can restock here, and update supplies before we head down the road to an easy 800 m walk to pictureque Galvans Gorge with Wandjina rock art, and an optional swim in the waterhole under the waterfall. Travel on through spectacular Kimberley geology, woodlands and river crossings and arrive at Imitji Community on Mt House Station, with its Aboriginal Art centre and local artists work for sale. We visit spectacular Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge) this afternoon for a hearty walk, an optional swim and great photos, then head to our overnight accommodation at Imitji Bell Gorge safaris camp or Mt Hart.  (depending on availability at time of booking)  BLD

Day 7 – Our tour climbs the Wunaamin Miliwundi Ranges (formerly between 1879 and 2020, the King Leopold Ranges and we travel through the picturesque Inglis Gap and King Leopold Conservation Park. This is spectacular mountain country with impressive views over the ranges and vast woodlands and plains

Today more amazing scenery as we cross the Lennard River and pass through the ancient Devonian era Napier Range at Queen Victoria Pass viewing "Queen Victoria Head". Travel via comfortable highway cruising toward Derby, to visit the famous Prison Boab tree, and Derby highlights including the Derby wharf (30 ft tides!) on King Sound, the world’s longest cattle drinking trough, the new Mowanjum Aboriginal Art Centre (meet the artists, learn and buy from source) at Mowanjum Aboriginal Community. Depart for Broome to arrive late afternoon, time permitting to enjoy sunset at Cable Beach over the Indian Ocean and delivery to your accommodation ( accommodation own arrangement). Tour completes  Time permitting enjoy a shared meal at a local bar by the beach at sunset. Tour completes BL

Next day or add more - You can choose to just relax for the day or 2 or there is plenty to do in Broome. Optionally celebrate with a morning swim and/ or breakfast at Cable Beach - Broome options include a scenic flight to the awesome Horizontal Waterfalls or visit the Willie Creek Pearl Farm, or simply shop or relax in Broome's balmy climate.  Home Flights depart from Broome or consider travelling with us to Cape Leveque or Alice Springs via the Tanami Track, Wolfe Creek Crater and art centres or down the west coast of Western Australia on a Pilbara Karijini National Park Tour, with Burrup Rock Art on Dampier Peninsula and more. 

Inclusions - Kimberley Broome to Broome via Gibb River Rd Tour with Bungles El Questro and Manning Gorge 7 days

• Bungle Bungles 4x4 tour and walk into Cathedral Gorge, Piccanninny Creek & Echidna Gorge
  
• El Questro Emma Gorge walk and overnight, Zebedee Hots Springs
  
• Geike Gorge cruise at Fitzroy Crossing, Manning Gorge waterhole
  
• Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge walks
  
• Remote and pristine waterholes and swimming opportunities
  
• Genuine Small Group - usually Max. 4 in luxury Landcruiser GXL vehicle
• Professional and knowledgeable driver/guide
  
• Long established relationships with local Aboriginal people enriches experiences
• Access to remote areas and rock art sites unreachable by most tour vehicles
• Delicious meals as shown, including vegetarian options.
• 6 nights Accommodation in hotel/motel/cabins
  
• All World Heritage and National Park entry and accommodation fees
• Aboriginal Art community visits for "direct from artist" purchases
• Contributions of tour price supports Outback Kids and nature care programs.
• You - and Your involvement in a creation much bigger than most can imagine

Exclusions

• 1 dinner own purchase in El Questro restaurant. Alcohol
• Flights to and from departure points

Any questions please Call 1300 763 188