For the ultimate trip to the north-western corner of Australia, this comprehensive tour has everything. Starting in Broome, travel on a small group 4WD adventure through the heart of the Kimberley to Broome, before joining your five night cruise on True North along the Kimberley coast from Broome. Highlights include Clerke Reef, Bedwell Island and Mermaid Reef.
Day 1. Gibb River Road, Tunnel Creek, Windjana Gorge.
From Broome, journey by 4WD along the Gibb River Road to beautiful Windjana Gorge, and look for freshwater crocodiles on the banks of the Lennard River. Later, with torch in hand, wade through the cool waters of Tunnel Creek to view the oasis here.
Day 2. Bell Gorge, Hiking and Swimming.
Back on the Gibb River Road, travel to Bell Gorge, where rugged cliffs surround a series of tiered waterholes. Take a refreshing swim below the waterfall, or go bird-watching. The energetic can choose from a number of hiking opportunities.
Day 3. Galvans Gorge, Barnett River Gorge.
Visit Galvans Gorge this morning, then travel to Barnett River Gorge for lunch. Later, continue to your overnight outback station accommodation at Drysdale River Station.
Day 4. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River.
As you ascend the renowned Mitchell Plateau, see fascinating Wandjina and Gwion (Bradshaw) rock art and enjoy a swim in the waters of King Edward River. For the next two nights stay at our wilderness lodge.
Day 5. Mitchell Falls, Helicopter Flight over the Falls.
Enjoy a full day to discover the beauty of Mitchell Falls, with its magnificent waterfalls and Aboriginal art. When available, local Aboriginal guides will join us for the adventure. Begin with a guided hike to Little Mertens Falls and view rarely seen art. Continue on to see Gwion (Bradshaw) art at Big Mertens Falls. Swim in the pools above the falls and learn about local flora and fauna. We have included a helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls back to your vehicle (or, if you prefer, hike back with your guide).
Day 6. Mitchell Plateau, King Edward River.
Travel through lush Livistona palm forests, as you explore Mitchell Plateau and view galleries of ancient Aboriginal art. Then stop on the banks of the King Edward River for lunch.
Day 7. El Questro Wilderness Park.
Ford the mighty Durack and Pentecost rivers and travel into stunning El Questro Wilderness Park – one million acres situated in the remote Kimberley wilderness.
Day 8. El Questro, Wyndham, Kununurra.
Hike into Emma Gorge before enjoying a soak in the thermal pools of Zebedee Springs. Visit El Questro station, before travelling to Wyndham and Five Rivers Lookout.
Day 9. Cruise Ord River and Lake Kununurra.
Travel to Lake Argyle, which is the largest man-made lake in the Southern Hemisphere. In the afternoon, join a leisurely cruise along the mighty Ord River, while keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Day 10. Purnululu National Park, Echidna Chasm.
Head to Purnululu National Park, home to the famed orange and black striped domes of the Bungle Bungle Range. Upon arrival, hike along a Livistona palm-fringed trail to Echidna Chasm, to witness this spectacular cleft in the rock massif.
Day 11. Bungle Bungle Range, Cathedral Gorge.
Hike along the dry bed of Piccaninny Creek, a winding gorge within the lofty walls of the Bungle Bungle domes. Learn about bush medicine and the area’s significance to local Aboriginals. Your next stop is the natural amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge, renowned for its spectacular acoustics. Perhaps take a scenic helicopter flight over the World Heritage-listed national park (own expense). Then, enjoy drinks and watch the sun set over the striking Bungle Bungle Range.
Day 12. Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing.
Farewell the Bungle Bungle Range and visit Halls Creek. See China Wall, a natural quartz formation which resembles a small version of the famous Great Wall of China – hence its name. Continue to Fitzroy Crossing, a small settlement situated on Fitzroy River.
Day 13. Geikie Gorge Cruise, Broome.
This morning journey into Geikie Gorge National Park, to Geikie Gorge. Take an insightful cruise between the gorge’s bleached limestone walls, to learn more about the surrounding flora and fauna. The gorge walls have been carved out over many years by the flow of the mighty Fitzroy River. Then continue on to Broome and get to know this former pearling town.
Day 14. Broome at Leisure, True North.
Spend another relaxing day in the unique coastal town of Broome. Perhaps enjoy a morning tour of this fascinating pearling town (own expense) or stroll the quaint shops of this remote town. This evening board your cruise ship True North before enjoying Cocktails and a Welcome Dinner.
Day 15. Clerke Reef, Bedwell Island.
Arrive at Clerke Reef this morning and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast. Explore the atoll’s huge lagoon, teeming with beautiful tropical fish and alive with an abundance of brightly coloured coral. Beachcomb on Bedwell Island, where you can snorkel in waist-deep water or perhaps try ‘catch and release’ lagoon fishing, using eco-friendly tackle.
Day 16. Onboard the True North, the Aquarium.
Spend an incredible day snorkelling at the Aquarium, a stretch of water featuring more than 600 of the world’s most beautiful fish species at your very fingertips, as well as giant clams and more stunning coral. Enjoy the opportunity to handfeed maori wrasse and potato cod from True North’s back steps.
Day 17. Onboard the True North, the Outer Reef.
Journey to the outer reef for close encounters with humpback whales, manta rays and sailfish. The reef is alive with incredible marine life and sheer coral walls, so expect an exhilarating day’s snorkelling. Then enjoy sunset drinks and an island party on
the beach.
Day 18. Mermaid Reef, Broome.
Take an early morning stroll along a pristine sandy coral cay before a leisurely cruise to Mermaid Reef. Spend the day exploring the reef before returning to Broome. Join the crew at the Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party tonight.
Day 19. Broome.
Arrive in Broome this morning, disembark, before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.
