11 day 4wd kimberley safari: darwin to broome

Australia's North West is one of the last remaining wilderness regions and during this 11 Day Safari we'll take you on a journey into the heart of this spectacular country - from the magnificent coastal villages with rich red soil to rock formations that must be seen to be believed.  With most meals included, unique camping locations and accommodation already sorted, expert guides and plenty of outdoor adventure - this is the perfect travel option that will help you explore the very unique land, people and spirit of Western Australia.

Day 1: DARWIN

Darwin being the capital city of the Northern Territory is the perfect place to commence your Safari with us. Today you can explore at your own pace. You and your fellow travellers will arrive in Darwin from all corners of the globe today, so there's no group activity planned. The noticeboard at your accommodation provides many sightseeing and activity options should you arrive early. Why not head to the Territory Wildlife Park* to learn more about Australian Native animals or to the new attraction in downtown Darwin, Crocosaurus Cove. If you're feeling energetic head out on the historical city walk - a leisurely discovery of Darwin city, through 17 historically significant sites and buildings within walking distance of the CBD. Included is the British Australian Telegraph house (Lyon's Cottage), the Wharf Precinct, Myilly Point Historical Precinct and the new Parliament House. You'll also find information about our first group meeting, held this evening at approximately 5pm. Please make every effort to attend this meeting.

OVERNIGHT: Travelodge Mirambeena (Hotel) Darwin

DAY 2: DARWIN TO TIMBER CREEK

Today the real adventure begins as we head off in our purpose built 4 wheel drive. We'll be covering some rugged country over the next few days and will needing this extra grunt! Have a refreshing swim at Edith Falls located in the Nitmiluk National Park and then travel on to Katherine - land of the traditional Jawoyn Aboriginal people. This afternoon we head past Gregory National Park and onto the small community of Timber Creek (pop. 300)! Experience the real "Territory" and with a bit of luck you may have the opportunity to spot a croc. Crikey!

OVERNIGHT: Circle F Caravan Park (Camping) (L/D)

DAY 3: TIMBER CREEK TO BUNGLE BUNGLES

Today we cross the border into Western Australia, but before we're permitted entry, we will be searched for all sorts of nuts, honey, fruit and vegetables as it's illegal to carry these from state to state due to quarantine reasons, to protect local produce industries. We visit the massive expanse of water at Lake Argyle (containing 12 times the water volume of Sydney Harbour!). Next stop today is the township of Kununurra situated on the Ord River. With year-round warm weather and plentiful water, Kununurra is lush and fertile. After restocking supplies, we test the terrain conquering ability of our rugged 4 wheel drive vehicle. A rough 50km track off the Great Northern Highway leads to the spectacular Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. Once at the Bungle Bungles, we will settle into our very own permanently established camp at Walardi, where we'll spend two nights and get to view outback sunsets in style.

OVERNIGHT: Walardi (Camping) Bungle Bungles. (B/D)

DAY 4: BUNGLE BUNGLE NATIONAL PARK

A day to explore the amazing striped rock domes that comprise the Bungle Bungles. Over the last 20 million years erosion and river movements have formed huge black and orange striped domes. As unbelievable as it seems, this area was kept a secret by locals until 1982, and was made a national park in 1987. Specifically, we will visit the very impressive Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm. Today you'll have the option to take a scenic flight* over this spectacular region - it's an absolute must!! Then it's back to camp to review the days' activities.

OVERNIGHT: Walardi (Camping) Bungle Bungles.  (B/L/D)

DAY 5: BUNGLE BUNGLES TO EL QUESTRO

We make tracks to the tiny settlement of Turkey Creek, where we once again do some more 4 wheel driving and head out to further examples of stunning outback scenery at El Questro Wilderness Reserve immersed in the Cockburn Ranges**. Spanning 1 million acres in size, this is one of the world's last unspoilt frontier. On arrival we set up camp for the next two nights.

OVERNIGHT: El Questro Wilderness Reserve (Camping) Kununurra. (B/D)

DAY 6: EL QUESTRO

This morning we'll explore Zebedee Springs which is a short walk off the graded road through dense palms to a series of thermal pools, a fabulous place to soak and relax. This afternoon our exploring continues at one of the many gorges. Tonight enjoy a drink with the locals at the El Questro Outback Bar.

OVERNIGHT: El Questro Wilderness Reserve (Camping) Kununurra. (B/L/D)
 

DAY 7: EL QUESTRO TO THE GIBB RIVER ROAD

This morning we break camp and make our way out of El Questro and head further into the heart of the Gibb River Road. Tonight we'll experience a bush camp deep within the Kimberleys.

OVERNIGHT: Gibb River Road (Bush Camp).  (B/L/D)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 8: KIMBERLEY/ GIBB RIVER ROAD & GORGES

The challenge of exploring the Gibb River Road continues today. It dissects some of the most rugged country on earth and gives access to spectacular wildlife and rugged scenery. We will visit one of the most outstanding Gorges in the region, with probably the best known and most striking being Manning and Galvins Gorges.

OVERNIGHT: Gibb River Road (Bush Camp). (B/L/D)
 

DAY 9: KIMBERLEYS/GIBB RIVER ROAD TO WINDJANA GORGE

Our journey this morning takes us further in to the heart of the Kimberley - one of the world's great wilderness areas. It has fewer people per square kilometre than almost any other place on earth! As we trek further west the beautiful King Leopold Ranges present themselves offering Bells Creek Gorge. A refreshing swim in the Lower Plunge Pool is a welcome site before we head to our night spot Windjana Gorge. This is an area where sheer cliffs tower above white sands and freshwater crocodiles are often seen sunning themselves in the afternoon sun.

OVERNIGHT: Windjana Gorge (Camping) (B/L/D)
 

DAY 10: WINDJANA GORGE TO BROOME VIA TUNNEL CREEK

Tunnel Creek is our next attraction, so make sure you have your flash light as our 750 metre underground discovery walk is dark, wet and fascinating!! We travel via the regional township of Derby and visit the infamous Boab Prison Tree, once used as a temporary prison for the local Aborigines. We continue on to cosmopolitan Broome. From its rough and tumble, romantic pearling history to the cosmopolitan character of Chinatown, to the turquoise waters, red sandstone cliffs and the endless expanse of white....the colours and moods of Broome will blow you away. This afternoon take a camel ride* on the longest and most photographed camel train in the Kimberley. Tonight you're free to explore this multi-cultural town with a meal out at a local restaurant.

OVERNIGHT: Roebuck Bay Caravan Park (Camping) Broome. (B/L)
 

DAY 11: BROOME

Make the most of a sleep in this morning and time to recharge the batteries after your 11 day adventure. You are free to leave Broome at any time this day. If you have some free time, get out and about and explore this colourful town.  (B)

Please note:

* Some activities within Australia's National Parks are dependent on weather and the observance of cultural traditions, therefore itineraries are subject to change.

** Our experienced guides will tailor all of the activities based on seasonal and cultural conditions throughout the year, to maximise your experience and enjoyment.  Any deviation from this itinerary will be made with serious consideration and your best interests and safety our priority.