The balmy Darwin climate sets the pace for your city tour: relaxed. Things don’t happen in a hurry here. Even the fiery sunsets seem to linger just over the horizon. You’ll catch one later, but first: an orientation tour to discover the city’s architecture and learn about the events that have shaped life at the Top End, from Cyclone Tracy to WWII when the Northern Territory capital was bombed. Enjoy dinner at a popular waterfront restaurant favoured by locals.

As you begin your sojourn south, yet more reminders of the impact WWII had on the region are outside your window. The
headquarters of a military base once stood along the banks of the Adelaide River, and there’s a cemetery nearby to remember those who lost their lives here. It’s a sobering sight. Then nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park bordering Kakadu. This is Jawoyn land, and a place where you’ll feel your spirit soar. Particularly when you’re cruising through dramatic Nitmiluk Gorge, your boat the only sound echoing around this enormous chasm. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. There’s no time to catch your breath – you’re off to the Katherine Outback Experience, where you’ll be entertained with songs and stories before your special evening of Be My Guest dining under the stars begins.

Say goodbye to the NT and hello to WA, your introduction to the state the unexpected delights of Kununurra. It’s in the middle of nowhere, and only exists because of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Before it was a twinkle on the map, farming pioneers came here to establish vast cattle stations. The life of one such family is chronicled at the Durack Homestead Museum, revealing how the property was dismantled then reassembled on higher ground when much of the countryside was flooded for the dam. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. An afternoon cruise here, surrounded by freshwater crocs and birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry. Well, until the next expedition: from Kununurra, all roads lead to some of WA’s most postcard-worthy sights, the Bungle Bungles among them.

Today is one of decisions: A scenic flight over (or 4WD tour of) the dramatic World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, home to the Bungle Bungles (both own expense). Or a wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as a ‘mini Bungles’, while hearing about how the landscapes were formed. In between, explore the Waringarri Aboriginal Art Centre on a guided tour, meeting Indigenous creatives at work and maybe picking up a piece to take home. The ultimate souvenir.

Optional Experiences:

a. Bungle Bungle Adventurer Scenic Flight – ADD: A$549 Per Person From an aircraft, Purnululu National Park is an imposing sight. This 2-hour scenic flight takes you on an unforgettable
adventure over the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, the Argyle Diamond Mine and Ord River Irrigation Area. You will also fly over the stunning Carr Boyd Ranges, Osmand Ranges, the Ord River and the Bow River. Your aircraft is an air- conditioned, high wing, beautifully presented aeroplane offering comfort, safety and spectacular viewing opportunities. This award-winning scenic flight from Kununurra to the Purnululu National Park is an exhilarating adventure taking in the Kimberley’s best scenic views.

*Please Note: This optional experience can be reserved at the time of your trip booking. Please enquire with your travel agent or reservations team member. Subject to availability.

b. Bungle Bungle Flight & 4WD Tour – ADD A$999 Per Person
Experience aerial views of the Bungle Bungle in Purnululu National Park before landing and transferring to a 4WD bus for
a guided 3km walk among the eroded towers and beehive structures. Visit Cathedral Gorge, walk along Piccaninny Creek, learn about the Kimberley climate, and return via a scenic flight over the Argyle Diamond Mine. DIFFICULTY: This is a moderate 3km walk along a creek bed with sand and loose stones, short rocky slopes and a ladder with double handrails

It’s not every day that you have the privilege of glimpsing the inner workings of a rum distillery with the family that owns it. Thanks to our AAT Kings connections, we’ve organized for you to meet the makers and discover how Hoochery Distillery prepares its lip-smacking, award-winning rums and whiskys. Try a tasting paddle to get your heart started (own expense) and then sit down to morning tea. Get a taste of the Gibb River Road before arriving at El Questro Wilderness Park. Your safari- style tents for the night are backdropped by the Cockburn Range, surrounded by an oasis of pandanus palms. When darkness falls, expect a bedazzlement of stars overhead.

The best way to wake up? With the sun streaming through your tent, wildlife all around. The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River, a mecca for those who love a spot of barramundi fishing. Arriving at Chamberlain Gorge, an enormous fresh waterhole, your cruise chariot awaits. Jump aboard to feel very small indeed, your boat dwarfed by soaring 60-metre escarpments, a brilliant shade of orange in the morning sun. When it’s time to cool down, take an afternoon dip in the resort pool. Be back on your patio in time for sundowners.

When you arrive in Halls Creek you’ll visit the Yarliyil Art Gallery, an Aboriginal owned enterprise which has more than 100 artist members who practice art in a wide range of styles and mediums. Equally important to Aboriginal communities is the Great Sandy Desert, on the edge of which is Halls Creek. This place is small in population, but big in personality.

The Kimberley boasts a geological history that is nothing short of spectacular. Explore the Mimbi Caveswith an Indigenous guide to observe the delicate limestone formations, brilliantly vivid colours and crystal-clear freshwater pools that remain from the Devonian Great Barrier Reef that formed over 350 million years ago. Discover ancient rock paintings before listening to songs and hearing the Gooniyandi Dreaming story, while enjoying billy tea and damper. Travel through the Kimberley towards the remote township of Fitzroy Crossing.

Among the most multicultural cities in Australia, Broome became a base for fortune-seekers the world over during its ‘pearl rush’. The pristine waters here grow great oysters, and the resulting pearls are prized by lovers of all things that gleam. A city tour will give you your bearings. Then it’s time to settle in for Broome’s other attraction: its sunsets. Follow locals to the sand or find a perch in a beachside bar to salute the end of another spectacular day in WA.

Today you have a full free day to explore this tropical hideaway. Take your time to discover the charms of the town, indulge
in the delightful pearl boutiques, and embark on a leisurely stroll along the magnificent Cable Beach, stretching over 22
kilometres. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Chinatown, with its colourful streets and cultural offerings. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can choose to embark on an optional tour that will take you to breathtaking destinations. One such experience is a visit to a pearl farm, where you can witness the fascinating process of pearl cultivation and learn about the rich history of the industry. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and discover the allure of these exquisite gems. Alternatively, you may opt to venture further afield and explore the natural wonders of the area. Speak to your Travel Director about the possibility of joining a scenic flight, soaring above the landscape to witness the awe-inspiring sights from above. (All own expense). This evening, join your Travel Director for dinner.

Short and sweet, we hope your journey inspired extended West Australian wanderlust.