You’ll fall for the capital of the NT; its balmy tropical climes, fiery sunsets and laid-back locals. Take in the sights on a tour, learning about the events that have shaped it over the years. Later, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner.
Nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park, where you cruise through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. There’s no time to catch your breath – you’re off to meet Tom Curtain on a cattle station, where he entertains through song and stories.
Kununurra exists thanks to the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. You won’t forget your sunset cruise.
Today is one of decisions: An optional early-morning flight over (or 4WD tour of) the Bungle Bungles? Or a wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park.
Go behind the scenes at Hoochery Distillery, which not only makes lip-smacking rum, but also delicious rum cake. From here you’re on the epic Gibb River Road to El Questro Wilderness Park, where an oasis of pandanus and palms envelops your safari-style accommodation.
The Kimberley’s sounds follow you across the mighty Pentecost River to freshwater Chamberlain Gorge, your boat dwarfed by its soaring escarpments while you cruise. Afternoon remedy? A splash in the pool, perhaps, or a dip in the waterhole within Emma Gorge. Take your pick.
While the Argyle Diamond Mine has stopped producing rare pink diamonds, you can still visit with an Aboriginal guide. Your destination for the night, Halls Creek is small in population, but big in personality.
Dive deep into First Nations culture at the Aboriginal art gallery in Fitzroy Crossing, the gateway to Danggu (Geikie) Gorge. This remarkable part of the Kimberley was formed by the Fitzroy River carving the Napier Range. It’s a fertile home for creatures big and small.
The reason Broome was born is because of pearls. Today, it’s just as well known for its sizzling Indian Ocean sunsets, best enjoyed from the Cable Beach sand.
Today is yours to explore. Perhaps veer off to a pearl farm, to witness the precision that goes into growing and harvesting these gems. Or simply enjoy Broome’s tropical climes, strolling along 22-kilometre Cable Beach, hunting for dinosaur footprints and browsing boutiques.
The eye-opening colours of the Pilbara are your backdrop today. It’s sparsely populated, but there are plenty of local characters to meet over dinner in Port Hedland.
Karijini is where gorges seem to cleave off the edge of the Earth, waterfalls tumble from escarpments and turquoise rock pools shimmer like precious gems. You’re hundreds of kilometres from anywhere, so expect dazzling stargazing from your safari tent.
It took billions of years to create Karijini’s geological wonders: the red layered cliffs, the quiet gorges, the soaring gum trees and distinctive termite mounds. Cooling off under waterfalls is highly recommended.
There are a few (hundred) kilometres of Pilbara to cover between Karijini and Exmouth on the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Coast. This pocket of the state is also blessed with Cape Range National Park, where gorges and waterfalls beckon.
Depending on the time of year, Ningaloo Reef is home to both whale sharks and humpbacks. Opt to snorkel with both (ethically) or book a sunset cruise, sparkling wine in hand. The decision is yours.
Today’s cruise in a glass-bottomed boat allows you to glimpse Ningaloo’s extraordinary marine life in comfort. Next stop is the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum. Did you know it played a role in the 1969 moon landing?
Prepare yourself for the ‘living fossils’ at Hamelin Pool, home to the most abundant colony of stromatolites in the world. The state’s World Heritage listed Shark Bay is also characterised by Shell Beach, formed from billions of coquina bivalve shells.
Meet the wild resident dolphins that turn up to the shore every morning, then spend the afternoon at leisure. Optional sunset cruise or scenic flight over the bay, anyone?
Peregrine falcons swoop over Hawks Head Lookout in Kalbarri National Park, particularly pretty during wildflower season. Arriving in Geraldton, pay homage to sailors lost at the HMAS Sydney Memorial.
Nambung National Park’s Pinnacles are a staggering collection of natural limestone structures, jutting into the sky. It’s a spiritual place, as is Yanchep National Park, where your Aboriginal guide decodes native plants and tells Dreamtime stories on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience.
It’s hard to believe this epic adventure has come to an end. Three weeks of incredible memories to take home with you.