Untamed Kimberley

Untamed Kimberley

14 Views
11 Days From

$6855

$5827

Untamed Kimberley

11 Days Starting in Darwin, Australia and ending in Broome, Australia

Visiting: Darwin, Katherine, Kununurra, Emma Gorge, Kimberley, Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing, Broome

Tour operator:

AAT Kings

Tour code:

WDBMF25

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English
From: $6855 $5827 Operator discount: -$1028 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 12-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Untamed Kimberley" adventure tour and explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Australia's remote Kimberley region. This journey begins in Darwin and concludes in Broome, offering a unique blend of natural wonders and indigenous experiences. Cruise the stunning Ord River at sunset, delve into the ancient Mimbi Caves with a Gooniyandi guide, and learn about the Jawoyn people in Nitmiluk National Park. Enjoy private airport transfers and stay in premium accommodations, including safari-style tents at El Questro Wilderness Park. With optional tours of the UNESCO-listed Purnululu National Park and the Bungle Bungles, this tour promises unforgettable memories. Please note, flights are not included, and a moderate level of fitness is recommended for this adventure.

Highlights

  • content:

    Make Travel Matter

    Inside Mimbi Caves, hear fascinating stories as your Gooniyandi guide takes you to a time when Aboriginal people inhabited these caves, carved out of an ancient fossilised reef system.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Darwin

Location: Darwin

Accommodation Name: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Meals Included: Dinner

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 a Welcome Dinner at a popular waterfront restaurant favoured by locals.

Day 2: Darwin - Katherine

Location: Katherine

Accommodation Name: Contour Hotel Katherine

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 3: Katherine - Kununurra

Location: Kununurra

Accommodation Name: Kununurra Country Club Resort

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.

Day 4: Kununurra

Location: Kununurra

Accommodation Name: Kununurra Country Club Resort

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.

Day 5: Kununurra - Emma Gorge

Location: Emma Gorge

Accommodation Name: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities

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.

Day 6: El Questro Wilderness Park

Location: Kimberley

Accommodation Name: Emma Gorge Resort, Tented Cabin with private facilities

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.

Day 7: Emma Gorge - Halls Creek

Location: Halls Creek

Accommodation Name: Kimberley Hotel

When you arrive in Hall 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. Artists attend the centre daily to paint and express stories of history, people, the country and cultural connection. 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.

Day 8: Halls Creek - Fitzroy Crossing

Location: Fitzroy Crossing

Accommodation Name: Fitzroy River Lodge

The Kimberley boasts a geological history that is nothing short of spectacular. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, explore the Mimbi Caves with 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.

Day 9: Fitzroy Crossing - Broome

Location: Broome

Accommodation Name: Cable Beach Club Resort

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.

Day 10: Broome Free Time

Location: Broome

Accommodation Name: Cable Beach Club Resort

Meals Included: Dinner

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 a Farewell dinner.

Day 11: Farewell From Broome

Location: Broome

Eleven days, countless memories, a bunch of new friends… you’ll leave Broome with your travel wanderlust ignited.

What's Included

What's Not Included

  • Flights to and from the start/end of the trip

    Flights to and from the start/end of the trip are not included in the trip price.

  • Extreme temperatures and fitness requirements

    Guests should be aware that extreme temperatures can be experienced in this remote region of Australia and a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

  • Torch for Mimbi Caves

    A torch is recommended for exploring some sections of Mimbi Caves, which have very low light and are rocky in parts.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities such as scenic flights over the Bungle Bungles and Horizontal Falls are not included in the trip price.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy private airport transfers upon arrival and departure, and travel comfortably between destinations with a specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide.

Accommodation

Stay in centrally located premium hotels, including Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Contour Hotel Katherine, Kununurra Country Club Resort, Emma Gorge Resort, Kimberley Hotel, Fitzroy River Lodge, and Cable Beach Club Resort.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 10 Full Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Be My Guest Dinner (BGD)
  • 1 Lunch (L)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Cultural Immersion

  • Cruise down the spectacular Ord River from Lake Argyle with a local guide, to be greeted by the setting sun over the water in Kununurra.

Fitness Requirement

  • Extreme temperatures can be experienced in this remote region of Australia. Guests should be made aware that this trip is recommended to guests with a moderate level of fitness. In addition, the walk to Emma Gorge considered “Difficult” and not all guests will be able to complete the walk. Some sections of Mimbi Caves have very low light and are rocky in parts. A torch is recommended.

Flight information

  • Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price. Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 2.00pm into Darwin AirportDay 11 – flights to depart anytime from Broome Airport Return arrival and departure airport to hotel transfers are included.

Local Connection

  • Support local Aboriginal artists with a visit to a Kimberley Indigenous Art Gallery and discover why art is so important to maintaining culture.

What to Bring

  • Water bottle Warm layers in cooler months Camera Comfortable walking shoes Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat

World Class Nature

  • Learn about the Jawoyn people, traditional landowners of Nitmiluk National Park, their stories of how the gorge was formed, and about how they live and work today.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of fitness level is required for the Untamed Kimberley tour?

    The tour is recommended for guests with a moderate level of fitness. Some activities, like the walk to Emma Gorge, are considered difficult and may not be suitable for all guests.

  • Are flights included in the Untamed Kimberley tour package?

    No, flights to and from the start and end of the trip are not included in the trip price.

  • What should I bring for the Mimbi Caves exploration?

    It is recommended to bring a torch for exploring some sections of Mimbi Caves, as they have very low light and are rocky in parts.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on the Untamed Kimberley tour?

    You will stay in centrally located premium hotels, including Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Contour Hotel Katherine, Kununurra Country Club Resort, Emma Gorge Resort, Kimberley Hotel, Fitzroy River Lodge, and Cable Beach Club Resort.

  • What is the transportation arrangement during the tour?

    The tour includes private airport transfers upon arrival and departure, and travel between destinations is managed by a specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide.

  • What are some of the unique experiences included in the tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as visiting a Kimberley Indigenous Art Gallery, cruising the Ord River at sunset, exploring Mimbi Caves with an Indigenous guide, and learning about the Jawoyn people in Nitmiluk National Park.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It is important to adhere to departure times while on tour for the comfort of everyone on-board, and to make sure no one misses out on the planned experiences. The coach will not be able to wait for you, and in some instances, if you miss a departure time you will need to make your own way to the next destination to re-join the tour.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays have competitive single supplement rates available if you prefer to confirm your own room. Or we can match you to share with a guest of the same gender at no extra cost. If we fail to match you, we will accommodate you in a single room at no extra cost.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 100 years

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    We will email your documents to you approximately four weeks before your departure date provided you have completed your pre trip registration using the My Travel Portal. If you’ve booked through a travel agent, your documents will be emailed directly to your agent.

Reviews of this operator

Ann Purcell  

Well worth the money

24-Feb-2023

Absolutely wonderful trip. Tastes of southern Australia. Hotels were good quality. Sightseeing was amazing. Manuela our travel director was lovely. A great trip all round

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Lynda Whittingham  

Particularly loved QUEENSTOWN (jet boat) and plane ride over Mt Cook

18-Feb-2023

Great guide “Dexter” who was pleasant and knowledgeable, skilled and pleasant driver, Aaron, interesting activities, and comfortable hotels in good locations. I have been on organized bus trips in different countries and this company stands out. I would travel with them again. Read less

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Milford Sound , West Coast , Queenstown, Christchurch

22-Feb-2023

The most professional tour group i have ever travelled with. Both tour director (Hope) & driver (Dave) had extensive knowledge of NZ. Highly recommended.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Keith Jones  

Christchurch, Milford Sound and the Franz Joseph Railway journey

02-Mar-2023

Very professional service throughout. Friendly experienced tour guide imparting excellent knowledge and local anecdotes. Friendly professional driver enhanced the overall pleasure. Excellent hotels throughout the holiday.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Allison Cooper  

Wonderful experience, highlight had to be Uluru so spiritual and beautiful

22-Feb-2023

Very professional. Excellent travel director very knowledgeable and a lovely guy. Amazing experience seeing do many great places.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

1 Select your preferred date

Tuesday - Friday

May 06, 2025 - May 16, 2025
$6855 $5827

Operator discount: -$1028

Tuesday - Friday

May 27, 2025 - Jun 06, 2025
$6855 $5827

Operator discount: -$1028

Tuesday - Friday

Jul 01, 2025 - Jul 11, 2025
$6855 $5827

Operator discount: -$1028

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 22, 2025
$6855 $5827

Operator discount: -$1028

Tuesday - Friday

Aug 26, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025
$6855 $5827

Operator discount: -$1028

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    AAT Kings requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aat kings charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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