Wonders of the Kimberley

You’re about to spend the next 11 days with a group of similarly minded adventure-seekers who will likely become best friends before you even leave tonight’s dinner venue. Break the ice over a few cool drinks and a suitably dazzling Broome sunset.

Multicultural 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. Your free day here is one of decisions. We wouldn’t blame you for simply enjoying Broome’s tropical climes, following locals to the sand to salute the end of a spectacular day in WA.

Preserved for 125 million years in the reef rock at Gantheaume Point are the imprints of long-extinct dinosaurs. Remarkably, the Broome coast has become one of the most significant paleontological sites in the world. Glimpse their stomping ground before venturing toward Fitzroy Crossing.

This morning, on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, explore the spectacular 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 hearing Dreamtime stories while enjoying billy tea and damper. Dive deep into First Nations culture on a visit to an art gallery, a community venue supporting Aboriginal creatives in the region.

Get a taste of the Gibb River Road before arriving to El Questro Wilderness Park, backdropped by the rusty red Cockburn Range. Hidden among the pandanus palms are a string of slick safari-style tents. Which means you can gaze at the stars while you drift off to a chorus of frogs and cicadas. When darkness falls, expect a bedazzlement of stars overhead.

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, your cruise chariot awaits. Jump aboard to feel very small indeed, your boat dwarfed by soaring 65-metre escarpments. When it’s time to cool down, take a dip in the resort's pool, perhaps.

Discover how Kununurra’s Hoochery Distillery makes its lip-smacking rums and whiskys. Perhaps try a tasting paddle to get your heart started (own expense), and later sit down to morning tea. Kununurra only exists because of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. Farming pioneers came here to establish vast cattle stations, the life of one family is chronicled at the Durack Homestead Museum, which you’ll visit before enjoying sunset while cruising the Ord River.

Today is one of decisions: An scenic flight over (or 4WD tour of) the Bungle Bungles (both own expense). Or a wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park. In between, explore the Waringarri Aboriginal Art Centre on a guided tour.

Say goodbye to WA and hello to the NT, your introduction to the state the vast pastoral lands that characterise the outback here. Locals come with plenty of country swagger, as you’ll discover at the Katherine Outback Experience, celebrating the Northern Territory’s unique pastoral history and culture. After songs and entertainment, your special Be My Guest evening of dining under the stars begins.

Nature reigns supreme at Nitmiluk National Park. 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 in this enormous chasm. The balmy Darwin climate sets the pace for your final city tour: relaxed. Discover the city’s architecture and learn about the events that have shaped life. Gather this evening for a Farewell Dinner and exchange email addresses with your new friends.

Eleven days. Countless adventures. A bunch of new friends. And a renewed appreciation for the wild side of Australia. What a journey.