23 Day Arnhem Land Tour - 26th June 2012

Arnhem Land is only accessible with permission from the Traditional Owners, and access to this sparse wilderness area is only possible by land during the dry season.

Our visit is in the season of Wurrgeng when creeks and flood plains quickly dry out. Magpie geese, fattened by weeks of abundant food, gather at the billabongs with many other birds. Throughout the Top End are the introduced species of Timor ponies, Bantang cattle, water buffalo, donkeys and wild pigs. Salt and fresh water crocodiles are in abundance. You will participate in traditional Aboriginal skills, and learn more of their spiritual links with the Land and their cultural heritage.

On the Cobourg Peninsula, the remains of the ill fated Victoria Settlement, the first European Settlement in the north, is still a major attraction. The acqua waters of the Arafura Sea provide opportunities for fishing, and the beautiful white sandy beaches offer tranquil walks. You will learn about the Macassans who regularly visited our northern shores before the time of white settlement, and left evidence of their culture throughout the area.

Gregory National Park borders the Tanami Desert. This was an important area for Aboriginal people, European exploration and our pastoral history. Enjoy a swim in the permanent running waters of the Wickham River. See the unique boab trees.

There are excellent four wheel driving sections and beautiful scenery. The internationally recognised World Heritage Kakadu National Park is one of the major tourist destinations in the Top End. Aboriginal Rock Art and Dream Time Legends are part of this cultural and ecological treasure.