Wonders of the Kimberley

You’re about to spend the next 10 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 day here is one of decisions. Go to the source and opt to see how pearls are grown and harvested, or head north to feel the full force of nature on an optional scenic flight over (and heart-starting cruise through) the Horizontal Falls.

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. Next stop – Fitzroy Crossing, the gateway to Danggu (Geikie) Gorge. Jump aboard a boat to discover how this part of the Kimberley was formed.

Begin your deep dive into First Nations culture at a Fitzroy Crossing art gallery, a thriving venue dedicated to works by Aboriginal creatives. Your connection to this culture continues as you travel toward the Great Sandy Desert, on the edge of which is Halls Gap.

The Argyle Diamond Mine was once the world’s largest producer of rare pink diamonds. While operations have ceased, you can still visit. Your First Nations guide will explain the Aboriginal significance. The Gibb River Road is the stuff road trip legends are made of. You’ll see why, your route to El Questro Wilderness Park coveringa few kilometres of the epic expanse.

The best way to wake up? With the sun streaming through your tent. 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 pool or at a waterhole within Emma Gorge.

Discover how Kununurra’s Hoochery Distillery makes its lip-smacking rums and whiskys. Try a tasting paddle to get your heart started or sit down to a slice of rum cake - morning tea sorted. 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.

How active and adventurous do you want today to be? Rise early for a bird’s-eye view of the beehive-like Bungle Bungles on a scenic flight, or stay grounded on a 4WD tour through the national park. Otherwise lace up your walking shoes and wander with your Travel Director through Mirima National Park, known as the ‘mini-Bungles’ for its rocky resemblance.

Say goodbye to WA and hello to the NT. Locals come with plenty of country swagger, as you’ll discover when you meet the horseman and award-winning musician Tom Curtain for an afternoon of knee-slappin’ fun on a cattle station. Tom is larger than life, and entertains crowds through songs and bush stories. The ultimate way to discover life on the land.

Nature reigns supreme 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 (Katherine) 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.

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