Ultimate Northern
Australia Safari

Days 4 – 6

Bullo River Station

This morning after breakfast, fly to remote Bullo River Station (approximately 60 minutes), situated on the edge of the remote Kimberley in the northwest corner of Australia’s Northern Territory. The station is a working cattle station that balances best practice pastoral work with a commitment to both environmental and indigenous conservation. The property’s conservation zones are managed by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy and the station offers both Australian and international traveller’s one of the country’s most unique and authentic experiences. Over the next 3 nights, experience all this vast 2,000km² property has to offer. Activities are insightful and varied including:

Bullo River Cruise
Explore the breathtaking Bullo River Gorge – that can only be witnessed by boat. The river banks are lined with mangroves and fig trees, whilst the red cliffs tower over the river. Freshwater crocodiles can regularly be seen sunbaking on the banks.

Aboriginal Rock Art
There are a number of beautiful Aboriginal rock art sites that can be found hidden amongst the red cliffs and ridgelines. Learn about the cultural significance of these fascinating paintings, thought to be the work of the ancient Miriuwung-Gajerrong people. The galleries are accessible by guided tour in an all-terrain vehicle.

Hiking
Explore endless landscapes on a guided hike, taking in your surroundings as you walk along trails well-trodden by cattle and wallabies. Walk to secluded billabongs and water holes or traverse the gorges and ridgelines dotted across the station. Don’t forget to take a pair of bathers as you might come across a secret waterfall or natural swimming pool perfect for a refreshing dip.

Horse riding
Exploring this vast region on horseback is another popular option. Offering a different viewpoint from the saddle, experience the network of bush tracks through the property with the assistance of expert staff. Long pants and good boots are essential.

Station activities
There’s plenty of opportunity to get involved and join the team as they tackle their day-to-day activities. Get out on the station in 4WD’s, all-terrain vehicles or even on horseback. Activities include bore checks, lick runs and cattle yard work and farm tours. Cattle mustering is seasonal, over the dry season months June to September, and guests are welcome to watch.

The 12 air-conditioned guestrooms have been inspired by the landscape and open out onto the properties main lawn, providing a cosy sanctuary after a busy day exploring the station. The homestead itself has a lovely communal area with comfortable couches, hammocks and a large open-air swimming pool with sun loungers – ideal for relaxing after a day’s activities or joining fellow travellers for a sunset drink. B L D

Days 7 – 9

Bamurru Plains

Today it’s on to your final outback lodge – Bamurru Plains – to cap off your outback adventure. The flight from Bullo River Station is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes. This outstanding lodge – a member of the revered Luxury Lodges of Australia portfolio – is located on the Mary River floodplains on the edge of Kakadu National Park. The lodge has exclusive access to 300 km² of floodplains and savanna woodland home to a profusion of native birds and wildlife.

Open top game drives
As the water recedes during the dry season, sections of the plains because accessible by 4WD vehicle. The vehicles are open-sided with a shaded canopy and tiered seating. There are over 230 bird species recorded on the property as well as wallabies, estuarine crocodiles, wild horses and water buffalo.

Guided walks
Head out with expert guides on foot and learn about the indigenous uses for the myriad of plant species found across the area. Keep an eye out for the ant trails that criss-cross the ground and track different wildlife through the bush.

Airboat Safaris
The Mary River floodplain wetlands is the major natural wonder of the region and one of Australia’s most vital environments home to thousands of Magpie Geese, Plumed Whistling-Duck, Egrets, Ibis and many other species. Skimming across the water in an airboat is a thrilling experience and guides provide hands-on demonstrations of the uses for the different flora found across the floodplain.

River cruises
The Mary River System boasts one of the largest crocodile densities in the world. During the dry season (May-October) the crocs regulate their temperature by basking in the sun, and you see them in huge numbers on the banks. Meander through the creeks and rivers learning about the different animals, bird species and plants. A river cruise with sunset canapés is a highlight.

Daily menus are influenced by what time of year it is, as there is an emphasis on home-grown seasonal ingredients. Expect plenty of locally sourced fish and meats, as well as bush spices, finger limes and macadamia nuts. There is also an onsite bar where guests can help themselves to a range of refreshments. B L D

Day 10

Tour ends

Today is your final morning in the Northern Australia outback. Take one last guided walk or game drive (time permitting) before your light aircraft flight (approximately 30 minutes) back to Darwin. On arrival in Darwin tour ends. B

B = Breakfast |  L = Lunch  |  D = Dinner