Untamed Kimberley And West Coast (2024/2025, 21 Days)

The capital of the Northern Territory is beguiling; its balmy tropical climes, fiery sunsets, laid-back locals and surprising attractions. Take in the sights on a tour, your guide revealing the city’s distinctive architectural style along with the events that have shaped it over the years. Did you know you can still witness damage from 1974’s Cyclone Tracy, and that the city was bombed in 1942? Prepare yourself for an exploration of Darwin's top attractions, including the botanical garden, the breathtaking views from East Point Reserve, and a dinner-with-a-view experience at a beloved waterfront restaurant favored by locals.

Your southern sojourn begins with yet more insights into the region’s historic events, expanding on yesterday’s lesson about the of WWII and its impact on the region. The Adelaide River was not only the headquarters of a large military base, but its banks now house a cemetery, the final resting place of those who lost their lives in defence of the country. It’s a sobering affair. Nature takes over at Nitmiluk National Park on Jawoyn land. The history and culture of the Traditional Landowners comes into full focus as you set off on a cruise through dramatic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Remarkably, this is one of 13 gorges carved through the national park, and at every bend in the river, the sun casts its soaring sandstone cliffs a different colour. There’s no time to catch your breath – you’re off to meet Tom Curtain on a vast working outback station. Tom’s quite the entertainer, and regales visitors with songs and stories during his Katherine Outback Experience. It’s not a show or a tour, but an immersive adventure. One that is real, raw, and funny at times.

Cross from the NT into WA, where Kununurra feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. See what life was like in the region for early pioneers at the Durack Homestead Museum, which was meticulously moved and recreated before the land it formerly sat on was flooded as part of the Ord River Irrigation Scheme. The project not only helped water the countryside, but created Lake Argyle. A sunset cruise here, surrounded by tens of thousands of freshwater crocs and an astounding array of birds, is something you won’t forget in a hurry. The project also gave birth to Kununurra, a quirky town where life is best enjoyed in the slow lane. While the main streets are unassuming, all roads lead to some of WA’s most postcard-worthy sights, the Bungle Bungles among them.