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Small group tour of Kimberley, Western Australia

country:Australia
location:Kimberley 
departures:Every Tuesday, April to October 2010
price:From AU $1,995 (8 days) excluding flights
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vouchers:Gift vouchers can be used with this holiday
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introduction to Small group tour of Kimberley, Western Australia

Experience the spirit of the Kimberley - from the coastal environment of the Dampier Peninsula to the Bungle Bungles in Purnululu National Park.

Our adventure begins with three days exploring the pristine beaches, dramatic coastline and pindan woodland of the Dampier Peninsula. See the exquisite Beagle Bay pearl shell church altar, learn about Aboriginal ‘saltwater’ culture with our Aboriginal guide at Kelk Creek, spend a day swimming, snorkelling and walking on Cape Leveque and visit the One Arm Point aquaculture hatchery, overlooking the Buccaneer Archipelago.

On day 4, head into the Kimberley savannah to join a guided cruise through majestic Geikie Gorge. In Purnululu National Park, see the famous ‘beehive’ Bungle Bungle domes, the natural rock amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm, known for its towering Livistonia Palms. Returning west, delve into Dreamtime with the Gooniyandi people in their ancient Mimbi Caves and explore Tunnel Creek and Windjana Gorge, a haven for freshwater crocodiles, before returning to Broome.
day-by-day itinerary
Day 1-3: The Dampier Peninsula is a pristine coastal environment, rich in history, scenery and Aboriginal culture. See the Beagle Bay Church pearl shell altar and get a taste of Bardi ‘saltwater culture’ with our Aboriginal guide. Then enjoy a full day at Cape Leveque - snorkelling, swimming, fishing and walks are all options. We also visit One Arm Point with views across King Sound to the Buccaneer Archipelago and a local aquaculture hatchery. En route to Broome, we enjoy lunch in Lombadina, home to a craft shop and bush timber church.
Day 4: Visit the Old Fitzroy Crossing and Mangkaja Aboriginal Arts Centre before joining a local National Park Ranger on a guided cruise through majestic Geikie Gorge. Camp by the Fitzroy River and enjoy a BBQ.
Day 5: Via Halls Creek and China Wall, travel to Purnululu National Park, home of the Bungle Bungles. Camping beneath a canopy of stars is the best way to really experience this remote, beautiful part of Australia.
Day 6: Explore the highlights of this World Heritage National Park, including the famous Bungle Bungle domes, Echidna Chasm and Cathedral Gorge, a natural rock amphitheatre. There is time to join a scenic flight and enjoy a birds-eye view of the beehive domes (approx $300pp, own expense).
Day 7: Delve into Dreamtime with our indigenous guide who reveals the spiritual significance of Mimbi Caves, a sanctuary of clear pools, rare fossils and ancient rock art. Enjoy fresh damper and tea with the traditional Gooniyandi owners
Day 8: In the heart of Bunuba Country, seek the adventure of Tunnel Creek, take a dip in a waterhole, explore rugged Windjana Gorge and encounter freshwater crocodiles. The Gibb River Road then leads us to the Derby ‘Boab Prison Tree’. Arrive back in Broome at approximately 6:30pm.
small group adventure holiday
Typically you will be sharing your experiences with between 4-20 like minded travellers (depending on the trip, operator and how many others are booked on the trip) and you'll have a group leader with you. Whether you are travelling alone or with friends its good value, and a great way to meet new people! While itineraries are pre-planned there is some flexibility and you'll have plenty of privacy. This trip will appeal to travellers of all ages who enjoy meeting new people as well as seeing new places.
how this holiday makes a difference
Environment
All National Park entry and camping fees paid on this tour go towards the Department of Environment & Conservation’s work in maintaining and protecting the local environment. Kimberley Wild guides are experienced and keen to share their in depth knowledge of the local natural environment. Kimberley Wild follows Department of Environment & Conservation guidelines to promote environmental protection and rehabilitation.

We encourage appropriate behaviour and educate travellers to minimise their cultural and environmental impact. Kimberley Wild travellers are advised to stay on designated trails and paths to protect the surrounding country and are also discouraged from taking environmental ‘souvenirs’ (eg. rocks or shells) for both environmental and cultural reasons. Kimberley Wild operates 3 new Isuzu 800 vehicles, which meet EURO 4 Emissions Standards. They are fitted with 120 litre drinking water tanks to enable travellers to refill water bottles, rather than purchase new plastic bottles enroute.

Tour equipment includes re-usable plastic containers to avoid rubbish generated while in remote areas and no disposable crockery or cutlery. Torch batteries are rechargeable and glassware is avoided to minimise breakage risks.


Community
Accommodation on this tour is National Park or locally owned, including the award-winning indigenous-owned resort – Kooljaman. Enroute, we support locally owned & operated roadhouses and general stores, while meals on tour use ingredients supplied by local restaurants & caterers. On this tour we also support local tourism initiatives such as Mangkaja Art Gallery and Mimbi Caves, joining a local tour owned & operated by traditional owners from the Mimbi Aboriginal Community.

Kimberley Wild guides are trained in cultural protocols, especially when entering communities, and are sensitive to appropriate practices. Kimberley Wild is a member of Environs Kimberley and supporter of Minyirr Park.

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