10 Day Gulf to Gulf Aircruise

Join us on this private aircraft tour through the middle of Australia's most remote country.

Highlights

  • Spend 2 nights in the magnificent Flinders Ranges staying at Arkaroola Resort
  • Traverse the centre of Australia by private aircraft landing in places few get to see
  • Visit the Riversleigh Fossil and Mammal Field
  • Discover the remote mining township of Gove, located on East Arnhem Land coastline of the Gulf of Carpentaria
  • Spend a night at the luxurious wilderness camp, Bamurru Plains
  • Enjoy a drink at the famous Birdsville Hotel
  • Spend time as guests of the indigenous Yolngu people, whose lifestyle is a blend of western technology and timeless traditions
Day
1

Arrive Adelaide

Private transfer to Intercontinental Adelaide. There will be a welcome dinner at a famous local restaurant.

Accommodation: Intercontinetal Adelaide or
similar
Day
2

Adelaide - Arkaroola

This morning the journey begins by private aircraft. Starting with low aerial flightseeing over the Spencer Gulf before flying into Arkaroola Wilderness Resort. Arkaroola features rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, magnificent gorges and mysterious waterholes, the home to over 160 species of birds and the shy and endangered yellow-footed rock-wallaby. This afternoon is at leisure. Tonight there will be an Observatory tour of the stars

Accommodation: Arkaroola Resort
Day
3

Arkaroola

Arkaroola is one of Australia’s most spectacular areas, rich in history. Journey by four wheel drive to the Ridgetop area to view the rugged escarpment that has been carved over countless years and is home to a unique collection of flora and fauna. This afternoon is free to explore the remarkable diversity of this stunning wilderness area or simply relax in the comfort of the resort.

Accommodation: Arkaroola Resort
Day
4

Arkaroola – Innamincka – Birdsville

This morning experience spectacular scenic flightseeing over Lake Eyre. Landing at Innamincka for lunch and a chance to view this remote outback town. Re-board the private aircraft for Birdsville, once again the dramatic landscapes below provide a birdseye perspective of these barren lands. Proclaimed a town in 1887, Birdsville was located at the border of South Australia and Queensland to collect tolls from the droves of cattle being moved interstate. Many of Australia’s pioneering European explorers travelled through the Birdsville district. Tonight enjoy the unique opportunity of staying at the famous Birdsville Hotel.

Accommodation: Birdsville Hotel
Day
5

Birdsville – Mt Isa

Continuing on today flying through western Queensland to land at Mt Isa. Described as the Oasis of the Outback - a gleaming mirage on the horizon for travellers from all directions - Mount Isa nestles among the ochre-red Selwyn Ranges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River. On arrival take a tour of the massive above ground mine followed by a fascinating visit to the Underground Hospital and Beth Anderson Museum. The hospital was built during World War II to protect Mt Isa from air raids.

Accommodation: Red Earth Boutique Hotel
Day
6

Mt Isa – Adel’s Grove - Gove

This morning depart for the Gulf country. On arrival into Adel’s Grove transfer to the Riversleigh Fossil and Mammal Field for an exclusive tour of this pre-historic wonderland. The extensive fossil deposits at Riversleigh are encased in hard, rough limestone, which was formed in lime-rich freshwater pools. Lawn Hill Gorge, the primary attraction in the park, cuts through the sandstone plateau of the Constance Range. After lunch there is a guided tour of the spectacular oasis of Lawn Hill National Park, with the option to walk or canoe. Late afternoon flight to Gove.

Accommodation: Walkabout Lodge
Day
7

Gove

East Arnhem Land is one of the last wilderness areas on earth! The Gove Peninsula is scenic with long white sandy beaches, azure waters and green vegetation. This vast tract of nearly 100,000 sq km of land is one of Australia’s last strongholds of traditional Aboriginal culture. The Aboriginal people of East Arnhem Land call themselves Yolngu and today live a unique lifestyle blending the latest in western technology with timeless traditions. Today experience a full day exclusive cultural experience with a local indigenous guide.

Accommodation: Walkabout Lodge
Day
8

Gove – Bamurru Plains

Rejoin the private aircraft this morning for a breathtaking flight across Arnhem Land, virtually inaccessible to travellers, this is best way to view this rugged wilderness reserve. Landing at Bamurru station, a private transfer awaits to transfer you to Bamurru Plains located on the Mary River floodplains west of Kakadu. A profusion of bird and wildlife are on the doorstep of a unique bush camp that exudes ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ and brings a touch of style to a remote and beautiful wilderness. The floodplains of the Mary River region form one of the most significant ecosystems in Australia, this afternoon cruise the Sampan River to explore this wetlands region.

Accommodation : Bamurru Plains
Day
9

Bamurru Plains - Darwin

After an early morning further exploring the floodplains we depart Bamurru Plains for a short flight to the capital of the Northern Territory – Darwin. This city has had a fascinating history from its involvement in World War II to the devastation of cyclone Tracey, however, each time the city has been able to rebuild stronger and more resilient. Explore this city with a guided tour followed by an afternoon at leisure.

Accommodation : Mantra on the Esplanade
Day
10

Darwin – Homeport

Transfer to the airport for connecting flights to your homeport.

Dates & Prices

Tour Code Days Departs Returns Price $AUD  
GG200 10 24th June 2012 3rd July 2012 $10,995
GG201 10 3rd July 2012 12th July 2012 $10,995

Early Bird - Save $500 per person twin share if you book and pay in fully by 15th November 2011

Please note that GG201 operates in reverse. This journey begins in Darwin and ends in Adelaide.

Your return flights from your homeport to Darwin/Adelaide are not included in this fare. For airfare prices
from your homeport please contact Bill Peach Journeys for details.

Inclusions:
•All accommodation - 9 nights superb accommodation including Arkaroola Resort and Bamurru Plains
•All meals – 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners
•Travel by 8 to 12 seat private aircraft throughout
•All touring including four wheel driving through the Flinders Island and private aircraft touring throughout
•All entrance fees, porterage, taxes and luggage
•Services of an experienced Journey Director

Journey details - GG200

This journey commences on Day One in Adelaide – first service is a welcome dinner.  Check in at the Intercontinental Adelaide is available from 2pm.  Included in your journey is your transfer from Adelaide Airport to the Intercontinental Hotel Adelaide.

The journey concludes on Day Ten in Darwin – last service is breakfast. Check out at the Mantra on the Esplanade is 10am.  Included in your journey is your transfer from Mantra on the Esplanade to Darwin Airport.

Please contact Bill Peach Journeys or your local travel agent to arrange your flights to Adelaide and from Darwin. Flight Arrival into Adelaide should be booked to arrive no later than 4.30pm.


Journey details - GG201

This journey commences on Day One in Darwin – first service is a welcome dinner.  Check in at the Mantra on the Esplanade is available from 2pm.  Included in your journey is your transfer from Adelaide Airport to the Mantra on the Esplanade.

The journey concludes on Day Ten in Adelaide – last service is breakfast. Check out at the intercontinental Adelaide is 10am.  Included in your journey is your transfer from the Intercontinental Adelaide to Adelaide Airport.

Please contact Bill Peach Journeys or your local travel agent to arrange your flights to Darwin and from Adelaide. Flight Arrival into Darwin should be booked to arrive no later than 4.30pm.

Pre and Post Accommodation Request
Clients arriving before the tour start or stay longer in Adelaide and Darwin and wish to book pre and post accommodation, please contact Bill Peach Journeys for details.


Mode of transport

Planning to travel throughout this isolated region requires careful consideration about the perfect mode of transportation. Our journeys have a combination of transport modes however a major portion of this journey will be by private light aircraft which means that we have strict weight and space restrictions as mandated by the charter air company. The size of the aircraft does vary depending on the size of the group. All aircraft are twin engine.

We will also be using a combination of coaches and 4WD vehicles and this may include some rugged off road driving. The 4WD vehicles at times are high entry with steps and at times have moulded seats and therefore space restrictions also apply.

Level of Fitness required - Moderate

This journey is more challenging and designed for the more active traveller who is looking to venture off the beaten path. To fully participate in all activities the traveller must be able to walk up to 1km on uneven surfaces unaided, travel by four-wheel drive vehicles along ungraded roads, walk up steps unassisted and board boats from water tenders. In keeping with the locations, some of the accommodation is spread out and at some distance from facilities.

This journey includes opportunities for bush walking through gorges, bird watching, swimming and canoeing. As always, we use the best available accommodation. You will be staying in accommodations such as Arkaroola Resort, Birdsville Hotel, Red Earth Boutique Hotel and Walkabout Lodge which may be spread out at some distance from facilities.  Given the locations, only limited medical supplies are available in areas visited, therefore, all required medications will need to be brought from home by you.

If you require wheelchair or walking frame assistance at airports, then this journey is not suitable. We strongly urge you to consider the fitness rating before selecting your preferred journey. In respect for your fellow travellers, Bill Peach Journeys reserves the right to refuse travel to any client whose fitness level is below the recommended rating.