- Pricing From $20,995*
- Single Supplement $3,995
- From Darwin
- Duration 9 Days
- Max Group Size 11
- Activity Level Moderate
- Departs 31 Aug 2024
- Returns 8 Sep 2024
~$1,000 Early Bird Saving available! ~
Bill Peach Journeys has been revealing the mysteries of the Kimberley region for over 40 years. Located in Western Australia’s sparsely settled Far North West, The Kimberley is known for large swaths of wilderness defined by rugged ranges, awe-inspiring escarpments, dramatic gorges, semi-arid savanna and a largely isolated coastline that shimmers every shade of indigo and emerald. Join us to experience incredible vistas of one of Australia’s last true frontiers as we access these remote regions few get the chance to see. Spectacular ‘flightseeing’ will take in the Argyle Diamond Mine, the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle and the Osmond, Carr Boyd & Ragged Ranges.
Amid the vast and ancient landscape of the East Kimberley region sits the untamed natural beauty of El Questro. Here we cruise Chamberlain Gorge, view majestic mountains, thermal springs, mud and salt-flats, rainforests and cascading waterfalls.
From the rich red landscape of El Questro Wilderness Park, we fly to the rugged coastline of Berkeley River for a wilderness experience of refined luxury in one of the last true wilderness areas on earth, between Timor Sea sunrises and Berkeley River sunsets. As Australia’s most remote luxury lodge experience, only accessible by air, getting to Berkeley River Lodge is half the adventure. Leave busy modern life far behind and relax into the rhythms of nature in your luxurious villa floating atop the coastal dunes. Touring of Darwin complements this exquisite Kimberley adventure. Quite simply, this is the journey of a lifetime!
Highlights
- Experience spectacular aerial sightseeing of the rugged East Kimberley in the remote North West including the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle and the Osmond, Carr Boyd & Ragged Ranges
- Spend 2 nights at the remarkable El Questro Station - Emma Gorge at the foot of the Cockburn Range
- Enjoy 3 nights at the stunning Berkeley River Lodge overlooking the sparkling emerald Timor Sea staying in luxurious villas atop the coastal dunes
- Marvel at the towering escarpment as we cruise through the ancient Chamberlain Gorge
- Discover the natural treasures of the tranquil Berkeley River system including Casuarina Falls^
- Explore Darwin including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Military Museum
- All touring, transfers and meals included
- Escorted throughout by a dedicated Journey Director
Hotels
Bill Peach Journeys understands the importance of selecting the right accommodation to complement each journey. In this case, a selection of exceptional properties have been chosen to showcase the incredible destinations visited throughout this journey.
Novotel Darwin
Stay at the contemporary Novotel Darwin, ideally located on the city's Esplande overlooking Darwin Harbour and the Bicentennial park, Novotel Darwin is within easy walking distance to the many attractions and shops within the city and surrounds.El Questro
Enjoy 2 nights at the remarkable El Questro - Emma Gorge at the foot of the spectacular Cockburn Range in the heart of the Kimberley. The safari-style tented cabins allow you to experience the great outdoors in complete comfort as they feature modern en suites, electricity, ceiling fans and tea/coffee facilities. Resort facilities include a bar, restaurant and swimming pool.Berkeley River Lodge
Spend 3 nights at the remarkable Berkeley River Lodge. Between Timor Sea sunrises and Berkeley River sunsets, this is Australia’s most remote luxury lodge experience, only accessible by air. Relax into the rhythms of Far North West nature in your luxurious villa floating atop the coastal dunes.
Upon arrival in Darwin, a former frontier outpost, your private transfer will take you to the Novotel Darwin CBD. The balance of the day is at leisure to explore tropical Darwin or perhaps relax in your hotel, which is ideally located on the city’s Esplanade overlooking Darwin Harbour. From ancient Aboriginal Dreamtime stories and the pioneering spirit of the early settlers, to survival stories of WWII, the bombing of Darwin and Cyclone Tracy, Darwin’s history and heritage are vast, diverse and captivating in every way. This evening, join our Journey Director and fellow travellers at your Welcome Dinner.
Overnight: Novotel Darwin CBD or similar
Following breakfast, we visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service to learn of its heroic tales and fascinating history. Continue on with a city tour of Darwin including a visit to the Darwin Military Museum and the Museum & Art Gallery of NT (MAGNT). Later, enjoy an exquisite tropical sunset during our sunset dinner cruise.
Overnight: Novotel Darwin CBD or similar
Following breakfast, we board our private aircraft for a flight along the East Kimberley coastline. Below us passes a land of breathtaking contrasts covering billions of years in history. Comprising in total over one million square kilometres, Australia’s North West is one of the last true wilderness areas on Earth. Known for sweeping landscapes defined by rugged ranges, dramatic gorges, semi-arid savanna and a largely isolated and spectacular coastline, the Kimberley is a sight to behold.
El Questro Wilderness Park extends for approximately 80 km north-south and 60 km east-west, totalling one million acres in size. Its landscape offers outstanding diversity – from rugged sandstone ranges and broad tidal flats, to rainforest pockets, gorges and permanent waterfalls. We begin with a visit to Zebedee Springs, a serene oasis of thermal pools and waterfalls set in the prehistoric forest of Livistona and Pandanus palms. Unwind in the inviting surrounds and for those interested, an opportunity to enjoy a soothing soak. This afternoon, we embark on a cruise through the Chamberlain Gorge.
During the cruise we will discover the diverse flora and fauna, resident rock wallabies, Johnston crocodiles and the always cheeky Archer fish, which are all familiar inhabitants of the gorge. Relax on the peaceful return journey at dusk when the colours of the Kimberley shine on the towering cliffs.
Overnight: El Questro Station – Emma Gorge or similar
Today we explore the remarkable bush culture and history that surrounds us. El Questro Wilderness Park extends for approximately 80 km north-south and 60 km east-west, totalling one million acres in size. Its landscape offers outstanding diversity – from rugged sandstone ranges and broad tidal flats, to rainforest pockets, gorges and permanent waterfalls.
One of Australia’s last frontiers, El Questro sits within what many consider to be the most spectacular rugged landscape on earth. This evening, as vivid orange and pinks that paint not just the horizon but the whole sky appear, we discover why Western Australian sunsets are rated as some of the most beautiful in the world.
Overnight: El Questro Station – Emma Gorge or similar
After breakfast, your private aircraft is waiting to transport you to Berkeley River Lodge. Departing El Questro, the flight is to the northwest where the Cockburn range comes into view. This spectacular range is very unique with its vertical cliff running the whole way around the range. Enjoy breathtaking flightseeing over the Argyle Diamond Mine, Purnululu National Park (Bungle Bungle Range), Lake Argyle and the Osmond, Carr Boyd & Ragged Ranges. Prior to landing, the Berkeley River and the Kimberley Coastline are revealed in all their majestic splendour.
The Berkeley River Lodge is nestled on the gentle curve of Joseph Bonaparte Gulf on Australia’s remote north Kimberley coast. A stone’s throw away from some of the most spectacular untouched coastal wilderness on earth. From your dune top ocean view villa, you’re just a sandy-footed stroll away from pristine wildlife rich bushland and secluded beaches, where the only frequent visitors are dolphins, dugongs and turtles.
Overnight: Berkeley River Lodge
Spend the days taking in this extraordinary environment, one of the last true wilderness areas on earth. In this, the ultimate Kimberley adventure, refined indulgence awaits in Australia’s most remote luxury lodge experience, only accessible by air,. On a river cruise to the impressive Casuarina Falls, glide past towering rugged cliffs to the remotest freshwater swimming holes, stunning waterfalls and majestic gorges, where the peace and tranquillity is broken only by birdsong. You will have the opportunity to visit rock pools, waterfalls, see ancient aboriginal art, experience Kimberley coastal fishing, all accompanied by experienced lodge guides in this most magnificent remote location, unlike anywhere else on earth!
Overnight: Berkeley River Lodge
Depart Berkeley River this morning for your flight to Darwin. Upon arrival you will be met and transferred to the Novotel Darwin CBD. Savour a farewell dinner at one of Darwin’s finest restaurants this evening.
Overnight: Novotel Darwin CBD or similar
After breakfast, we transfer to Darwin Airport where you will board your flight home. Say a fond farewell to new friends and take away memories of an unforgettable Kimberley adventure.
About AIRCRUISING
An Air Tour with Bill Peach Journeys is the perfect way to explore these hard to reach destinations in the style, speed and comfort of your own private aircraft. Travelling by private aircraft means that we can land directly in each location ensuring time on the ground is spent discovering each region. The style of aircraft is chosen to provide the best possible access into remote locations.
Fully Inclusive
When you travel on an Air Tour everything is included. This means not only does your holiday include accommodation, dining and all excursions but every one of these elements is the finest in its class. Throughout the journey you will have a Journey Director on hand to look after each detail.
Mode of Transport
This journey will utilise aircraft which are perfect for landing in remote destinations throughout this journey. To ensure a variety of viewing for everyone, we change aircraft seat allocation each day. The aircraft is operated by an experienced pilot and accompanied by a Journey Director. The coaches that we use for the ground component of this journey are fully air-conditioned. There will be a number of 4WD vehicles used on this journey. The journey will involve travelling over unsealed roads. We will also be utilising boats for river cruises.
Airfares and pre & post accommodation
Please speak to your travel agent or Bill Peach Journeys about flights to and from Darwin from your homeport. We can also arrange additional pre and post accommodation in Darwin.
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 even surfaces unaided, travel by four-wheel-drive vehicles along ungraded roads and walk up steps unassisted.
We strongly urge you to consider the fitness rating before selecting your preferred journey, with 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.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance to cover you against such things as personal illness or accident, cancellation, loss of baggage etc. Please make sure you carry a copy of your Travel Insurance policy with you at all times.
Terms and Conditions
Please refer to the T&C’s for more information. Terms & Conditions (PDF)
*Conditions Apply: The $1,000 per person Early Bird Offer is limited and applies if booked and paid in full by 31 May, 2024 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer.
^Weather Permitting