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Your personalised Australian
Experience
Journeys for Nature-Lovers
Take your Time, Explore and Enjoy |
"Gulflander" Tour - 21 days
Cairns - Darwin
- July
Darwin - Cairns -
August
21 days of nature experience with tour start in Darwin or
Cairns. An unforgettable adventure across Australia's wild North. Close
encounters with the unspoilt natural beauty of Arnhemland and its incredible
abundance of Aboriginal rock art. Follow remote tracks along the Gulf of
Carpentaria, enjoy the unique Flora and Fauna and visit magic places like Lost
City and Lawn Hill Natl. Park. Follow lonely tracks on vast cattle stations to
the endless horizon and enjoy the many remote bush camps along the way. Travel
from the Outback to the tropical rainforests of the Daintree Natl. Park.
day 1 Darwin – Arnhemland
day 2 Arnhemland - Max Davidson's Arnhemland
Safaris Camp
day 3 Arnhemland - Max Davidson's Arnhemland
Safaris Camp
day 4 Arnhemland - Katherine (Motel)
day 5 Katherine - Limmen National Park
day 6 Limmen National Park
day 7 Limmen National Park - Lorella Springs Station
day 8 Lorella Springs Station
day 9 Lorella Springs Station - Robinson River (Bushcamp)
day 10 Robinson River - Kingfisher Camp
day 11 Kingfisher Camp
day 12 Kingfisher Camp - Lawn Hill Natl. Park
day 13 Lawn Hill Natl. Park
day 14 Lawn Hill Natl. Park - Normanton
day 15 Normanton - Mitchell River (Bushcamp)
day 16 Mitchell River (Dunbar) - Mitchell River (Mt
Mulgrave, Bushcamp)
day 17 Mitchell River - Jowalbinna (Cabin)
day 18 Jowalbinna (Cabin)
day 19 Jowalbinna - Cooktown (Motel)
day 20 Cooktown - Daintree National Park (Lodge)
day 21 Daintree - Cairns tour ends late morning
I August reversed Itinerary. Tour start in
Cairns, Tour end in Darwin.
for
Itinerary
ex Cairns
| Darwin -
Depart |
Cairns -
Arrival |
Prices at 1-January-2009 |
|
03-August-2009
|
23-August-2009
|
AU$7890.- (incl 10%GST)
Surcharge single accom/tent
$790.- (incl 10% GST)
Sleepingbag hire $60.-
(incl 10% GST) |
Pre Tour Meeting
Your guide will meet you at your hotel on the eve of the tour
start for a welcome drink and pre tour information.
Day 1
Welcome to a fascinating tour through this magnificent part
of the continent. Your guide will pick you up at the pre-arranged time
at your hotel.
Our 3 1 / 2 weeks journey starts right with one of the highlights
of this tour. We depart Darwin in the morning and follow the Kakadu
Hwy into Kakadu Natl. Park. We cross a large section of the park and
reach the eastern border of Kakadu at Cahill’s crossing, where we cross
the East Alligator River into Arnhemland. From thereon we follow remote
tracks to our first destination, Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safari Camp
at Mt Borradaile, where we will be guests for the 3 nights to come.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 2
Today Max Davidson and his team of guides will introduce us
to a world of its own. We explore the area in their open vehicles,
by boat and on foot. We get a true insight into Aboriginal rock art
and history. We encounter crocodiles and see an abundance of birds at
the creeks and billabongs. We are amazed at the amount of rock art in
this area. Wherever we look, a new surprise shows up. Try your luck at
Barramundi fishing (cannot be guaranteed - seasonal) or cool of in a safe natural pool.
The way the two full days we spend here are conducted, are entirely
up to Max Davidson and his team as there are many different areas of
interest at Mt Borradaile.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 3
Another day full of surprises and unforgettable impressions
as we are shown more of what we experienced the previous day.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 4
It will not be easy to say goodbye to a place like this but
our journey must continue. We depart Arnhemland the way we entered
it, along the same route back to Cahill’s Crossing. From there we cross
Kakadu Natl. Park to the southern end, reach the Stuart Hwy near Pine Creek and
travel South to our today's destination Katherine. Dinner at restaurant
not included
Accommodation Motel in Katherine
Day 5
Today our adventure across the Gulf of Carpentaria really begins.
We first follow the Stuart Hwy for another 100 km before turning onto
the road to Roper Bar. We stop at the Roper River for lunch and then follow
the remote track through magnificent country to our campsite
in the Limmen National Park. We cross many creeks and rivers along the way, the
amount of water they still carry depending on the intensity of the previous
wet season when many roads up here usually are impassable.
Camping Butterfly Springs Limmen National Park
Today we
take it easy as we will not pull down our camp. After another sumptuous
breakfast we drive back to the Ranger Station to collect our key which
provides us access to the track leading to the Western Lost City. A
narrow track leads us there. After approx. 1 hour driving we will reach
these amazing rock formations. We have plenty of time exploring this
unique place, enjoy lunch overlooking the escarpment before returning to
our camp in the afternoon. Time for another swim in the beautiful
Butterfly Springs pool.
Camping
Butterfly Springs Limmen National Park
Another day
full of highlights awaits us. We pull down our camp and continue our
journey. Less than an hour down the track we turn off to the Southern
Lost City. Again you will marvel at this natural wonder. We take our time
along the 2.5 km walk amongst the towering rock formations. In the
afternoon, after a short drive we reach Lorella Springs Station. An
idyllic situated camp right at a thermal creek. A warm bath is guaranted.
Camping at
Lorella Springs Station Camp
We stay on
Lorella Springs Station and explore the environment by car and discover
hidden pools on foot. The crystal clear water in a pristine surrounding
invites for another swim. Another day in paradise.
Camping at
Lorella Springs Station Camp
Day 9
An early but leisurely start in the morning. We pack up and follow
the route further south. Again we cross many creeks and rivers and
particularly in the morning will be able to spot a few animals along the
track. We reach Bauhinia Station at around lunchtime. A short
walk leads to a beautiful waterhole. The more adventurous may swim the
200m to the other end, the others set across in a small dingy. There a
waterfall cascades down into a beautiful pool and to our surprise, the
water is warm as it flows from a thermal spring further up. Mid afternoon
we reach Boroloola where we fuel up and do some shopping before heading
further on towards the Robinson River
Camping Robinson River Bushcamp
Day 10
We follow the road towards the Queensland Border. After Lunch we
reach Doomagdee, an Aboriginal Community. Here we fuel up and a well
stocked shopping centre will provide us witch enough fresh produce for
the next few days. We have to retrace for about 25 km before we turn off the main road and follow the track to
the Kingfisher Camp, which is beautifully set on the banks of the Nicholson
River. Plenty of colourful birds again at this place.
Camping Kingfisher Camp
We stay at
Kingfisher camp which again allows for plenty of time in the morning.
After breakfast we drive to the nearby Hedley Gorge. Another hidden
treasure waiting to be explored. We return to the camp early afternoon.
Day 12
From Kingfisher Camp we follow the narrow station track to the
Bowthorn Station Homestead. Brilliant scenery along this route. Afterwards we
follow the station track further towards Lawn Hill Natl. Park, the jewel
of the Gulf, where we spend the coming 3 nights. Today’s drive is one
of the most picturesque drives in the outback and I am sure you will agree.
Beautiful scenery, large herds of cattle and native wildlife are plentiful
today.
Camping Lawn Hill National Park Camp
Day 13
A delicious breakfast, maybe even a swim before, is a great
way to start this day in paradise. We pack our lunch and follow the
walking trails to the upper end of the gorges. We enjoy out-standing
views from the many lookouts before the trail leads us down to the
water. We walk amongst palm trees and reach the most beautiful part of
the gorges, the waterfall. Here the waters of the upper gorge flow down
into the lower gorge. What a place to remain for lunch and a swim. Later
in the afternoon the trail brings us back up onto the gorge rim for a brilliant
view of the waterfall and from there back to our camp. Time for another
swim
Camping Lawn Hill National Park Camp
Day 14
Surely, all of us would like to stay a little longer but more
of our adventure still lies head of us. After the relaxing time at
Lawn Hill we have to cover some distance today. We reach the Gregory
River and soon after the vastness of the Gulf Country opens up completely.
We keep driving towards the endless horizon and cross some of the huge
rivers we mainly hear of during the wet season only. It is hard to imagine
that these now dry waterways are capable of flooding the entire area up
here. Later in the afternoon we reach Normanton where we stay overnight.
A chance to stock up on fuel and some fresh supplies again. (Laundry
facilities). Dinner at restaurant not included
Motel accommodation
Day 15
We take it easy this morning. Before leaving Normanton there
is again time for the laundry if necessary and we take on the required
supplies etc. After that we are all set to go and turn north towards
Dunbar. We follow the dusty road and cross a few mighty rivers before
reaching the Mitchell River where we set up our camp for tonight.
Camping Mitchell River Bush camp
Day 16
Today we
spend some time on the road before reaching the upper reaches of the
Mitchell River. An ever changing landscape and usually quite a few
wildlife to be seen along this route. We set up camp right on the river.
Time for a refreshing bath.
Camping Mitchell River, Mt Mulgrave Station Bush camp
Day 17
We follow this winding track north and cross the Palmer River,
famous from its Goldrush era. We reach Laura a small township around
lunchtime. After lunch a 4WD Track through the magnificent forest brings
us to the Jowalbinna Safari Camp where we will stay for the next 2
nights.
Uebernachtung: Jowalbinna Rock Art Safari Camp (Cabin)
Day 18
Today we explore the area under the guidance of one of
the Jowalbinna guides. We visit some outstanding Aboriginal rock art
sites. This area features the most remarkable rock art in the state of
Queensland. In the afternoon there is time to relax, go for a walk or
enjoy a swimm in one of the waterholes.
Uebernachtung: Jowalbinna Rock Art Safari Camp (Cabin)
Day 19
We depart from Jowalbinna and follow the track back to the main
road at Laura. We follow the main road and reach Cooktown and the Pacific Coast after an adventurous journey
across Northern Australia. The town lookout offers a magnificent view over
Cooktown, the bay and the Endeavour River Estuary. We enjoy the luxury of the motel and over
dinner reflect on what we just completed. Dinner at restaurant not included.
Accommodation Cooktown Motel
Day 20
Our last adventure begins, we take on the steep and winding
Bloomfield track, which brings us into the lush tropical Daintree
rainforest. A totally different world to what we experienced in the weeks
gone by. Tonight we stay at the Daintree Heritage Lodge.
The Lodge is set right in the rainforest. We explore the rainforest and
weather permitting spend some time at a tropical beach. Dinner at the restaurant not
included.
Accommodation Daintree Heritage Lodge
Day 21
We enjoy our breakfast and reflect on the past weeks we just
spent together and all the exciting experiences we had. Then we depart
for our final destination, Cairns. The ferry carries us across the Daintree
River and from there we follow the beautiful coastal road to Cairns where
you will be transferred to your hotel and the tour ends around lunchtime.
I HOPE THAT WITH THIS TOUR I WILL BE ABLE TO SHOW YOU THE UNIQUE
BEAUTY OF THE AUSTRALIAN CONTINENT, ITS FAUNA AND FLORA AND THAT YOU
WILL DEPART WITH MANY UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES - Peter Hasler
Services included
Touring and sightseeing in small groups, travelling
in modern, air-conditioned 4WD vehicle. All entry fees and activities
according to the itinerary.
Competent expert guiding by Peter Hasler
Comfortable, clean tent accommodation and camping equipment.
Spacious twin share tents or single accommodation on request (extra
cost, tent type may be different from double/twin share as shown,
comfortable easy to erect dome type tent). Comfortable self-inflating mattress, pillow and torch. Sleeping
bag not included (bring your own or hire clean warm sleeping bag)
All other types of accommodation as per itinerary. Includes
Arnhemland Safari Camp, Katherine, Normanton, Jowalbinna Safari Camp, Cooktown Motel and Daintree
Heritage Lodge
Daily sumptuous and healthy breakfast and delicious dinner,
except 4 dinners as per Itinerary.
Cold lunches are provided in remote areas or where daily
activities such as walks are undertaken during the day. In more populated
areas, where possible, we stop for lunch at roadhouses, cafes etc.
for a light lunch (not included). Snacks in-between, soft
drinks and alcoholic beverages are NOT included.
Cairns - Darwin -
July
day 1 Cairns - Daintree (Lodge)
day 2 Daintree - Cooktown (Motel)
day 3 Cooktown - Jowalbinna Safari Camp (Cabin)
day 4 Jowalbinna Safari Camp
day 5 Jowalbinna - Mitchell River Mt Mulgrave
(Bushcamp)
day 6 Mitchell River - Staaten River (Bushcamp)
day 7 Staaten River - Normanton
day 8 Normanton - Lawn Hill Natl. Park
day 9 Lawn Hill Natl. Park
day 10 Lawn Hill Natl. Park - Kingfisher Camp
day 11 Kingfisher Camp
day 12 Kingfisher Camp - Boroloola
day 13 Boroloola - Lorella Springs Station
day 14 Lorella Springs Station
day 15 Lorella SPrings Station - Limmen National Park (Bushcamp)
day 16 Limmen National Park
day 17 Limmen National Park - Katherine (Motel)
day 18 Katherine - Arnhemland
day 19 Arnhemland - Max Davidson's Arnhemland
Safaris Camp
day 20 Arnhemland - Max Davidson's Arnhemland
Safaris Camp
day 21 Arnhemland – Darwin tour end mid-afternoon
In July reversed itinerary. Tour start in Darwin, Tour end in
Cairns.
for
Itinerary ex Darwin
| Cairns -
Depart |
Darwin
- Arrival |
Prices at 1-January-2009 |
|
08-July-2009 |
28-July-2008 |
AU$7890.- (incl 10%GST)
Surcharge single accom/tent
$790.- (incl 10% GST)
Sleepingbag hire $60.-
(incl 10% GST) |
Pre Tour Meeting
Your guide will meet you at your hotel on the eve of the tour
start for a welcome drink and pre tour information.
Day 1
Welcome to a fascinating tour through this magnificent part
of the continent. Your guide will pick you up at the pre-arranged time
at your hotel.
Once our group is complete we depart from Cairns and follow
the very scenic coastal route to Mossman. A beautiful walk through the lush
rainforest at Mossman Gorge will introduce us to this part of the world.
Afterwards we reach the Daintree River crossing. The ferry
will take us to the other side of the river and soon after we reach
a nearby beach and spend some time with swimming and relaxing. Later in
the afternoon we reach today’s destination. We check in at the Daintree Heritage Lodge, set in
the middle of the lush tropical rainforest. Time left to explore the rainforest
on one of the many walking trails near the lodge. Dinner at the restaurant
not included.
Accommodation Daintree Heritage Lodge
Day 2
After breakfast at the lodge, we continue our journey and travel
further north. Weather conditions may determine the route chosen today.
We reach Cooktown where back in 1770 Captain James Cook was forced
to haul in his ship, after hitting the reef on his passage along the
coast. First encounter with gravel roads along the route. We stay overnight
at a motel in town. Dinner at the restaurant not included.
Accommodation Cooktown Motel
Day 3
Today our adventure really starts. We leave the more populated
coastal areas behind and commence our journey from the Pacific Coast
across the Gulf Country to the Top End of Australia. Soon after leaving
Cooktown we turn onto less travelled roads and head north towards the
small township of Laura. From there a 4WD Track leads us to the
Jowalbinna Safari Camp where we will stay for the next 2 nights
Jowalbinna Safari Camp (Cabin)
Day 4
Today we explore the area under the guidance of one
of the Jowalbinna guides. We visit some outstanding Aboriginal rock art
sites. This area features the most remarkable rock art in the state of
Queensland. In the afternoon there is time to relax, go for a walk or
enjoy a swimm in one of the waterholes.
Uebernachtung: Jowalbinna Rock Art Safari Camp (Cabin)
Day 5
After a sumptuous breakfast it is time to depart. We return to the
main road at Laura, turn north and after about 20 km turn off onto a
winding road which will take us across the mountain range towards the
Gulf Country. A wonderful drive, crossing the Palmer River, famous from
the Goldrush era, before reaching the Mitchell River near Mt Mulgrave
Station. We set up our first Bushcamp right beside the river.
Camping Mitchell River Station Bush camp
Day 6
This morning we keep following the track to the Gulf road, leaving
the mountains behind us. We spend most of the day driving to cover some
distance. The vast Gulf Country ahead of us. Many Brolgas and Sarus Cranes can usually be seen along this route. By mid-afternoon we
reach the Staaten River where we set up another beautiful camp under the
stars.
Camping Staaten River Bush camp
Day 7
Today’s drive is rather short. We reach Normanton before lunchtime.
After lunch we have time for our laundry if necessary and also time
to stock up on fuel and fresh supplies after a few days out in the bush.
Dinner at the restaurant (not included)
Motel Accommodation
Day 8
We leave Normanton early and soon after the vastness of the
Gulf Country opens up completely. We keep driving towards the endless
horizon and cross some of the huge rivers we mainly hear of during the
wet season only. It is hard to imagine that these now dry waterways are
capable of flooding the entire area up here. We cross the Gregory River
and the endless flat plains disappear as we approach today’s destination,
Lawn Hill Natl. Park, the jewel of the Gulf Country. Here we set up camp
for 3 nights and after setting up the camp, we will all enjoy a swim in
the creek.
Camping Lawn Hill National Park Camp
Day 9
A delicious breakfast, maybe even a swim before, is a great
way to start this day in paradise. We pack our lunch and follow the
walking trails to the upper end of the gorges. We enjoy out-standing
views from the many lookouts before the trail leads us down to the water.
We walk amongst palm trees and reach the most beautiful part of the gorges,
the waterfall. Here the waters of the upper gorge flow down into the
lower gorge. What a place to remain for lunch and a swim. Later in the
afternoon the trail brings us back up onto the gorge rim for a brilliant
view of the waterfall and from there back to our camp. Time for another swim
Camping Lawn Hill National Park Camp
Day 10
Surely, all of us would like to stay a little longer but more
of our adventure still lies head of us. We drive past Lawn Hill Station
where we cross Lawn Hill Creek at a beautiful spot. From there we follow
the station track north and will most likely encounter some wallabies
and kangaroos along the way. You will agree, that today’s route is one
of the most scenic routes in the outback. We pass large cattle herds
before reaching Bowthorn Station. From There we follow the station track
further north to the Kingfisher Camp. Brilliant scenery along this route.
Kingfisher Camp is beautifully set on the banks of the Nicholson River.
Plenty of colourful birds again at this place.
Camping Kingfisher Camp
Day 11
We stay at Kingfisher Camp. After
breakfast a short drive brings us to Hedley Gorge. We take lunch along
and take our time exploring this remote colourful location. Time for a
swim before we return to our camp later in the afternoon.
Camping Kingfisher Camp
Day 12
Today we follow the Gulf road towards Borooloola, crossing the
border into the Northern Territory.
We cross many creeks and rivers along the way, the amount of water they
still carry depending on the intensity of the previous wet season when
many roads up here usually are impassable. Today we set up our camp near
Borooloola.
Borooloola River Bush camp
Day 13
We continue our journey and reach Borooloola where we stop
to stock up on fuel and fresh supplies again. From there
we travel north. We turn off towards Bauhinia Station. There a short walk leads
to a beautiful waterhole. The more adventurous may swim the 200m to the
other end, the others set across in a small dingy. There a waterfall
cascades down into a beautiful pool and to our surprise, the water is
warm as it flows from a thermal spring further up. After lunch we
continue our journey and head north. Again we cross many creeks and
rivers and will be able to spot a few animals along the track. By late
afternoon we reach our camp at Lorella Springs Station, a lovely camp
situated right beside a thermal creek. A warm bath is guaranteed.
Camping Lorella Springs Station
Day 14
We stay on
Lorella Springs Station and explore the environment by car and discover
hidden pools on foot. The crystal clear water in a pristine surrounding
invites for another swim. Another day in paradise.
Camping at
Lorella Springs Station Camp
Day 15
Again time
to depart. We drive back to the main road and shortly after reach
another highlight of this tour, the Southern Lost City. You will marvel
at this natural wonder. We take our time along the 2.5 km walk amongst
the towering rock formations. In the afternoon, after a short drive we
reach our camp at Butterfly Springs. Time for a plunge in the natural
pool
Camping Limmen
National Park, Butterfly Springs Camp
Day 16
We stay
another day in the Limmen National Park, no need to pull down our camp
today. At the Ranger station we collect the key to unlock the gate to
the track leading to the Western Lost City. It will take us about an
hour on a remote track to reach this hidden treasure. Again you will be
stunned by the beauty of these rock formations. We explore the area on
foot enjoy our lunch and return to the camp by mid afternoon. Time for
another swim.
Camping Limmen
National Park, Butterfly Springs Camp
Day 17
We follow the track to Roper Bar and then reach the Stuart
Hwy at Mataranka. We reach Katherine where we will again enjoy a break
from camping. We stay at a motel in town. (Laundry facilities) Dinner
at the restaurant not included.
Accommodation Motel in Katherine
Day 18
Today the final part of our journey commences and surely is
a final highlight of this wonderful journey through some of Australia’s
remotest areas. We leave Katherine and drive through Kakadu Natl. Park
before reaching Cahill’s Crossing where
we cross the East Alligator River and enter Arnhemland. We follow the
remote tracks to Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp at Mt. Borradaile,
where we will spend the next 3 nights.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 19
Today Max Davidson and his team of guides will introduce us
to a world of its own. We explore the area in their open vehicles, by
boat and on foot. We get a true insight into Aboriginal rock art and
history. We encounter crocodiles and see an abundance of birds at the
creeks and billabongs. We are amazed at the amount of rock art in this
area. Wherever we look, a new surprise shows up. Try your luck at Barramundi
(cannot be guaranteed - seasonal)
fishing or cool of in a safe natural pool.
The way the two full days we spend here are conducted, are
entirely up to Max Davidson and his team as there are many different
areas of interest at Mt Borradaile.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 20
Another day full of surprises and unforgettable impressions
as we are shown more of what we experienced the previous day.
Accommodation Max Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris Camp
Day 21
It will not be easy to say goodbye to a place like this but
our last tour day has arrived. We depart Arnhemland the way we entered
it, along the same route back to Cahill's Crossing. After that we follow
the Highway to Darwin where the tour ends.
Clients who wish to travel to their next
destination on the day of arrival in Darwin should seek advise from
Terra Australis Safaris or their Travel Agent. Terra Australis Safaris
cannot guarantee exact departure/arrival times and cannot be held
responsible for missed connections etc.
I HOPE THAT WITH THIS TOUR I WILL BE ABLE TO SHOW YOU THE UNIQUE
BEAUTY OF THE AUSTRALIAN CONTINENT, ITS FAUNA AND FLORA AND THAT YOU
WILL DEPART WITH MANY UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES - Peter Hasler
|

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Excellence in Tourism |
Terra Australis Safaris
PO Box 327
Sth Grafton NSW 2460
Australia
Tel. 02 6649 3300
Fax 02 6649 3300
Int. Tel. 61 2 6649 3300
Int. Fax 61 2 6649 3300
e-mail:
ausights@hotkey.net.au
Webpage and Photos by Pius Peter Hasler
- Copyright 2004 |
|