2013 - APT Kimberley Wilderness Adventures

1 2 Mitchell Falls Wilderness Lodge Mitchell Plateau 2 Horizontal Falls Drysdale River Station 1 Bell Gorge Wilderness Lodge 2 Derby 2 Broome Western Australia 1 Fitzroy Crossing Windjana Gorge d Tunnel Creek Geikie Gorge Home Valley 1 Emma Gorge 1 Questro El 2 Wyndham 2 Kununurra Lake Argyle Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge Purnululu National Park Halls Creek Enjoy a hike into beautiful Cathedral Gorge Day 7. Mitchell Falls, Aboriginal Art, Helicopter Flight over the Falls. Spend an enchanting day discovering one of the world's true wilderness regions, blessed with a treasure trove of ancient Aboriginal rock art and beautiful waterfalls. When available, we'll be joined by local Aboriginal guides, who will give you a deeper understanding of this sacred land, its art and cultural significance. Set off for a guided hike to Little Mertens Falls, where we'll encounter Aboriginal art that few people have seen. Stop to take in Big Mertens Falls before arriving at the awe-inspiring sight of Mitchell Falls. There's time for a swim in the pools above the falls, or just simply enjoy the scenery and admire the resident wildlife. We'll then take off for a spectacular helicopter flight over Mitchell Falls and surrounding wilderness back to the vehicle (or, if you prefer, hike back with your guide). After, we return to our wonderful wilderness lodge, where you can relax in style, and reflect on the day's amazing experiences with fellow travellers over a three course dinner. BLD Day 8. Mitchell Plateau, Gibb River Road, Home Valley Station. Head back on the scenic Gibb River Road, crossing the mighty Durack River, as you head into the beautiful wild expanses of Home Valley Station. This vast cattle station extends to the horizon in all directions and affords impressive vistas of the Cockburn Range. Enjoy an overnight stay to experience life on a working cattle station, as well as absorb the stunning setting. Stay: Home Valley Station, Guesthouse Rooms. BLD Day 9. Home Valley Station, El Questro Wilderness Park. Immerse yourself in the true spirit of the outback with a tour of Home Valley Station. See the irresistible landscapes that graced the big screen in Baz Luhrmann's movie 'Australia' and gain a real insight into the operation of a cattle station. Meet the cattle station workers, see their amazing horse riding and mustering skills, and spot crocodiles and bird life around the picturesque watering holes. After, rejoin the Gibb River Road, cross the Pentecost River into the one million acre nature reserve of El Questro Wilderness Park. Hike into Emma Gorge, where you can enjoy a swim before dinner at the resort. Stay: Tented cabins with spacious ensuites at Emma Gorge Resort, El Questro. Day 10. El Questro, Wyndham, Parry's Lagoon. Enjoy a soak in the thermal pools of Zebedee Springs, an oasis of untouched nature surrounded by ancient palms. Visit the El Questro Station before continuing to Wyndham. Stop at a lookout to admire the impressive views over the mangrove swamps, where five Kimberley rivers meet before they head out to the ocean. We'll then stop at a typical outback pub for lunch, before visiting Parry's Lagoon, a bird watcher's paradise. Two Night Stay: Kununurra Country Club Resort, Kununurra. Day 11. Ord River and Lake Kununurra Cruise. The morning is yours to explore the township of Kununurra, or relax at the resort. We'll then head to explore the vast expanses of Lake Argyle, Australia's largest artificial lake. After lunch, head out for a guided cruise along the serene stretches of the Ord River. Take in the mesmerising landscapes and wetlands that attract an impressive array of wildlife, including birds and crocodiles. Then, cruise the calm waters of Lake Kununurra, and bask in the beauty of an outback sunset. Day 14. Halls Creek, Fitzroy Crossing. Say goodbye to the timeless landscapes of Purnululu National Park today as you continue on your 4WD adventure towards Fitzroy Crossing. En route, we'll visit the old gold mining town of Halls Creek and stop to see China Wall, an unusual line of quartz rock that juts out of a hill. Stay: Fitzroy River Lodge, Fitzroy Crossing. BLD Scenic Flight 4WD Track Sealed Road No. of nights stay World Heritage Area APT Wilderness Lodge BLD Day 15. Geikie Gorge Cruise, Broome. Discover the bleached walls of Geikie Gorge as you enjoy a river cruise. Learn about the surrounding flora and fauna, and how this unique gorge formed. Your tour concludes on arrival in Broome. BOOK BY 31 DEC. 2012 SAVE $1,500# per couple Travel April, May, Sept. or October 2013 SAVE $800# per couple Travel June, July or August 2013 B Day 12. Echidna Chasm, Purnululu National Park. Journey into the World Heritage-listed Purnululu National Park, a land filled with some of Australia's most striking geological landmarks. Hike into Echidna Chasm, a long passage that narrows to less than two metres while its rock walls soar over 200 metres high. Then, take in a magical sunset before arriving at our wilderness lodge, located within the heart of the national park. Two Night Stay: EXCLUSIVE! Stay in tented cabins with private ensuites at Bungle Bungle Wilderness Lodge, Purnululu National Park. BLD BLD Day 13. Cathedral Gorge, Beehive Domes. Some of the most iconic landmarks of the Kimberley await you today. Follow the ancient dry bed of Piccaninny Creek, as we hike into the enormous natural amphitheatre of Cathedral Gorge. Then, weave among the orange and black striped beehive domes that have come to symbolise this spectacular region. From an expert guide, you'll learn about their significance to the local Aborigines, as well as about bushtucker and bush medicine. There's also time for an optional helicopter flight (own expense). Enjoy sunset drinks watching the domes. BLD 2013 DEPARTURES GKCH15 – 15 Day Tour Apr. 28; May 6, 8, 11, 15, 23, 25, 28, 29, 31; June 5, 6, 15, 21, 22, 26, 27; July 6, 9, 10, 13, 15, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30; Aug. 7, 8, 10, 12, 14, 18, 20, 22, 25; Sept. 4, 7, 10, 12, 17, 21, 24; Oct. 4. PRICES (AU$) Includes all sightseeing, park fees, cruises, meals as specified, permits & accommodation. To 31 March 2014 15 Day GKCH15 $9,390 # Twin Share Solo Traveller $11,540 APT Club Members – SAVE $100 per person. TOUR NOTES See pages 10-11 for details. Day 1 and Day 2 is independent touring. An APT Driver-Guide will join you from Day 3. This tour includes some longer, more challenging walks. Weather events may cause disruptions to itinerary, especially in remote locations. Horizontal Falls scenic seaplane flight requires a good level of agility. See page 83 for terms & conditions. # www.kimberleywilderness.com.au 43 BL i G R R b b e v ir

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