\"AUSTRALIA\" - On Location - Overland Trip

Accommodation

Hotel (3 nts), Camping with basic facilities (2 nts), camping with facilities (2 nts), permanent tented camp (2 nts)

Kitty Notes

Allow AUD $250 for meals not included.

Itineraries

Forge straight into the Kimberley, one of the world's last great wildernesses - a sprawling landscape of red rock and blue skies that inspired much of the dramatic cinematography in 'Australia'. Embodying the themes of transformation and adventure, this land can quickly morph from dry desert to lush waterways, with natural wonders around every turn. Travel down the rugged Gibb River Road bound for the Napier Range, an ancient Devonian reef that conceals an array of prehistoric landscape and wildlife. Take time to explore Windjana Gorge, favoured by local freshwater crocs who can be spotted sun themselves on the hot rocks. Later, venture to Tunnel Creek, a tranquil cave system that was once the hideout for an Indigenous freedom fighter. Escape the blasting Kimberley heat and dive into the cool waterholes - the best position to view the surrounding landscape.

Bliss out among cascading water and glassy rock pools at Bell Gorge, a hidden Kimberley treasure. Follow the Gibb River Road further into the wilderness to the sweeping surrounds of Mt Barnett cattle station, similar to those seen at Faraway Downs, the property Nicole Kidman's character inherits from her late husband. Following a relaxed afternoon trek, refresh in the deep, secluded pools at magical Galvins Gorge. Spend the night camped by a billabong.

Venture west into Home Valley, the location for the film's impressive droving sequence. Cross the Pentecost River and head towards the sprawling El Questro Wilderness Reserve. Look familiar? El Questro's expansive scenery featured heavily in the film. Soaking in thermal pools at Zebedee Springs is the perfect way to recharge for a hike through spectacular El Questro Gorge, and why not experience the thrill of horse riding over the property. Otherwise, opt to cruise down the river or see it all from above on a scenic helicopter flight.

A veritable oasis for travellers in the Kimberley, Kununurra, meaning 'big waters' in local Indigenous dialect, is a lush green belt surrounded by rugged ancient landscape. Take a spectacular journey along the mighty Ord River to man-made Lake Argyle - over 20 times larger than Sydney Harbour - and the Ord River Dam, passing through wild terrain of epic proportions. In free time, there's the option to visit the Celebrity Tree Park, where Hugh Jackman planted a native baobab tree. Get a sprinkling of stardust at the Kimberley Grande Hotel where many of the cast and crew resided during filming.

Take a scenic flight to Purnululu National Park, home of the Bungle Bungles, a collection of bizarre striped domes created by ancient river systems some 20 million years ago. In the afternoon, fly to Darwin. Favoured by Baz Luhrmann due to its unique sea water - a shade of blue found nowhere else - Darwin is a true frontier town, that in the 1930s and 40s hosted an exotic blend of cultural influences via nearby Asia. Enjoy free time to see the city, including Stokes Hill Wharf, the setting for Kidman's dramatic arrival upon a Qantas flying boat. Experience the heady combination of exotic culture and tumultuous history in a city that defined the Australian psyche when it defended Australia against a Japanese-led offensive during WWII. Discover more local legends and history at the Charles Darwin National Park and the East Military Museum.

Discover the strong sense of transformation in Kakadu, a s with a change in weather. Concealing a magical mix of landscape and Indigenous culture, this region is bewitching and enchanting and an iconic portion of the Top End. Experience the wild landscape take on a new form after dark, when the region's nocturnal inhabitants are most active. Have dinner around a campfire and fall asleep under the Top End stars. Next day, venture by 4WD down a dirt track towards the cooler climes of some of Kakadu's best kept secrets. Take a short boat ride to Twin Falls, followed by a relaxed hike to Jim Jim Falls. Cool off in the tranquil, crystal clear waters and relish in the tropical surrounds.

Climb aboard a cruise down the Yellow River, a lush, wild arena alive with exotic birdlife, brumbies, wallabies and resident saltwater crocs. Soak up the sights and sounds of this World Heritage-listed wilderness before travelling to Barramundi Gorge. Discover ancient Indigenous rock art at Ubirr Rock - the best place to gaze out over sprawling Kakadu. The adventure concludes upon arrival back in Darwin. Why not grab a seat at the Deckchair Cinema - Luhrmann was so taken with the cinema that he not only featured it in the film, it was also where the star-studded wrap party was held.