Over 40 years experience in the Australian Adventure Tourism Industry.
The rich culture of the Indigenous peoples of Kakadu and Arnhem Land is captivating and has garnered respect from many visitors. The natural diversity of both regions features historic landscapes that include a variety of ecosystems, such as rugged mountain ranges, tranquil billabongs, dense monsoonal rainforests, mangroves, and peaceful paperbark swamps. Each of these elements contributes to the distinct beauty of the area. Embark on an extraordinary journey with Australia Uncovered as we delve into the captivating cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant wildlife of Arnhem Land. This pristine region, known for its deep Indigenous heritage and stunning natural beauty, invites you to immerse yourself in its wonders. Experience the unique flora and fauna that flourish in this untouched paradise, and become one of the lucky few to witness its remarkable treasures firsthand.
Arnhem Land, located in the Northern Territory of Australia, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Covering about 37,000 square miles (95,900 square kilometers), it features over 20 ecosystems, from rugged plateaus to lush lowlands. During the wet season, rivers flood the plains, while in the dry season, the wetlands are alive with bird life and crocodiles, making it a haven for biodiversity.
Traveling through Arnhem Land offers a unique cultural experience, showcasing the oldest surviving culture in the world. Australian Aboriginal people have inhabited this region for over 60,000 years. With a complex kinship system that includes moieties, skins, and relationships, Arnhem Land is a hidden gem. The only real way to access its secrets is by air. This is why Australia Uncovered has created this tour, allowing people to immerse themselves in all that this remarkable place has to offer.
Since 1988, Ian has been a passionate tour guide in Arnhem Land, Kakadu National Park, and the Top End of the Northern Territory. He has gained extensive knowledge of the land and its people, building a respectful relationship with the traditional owners. Ian shares this understanding with you to help appreciate the area's ancient culture, offering a unique tour experience like no other.
Mount Borradaile (Arwunbuna) is a remote safari lodge that spans 700 square kilometers and is situated against the Arnhem Land escarpment. This breathtaking landscape includes rugged mountain ranges, beautiful billabongs, and wetlands, all of which have significant cultural importance to the Aboriginal people who have adapted to environme
Mount Borradaile (Arwunbuna) is a remote safari lodge that spans 700 square kilometers and is situated against the Arnhem Land escarpment. This breathtaking landscape includes rugged mountain ranges, beautiful billabongs, and wetlands, all of which have significant cultural importance to the Aboriginal people who have adapted to environmental changes over thousands of years. Change has always been constant in their world!
The lodge offers a variety of activities suitable for all ages, including billabong cruises, 4WD adventures, and visits to famous rock art galleries. The difficulty levels of these activities range from easy to challenging, and you will receive information about each site so you can choose the one that best suits your preferences. Ian himself will provide interpretation during your visit.
Maningrida Arts Center is based on Kunibídji country in Arnhem Land in Australia’s Northern Territory. The area where artists live encompasses 7,000 square kilometres of land and sea, and over 100 clan estates, where people speak more than 12 distinct languages. Aboriginal people in this region are still on country, surviving and resi
Maningrida Arts Center is based on Kunibídji country in Arnhem Land in Australia’s Northern Territory. The area where artists live encompasses 7,000 square kilometres of land and sea, and over 100 clan estates, where people speak more than 12 distinct languages. Aboriginal people in this region are still on country, surviving and resilient because their country is the centre of their epistemology, their belief system, culture – djang.
Bula Bula Arts Center creates fibre art to paintings depicting traditional stories—internationally renowned Bula’bula Arts supports 150 artist members from Ramingining and its surrounding outstations. Artists receive 60% of the retail sales price of the artwork, with the remainder used for all operational costs. Our arts centre is an iconic tropical elevation style building in the heart of the Ramingining community in Central Arnhem Land.
The Gapuwiyak Culture and Arts Aboriginal Corporation serves the remote town of Gapuwiyak and nearby Homeland communities in East Arnhem Land. About 1,000 people from 18 clan groups live in the region, where Yolŋu law, governance, languages, and cultural practices are actively maintained. Established in the late 1960s by Yolŋu leaders and Balanda missionaries, Gapuwiyak has a proud history of collaboration between these two cultures.
Elcho Island Arts is the community’s artists are renowned for their originality in design and knowledge of traditional bush materials, continuing a tradition of many thousands of years. Their artworks, weavings, fibre art, carvings and ceremonial poles are widely exhibited and are in national collections within Australia and in major collections worldwide.
Types of works produced and exhibited in the art centre include Morning Star poles, larrakitj or Dupan, bark paintings, yidaki (didjeridu), woven pandanus baskets, carvings and shell jewellery. Their fibre art is certainly worth a look, with grasses and fibres dyed and woven together to form baskets, dilly bags, mats, fishing nets and jewellery.
The Wessel Islands are a group of uninhabited islands in the Northern Territory of Australia, stretching from Buckingham Bay and the Napier Peninsula of Arnhem Land to Elcho Island in the northeast. The largest island is Marchinbar Island, and other notable islands include Rimbija, Guluwuru, Raragala, Stevens, Burgunngura, Djeergaree, Yar
The Wessel Islands are a group of uninhabited islands in the Northern Territory of Australia, stretching from Buckingham Bay and the Napier Peninsula of Arnhem Land to Elcho Island in the northeast. The largest island is Marchinbar Island, and other notable islands include Rimbija, Guluwuru, Raragala, Stevens, Burgunngura, Djeergaree, Yargara, Drysdale, Jirrgari, Graham, Alger, Abbott, and Howard Islands.
A narrow channel, known as the Gulgari Rip, separates Raragala and Guluwuru Islands. This area is referred to as "The Hole in the Wall" because it is challenging to spot. Our adventure begins with a helicopter landing near this hidden channel. Upon arrival, we will meet an experienced boat operator who will guide us through the channel and around the northern part of the island. After the tour, we will return to the helicopter for our journey back to Galiwinku.
Lily Beach is a picturesque keyhole beach, flanked by sheer cliffs on either side, creating a dramatic coastal panorama. This beach paradise is adorned with gazebos, equipped with tables and chairs, and features BBQ facilities catering to both halal and non-halal preferences, as well as a built in fire pit, creates an ideal setting f
Lily Beach is a picturesque keyhole beach, flanked by sheer cliffs on either side, creating a dramatic coastal panorama. This beach paradise is adorned with gazebos, equipped with tables and chairs, and features BBQ facilities catering to both halal and non-halal preferences, as well as a built in fire pit, creates an ideal setting for an oceanview picnic. Beneath the shade of the trees, Lily Beach reveals a large sandy-bottomed rock pool, especially inviting for young children during low tide when the waters are calm, although strong caution is warranted as powerful waves can make an unexpected entrance. During high seas, Lily Beach transforms into a captivating spectacle, providing a front-row seat to the exhilarating display of waves crashing against the cliffs. For nature enthusiasts, a scenic boardwalk tracing the cliff edge between Lily Beach and Ethel Beach unveils Brown Boobys and Red Footed Boobys nesting on the cliffs, while intermittent blow-holes add a touch of intrigue to your coastal stroll. Lily Beach is a harmonious blend of natural wonders and inviting amenities, promising a memorable coastal experience.
Fringed with dense tropical foliage, Ethel Beach is the quintessential Robison Crusoe beach experience. Situated on the eastern side of Christmas Island, down a 50m path, this stunning little beach is a favorite for locals and visitors. Beneath the overhanging pandanus that line Ethel Beach, this beautiful stretch of the island unvei
Fringed with dense tropical foliage, Ethel Beach is the quintessential Robison Crusoe beach experience. Situated on the eastern side of Christmas Island, down a 50m path, this stunning little beach is a favorite for locals and visitors. Beneath the overhanging pandanus that line Ethel Beach, this beautiful stretch of the island unveils its geological secrets, with occasional fossils and traces of blue coral rubble narrating its volcanic past. Dive into the inviting waters for a refreshing swim or explore the rock pools at low tide. Ethel offers stunning snorkelling with coral reef and vibrant marinelife extending from the shore. Strong currents can occur beyond the reef so caution is advised when exploring the waters here. Ethel Beach also featured in the Top 20 of the 2022 Australia’s Best Beaches annual list.
A brief 300 meter stroll from the car park, followed by a descent down a steep staircase perched atop a seaside cliff, and you'll find yourself at Greta Beach. At the stairway's entrance, signs ask you to join the ongoing effort to preserve Greta's pristine beauty by taking a bag and participating in the beach clean-up. Unfortunately,
A brief 300 meter stroll from the car park, followed by a descent down a steep staircase perched atop a seaside cliff, and you'll find yourself at Greta Beach. At the stairway's entrance, signs ask you to join the ongoing effort to preserve Greta's pristine beauty by taking a bag and participating in the beach clean-up. Unfortunately, Greta serves as a collection point for plastic flotsam and jetsam carried ashore by ocean currents, making this communal effort crucial. Throughout the year, turtles find refuge on this stretch, with the beach hosting a constant nesting cycle. Additionally, during the annual migration, a bustling congregation of red crabs makes Greta Beach their spawning ground. By lending a hand in removing plastic during your visit, you contribute to safeguarding the nesting turtles and our island ecosystem. Greta Beach unveils a unique charm, featuring a dreamy ocean pool during the right tides and dramatic cliff faces that transport you to a world of scenic wonder.
Nestled on the island's north coast, West White Beach captivates with its white sands, surrounded by towering forests and met by a spectacular reef, accessible just off the shore. The journey to this coastal treasure involves a bit of a challenging treck through the rainforest, with a steep cliff descent aided by a rope, requiring s
Nestled on the island's north coast, West White Beach captivates with its white sands, surrounded by towering forests and met by a spectacular reef, accessible just off the shore. The journey to this coastal treasure involves a bit of a challenging treck through the rainforest, with a steep cliff descent aided by a rope, requiring sturdy walking shoes and ample water. Visible from Settlement, this white coral beach is an ideal day trip destination, with a 1.5 km trail meandering through a descent amongst tall plateau and rainforest. Should the uphill return seem daunting, a boat transfer can be arranged with the island's dive charter operators. The reward for the effort is undeniable; West White Beach offers splendid views and invites visitors to linger and enjoy all the secluded magic of this pristine coastal beauty.
Merrial Beach, Christmas Island's smallest yet most enchanting coastal gem, lies nestled at the Dales on the island's picturesque west coast. Accessible only at low tide, this tiny haven boasts mesmerizing white sands embraced by rugged rocky overhangs, rendering it a favorite canvas for photographers. The journey to Merrial Beach unv
Merrial Beach, Christmas Island's smallest yet most enchanting coastal gem, lies nestled at the Dales on the island's picturesque west coast. Accessible only at low tide, this tiny haven boasts mesmerizing white sands embraced by rugged rocky overhangs, rendering it a favorite canvas for photographers. The journey to Merrial Beach unveils a rustic track, demanding a bit of climbing and maneuvering through dense vegetation. However, the effort invested in navigating this rough terrain is richly rewarded by the sight of a pristine, white-sand beach cocooned between grotto-like rocky overhangs, making every step of the 1km track well worth the journey.
Though not a beach, The Grotto is an incredible swimming spot. Approximately ten minutes drive from Settlement, located just before the golf course and a short 30m walk, this hidden gem will take your breath away. A mini cave with mix of sea and fresh water pool, The Grotto offers a refreshing dip after your island adventures or enjoy
Though not a beach, The Grotto is an incredible swimming spot. Approximately ten minutes drive from Settlement, located just before the golf course and a short 30m walk, this hidden gem will take your breath away. A mini cave with mix of sea and fresh water pool, The Grotto offers a refreshing dip after your island adventures or enjoy a romantic date night by adding candles to beautifully light this dreamy cave. The wave motion through narrow openings provides a powerful ocean symphony and the glistening turquoise blue of the crystal clear water is magical. This sandy-floored hidden pool, drenched with streaks of sunlight flowing in from the entrance of the cave, adds another layer of enchantment to your island adventures.
Nestled a thirty-minute scenic drive from Setttlement and a 2km hike through the jungle, Dolly Beach stands as a serene haven teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Accessible through a 1.8km, mostly boardwalked jungle path, this secluded paradise, adorned with coconut palms and a vibrant coral reef, offers the perfect escape, tha
Nestled a thirty-minute scenic drive from Setttlement and a 2km hike through the jungle, Dolly Beach stands as a serene haven teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Accessible through a 1.8km, mostly boardwalked jungle path, this secluded paradise, adorned with coconut palms and a vibrant coral reef, offers the perfect escape, that you’ll often have all to yourself. Witnessing marine turtles nesting along its shores, marked by tracks of adults and hatchlings, adds to the enchantment, along with a welcome from the friendly giant coconut crabs here. This spectacular beach, with freshwater stream, and dreamy palm lined shores make Dolly Beach an inviting camping spot. Please ensure you apply for a camping permit with Christmas Island National Parks if you do want to camp here. Regarded among the island's most secluded gems, this deserted haven, set against a backdrop of overhanging coconut palms and shallow rock pools, invites locals and visitors to unwind amidst its pristine beauty, offering an immersive natural experience, where you feel like castaways in paradise.
Nestled in the heart of Christmas Island's settlement area, Flying Fish Cove effortlessly blends laid-back charm with natural beauty. The phosphate port is located to the north of this beach, but head south, and you'll discover a serene haven where lush greenery meets white sands and pristine coral adorned shores. This beach is ideal
Nestled in the heart of Christmas Island's settlement area, Flying Fish Cove effortlessly blends laid-back charm with natural beauty. The phosphate port is located to the north of this beach, but head south, and you'll discover a serene haven where lush greenery meets white sands and pristine coral adorned shores. This beach is ideal for gatherings with gazebos, BBQ facilities (halal and non halal), showers, toilets, lockers and a sheltered swimming area right in front. The commercial jetty is accessible to the public unless stated otherwise, and provides an accessible platform to enjoy the aquatic world beneath the surface. Explore underwater wonders, snorkelling the endless reef, catch a wave if the swell's up, and top it all off with one of the island's stunning sunsets. Flying Fish Cove was ranked Australia’s 9th best beach for 2023 in Australia’s Best Beaches Annual Competition. Flying Fish Cove isn't just a beach; it's the epitome of Christmas Island's easygoing allure. .
Venture to the southernmost tip of Flying Fish Cove, beyond the boat ramp, and discover the hidden gem known as Pirate Cove. This secluded stretch of shoreline boasts mesmerizing rock formations submerged in the shallows of the reef. Equip yourself with reef shoes, and during low tide, delve into the enchanting rock pools that unveil
Venture to the southernmost tip of Flying Fish Cove, beyond the boat ramp, and discover the hidden gem known as Pirate Cove. This secluded stretch of shoreline boasts mesmerizing rock formations submerged in the shallows of the reef. Equip yourself with reef shoes, and during low tide, delve into the enchanting rock pools that unveil a world of marine wonders. As the tide rises, this sheltered bay transforms into an idyllic haven, inviting you to indulge in excellent snorkeling and leisurely swims. Take breaks between aquatic adventures to unwind on the beach in the shade. Let paradise sweep you away as you relax into island time in Pirate Cove.
An easy walk through internationally significant wetlands to a peaceful jungle waterfall.
The Dales area is a Christmas Island icon. One of the only places on the island with flowing water all year round, these rain-forested wetlands are home to mighty Tahitian chestnut trees, blue crabs and an array of rare and endemic species.
The Hughs
An easy walk through internationally significant wetlands to a peaceful jungle waterfall.
The Dales area is a Christmas Island icon. One of the only places on the island with flowing water all year round, these rain-forested wetlands are home to mighty Tahitian chestnut trees, blue crabs and an array of rare and endemic species.
The Hughs Dale track is a raised boardwalk that leads to a permanent waterfall in the rainforest. There are seats and viewing areas along the trail and signs providing more information about the area’s plants and animals.
The waterfall is an important cultural site for local Chinese Buddhists, who regularly conduct ceremonies here.
Vehicle needed - 4WD essential
Type of walk - One-way track
Walk grade - Easy
Walking distance - 0.75 km
Walking time (approx.) - 30 minutes
Strictly for the adventurous, this rainforest walk leads to a small gorge and freshwater stream.
The Anderson Dale trail starts about halfway along the boardwalk to Hughs Dale Waterfall. After passing through the pristine rainforest, you’ll arrive at a freshwater stream that has carved a small gorge through the limestone cliffs on its way
Strictly for the adventurous, this rainforest walk leads to a small gorge and freshwater stream.
The Anderson Dale trail starts about halfway along the boardwalk to Hughs Dale Waterfall. After passing through the pristine rainforest, you’ll arrive at a freshwater stream that has carved a small gorge through the limestone cliffs on its way to the ocean.
Further down the gorge are caves, a small cove and enormous tangles of tree roots.
The gorge is rough, slippery, and sometimes subject to extensive, unpredictable waves. Be very careful if you choose to venture into this area. Don’t swim; turn your back to the ocean or climb onto the shoreline rock platforms.
Vehicle needed - 4WD
Type of walk - One-way track
Walk grade - Moderate to difficult
Walking distance - 1.5 km
Walking time (approx. 1 hour)
Life on Christmas and Cocos Keeling Islands is all about going with the flow. Fishing tours are designed to reflect that. Each tour can be fully customized to suit your interests and the needs of your group.
Whether you want to swim with mantas or dolphins, go sports fishing, or discover a snorkeling spot that the kid
Below are several suggested intieraies. You can pick one, mix and mact, create your own! We're here to help you achieve the best possible outcome of your Norther Territory Top End Tour.
At AU, we recognise that everyone has different needs, so we offer flexible itineraries. Each activity has varying skill levels, and only you know your capabilities. If you need guidance, we’re here to help! Whether you’re an avid bird enthusiast or your fellow travelers prefer fishing, the choice is yours!