Home to what is widely regarded as the world’s oldest living culture, Kakadu certainly holds its share of ancient secrets.
The Bininj people in the north of the park and Mungguy in the south have lived in the Kakadu region for more than 50,000 years, so it’s little wonder that they are so closely linked to the land.
Kakadu is a living landscape, featuring abundant wildlife including some of the most colourful, charismatic animals in the world, as well as rare plant and tree species that have been used as bush foods, medicines and weaving materials by local Aboriginal people for generations.
It’s also one of the world’s oldest galleries. Aboriginal rock art in the region is around 20,000 years old and is of great spiritual and archaeological significance. According to Dreamtime myths, Mimi Spirits first painted on rocks before teaching the Aboriginal people to do it. Ever since, they have captured special snapshots of time and a record of important Aboriginal stories. From the Namarrgarn Sisters; sneaky star spirits who make people sick with a piece of string, and the Lightning Man; who controls the storms in the wet season, to hunting wallabies and the first contact with European settlers, the rocks of Kakadu reveal much of the First Peoples’ history and culture.
Imagine then, being able to witness these wonders first-hand and uncover more of Kakadu’s ancient secrets?
A five-day AAT Kings Inspiring Journey through Kakadu will have you touring in a small group, staying in luxury accommodation in idyllic places such as Cicada Lodge in Nitmiluk National Park and Wildman Wilderness Lodge on the Mary River.
You’ll be able to take a dip at Gunlom Falls and observe Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr. You’ll cruise the gorgeous Mary River and canoe along the Katherine, spot native wildlife in National Parks, picnic in secluded locations known only to the Driver Guides and enjoy first class fare along the way.
And best of all, travellers will meet the local people and learn about their history and culture through demonstrations, conversations and the sharing of myths and legends.
So what are you waiting for? It’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey that will potentially change your life – and certainly the way you think about that sacred and spiritual land, Kakadu.
To find out more about this five-day Inspiring Journey, please visit www.aatkings.com.
