Where To Experience Aboriginal Sites and Communities in Australia
Experience Ancient Australia by Sharing Time with Aborigines
Australia’s vastness and natural beauty offers seemingly endless options for vacation destinations but none offer a more mystifying experience or cultural connection than sharing time with Aborigines. Over 6 million people a year spend vacation time interacting with Aboriginal culture. These fortunate people realize that Aboriginal beauty doesn’t solely reside in remote, hot, dry and dusty locales. They also see current day Australia and are simultaneously chaperoned back through time to feel an ancient Australia, held sacred by its oldest inhabitants. Here are some of the best places to enjoy the gifts that Aborigines want to show the world, which will make their home ten times more meaningful to you.
- Lombadina in Western Australia
Spending time at Lombadina and you’ll quickly realize the why the Aborigines cherish this untouched paradise. The northern coastal lifestyle and stunning scenery of the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome will slow your life to a tranquil drip. Join your Aboriginal hosts, exploring the local terrain. Have a walk in the tidal, mud flats, amongst the mangroves, and catch mud crabs. Have a stroll in the solidified mudstone nearby, and find fossilized footsteps of local Aborigines from centuries ago. Your Aborigine hosts also organize offshore fishing charters. You might even be lucky enough to spot the rare dugong or see dolphins and turtles. If you need a break from the outdoors, learn about Aboriginal art and their fine craftsmanship with bowls, shell jewelry, batik dyed fabrics, and paintings on canvas and papers.
- Kooljaman At Cape Leveque, Western Australia
Located just a two and a half hour drive down the coast from Lombadina, Kooljaman immerses you in a rich indigenous heritage stretching back thousands of years. You can choose to spend the day with your Aborigine host family reef walking, swimming, snorkeling, or investigating old, mission ruins. Or if you prefer, try your hand at the excellent fishing. Whether you’re viewing migrating humpback whales passing in the distance, or viewing the crocodiles at Hunter Creek, this wilderness resort will have you dreading a return to the world of cell phones, cars and asphalt. Don’t pass on the opportunity to sleep on the beach in a palm frond thatched shelter, and watch the moon glisten off the sea, as you gaze upward into an eternity of stars.
- Mossman Gorge, Queensland
Nestled in the Daintree Rainforest National Park, Mossman Gorge will escort you back in time in the lush, tropical environment. The rumbling waterfalls, rich flora & fauna, and imposing mountains guarantee an iconic Aboriginal experience and the most authentic experience with indigenous Australia. The immersion in enchanting stories and complex heritage culminates in every visitor’s crowning moment- a guided Dreamtime walk. The Ngadiku Dreamtime Walks, conducted by the local Indigenous people bring the universe into your soul, through the beauty of nature. Participate in a traditional smoking ceremony, hear stories of the Kuku Yalanji myths and culture, and visit a sacred ceremony site. At the conclusion of the tour, enjoy a bush tea next to a cool, rainforest stream.
- Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Queensland
Sort out a quick car hire and take the short trip an hour south of Mossman Gorge, to Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park. The Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park honors the existing history of the indigenous rainforest people. Visitors learn about the medicinal values of bush tucker, witness hunting demonstrations and learn to play the didgeridoo and throw a spear. A theater celebrating traditional, Aboriginal culture features storytelling, and dancing. Hear the authentic music of the Tjapukai people, the world’s oldest living culture. By night take part in a Quinkan spirit performance and a spectacular fire-making show.
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About The Author: Jason Hall is author and Brand Manager for Budget.car hire , Australia’s leading car hire company. He enjoys writing about his travels and adventures.
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Photo Source: Google Commons
