Top 9 Inspiring Aboriginal Experiences

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You haven’t been to Australia until you’ve gained an understanding of the Aboriginal way of life and explored its rich and varied culture.

Through tourism ventures, here are the 10 best ways to find out about our indigenous heritage, which will often take you to some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the country.

1. Journey to the far reaches of East Arnhem Land – Arnhem Land, NT

This incredible corner of Australia is full of adventure for those who like to push into the country’s remote outposts.

 

The Yolngu people of East Arnhem Land have a beautiful connection to their environment and are often happy to teach travellers about their ways. If you’re up for a bit of a rustic, croc-laced experience, you can join a tour that will take you into Aboriginal communities where you can stay and spend time with the Yolngu.

 

We have travelled with Venture North and found them to be fantastic, but there are also a few other operators in the area. You can also head to Banubanu Retreat on Bremer Island in the Arafura Sea, where you’ll find simple, tented accommodation and guided activities such as fishing and turtle watching. Banubanu has Mark Olive’s seal of approval with the indigenous chef saying that the retreat “has almost everything you want in an experience, from world-class fishing, accommodation, boating, and immersing yourself in Yolngu culture, to having an amazing meal and chilling out."

 

Why you should go: We are so lucky in Australia to be able to venture into remote lands where we can connect with the original custodians and learn from an ancient culture. It’s an experience with the power to change perceptions.

2. Watch your jaw drop at Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival

The striking animal forms, chants and motions of the Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival are as relevant now as they have been for tens of thousands of years. It’s only every two years, but there’s a reason you should plan for the next one.

 

Held every two years in bushland near the township of Laura, 317 kilometres north of Cairns, the 2013 Laura Aboriginal Dance Festival sees 17 Indigenous groups dance 30-minute sets. It runs for three days in June and attracts 5000 visitors – half of whom are Indigenous, the other half non-Indigenous.

 

In the words of Jennifer Pinkerton, “sometimes life hands you an experience so beautiful and mercurial that my job, to press the things I see into words, becomes tricky. I reckon my Darwin doctor – who gave me a flu jab the day I returned home – said it best. “That festival is meant to be ‘the one’. A once-in-a-lifetime experience."

 

Why you should go: Put simply, this is one of the most culturally significant events in the country. It’s a foot-stomping, dust-raising melodic celebration of song, dance and stories shared by arguably the world’s oldest surviving culture

3. Meet the islanders – Tiwi Islands, NT

You will need a permit to visit this cluster of islands north of Darwin, where the indigenous people have been for around 7000 years.

 

The Tiwi people’s culture has been influenced by contact with Polynesia and thus differs to mainland communities, which is evident in their beautiful crafts, including batik, pottery and silk screening.

 

Since it was introduced, the Tiwis have also wholeheartedly embraced AFL and you will find it an integral part of the community.

 

With more than 900 participants out of a community of over just over 2500, the Tiwi Islands can claim the highest football participation rate of any community in Australia. If you want to experience a footy match with real passion, forget about the mainland games – head to a game with a real difference.

 

Why you should go to Tiwi Island: To travel almost as far north as you can in Australia and to share in a culture that has lived in isolation for thousands of years.

4. Experience our greatest natural wonder alongside the traditional owners

Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel is a unique, educational and commemorative Great Barrier Reef experience, incorporating the world’s oldest living culture and the stories Traditional Owners have passed down over tens of thousands of years.

 

Spend your day scuba diving and snorkelling as Indigenous rangers recount the Dreamtime stories of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji, Gunggandji, Mandingalbay and Yirrganydji people to help you gain a deeper cultural understanding of this diverse ecosystem.

 

The sea country of these four Traditional Owner groups stretches from Port Douglas to the Frankland Islands and includes the two sites you visit.

 

Your day on the outer Great Barrier Reef has five hours of water activities split between two unique sites showcasing a variety of colourful corals and marine life. Snorkel and dive over stunning coral gardens where anemones, sea whips, clams and plate corals are home to clown fish, angel fish and bat fish.

 

Why you should go: To appreciate a world in the world’s  largest coral reef system through one of the oldest-surviving people.

5. Party with a remote community – Katherine, NT

The 350-people strong community of Barunga swells to around 4000 souls every June long weekend, when The tiny community of Katherine plays host to sporting events, music, and traditional arts and culture.

 

Attracting performers including the likes of Gurrumul and Paul Kelly, as well as lesser-known local artists, the line-up is always eagerly anticipated for this celebration of remote indigenous communities.

 

Why you should go: To feel the warm welcome of a remote indigenous community that’s otherwise closed to travellers.

6. Take a mini-break to the Dreamtime Brambuk – the National Park & Cultural Centre, Victoria

Nestled in the Grampians just three hours from Melbourne, sits this centre of learning where visitors can take a Bunjil Creation Tour to hear Dreamtime stories, explore significant rock art, and get a grounding in local indigenous lore at the fantastic Cultural Centre at Brambuk.

 

Why you should go: Being so accessible from Melbourne, it’s a great family trip to give the kids an insight into the rich tapestry of our indigenous heritage.

7. Awe-inspiring ancient figures – Kimberley Coast

Thought to be at least 17,000 years old, the Gwion Gwion (Bradshaw) figures makes ancient Egyptian art look as if it was painted last week.

 

The beautifully drawn, elongated figures featuring tassles, sashes, and movement have mysterious origins and have not yet been claimed by local indigenous people as the handiwork of their ancestors.

 

Theories abound as to who may have created these drawings, some argue a different group of Homo sapiens settled the coast and busily decorated rocks.

 

Similar to the Gwion Gwion are the Wandjina paintings, which, although very different is style, are equally intriguing.

 

There are an estimated 100,000 of these sites in the Kimberley.

 

Why you should go: To have your perception of human existence rewritten, and to understand the journey of the earliest settlers.

8. Walk in the footsteps of the Mungos – Mungo National Park, NSW

Mungo National Park is both archaeologically and spiritually significant.

 

To the three indigenous groups of the area, the Paakantji, Ngyiaampaa and Mutthi Mutthi, the ground-breaking discoveries of Mungo woman and Mungo man prove the endurance of their people and serve to teach us all valuable lessons.

 

The remains, which are some of the oldest found outside of Africa and dated at up to 42,000 years old, are no longer at the site but what you will see are 20,000-year-old footprints that are the largest set from the Ice Age in the world.

 

You’ll also learn about the survival of the people in a changing and challenging environment and gain a new appreciation for humankind’s resilience.

 

Why you should go: For the chance to visit a place of overwhelming scientific and cultural significance that pre-dates some of the oldest civilisations.

9. Be a part of the solution – Garma Festival of Traditional Cultures, Arnhem Land, NT

The Garma Festival remains one of the most significant indigenous events in the country, mixing world political and business leaders alongside regular punters.

 

Rather than aiming to simply entertain or generate tourism, the festival was established to improve indigenous lives and preserve the culture of the Yolngu people of Arnhem Land.

 

Over four days, you can enjoy the evening Bunggul Dance, musical performances and indigenous films.

 

This year’s event is significant as it marks the 40th anniversary of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act. Held in the remote community of Gulkula, flights are in and out of Gove.

 

This year, the festival runs from 29 July to 1 August.

 

Why you should go: To be a part of a collective who want to create a positive future and cherish a valuable past.

 

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Win 1 of 10 luxury holidays worth over $38,000!

What’s better than booking your dream holiday? Winning it, of course!

Enter the 2025 Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for your chance to win big in our mega prize giveaway!

To celebrate our Readers’ Choice Awards, we have curated 10 incredible travel prizes worth $38,871 to give away, to inspire you to explore Australia.

Please note: you will not be able to choose which prize you win.The winners will be contacted after the competition closes and announced in issue 108 (on sale from 3 November 2025).

Read the general competition terms and conditions, as well as the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards terms and conditions, before you enter. You only need to enter the giveaway once.

Entries for this competition close at 5 pm AEST on 25 September 2025.

Intrepid Travel | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa | Pair’d Margaret River | Kingfisher Bay Resort | Prancing Horse | Star RV | Lancemore | The Fullerton Hotel Sydney | Glenayr Farm | Taronga Zoo

Intrepid Travel’s six-day exploration of Tasmania’s Cradle Coast worth $6430

Intrepid-Travel-Tasmania-Cradle-Mountain-leader

Explore the edge of the world on this six-day exploration of Tasmania’s untamed Cradle Coast.

Discover the wild and rugged beauty of Australia’s most southern state on Intrepid Travel’s Best of Tasmania’s Tarkine & Cradle Mountain trip. The ultimate six-day escape for two loops in Tarkine/Takayna rainforest, a Cradle Mountain hike and inspired pit stops along the Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail. Spot wombats, stargaze in remote stays, and connect with Indigenous culture in stunning national parks. Includes accommodation, select meals, and unforgettable scenery.

What’s included?

  • Hotel stay (four nights)
  • Cottage stay (one night)
  • Five breakfasts
  • One lunch
  • Two dinners
  • Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail sampling fresh raspberries, cheese, ice cream and brews along the way

A luxury stay at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa worth $5280

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa_ Saltwater Lagoon Ariel View

Enjoy white sandy beaches, a swim-up grotto and waterfalls.

Treat your other half to a long weekend away in an Ocean View Executive Suite at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa. Enjoy daily breakfast for two at Citrique restaurant, a signature massage or facial at Spa by JW, and a three-course dinner with wine pairing at the award-winning Citrique. This unforgettable experience also includes complimentary self-parking so you can get out and explore while on the Goldie.

What’s included?

  • Three-night stay in an Ocean View Executive Suite
  • Breakfast daily for two in Citrique Restaurant
  • Signature massage or facial for two at Spa by JW
  • Three-course dinner with wine pairing for two in the award-winning Citrique Restaurant
  • Self-parking

A Pair’d festival getaway in Margaret River worth $5000

Beach club at Pair'd Margaret River

Enjoy diverse programming at Pair’d. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Win a three-night luxury escape for two at Smiths Beach Resort during the annual Pair’d Margaret River Festival. Enjoy return flights to Busselton, admission to select signature events from 21–23 November, and access to the best of the region’s bounty. This prize also includes exclusive Pair’d merch – everything you need for the ultimate festival adventure in the heart of WA’s iconic Margaret River Region.

Pair’d is Western Australia’s top wine and food festival, designed with a ‘wine first’ approach. This festival brings together the best of culinary, music and cultural experiences, all thoughtfully curated by sommeliers to create an unforgettable celebration of the senses.

What’s included?

  • Three-night luxury stay at Smiths Beach Resort, nestled on the pristine coastline of the Margaret River Region
  • Festival ticket pack to select signature events across the weekend of 21–23 November
  • Return flights to Busselton, flying into the heart of the region
  • Exclusive Pair’d merchandise, perfect for your weekend adventure

The ultimate K’gari adventure worth $5000

Lake McKenzie aerial shot on K'gari

Paradise awaits on K’gari.

Pack that floppy hat and factor 50+ sunscreen for five unforgettable days on World Heritage-listed K’gari (formerly Fraser Island). This epic prize includes airport transfers, ferry transport to the island, three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort and one night at K’gari Beach Resort.

This ultimate island escape includes two days of guided 4WD touring, daily buffet breakfasts, touring lunches, national park fees and tickets to the magical Illumina light and sound show.

What’s included?

  • Return airport transfers to River Heads / Hervey Bay Airport
  • Return passenger ferry transfer
  • Three nights at Kingfisher Bay Resort
  • One night at K’gari Beach Resort
  • Full days of guided 4WD coach touring including lunch, National Park fees and permits
  • Daily buffet breakfast
  • Illumina light show experience

A $5000 supercar escape with Prancing Horse

Red Ferrari driving down road with Palm trees.

Drive an unparalleled collection of supercars on exclusive driving experiences across Australia.

Buckle up for the drive of a lifetime with Prancing Horse luxury driving experiences. Take the wheel of the world’s most coveted supercars – think Ferrari, McLaren or Lamborghini – for a breathtaking spin through one of six spectacular Australian regions. The ultimate road trip for two lucky rev-heads includes curated routes with gourmet dining, luxury hotels and jaw-dropping scenery.

What’s included?

  • Gourmet dining at award-winning restaurants
  • Exceptional hospitality and some of the most exciting driving roads in Australia

A seven-day Star RV motorhome getaway worth over $4300

Star RV Polaris 2 MountCook 1 NZ

This is your chance to live the van life dream. (Image: Clint Trahan)

Ready to hit the road? Win a seven-day adventure in a premium Star RV Polaris 6 motorhome valued at more than $4300. Choose to explore Australia or New Zealand with unlimited kilometres, 24/7 roadside assistance, basic insurance and a fully equipped home on wheels that sleeps six. The swanky motorhome is decked out with a full kitchen, bathroom, air-conditioning and outdoor gear included.

Designed with space, style and adventure in mind, the Polaris 6 has ample room to stretch out. Whether you’re chasing sunsets along the coast or stargazing in the outback, this is road tripping at its best. Perfect for a family holiday, a friend escape or a couple’s adventure – you get to write the story.

What’s included?

  • Unlimited kilometres
  • 24/7 roadside assistance
  • Basic insurance cover
  • Fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and air conditioning
  • Camping chairs and a table for those al fresco moments

A luxury Red Hill Escape worth over $2500

The Ninch Lindenderry

Rest and dream at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill.

If ever there was a place for you to rest and dream, it is Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. The escape includes a stay in the luxurious Balcony Suite, tucked away amid 13 hectares of gardens and vineyards on the Mornington Peninsula.

Enjoy daily breakfast and a two-course degustation dinner with wine pairing at the acclaimed two-hatted restaurant, The Dining Room. Just minutes from beaches and top wineries, this is the perfect getaway for food, wine and nature lovers.

What’s included?

  • Breakfast
  • Two-course degustation dinner and wine pairing at the award-winning two-hatted restaurant, The Dine Room

A night at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney worth $2200

The Fullerton Staircase

A night in the Heritage Long Suite offers a truly unforgettable stay.

Experience over-the-top indulgence in the Heritage Long Suite, the largest guestroom at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney in the historic former General Post Office building. The suite features original marble fireplaces, a grand living area, the postmaster’s original writing desk from 1874 and a dining space for six.

Two lucky guests will enjoy Fullerton Club Lounge access with breakfast, afternoon tea, evening canapés and handcrafted cocktails. With its heritage charm and modern amenities, the prize amounts to an unforgettable stay for two.

What’s included?

  • Exclusive access to the Fullerton Club Lounge
  • A full-size refrigerator
  • Stocked mini-bar (on request)
  • A dining area for six
  • Ensuite master bathroom
  • Separate guest bathroom
  • King-sized beds

A luxe glamping stay for eight at Glenayr Farm worth $2000

Glenayr Farm hot tub

Glenayr Farm is a fully sustainable, off-grid accommodation. (Image: Salty Luxe)

Grab seven of your nearest and dearest and make a beeline for wine country in Mudgee. At Glenayr Farm, a 129-hectare working sheep and cattle property, you’ll have four luxe bell tents all to yourselves for two blissful nights. Pick up a bottle of wine at a nearby cellar door and uncork it in a hot tub or by the outdoor fire pit come evening.

Fall in love with the unrivalled views of the sunsets and incredible vistas over one of the most beautiful areas in the region. At night, the sky explodes to life as the area is one of the premier stargazing sites in Australia. Disconnect to reconnect and immerse in the peace of nature and country living.

What’s included?

  • Communal area with kitchen
  • Lounge/games room with billiards table, TV and bathrooms
  • Private hot tubs
  • Fire pits

A Wildlife Retreat experience worth $1159

Taronga Zoo Eco Retreat

Unique eco-retreat accommodation with immersive native animal experiences, modern Australian dining, all overlooking iconic Sydney Harbour.

Wake up with koalas and kangaroos at the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga with an unforgettable overnight stay for two in an Animal View Room. Overlooking Sydney Harbour and hidden within Taronga Zoo, this luxury eco-retreat includes two-day zoo access, a guided Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant and free onsite parking. It’s a unique blend of nature, comfort and conservation – the perfect wild escape in the heart of Sydney/Warrane.

Every visit to Taronga Zoo directly supports vital wildlife conservation efforts, meaning your unforgettable experience helps contribute to a greater cause.

What’s included?

  • Two-day access to Taronga Zoo Sydney
  • An exclusive guided Sanctuary tour to meet some of Australia’s most beloved native animals up close
  • A delicious buffet breakfast at the Me-Gal restaurant
  • Onsite parking

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