Darwin to Broome 4WD Adventure

Overview & Itinerary

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Physical rating

To get the most out of this trip you need to be prepared for walks of between 3-9 km on some days. This may be on rough ground and perhaps getting feet wet in rivers and creeks. From Oct to March in the Red Centre, West Coast, and South of Australia you will experience temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius (and sometimes well into the 40’s) so be prepared to endure extra physical stress due to the heat at these times, especially while on walks. In the Top End of Australia (Kimberley and Kakadu) temperatures in the shoulder months of April, May and September, October humidity levels can be high and sometimes slightly uncomfortable.

These extreme outside temperatures can also place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your tour guide will assist with regular breaks and information to assist in keeping well hydrated.

 

Is this trip right for you?

• You’ll spend most nights of the trip sleeping in outback camping grounds. While it’s all a part of the adventure, facilities can be extremely basic
• This trip requires a HIGH level of fitness as it involves a lot of walking, allowing you to truly enjoy the surrounding nature. Some long hikes will really get the blood pumping, and involve wading through water and clambering over rocks. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothing.
• On some days of the trip, you will spend several hours driving, often through very sparse areas of desert. Some drives along off-road tracks can be bumpy as you really get ‘amongst it’. Get to know your fellow travellers and sit back to enjoy landscapes that you would miss in any other form of travel.
• Temperatures in Western Australia are extreme. During the day the weather can be hot (and the Australian sun is strong) so please bring appropriate clothing, use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures really drop, so ensure you have base layers and warm clothing.
• We don’t recommend this trip for older passengers who are perhaps less fit or agile

Joining point

The Youth Shack departing 6:30am
69 Mitchell Street
Darwin
0810
AUSTRALIA

Joining point instructions

Meet your guide at the Youth Shack – 69 Mitchell Street Darwin

We can pick up at your Darwin accommodation. Please advise your booking agent of your accommodation if it differs from this location. Pick up times and locations will be advised when booking.

Problems and emergency contact information

ALL general enquiry must be directed to our Reservations team on +61 (0)3 9125 3630.

In the case of a GENUINE EMERGENCY, or concerns about a missed pick-up on the day of departure ONLY please contact our Operations Manager in Western Australia on +61 (0)8 7918 1840 or 0417 818 432.

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip.

We recognise that there may be times when your group leader/local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction – if this is the case, please ask the leader to speak to their direct manager.

You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time.

Finishing point

Central Broome accommodation
Broome
6725
AUSTRALIA

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES
Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour.

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn’t an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it’s recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested in the Group Meeting and they can assist.

Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Essential Trip Information

Important notes

1. Please refer to the COVID-19 Hub for the latest information on ATA’s COVID-related policies. Read details here
2. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 6.30 am and finishes in Broome (Day 10) in the afternoon. Onward travel needs to be booked for the following day after the tour finishes.
3. This trip requires a sleeping bag
4. Trip runs in reverse see tour code BD10
5. This trip has a difficulty rating 5 out of 5. Please ensure this trip is suitable for you.
6. Due to potential wet weather, road and park closures, we may need to amend the itinerary. This is more likely to take place in the shoulder season months of April, May and September.
7. Due to significant damage to park infrastructure and roads from flooding events, Bandilngan (Windjana Gorge) National Park and campground is closed until further notice. 

Passport and visas

PASSPORT
You will need a valid passport to travel internationally. As a general rule, most countries require that your passport has a minimum of 6 months validity remaining. Your passport details are required to complete your booking. Please ensure the name on your passport matches the name on your booking and airline tickets exactly and contact us immediately if there are any errors. We recommend taking copies of the main passport pages and other important documents with you as well as leave copies at home with family or friends.

VISAS
Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. Entry requirements can change at any time. It is important that you check your government’s foreign travel advisories along with the consular website of the country or countries you are travelling to for the most up to date information specific to your nationality and circumstances. Please be aware that not all visa information found online from other sources may be valid while COVID-19 restrictions are in place.

Visas can take several weeks to process, so make sure you research the requirements as soon as you have booked your trip to allow for obtaining any necessary documents as well as the application and processing time. Your booking consultant can advise on a visa processing service or you can apply yourself directly through a consulate.

Below you will find general visa advice about the destinations on your trip. Due to constantly evolving COVID-19 requirements and restrictions, please refer to your government’s foreign travel advice for most up to date information.

All travellers, except New Zealand citizens, must obtain a visa or travel authority before travelling to Australia. Failure to do so means you may not be allowed to board your flight to Australia. Most nationalities can obtain an Electronic Travel Authority via the internet before arrival. Please check the following website or with your relevant Australian visa issuing office for your nationalities requirements. http://www.eta.immi.gov.au/

Medical and health information

GENERAL HEALTH
All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the opinion of our group leader or local guide any traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements as they may not easily be obtained while travelling.

Below you can find some further information about health issues relevant to the destinations visited on this trip.

COVID-19
The safety and wellbeing of our travellers, leaders, crew, staff, and suppliers continues to remain our highest priority as we travel.

We will not require a negative COVID-19 test before joining a trip unless it is a requirement of entry for the country. If you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. At the group meeting, you will be asked to complete a self-screening health form and report any COVID-19 symptoms as well as any close contact with someone who has suspected or confirmed COVID-19. If you are displaying any symptoms or have any health concerns at this time, we will follow the advice of local health authorities to determine whether medical assistance, isolation or further action is required. We ask all travellers to continue to monitor their health throughout their travels and report any relevant symptoms to their tour leader.

Due to the remote regions this trip visits, and the challenging itinerary and camping style we will require a medical certificate from a doctor for those pax over the age of 70. There is limited electricity on this trip, and limited refrigeration and any medical supplies requiring refrigeration.

Food and dietary requirements

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS:

Your tour includes meals as indicated in our brochure and online. On most days, breakfast, lunch and dinner will be included.

Our tours are activity and participation based. During your travels with us you will have the opportunity to assist with daily activities such as setting up camp, helping prepare meals and clearing dishes. None of this is difficult however many hands make light work and any assistance provided to crew is always much appreciated. Most people agree that this type of activity helps you feel like less of a tourist and more of an explorer.

All food for this trip is purchased and packed prior to your group leaving on day one. After we’ve left town it can be very difficult to source special dietary requests.

Travellers with special dietary requirements or food allergies are required to advise us at the time of booking.
You may be asked to pay for any additional food if you have not advised us of any special dietary requirements. Due to the often remote nature of our trips, food is basic but plentiful and delicious.

The below dietary needs can be easily catered for.

Vegetarian
Gluten Free
Dairy Free (soy available )
Pork Free

Please bring your own staples (nuts, bars, snacks) if you require a diet differing from the above.

* Religious and more specific dietary requirements are generally unable to be catered for on these trips.

Accommodation

Camping (with basic facilities) (2 nights), Camping (with facilities) (7 nights)

This trip is basic camping and consists of portable, easy to erect, dome tents. We provide comfortable swags (canvas bedroll including 2 inch mattresses). You can either bring your own sleeping bag or purchase one from us. Pillows are not provided so you can bring your own if you wish.

This trip is specifically designed to embrace the outback and provide an authentic camping experience. It is for this reason, that we do not offer upgrades on this trip. Seven out of the nine nights have basic toilet and shower facilities, however on nights 3 and 4 we stay in the remote Purnululu National Park where only basic long-drop toilet facilities are available. Shower facilities are not available on these nights. Please ensure this level of camping is suitable for you.

Night 1: Katherine – Pop-up tents and swags. Basic toilet and shower facilities.
Night 2: Kununarra – Pop-up tents and swags. Composting toilet, basic ‘bush style’ showers.
Night 3: Bungle Bungles – Pop-up tents and swags. Drop-Toilet, no shower facilities.
Night 4: Bungle Bungles – Pop-up tents and swags. Drop-Toilet, no shower facilities.
Night 5: Kununarra – Pop-up tents and swags. Composting toilet, basic ‘bush style’ showers.
Night 6: Kununarra – Pop-up tents and swags. Composting toilet, basic ‘bush style’ showers.
Night 7: Mount Barnett – Pop-up tents and swags. Basic toilet and shower facilities.
Night 8: Mount Barnett – Pop-up tents and swags. Basic toilet and shower facilities.
Night 9: Imintji Campground – Pop-up tents and swags. Basic toilet and shower facilities.

FINISH TIMES:
Our trips generally finish early evening. We recommend booking one night post accommodation in your end city and planning onward travel for the following day. We cannot accept responsibility for missed onward travel if we are delayed for some reason on the last day of travel.

PARTICIPATORY CAMPING:
To participate in this trip you must be prepared to assist with preparing meals, cleaning dishes, collecting firewood, setting up and packing up camp every day, in all conditions.

Transport

All Terrain vehicle

DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA

Australia is a BIG country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australia has a total land area of 7,706,168 sq km, and the coastline spans a massive 15,049km.

Here in Australia we’re used to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Take for example, our 10 day Perth to Broome trip will see you travelling about the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and our 10 day Perth to Adelaide trip is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. Yep, it’s a big country! However, that’s why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Whilst you may spend some days in the vehicle a little longer than others getting to the next destination, we think it’s worth it!

Money matters

The Australian Dollar (A$) is the currency of Australia.

Credit and debit cards are readily accepted just about everywhere in Australia. Occasionally there may be a minimum spend for both in smaller shops. You can usually withdraw money from shops where EFTPOS is available. Automatic teller machines (ATMs) are common across Australia. ATM’s may be limited in remote areas and your leader will advise you when to withdraw extra cash.

Credit cards in Australia require a pin number rather than a signature and may have a small surcharge for purchases.

Tipping is not expected but appreciated.

EMERGENCY FUNDS:
We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. Please make sure you bring an extra USD500 for emergencies (e.g. natural disasters or civil unrest). Sometimes these things necessitate last minute changes to our itineraries, and we can’t guarantee there won’t be some extra costs involved.

Packing

Packing
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage, and walk with it for short distances.
Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags are convenient and we recommend your bag has carry straps. You’ll also need a day pack/bag to carry water, camera, and jacket etc. when you’re exploring during the day.

LUGGAGE LIMIT:
Please keep your luggage to a minimum. Due to limited space and strictly enforced road laws regarding weight limits, Adventure Tours travellers can carry a maximum of 15 kg.
For our West Coast trips it is essential you bring only one small to medium soft-sided bag plus a day pack. We are not able to carry large suitcases, particularly hard/externally framed suitcases as they are difficult to store and can damage equipment and other travellers’ belongings.
If your trip is beginning and ending at the same location, excess luggage can usually be stored at your arrival/departure hotel and can be collected after your trip. If your trip does not return to the same starting point we suggest you look at freighting your excess luggage. One option is with greyhound: http://www.greyhoundfreight.com.au/

WATER BOTTLE:
Consider bringing your own water bottle to refill along the way. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments.

SLEEPING BAG & MAT:
Comfortable sleeping mats are provided when camping. Please bring a travel pillow and sleeping bag or pre-purchase a sleeping bag from us. 10ºC sleeping bags are available for sale prior to travel. If you do not wish to keep your sleeping bag we will return them to our Operations Department, where they will be washed and donated to local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Below are some ideas and helpful tips on what you specifically need for this trip.
ESSENTIALS:
– Lightweight clothing. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing and layers. Long shirts and pants are useful to protect against the harsh Australian sun. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry.
– During dry season months (May – August) overnight temperatures can drop below 0 Celsius but daytime temperatures can still exceed 30 degrees Celsius. Daytime temperatures and humidity can be extreme in the shoulder seasons of March, April and September, October with temperatures over 35 degrees Celsius
– Comfortable closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings.
– Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses

RECOMMENDED:

– Personal medical kit. A larger kit will be on hand with your guide, but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids and insect repellent.
– Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5litre capacity.
– A headlamp or torch is recommended for around your accommodation at night.
– Camera with spare batteries.
– A spare pair of shoes that can get wet, along with two towels.
– A pair of slip on shoes/sandals that you can carry in your day pack for riding the bus and casual wear.

OPTIONAL:

– Sleep sheet. If you are travelling during the hot season you may wish to pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter what the weather.
– Ear plugs
– A good book, a journal and music player
– Binoculars for spotting wildlife

VALUABLES:
Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables. We strongly recommend that you photocopy all important documents e.g. air tickets, passport, vaccination certificate, etc. and keep the copies separate from the originals. While not valid, a photocopy makes it very much easier to obtain replacements if necessary.

BATTERIES/POWER:
Most of our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras every couple of days. There are some days where there is no power at the campsites at all. We always recommend that you carry an extra battery for your camera just in case. Your vehicle will be equipped with a 12 volt “cigarette lighter” socket which may be used at the crew’s discretion, however, do bear in mind that only one piece of equipment can be charged at a time and it will not be allowed if there is a risk of running the vehicle’s batteries low. Batteries may also be recharged from hotel room wall sockets. Hotels and many campsites have electricity and charging of batteries is advised before checking out the following day.

Climate and seasonal information

WET SEASON & WEATHER:
Given the unpredictable nature of weather and travel in the tropics, we are sometimes forced to make late itinerary changes due to unexpected heavy rain and/or storms and road closures. In the event of this occurring, itinerary changes may need to be implemented after commencement of you trip. In this event, your Tour Leader/Driver has full authority to change the itinerary and/or order of activities and substitute alternative destinations and activities as necessary. No refunds are available due to itinerary changes and missed activities caused by extreme weather conditions and/or road closures.

Itinerary may vary and/or attractions substituted for any cause including seasonal conditions, weather extremes, and traditional owner/national park requirements. The Gibb River Road and Purnululu National Park may be closed in the shoulder seasons (approx. April and October). See terms and conditions of travel for full details.

While Australia’s south and the West Coast experience a traditional four season year, Australia’s north including the Kimberley and the Top End – has a tropical climate with a Wet Season (November to March/April) and a Dry Season (April/May to October). All of our tours in the north operate during ‘the Dry’, when it can get surprisingly cold overnight, depending on where you are — in Broome it can get down to 12ºC, while in the Bungle Bungles, it can fall as low as 5ºC! During the day, in Broome and Darwin we usually enjoy a lovely 28 to 30ºC.

Group Leader

All group trips are accompanied by a group leader. In Australia your group leader is also your driver, taking you from start to finish. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, as well as recommend great local eating venues. They will also introduce you to our local friends along the way. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the areas visited on the trip, including historical, environmental, cultural and social aspects.

Safety

REMOTE AREA TRAVEL:
We carry a satellite phone on all of our remote/overland trips to be used by our leaders in the event of an emergency and for your safety. In addition, all of our leaders are First Aid trained and certified.

HYDRATION:
Daytime temperatures can be extreme from Oct to March with temperatures over 40 degrees Celsius. Please bring a large refillable water bottle. We strongly recommend the use of dehydration salts and sports drinks as a way to combat dehydration during times of extreme heat.

BEACH SAFETY:
Rip currents are the leading surf hazard for all beach users. They can occur at any beach, and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Rip currents are responsible for around 15,000 beach rescues and up to 120 people being drowned each year in Australia (source: Surf Life Saving Australia (SLSA).

To enjoy Australia’s beaches safely, take the following simple precautions:

* Always swim between the red and yellow flags, as these indicate it is a supervised location where a lifesaving service is currently on duty.
* Do not swim at unsupervised locations.
* Observe and obey safety signage, which indicates current and typical hazards for that location.
* Ask a lifeguard or lifesaver for advice on conditions; they are there to make your experience safer and more enjoyable.
* Always swim with a friend; never swim alone.
* If you get into trouble, stay calm and signal for help by calling and waving your arm above your head.

Be aware of your own limitations in terms of your physical health and your swimming ability in the given conditions. Never swim while, or after, consuming alcohol.

A couple of rules

Everyone has the right to feel safe when they travel. We don’t tolerate any form of violence (verbal or physical) or sexual harassment, either between customers or involving our leaders, partners or local people. Sexual relationships between a tour leader and a customer are strictly forbidden.

Use or possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated on our trips. If you choose to consume alcohol while travelling, we encourage responsible drinking and expect that you’ll abide by the local laws regarding alcohol consumption.

The sex tourism industry is known to exploit vulnerable people and have negative consequences on communities, including undermining the development of sustainable tourism. For this reason, patronising sex workers will not be tolerated on our trips.

By travelling with us you are agreeing to adhere to these rules. You must at all times comply with the laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug regulations of all countries visited, and you also agree to travel in accordance with our Responsible Travel Guidelines.

The decision of the group leader is final on all matters likely to affect the safety or well-being of any traveller or staff member participating in the trip. If you fail to comply with a decision made by a group leader, or interfere with the well-being or mobility of the group, the group leader may direct you to leave the trip immediately, with no right of refund. We may also elect not to carry you on any future trips booked.

If you feel that someone is behaving inappropriately while travelling with us, please inform your tour leader or local guide immediately. Alternatively, contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact section of this Essential Trip Information.

Travelling on a group trip

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group – patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone’s travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don’t keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well – this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure.

Travel Insurance

Australians are not required to be covered for hospital care due to being covered by Medicare. However we strongly recommend that Australians have a domestic travel insurance policy which covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. It is also strongly advisable that Australians have current ambulance cover in the case of emergency evacuation or incidents requiring ambulance transportation.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all international travellers and should be taken out at the time of booking. Your travel insurance must provide cover against personal accident, death, medical expenses and emergency repatriation with a recommended minimum coverage of US$200,000 for each of the categories of cover. We also strongly recommend it covers cancellation, curtailment, personal liability and loss of luggage and personal effects. You must provide proof of your travel insurance on the first day of your trip; you will not be able to join the trip without it. If you obtain travel insurance through us you acknowledge that you are satisfied with the level of insurance we have arranged.