5 Unique Indigenous Experiences Across Australia

Lake Mungo, NSW

Fifty-thousand years ago, Lake Mungo flowed with water and Australia’s earliest inhabitants lived along its shores. Today, this World Heritage-listed region is the site of the world’s oldest ritual cremation. Harry Nanya Tours walks visitors through the evolution of the Indigenous people to the effect of climate change on this fragile environment.

Olkola, Cape York, Queensland

One hundred years of perseverance paid off for the displaced Olkola people in 2014 when their land was finally returned to them. Yet they’re willing to share it; partnering with Intrepid, they welcome tourists to this one-million-hectare expanse of ancient bora grounds, wetlands, rock art and remnant rainforest.

Ngadjuri Country, South Australia

Ngadjuri Country lies between South Australia’s coastal fringe and the outback, in the region stretching from Adelaide all the way to the Southern Flinders Ranges. Here, guests can explore the many stories – the Snake Dreaming, the creation story – that underpin this rugged landscape.

Tunnel Creek, Kimberley, Western Australia

The exhilarating story of Indigenous freedom fighter Jandamarra is told at Tunnel Creek, the state’s oldest cave system and the ideal hide-out during the Bunuba Resistance against colonists in the 19th century. Visitors can retrace the warrior’s ill-fated footsteps on walking tours with Bunuba Elder Dillon Andrews.

Bermagui and Bega Valley, NSW

The pastures of NSW’s South Coast don’t conjure an image of Aboriginal habitation but this is where the Yuin people have lived for thousands of years. Their stories are told during Dreaming and creation tours through Djirringanj Country, the Yuin’s lush heartland.