Explore Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory of Australia

Arnhem Land in Australia's Northern Territory is vast, overwhelming and mysterious. This Aboriginal reserve is one of the country's last untouched wilderness areas.

Approximately the size of Victoria and with a population of around 17,000 most Yolngu people Arnhem Land is a great place to visit.

A great many of the people who live here live on outstations that combine modern western practices with traditional ones. For example they might well spend the day hunting but they will be back in time to watch the 6 o'clock news on the television.

Visits to Arnhem Land are regulated through a permit system. The reason for this is to protect the environment, the ceremonial grounds and the rock art.

White people (balanda) will not know where the burial grounds and ceremonial lands are located so if you wish to visit this area you do need to have a specific purpose to get a permit.

Permits are granted for visiting the arts centers. Should you be traveling far enough into this area then you will need to organize overnight accommodation, which I have to tell you is in short supply.

If you are traveling independently then you may just wish to visit the arts center at Gunbalanya (Oenpelli), which lies just over the border.

Otherwise it is recommended that you join a tour, that way all the permits that you require to enter Aboriginal lands will be organized on your behalf.

Tours

Arnhemlander (www.anrhemlander.com.au)

This tour company runs 4WD tours to the Mikinj Valley and Injalak Art Center at Gunbalanya.

Tel: 1800 089 113

Davidson's Arnhemland Safaris (www.arnhemland-safaris.com)

Run by an experienced tour operator this company organizes tours to Mt Borradaile, north of Oenpelli. The daily price is inclusive of a guided tour, meals, fishing and accommodation in the comfortable safari camp. If required transfers from Darwin can be arranged.

Tel: 08 8927 5240

Gove Diving & Fishing Charters (www.govefish.com.au)

This tour company offers a variety of diving, fishing, snorkeling and wilderness trips from Nhulunbuy

Tel: 08 8987 3445

Lord's Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris (www.lords-safaris.com)

Lord's Kakadu & Arnhemland Safaris arranges small-group 4WD tours to Gunbalanya. The tours also include an Aboriginal guided walk to the Injalak hill rock art site, lunch and a scout around the Mikinj Valley.

Tel: 08 8948 2200

Nomad (www.nomadcharters.com.au)

If you wish to participate in a luxury small group tour then this is the tour company for you. With this company you will enjoy a small group tour from Nhulunbuy that includes fishing charters and cultural tours.

Tel: 08 8987 8085

Venture North Australia (www.northernaustralia.com)

Venture North Australia organizes 4-5 day tours that visit remote areas. You will receive expert guidance on rock art and stay at a safari camp close to Smith Point on the Cobourg Peninsula.

Tel: 08 8927 5500

Source: Australia - The Lonely Planet