Sample Itinerary - Northern Treasures

Bamurru’s signature experience is a thrilling ride across the floodplains by airboat. This wildlife-packed journey takes you from wide open grasslands to a lagoon surrounded by peeling paper bark trees. Feel the rush as you skim the surface at speed then float in silence listening to the sound of nothing but the bush.

The floodplain wetlands of the Mary River catchment are the key natural feature of this area and some of the most important in the country, home to thousands of Magpie Geese, Plumed Whistling-Duck, Egrets, Ibis and a host of other birds. These beautiful birds will take flight as you zip across the floodplains on your airboat, flocks sometimes thousands of birds strong!

Our guides will provide you with a hands on demonstration of the many uses of the flora from the wetlands whilst floating amongst a forest of melaleuca trees or looking out for crocodiles slowly swimming amongst the grasses of the floodplain. A morning trip out on the floodplains in an airboat is utterly exhilarating and the only way to truly experience this environment.

The Mary River catchment is home to some 236 species of bird, many of which are found at Bamurru Plains. The significance of this particular property comes in the variety of habitat: black soil floodplains, paperbark swamps, savannah woodland, river mangroves and coastal beaches support an extraordinary diversity of birdlife. Even in the dry season the floodplains on the property still retain large areas of water where the birdlife congregate in extroadinary numbers rarely seen elsewhere in Australia.

The birding spectacle on the Swim Creek floodplain and surrounding Mary River region is second to none in the Top End due to both the extraordinary volume and variety of birdlife and Bamurru’s 300km2 allows birding groups a private and exclusive experience. At particular times of the year, the floodplain will host hundreds of thousands of Magpie Geese and species that are associated with the life cycle of the geese, particularly raptors.

The richness of the floodplain also supports dense populations of other waterbirds, with thousands of egrets, whistling ducks, jacanas, crakes and strong populations of jabiru, brolgas and raptors. The surrounding paperbark swamps and savannah woodland provide a huge diversity of species for keen birders.

The Sampan Creek, which is part of the Mary River System, forms the western boundary of the station. During the dry season (May-October) the crocodiles will regulate their body temperatures by basking on the banks in the sunlight. During these months, the numbers of crocs sunning themselves will give you an idea of the size of the population.

It’s not just the crocodiles, many bird species call this mangrove lined environment home. Relax in the shade provided on our canopy covered cruise as you meander along this creek system, learning about these animals from our skilled guides and enjoying sunset canape’s as the light begins to fade.

One of the best ways to see the variety of wildlife that teems here is on an open-top game drive, more akin to an African safari across the savannah.

With the recession of the waters from much of the floodplain in the dry season, the plains become accessible to 4X4 vehicles and a journey out with one of our guides will provide a unique insight to this fragile yet very important environment.

Our open sided safari vehicles feature shaded canopies with comfortable and raised seating to provide the best possible vantage point to view agile wallabies, estuarine crocodiles, wild horses, buffalo’s and some of the 236 bird species on the property.

Our guides will describe the Aboriginal uses for some of the local flora and fauna while you enjoy a cool drink and bite to eat.

A guided walking safari at Bamurru is the perfect antidote to a busy life. You’re compelled to slow down and absorb the sights and sounds of the bush, understanding how every element has its place. At this pace, nature has a way of showing you what’s important.

Look for ant trails that criss cross the ground at your feet, or the birds calling up in the tree tops before settling in for morning tea amongst the beauty which is Bamurru.

Head out with our guides away from the main lodge on a short drive before continuing on foot learning the Indigenous uses for the various plants and animals on Bamurru or learning how to track different wildlife through the forest.

Walking safaris are individually tailored to your interests and tend to be run in the latter part of the dry season.

Raised 6 metres above the ground in the tree canopy, the 24m2 screened platform allows a unique perspective on this fragile environment. The Hide is the ultimate eyrie from which birdlife and other wildlife can be observed undisturbed in their natural habitat.You will have a 360º view overlooking the Mary River floodplain, canopy and background woodland.

Perfect for photographic or ornithological groups as well as individuals, adjustable flaps allows cameras and binoculars to be focussed on the surrounding wildlife, birdlife and floodplains and there’s a Nikon Prostaff fieldscope has been fitted for maximum visibility.

Criss-crossing between floodplain savannah, monsoonal forests and dry, open areas dotted with termite mounds alongside buffalo and brumbies, explore Bamurru from the wheel of your own quad bike.

This leisurely safari will take you to areas inaccessible by our regular 4WD vehicles, while our knowledgeable field guides lead you to some of our favourite secret spots.

While technically not a real activity, some of our guests prefer to do absolutely nothing. The best bit is that the wildlife will come to you. Watch hundreds of birds take flight from around the infinity-edge pool, see buffalo roam and Agile wallabies hop past your bungalow as you wake to sounds of thousands of Magpie Geese. If all you want to do is switch off, chill out and get away from the hustle and bustle of life then Bamurru is one of the best places in the world to do it.

Just a short hop by light aircraft across the river systems that separate Bamurru Plains from Kakadu brings you to the heart of this country. Rock art galleries reveal stories of Aboriginal people and their ancient culture. Textures of colours, vistas across savannah woodlands and floodplains provide a sense of the spirituality of this ancient landscape.

From rock overhangs and caves at Ubirr Rock (think classic scenes from Crocodile Dundee) to the meandering waters of the East Alligator River that drains from the stone country of Arnhem Land and marks the boundary between Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land, this day will expose the senses to country that is rich in Aboriginal culture, flora and fauna.

Travelling with Wild Bush Luxury’s field guides in our custom built vehicle, your day will include a scenic flight into Kakadu, a bush picnic lunch and the chance to spend time with an Aboriginal guide on the waters of the East Alligator River before returning overland, with a stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre, returning in time for sundowner drinks, canapes and the comfort of the safari lodge as the sun sets over Bamurru Plains.

Included on a shared basis on the Ultimate Kakadu Experience package, also available to be booked at $750 per person subject to availability on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The floodplain wetlands of the Mary River catchment are the key natural feature of this area and some of the most important in the country, home to thousands of Magpie Geese, Plumed Whistling-Duck, Egrets, Ibis and a host of other birds. These beautiful birds will take flight as you zip across the floodplains on your airboat, flocks sometimes thousands of birds strong!

Your guide will provide you with a hands on demonstration of the many uses of the flora from the wetlands whilst floating amongst a forest of melaleuca trees or looking out for crocodiles slowly swimming amongst the grasses of the floodplain. A morning trip out on the floodplains in an airboat is utterly exhilarating and the only way to truly experience this environment.

Guided yoga classes each morning take a gentle pace and suit all fitness and experience levels. Held in an open-air pavilion, cares slip away with the soothing sound of the Mossman River. Sessions are shared with fellow guests at a scheduled time.

Exploring the natural oasis of the Mossman River is as easy as wading in from the shallows and sinking into the crystal-clear waters of the billabong. Alternatively, float along in a kayak or take a snorkel and fins for a closer look down below.

For those wishing to explore, adjoining the lodge in the Daintree National Park is a series of marked walking trails including exclusive access to the pristine Fig Tree Rapids. Perfect for the adventurous to undertake at their own pace.

The journey to the Daintree and Cape Tribulation features incredible coastal and rainforest scenery. Silky Oaks Lodge Safari's full day tour visits a variety of different environments throughout the day including estuary, mangroves, rainforest and beach. The first stop is Mill Walk in Cape Tribulation National Park, a private track accessed exclusively by Silky Oaks Lodge Safari.

Away from the crowds, marvel at the ancient rainforest surrounds and learn about the ecology and fauna from your expert naturalist guide. After a short drive, you will arrive at Myall Beach where a relaxing stroll offers spectacular views of the Cape Tribulation and the Great Dividing Range. Then travel to a private bush camp for a traditional Australian BBQ lunch followed by a revitalising swim in a freshwater swimming hole. In the afternoon enjoy a crocodile and wildlife spotting tour on the picturesque Daintree River and return to Silky Oaks Lodge for afternoon tea in the open sided Treehouse Restaurant.

The 40-foot jet boat departs daily and is at the full disposal of our guests to experience the activities and sights in our local area. She has a twin 700hp jet propulsion system and capable of 40knots in shallow water.  This enables us to access shallow reef as well as uncharted river systems. All activities are family friendly with no previous experience required. Full use of the jet-boat is included in the accommodation rates and further details of the activities can be found under the other activity pages.

    •    Fishing
    •    Snorkelling and Spearfishing
    •    Other

With knowledge of the area built from thirty years of experience we have the pleasure of guaranteeing an unparalleled fishing experience.

Although we rely on our freshly caught seafood for meals we still maintain a high catch and release ration for the fish we don’t need.

Some examples of the common species caught are:

Red Emperor,
Coral Trout
Finger mark
Spanish Mackerel
Blue fin Tuna
Queen fish
Dog tooth Tuna
Giant Trevally
 

The Reef in our area is utterly untouched and demonstrates what coral and fish life used to be before human interference. Float over florescent gardens, or plunge into the cavernous formations created by centuries of uninterrupted growth. Expect to see Green Turtles, Manta Rays and prolific fish life during your stay.

Every day out on the boat we visit a different destination and often will not repeat the same location within a month or even a year. Some of our favourite snorkelling locations we have named:

• The Garden - A shallow and brillianlty coloured corner or reef known for its variation in coral types. Expect to see vivid coloured staghorn, plate, boulder and fan corals.
• Ashmore Banks - A beautiful sand cay with an incredibly clear fringing reef and deep drop-off. Expect to see large Maori Wrasse, huge brain coral formations, briliantly clear water and the possibilities of Manta Rays, Crayfish and even Dolphins.
• The Outer Barrier Wishbone Reef - On calm days we often venture out the the incredible outer reef formation located due east of the island. Wishbone reef is a large marine park where the reef curves away from the coast in the shape of a wishbone, cereating many points and channels where marine life gathers to escape the current. Expect to see every imaginable form of marine life in its most impressive condition.

Close by we have discovered an 1840s shipwreck in a shallow reef garden. Its giant anchors, winching blocks and bronze keel bolts are all visible from surface snorkelling and make a memorable dive experience.

Snorkelling is possible both off our day boat and straight off the Haggerstone shore. 

For those who want the ultimate adventure experience, we recommend the use of our chartered helicopter service to visit private waterfalls, sand-cays, fish untouched river systems or enjoy a sunset champagne atop mountainous sand dunes.

Quotes for helicopter use are wholesale and come directly from the charter company. For details or to organize one for your stay, simply include the request in your booking enquiry.

Activities both on the island and out on the boat include:

• Oyster gathering
• Jet skiing
• Island walks
• Beachcombing
• Mud Crabbing
• Wakeboarding
• Waterskiing
• Personal Dingy Use (for licensed visitors)
• Beach Fishing
• Kayaking
• Bird Watching