Indigenous Aboriginal Tour of the Whitsundays, Airlie Beach

Embark on an immersive cultural tour with Ngaro Indigenous guides on this unique day trip in the Whitsundays to uncover the local Aboriginal culture.

Overview

Embark on an immersive cultural tour with Ngaro Indigenous guides on this unique day trip in the Whitsundays to uncover the local Aboriginal culture. Explore two islands, learn about the ancient island sea people and their hunting methods, and visit a cave with aboriginal rock paintings. Take a stroll through a rainforest, learn to throw a traditional fishing spear, and discover the diverse native flora and fauna. Your day includes lunch, Billy Tea & Damper, and ends with your return to Airlie Beach in time for dinner.

Highlights

  • Engage in an immersive experience in Ngaro Indigenous culture with a local guide
  • Explore two islands, a cave with aboriginal rock paintings, and a rainforest
  • Learn about local history, customs, native flora and fauna, and traditional hunting techniques
  • Enjoy the thrill of throwing a traditional fishing spear
  • Appreciate the wisdom of guides Peter and John, highly praised by past visitors.

Know before you go

Recommended for
All ages
Group
Private

What you'll do

Start your cultural immersion experience by assembling at the Coral Sea Marina Public boat ramp in Airlie Beache in the morning. Here, you'll meet your Ngaro Indigenous Guide and join a small, exclusive group for a day of exploration and discovery. Once introductions are complete and all participants are ready, you'll embark on your journey aboard the "Wild Dreams."

Your first stop will be two of the Whitsundays' most enchanting islands, where you'll learn about the history, customs, and hunting techniques of the ancient Ngaro sea people. Your guide will detail how these indigenous people deftly sourced "bush tucker" or traditional food and materials from the land and sea, giving you a fascinating insight into their survival strategies.

Next, you'll venture into a rainforest, feeling the crunch of leaves underfoot and the coolness of the canopy above. As you stroll through this verdant landscape, your guide will educate you about the diverse native flora and fauna of the region. You'll learn about the magnificent plants and animals that call this ecosystem home, and how the Ngaro people used them in their daily lives.

The adventure will continue with a visit to a historic cave adorned with aboriginal rock paintings. Gaze upon these ancient works of art, and listen to your guide's captivating stories of what they represent. The cave paints a vivid picture of the Ngaro people's rich cultural heritage and their deep connection to the land and sea.

Afterwards, prepare to learn the art of spear throwing, a traditional fishing technique used by the Ngaro people. Your guide will demonstrate the technique and then give you the opportunity to try it for yourself. This hands-on experience will not only be fun but also give you a deeper appreciation of the skills and ingenuity of the indigenous people.

To replenish your energy, a delicious lunch, Billy Tea, and Damper (traditional Australian bread) are included in the tour. Enjoy this meal in a serene setting, surrounded by nature's bounty. After lunch, you'll continue with your guide to explore more of the islands, returning to Airlie Beach between 4.00 and 4.30 pm.

In all, this Ngaro Indigenous Cultural Tour promises a day filled with learning, exploration, and a deeper understanding of the aboriginal history and culture of the Whitsundays.

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Like what you see?

Chat with our local specialists and let us help you customize your trip with experiences like this.

Get started