VOYAGES EL Questro WILDERNESS PARK

OPEN 25 MARCH - EARLY NOV EACH YEAR

El Questro Wilderness Park is without doubt, one of the world's most unique holiday destinations. A working cattle station one million acres in size, El Questro provides a truly Australian holiday experience. El Questro is located in Western Australia's untamed Kimberley, and extends for approximately 80 kilometres into the heart of the region, most of which has never been explored. It is one of the last true frontiers.

ACTIVITIES

As much or as little as you like, El Questro has activities for the Ecotourist, Agritourist and Sportsman alike; whether it's photographing butterflies or fishing for barramundi. No matter which accommodation facility you have chosen to stay at, your hosts can help you plan your personal itinerary upon your arrival to get the most out of your stay. Boating the Chamberlain Gorge is a must, a 3km fresh waterhole bounded by tropical vegetation belittled by towering 200 ft escarpments. The Gorge can only be travelled by boat. Why not try for a barramundi ­ Australia's premier sportsfish ­ along the way?

There are too many other gorges to name individually, all distinct in character and degree of difficulty. They change dramatically with the seasons, so make enquiries upon arrival. Zebedee Springs is a short walk off the graded road through dense Livingstonia palms to a series of thermal pools, a fabulous place to soak and relax.

Horse treks are a fabulous way to sneak up on all types of Kimberley wildlife. A ride accompanied by an El Questro ranger will be an experience indeed, many of whom will recount tales of the outback from days gone by.

Brumbies, wild donkeys, bustards, frilled neck lizards, goannas, sea eagles, brolgas, jabirus and technicoloured parrots to name but a few, abound the Kimberley region. A day spent with a ranger will introduce you to a number of these and a wide variety of other animals, birds and of course, even the chance of sighting a saltwater crocodile - man's least best friend in the North!

The advent of small affordable helicopters has opened the Kimberley up. A half hour scenic flight through canyons and gorges, past waterfalls, caves and galloping brumbies offers unrivalled sights to earthbound mortals. Travelling by helicopter in search of the elusive barramundi is visually enthralling enough in itself, before we tell you about the quantity and size of fish that inhabit these pristine waters, many of which have never been fished before. Barramundi season runs from March to May and then from late August through December, although other fish including mangrove jack, bream, threadfin salmon and catfish bite all year.

STATION TOWNSHIP BUNGALOWS The central hub of El Questro, with a swimming hole, restaurant and bar plus a number of stylish bungalows.12 Bungalows with queen size bed and trundle bed (2 singles). All have ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, shared laundry, towels, tea and coffee making facilities and are serviced daily. Most have river views, some with private balcony and interconnecting access. Four Bungalows are built from stone, these Original Bungalows all have large bathrooms and two can sleep up to six guests. Perfect for families and fishing groups. Maps and trail data sheets available.

EMMA GORGE RESORT Nestled underneath the towering escarpment of the Cockburn Range, Emma Gorge Resort offers accommodation in ensuited tented cabins, plus a shaded pool area and restaurant, all within walking distance from the beautiful Emma Gorge. Modern bathroom block, laundry, quality linen, towels, electricity, fans, power points, contemporary cuisine at licensed restaurant with retractable roof for star-gazing at dinner, open air verandah bar, swimming pool, sundries shop and tour desk. Maps and trail data sheets available.

THE HOMESTEAD An exclusive luxury retreat on the edge of the Chamberlain River. Decorated with artifacts and antiques from Indonesia and tropical Australia, guests can take advantage of all-inclusive meals, drinks and activities. Choose between a selection of Homestead Suites.

HOW TO GET TO ELQ:

• Self drive - 4wd required
• Join a scheduled transfer from Kununurra. Please enquire for price.
• Light aircraft transfer from Kununurra. Please enquire for price.