An indigenous immersion: Arcadia unveils new Australian expedition

Arcadia Expeditions has announced the release of its latest expedition – ‘Indigenous Immersion: The Art of Storytelling’, a 15-day air safari travelling to rarely-visited parts of the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Led by Professor Jo McDonald, one of Australia’s most distinguished rock art experts and a specialist in Indigenous archaeology, this unique expedition explores the painted landscapes of Australia’s remote north. Staying at the region’s most luxurious camps and lodges, throughout this immersive journey guests spend time with Indigenous custodians, meeting Indigenous guides, elders and artists, hearing their stories and looking at the history and culture of Aboriginal Australia through their eyes.

Highlights include exploring some of Australia’s most remote locations by private plane, including Groote Eylandt, Arnhem Land and a flight on the Paspaley Pearling’s meticulously restored Mallard flying boat to the Kimberley Coast. A wealth of activities give clients the chance to immerse themselves in Aboriginal culture including Indigenous-led bush tucker walks and river cruises. Insider access to the most unforgettable and thought-provoking local experiences have been curated exclusively by Arcadia for their guests. This includes a behind the scenes visit to Darwin’s Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory with the museum’s curator and visiting the remote Aboriginal communities of Maningrida and Elcho Island, where clients meet with local artists to learn more about their craft and how rock art and Dreaming stories inspire their work.

Arcadia Expeditions co-founder, David Adams says this expedition is ideal for those wanting to learn more about Australia’s rich indigenous culture and traditions. “Aboriginal Australians remain one of the most misunderstood Indigenous populations in the world. This expedition is aimed at people who are curious to learn about the complexity and spiritual depth of Indigenous Australia and discover more about this remarkable culture.”

Adams adds: “The history of Australia is not written in books, it’s painted and etched on rock shelters and caves. With Jo McDonald, one of Australia’s most accomplished rock art experts acting as our storyteller, and numerous meetings with Indigenous custodians, the rock art we will see and interpret offers us a window into the past and enrich our understanding of the continent and its ancient peoples.”

This 15-Day expedition travels exclusively by private aircraft and is available for private departures only with a flexible range of dates available in 2021 and 2022.