Bamurru Plains

Inspired by the luxury camps of Africa, this 13 room exclusive lodge offers a prolific wildlife experience with exclusive access to a spectacular 300km² property. Located on the coastal floodplains of the Mary River close to Kakadu National Park, Bamurru’s emphasis is on exposing you to one of the most significant ecosystems in Australia. The very design of the ten safari bungalows allows you to watch the parade of wildlife emerge to feed on the floodplain from the comfort of your bed! The alarm clock in the morning is the call of Magpie Geese and Whistling Kites and the orange light of dawn spreading across the floodplain. The décor reflects the region's earlier indigenous, hunting and pastoral history, with buffalo horns, explorer's maps, Aboriginal art work and fish traps providing guests with a sense of the human heritage of the area. The focus in the rooms is on a supremely comfortable bed (quality mattress and linen with a pillow menu) and a spacious ensuite bathroom with high pressure showers. Each room has a cold water thermos, local flora and fauna reading materials, species lists and binoculars.

An extensive experience program explores the surrounding country away from the lodge, with airboat trips on the wetlands, river cruises in search of crocodiles, bird watching, astronomy evenings, bush drives, quad bike safaris and guided wilderness walks, while ancient rock art and indigenous culture are an easy optional day trip out into Kakadu. ‘The Hide’ provides a secluded way to experience the beauty of Bamurru Plains with the option of a private picnic lunch from six metres high in the treetops. Although accessible by road from Darwin in just three hours, Bamurru is best reached via a scenic charter flight from Darwin over the twists and turns of the Adelaide River. Those black dots you thought were pandanus trees are actually moving buffalo (or crocodiles if you’re lucky!).