Arnhem Land

Arnhem Land, one of Australia’s wildest and most sacred areas, lies at the lush northern tip of the continent. It was declared an Aboriginal Reserve in 1931 and remains a place of strong tradition with a distinctive culture and famous artwork, while also staying largely untouched by European colonization.
The beautiful landscapes provided by the area’s diverse ecosystems include rugged coastlines, rivers, remote islands, a rainforest, woodlands and bluffs. Arnhem Land is home to both saltwater crocodiles and gentle dugongs, for which this area works as an important conversation habitat.
Visitors drawn to Arnhem Land for its culture won’t be disappointed. Gunbalanya (also known as Oenpelli) is home to the Injalak Art and Craft Centre, where artists work and their wares are available for purchase. Tours often take travelers into the nearby bush to learn about the Aboriginal rock art, Dreamtime myths and bush tucker, the foods native to Australia.

Practical Info

The best time to visit Arnhem Land is during dry season, from April through September. During the intense wet season, many parts of the park are closed. Accommodations within Arnhem Land are scarce, though not impossible to secure. An organized tour with a registered guide may be the best option for exploring, as Arnhem Land holds extensive cultural significance to the local people. A permit from the Northern Cand Council may be required to visit.The area is bordered by Kakadu National Park to the south and the Gulf of Carpentaria to the north.