Australia Northern Territory Arnhemland Mt Borradaile

Davidson's Arnhemland Safari

SUPPLIER NOTE

Supplier info
Davidson’s Arnhemland Safari Lodge is located on an exclusive lease of 700km² of pristine wilderness in northwest Arnhemland.
Nestled against the Arnhemland escarpment is this landscape of rugged ranges fringed by idyllic billabongs. Be immersed in unique ecosystems teeming with birdlife, crocodiles and barramundi amongst a cornucopia of bush food and medicine plants. Valleys, overhangs and caves carved out by an ancient sea, have been occupied by aboriginal people for over 50,000 years with world class galleries of rock art, occupation and burial sites.
A significant section of this property is a registered sacred site. Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris has permission from the traditional owners to take guests through these sacred areas, a unique opportunity in Australia.

What you can do at Mt Borradaile
The friendly lodge guides and staff would love to show you this magnificent area, with so much to do and see we can keep you entertained for days no matter your specific interests. Within a half hour drive from the lodge at Mount Borradaile you can:
• Visit rock shelters with stunning rock art that spans thousands of years that give you insights into the aboriginal way of life from this region
• Walk through savannah woodland, the local supermarket and find plenty of local bush tucker
• Take a boat trip through the many water channels and the open floodplain to see some of the 275 bird species found in the region
• Try your hand at barramundi fishing in the pristine Cooper Creek, the wet season waterfall is fantastic
• Take a dip in the pristine natural swimming hole (seasonal) or relax poolside back at the lodge
• Walk through the incredible catacombs that hold artefacts, signs of recent occupation and ancient mortuary rites
• Spend a late afternoon on the billabong observing the wildlife including the many crocodiles that inhabit the watercourses, finish up with a glass of wine and nibbles as the sun sets over the floodplain
• Walk up one of the many escarpments to find spectacular stone arrangements and art filled occupation sites
Usually we have your first tour pre planned, a short walk to see our famous Rainbow Serpent, where you will start to learn about the local rock art, the geology of the area and some of the local bush tucker and medicine that you walk past.
After this initial tour, we haven’t planned your itinerary; we would like to discover your interests and then plan each day accordingly. We want you to get the most out of your stay at Mt Borradaile. So as not to delay the commencement of your first tour we do ask that you arrive at the lodge dressed in suitable attire for the tour. For the same reasons as above please ensure that you have had breakfast prior to arrival.
Guests normally stay at the lodge for 3‐4 days, giving them enough time to see and enjoy the various different ecosystems, a variety of rock art styles and plenty of wildlife.
Please note that a 2 nights minimum stay does apply at Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris.

Where you are staying
The main common area has a friendly atmosphere with communal dining, full bar facilities and a comfortable lounge area with extensive library. We have a delightful menu planned for your stay and are able to cater for dietary requirements (Please advise us of any when booking your stay).
The lodge has an extensive wine cellar and a large range of beers, soft drinks and spirits for purchase at the bar. PLEASE NOTE: Guests are not permitted to bring any alcohol into the lodge due to the current alcohol restrictions on Aboriginal land in the Northern Territory.
The outdoor decking around the pool is a fantastic place to relax and cool off all year round, while the natural swimming hole in the escarpment is safe to swim and gorgeous from March to July.
Power and water: Due to our remote location all power (240V) is generated on site with a solar hybrid power system. We ask guests to be aware of their power consumption and can’t allow the use of hairdryers or irons.
The water at the lodge is sourced from a spring onsite, providing us with plenty of clean filtered drinking water.
At the lodge, guests are accommodated in comfortable ensuite cabins, with a deluxe option available. All cabins have ensuites, ceiling fans and large airy screens to best suit this tropical climate. Complimentary room servicing is available on request.

When to Travel
The Top End of NT has a tropical savannah climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Mt Borradaile opens for the beginning of March and operates through to mid‐November, showcasing all the seasons of the Top End for guests to experience.
Wet Season – March and April
This is the lush season of wildflowers and lots of water. During this time thunderstorms are common and afternoon humidity can reach 70%. This season is a secret gem, most tourists are scared off with inaccessibility and threats of stifling humidity, however with the mornings are pleasant and the afternoon storms relieve the humidity that builds, the freshness is delightful. Across the landscapes miniature waterfalls appear and the swimming holes are deep and crystal clear.
Runoff Season –April and May
This is the best time for fishing. The rivers are pumping, the water is still warm and the barramundi are biting. The storms and humidity are easing. We do however go fishing for barramundi all year round.
Dry Season – June to September
This is the most popular season for visiting the Top End. We experience our coolest months in June and July where the nightly minimum temperature may dip as low as 14°C. The days are warm and sunny averaging 32°C and afternoon humidity of around 30%. Usually no rain falls during these months. As the rivers slow down and the water cools, the wildlife becomes prolific on our floodplain and the crocodiles come up on the banks to sunbathe.
Build‐up Season – Mid‐September to November
The temperatures start to rise slowly at first. By October and November the daily temperatures can reach 3638°C and the humidity increases to 80%. This time of year, is the hottest and can be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to hot weather and humidity. The evenings often bring spectacular electrical storms as the build‐up develops.

What to Bring
Casual clothes, swimming costume, camera and spare batteries/charger, sensible walking shoes, hat, personal toiletries and a small day pack. We recommend a long sleeve shirt for sun protection if spending the day out on the billabong.
March to May‐ Pack wet shoes for creek crossings and general wet activities and a dry bag to keep your camera safe from the odd rain storm passing through.
May to September – You may wish to pack a light cardigan as the nights can get cool during these months. October – Be prepared for the heat.
Check in & check out times
Check IN: 2pm
Check OUT: 10am
Quoted air charter prices are subject to change. BKB Holidays will provide updated prices once booking is confirmed.