Fantastic family holiday in Kakadu
We are a family of five (kids aged four, six and nine) and were looking for a great way to see Kakadu. Charter North really provided an amazing experience. The six day private tour was exceptional and included all of the major sites in Kakadu along with a boat ride on Katherine gorge and a day in Litchfield national park. Our guide Sean was superb and extremely knowledgeable about the area. The variety of delicious meals he could prepare in a camp oven was astounding. He also managed to make two birthday cakes in two days, had great chat and can play guitar like a pro! Highlights were swimming in the rock pools at Jim-Jim falls, Maguk falls and Gunlom falls, seeing the rock art at Ubirr rock and seeing crocodiles on the wetlands tour. Our four year old thinks licking green ants butts was the best part (surprisingly flavoursome). We have enough photos for two albums (a waterproof camera or a Go-Pro would have been handy). The only unfortunate part was going home to work.Travelled on private 6 Day Kakadu & Beyond Tour in July 2019.Mark B. & family- Australia
Charter North - The only way to see the Kimberley!!
We spent about 13 days with Greig of Charter North exploring Karijini National Park, The Kimberley and the Bungle Bungles (Purnululu) taking the camping option, sleeping in tents and swags. What a wonderful holiday he created for us. Greig is an excellent professional guide, safe driver and he cooked healthy meals. Hw was also a good 'campfire singer' - move over Guy Sebastian. Travelling with Greig through this amazing part of Australia was very enjoyable. He made it a real adventure for 'city slickers' like us with campfires, bush camps, staying on outback stations, star gazing, and camping on an island in Lake Argyle. The campsites were well located, mostly having showers and non stinky toilets or a river to swim in if no shower existed. We wanted to truly experience the remoteness and beauty of the Kimberley and Greig delivered in spades. Thanks Greig and Charter North for delivering a truly memorable holiday. Many thanks Phil and Liz. Travelled on private 16 Day Karijini & Kimberley Charter in June 2019.Liz & Phil- Sydney
THE MOST AMAZING TRIP WITH A WONDERFUL GUIDE AND EQUALLY WONDERFUL COMPANIONS. I CAN HIGHLY RECOMMEND BOOKING THIS TRIP!
Wow! My husband and I recently went on the 9 day camping trip from Broome to Darwin. We were not sure what to expect, but with all the information provided by Alina and Greig, we felt very well informed. From the very beginning of the trip we knew we would all get on very well. The other 2 couples from Hobart, our super guide GT plus ourselves all had a great sense of humour, adventure and comradeship - a great combination while travelling the great expanse of the Kimberley. The scenery & experiences during our trip through the Kimberley was fantastic, breathtaking and unique The swimming holes, the views, the treks, the night skies with all those amazing stars (still need to download that app Garry :)), and of course the daily sunrises and sunsets. Our camps each night were like a well oiled machine. While everyone put up their tents for the night, "master chef GT" would cook our sumptuous meals on the camp fire. We ate extremely well thanks to GT's mastery on the open fire. GT provided very entertaining commentary during the entire journey and had an extensive knowledge of the history, geology, flora & fauna of all areas we visited and continued to amaze all of us with the dates, names, facts & figures he has in his head. I can't highlight enough the exceptional way Charter North conduct their business. From the very first communication, we were made to feel welcome and Alina would answer any questions we would put to her with very speedy responses. We had the best time and wish we were still up their travelling and seeing the great expanse of our wonderful country. Well done GT and Alina 🙂
Travelled on 9 Day mixed group Kimberley Tour in May 2019.Ian & Didge- Newcastle, Australia
9 Day Kimberley Tour Broome to Darwin
What a fantastic trip! Great time of year to go as not too many travellers in the early dry season. 6 of us embarked on a wonderful trip with GT seeing the vast and amazing land of the Kimberley - landscapes that went on forever, sunrises, sunsets, night skies, rocks, red earth, boab trees, rock gorges, swimming holes and much more. GT was a great guide - fun, knowleadgeable, organised, great camp cook and passionate about the Kimberly. We always felt safe no matter the state of the track or the remoteness of the bush camps. Camping was easy, the 4WD comfortable and our fellow travellers congenial. All contact with Charter North prior to the trip was easy, informative and prompt. All round a great experience - thank you Greig and Alina for making one of my bucket list trips very memorable. Travelled on 9 Day mixed group Kimberley Tour in May 2019.Judy M.- Hobart
Love the Kimberley!
My wife and I have just spent a sensational 10 days with Greig in the Kimberley. Our journey started in Broome and after 2,831 KMs we made it to Darwin. We went via the Gibb River Road with several detours along the way. Our driver/guide/host, Greig, we just great. Apart from conveying us safely Greig told many stories and showed us many sights. His knowledge (22 years of guiding) was invaluable and we both appreciated it. Evening camp fires were another time for story telling/learning about the Kimberly. Greig is also a sensational cook and we never went hungry. Greig also does a mean morning coffee which helps get the early morning starts underway. Our 4WD vehicle was very comfortable. Great suspension and air conditioned, although it wasn’t that hot. Being isolated (no mobile communications) from the day-to-day life was valued and it allowed us to connect with the Kimberley environment and our fellow travellers. We enjoyed the hikes and swims. The swims allowed some of the Kimberley red earth to be removed. And so much more. It was just brilliant. Travelled on mixed group Kimberley Tour in May 2o19.Garry R.- Hobart, Australia
14 Day Kimberley Adventure
My wife has always wanted to visit the Kimberley, but we are retired and whilst we had been to Australia before, we had never been to the top end. We did not have so many firm ideas, but we knew that we wanted to see the real rural outback, and we knew that we did not have knowledge to plan it ourselves, we needed local expertise. I e-mailed a couple of UK travel companies, and got no response. I contacted Charter North and got an immediate and very comprehensive reply. Right from the first contact we got good responses and lots of ideas, accommodating our thoughts and needs. We were planning our trip for almost a year, and during this time my wife had some health issues. We talked to Greig and Alina and made adjustments to the plan to cope with our limitations. The trip was excellent in every way, the journeys, the route, the scenery, the accommodation (we did mainly accomodated but some camping as well, the food. All this with great local knowledge and a sense of humour. We can't say anything other the excellent to the whole experience from planning to delivery. Travelled on 14 Day accommodated Kimberley Tour in May 2019.Tim & Denny A.- UK
Kakadu 4 day private tour
We have recently finished a 4 day Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks Tour with Charter North. Alina was very helpful from the beginning answering all my queries and then planning a tour to suit us. Sean was our wonderful guide who showed us the parks major sights and was a wealth of knowledge of the area. We certainly learned a lot along the way. The food was really good especially the barramundi Sean cooked on the first night. We stayed in cabins at Anbilik in Jabiru and Mount Bundy Station. Both were good. We even got to hear Sean sing and play guitar around the campfire at Mount Bundy Station which added to our whole experience. We highly recommend Charter North to see the Top End.
Travelled on private 4 Day Kakadu & Litchfield Tour in May 2019.Angela D.- Australia
What an amazing adventure!
With visiting friends from overseas, we decided choose charter North for their expertise and flexible itinerary. From the beginning, Greig was professional and knowledgeable of the areas we visited, Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield National Park. He catered to our every need and abilities. We enjoyed the food he made for us everyday, we didn’t go hungry! A huge thank you to Charter North for a fantastic, memorable adventure... I look forward to our next trip with them, Kimberley is next!!!! Travelled on 6 Day Kakadu & Beyond Tour in April 2019.Robert B.- Sydney
Wonderful Private CamperVan Safari with GT
Our trip to the outback of Darwin with GT was great. He taught us a lot about the environment and nature. He took us to great waterfalls and given the season (April) at some we were on our own. GT is a great campfire cook. The meals were delicious and so all breakfast and lunches with a great variety. Our sons loved helping out getting the wood and lighting the fire. GT is not only very service minded, he was great with our kids (10 and 11 years old). GT's knowledge of the parks comes in handy as he is able to change plans while on tour depending on your needs and wants or weather circumstances. A must do if you consider going to Darwin.
Travelled on 4 Day Kakadu & Litchfield Tour in April 2019.Ruben, Anuschka, Damian & Maxim- Singapore
Unforgettable adventure in the land of fire and flood
Pre dawn, Day 6…..there is a familiar rustling sound in the semi darkness. 5 days ago we might have suspected an inquisitive wallaby had wandered into camp. Now we recognise the sound of our guide, GT, quietly taking down his tent, rolling up his swag and making first preparations for breakfast. That means lighting the campfire. We’ve grown to love this time, just before sunrise. It is cool and peaceful. It is October, so the Kimberley is getting hot. We fell asleep on top of sleeping bags but now lie underneath them. Last night the sky was filled with activity. Venus, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn and Mars were all visible, in a vertical line, starting at the horizon. Aquarius, Pisces and the incomparable Scorpio were also seen. We are lucky. The crescent moon started our trip as just a sliver, and so after 6 days remains no impediment to star gazing. But now the earth has turned away from the part of the sky that last night held these planets and constellations….(please, attend Greg Quicke’s stargazing presentation in Broome to learn more about this wonderful terminology)…new stars are faintly visible in the lightening sky, but we will soon face the part of the sky that contains our sun. GT has set up the camp so that we will be shaded from the early morning rays. I’m especially excited this morning, as last night I donated a valuable can of beer to the production of dough….and this morning we will devour the damper that GT is baking on the open fire. Breakfast has been a highlight on this trip, we’ve had eggs, pancakes, cereals, honey and yogurt, fire cooked toast and wonderful fresh coffee. There’s an easy pace to life on the trip. An early start each day is followed by a hike, a swim in a dazzling waterhole or a wildlife excursion. We look to travel in the heat of the day. The Land Cruiser is very comfortable. The girls, aged 7, 9 and 11 have space in the back and can enjoy the views, play games or read books. GT knows the history, landscape and wildlife of the region and has the stories to bring it to life. We might talk for an hour, then spend the next in quiet contemplation. We stop for lunch, have an afternoon excursion and set up camp, which means a beer and cards around the campfire whilst GT makes dinner. The Gibb River Road is an adventurous drive, a harsh road in harsh conditions. We feel very safe with our guide, who has decades of experience in the region and is his own mechanic. On a particularly rough stretch of road, a ruined ‘shocker’ on the trailer is quickly replaced whilst the family tuck into ham sandwiches by the side of the road. GT explains to us that the Kimberley is a land of fire and flood. The haze on the horizon is testament to the wildfires that are a part of life here. The rains will come in the next month, turning the parched landscape green. The wildlife is varied. We’ve been introduced to Wallabies, Rock Kangaroos, freshwater crocodiles, (no salties outside of the wildlife sanctuary) native bees, flying foxes, bats, ‘screeching’ corellas, freshwater crustaceans, fish who use their mouth as a water pistol and even a nosy Bandicoot. After 8 nights out, we set eyes upon the impeccable white sands of Broome and the adventure is over. 4 days at the beach makes for a wonderful finale to the holiday. I won’t rehash a lot of what has been said in other reviews, other than to confirm that our experience matched the most positive of those you can read there. The communication and preparation pre arrival was excellent. GT was very flexible with our activities and he understood what we liked to do and what conditions allowed. You can swim in the gigantic Lake Argyle, you will visit the edge of a giant desert and travel one of the world’s great off road tracks. You will learn about mountain ranges that are millions of years in the making, and observe a night sky that is aged in the billions of years. It is a trip we are thrilled to have taken. Now, if they will just sort out regular direct flights from Singapore, we can visit more frequently. Travelled on private 9 Day Kimberley Tour with Camper Trailer in October 2018.Summerbell Family- Singapore
Great Family Trip!
We recently finished a 4 day Kakadu/Litchfield vacation with our two teenager grand children (16 and 15) . My wife and I are both 65 and wanted to share a memorable holiday with our grand children, but really did not have the capability to take on Kakadu... hence we wanted the experience without the worry of organising etc. Greig was outstanding, from the time he picked us up in Darwin until the time he dropped us back. He listened to our requirements, helped shape the itinerary and then ensured we made it through each day... He had a great depth of knowledge, whether it was the vegetation, wildlife, indigenous art or just 4wd .... he did not push, but responded to our questions. We appreciated the healthy meals and enjoyed new season mangoes. His twenty years experience in the top end really came through. Apart from being a competent guide, he displayed a genuine interest in the teenagers and what they were doing etc... and helped them thoroughly enjoy their time. We could not have asked for more. Travelled on private, accommodated Kakadu & Litchfield Tour in October 2018.Kerry, Philip, Gaia & Hugo- Australia
Kakadu 3 days/2 nights private tour
We have been on many holidays and this one would have to count as one of the most memorable. We are a family of four (children ages 11 and 9) and only had limited time to spend in Kakadu. We gave Grieg a list of bucket list items that we wanted to tick off while in Kakadu and he fulfilled each of them with expert knowledge and professionalism. If you want a holiday that allows you to really connect with your loved ones against a backdrop of some of the world's most diverse and beautiful landscapes and habitats, hike to the most stunning swimming holes, learn about ancient rock art and Australia's indigenous culture, all while not having to lift a finger in terms of camping preparation, cooking, navigation and driving, then Charter North is for you. Greig was driver, navigator, tour guide, camp host, chef, and fireside story teller all in one and he worked from 6am in the morning til well after we had all gone to bed at night to make sure our experience was as rewarding and comfortable as is possible in the harsh climates of the Australian outback. The hikes he took us on were a particular highlight as we would never have been able to locate these incredible locations without him. I would have no hesitation in recommending Charter North to family and friends.
Travelled on private 3 Day Kakadu family camping Tour in October 2018.Sarah,Charles, Will & Anna- Australia
Kimberley 9 day camping tour
Travelled on mixed group 9 Day Kimberley Tour in September 2018.I'm born and raised in Australia but have never explored the top end so i was looking for some personalised, detailed local knowledge to ensure I saw more than the average tourist. Greig & Alina supplied a seamless, fun, educational and active experience. Meeting the locals in each area was important to me and Greig knows them all. The camp sites were fantastic, meals fantastic, hikes and swims also fantastic! Thanks Guys, (K)arl.
Karl- Australia
9 day Broome - Darwin Camping Tour
Travelled on mixed group 9 Day Kimberley Tour in September 2018.Thanks to Alina and GT for a organising a fantastic introduction to the Kimberley. Although a mixed group, GT managed to integrate into the programme a nice balance of hiking, swimming and culture. The campfire meals were delicious and the nights under the Kimberley sky magical. We particularly appreciated being guided to front row seats for some of the most spectacular views the Kimberley has to offer - often with no one else around! Truly an amazing experience.
Jian Wen & Catherine- Singapore
9 Day Broome to Darwin Camping Tour
Guided by Grieg our experience met and surpassed all expectations, taking in a huge itinerary in a perfect blend of hikes, swims, visits to rock art sites, galleries and world heritage sites. The comfortable vehicle carefully and competently piloted by Grieg got us through the Gibb River Rd where others came to grief! Greig’s detailed knowledge of the route extended to a list of hidden campsites where we could enjoy the incredible night sky in privacy and comfort. By the time we set up our tents and rolled out our swags the multi-talented Grieg would have the campfire blazing and another gourmet meal under preparation. It’s hard to pick winners on this trip when it includes so much like the sunset trip (and champagne fuelled swim) on Lake Argyle and a memorable visit to the Bungle Bungles. Thanks Alina and Grieg!
Travelled on mixed group 9 Day Kimberley Tour in September 2018.Sue & Carl- Australia
Unique Kimberley experience with a true Aussie legend!
Charter North organised a remarkable 9 day trip on the Gibb River Road from Darwin to Broome for our family group of six adults and six children aged from 6 to 13.
GT (Greig) was our guide, organiser, chef, raconteur and chief tyre change adviser / observer. He arranged a trip that ensured that we not only saw all of the must-see sights of the Kimberley (Bungle Bungles, Lake Argyle, Emma Gorge, Bell Gorge, Manning Gorge and Windjana Gorge) but also covered some unique experiences such as sunset at our campsite looking over the Cockburn Range or swimming in deserted river gorges, watched only by rock wallabies and, perhaps, a freshie or two. His knowledge of the area is remarkable and makes for a richer understanding of the landscape and the characters that inhabit it. Even on a long stretch of dirt road, there is always a funny story from his years of guiding that will come out! To be able to take a group of city slickers and show them a true Australian 4WD camping experience is a real skill and GT has all the experience necessary to make it happen. All we needed to do was turn up in Darwin and it was all taken care of. Sitting around the campfire each night with the whole family was something to be treasured, particularly after GT had created another wonderful meal over the fire! All in all, a unique experience and one to be recommended to anyone looking to see the real Kimberley from a swag under the stars, without the stress of trying to organise it all yourself.Travelled on private 9 Day Kimberley Tour in July 2018.Story Family- Australia
Fantastic experience - highly recommend!
We recently returned from a 6 night 7 day guided trip from Darwin through Kakadu to Katherine, finishing in Litchfield National Park before heading back to Darwin. It was a family trip - 2 adults and 2 kids (12 and 10) and it was fantastic in every respect. Greig and Alina were very professional in organising the trip for us and every detail was covered. Our guide Daniel (Dan) was superb - knowledgeable, organised, good fun and a fabulous cook!! Dan really got the measure of our capabilities and interests early in the trip and organised the daily intinerary accordingly. We had such a variety of fabulous experiences - swimming at Jim Jim Falls; a challenging but super rewarding trek to the top of Jim Jim; lots of croc spotting (including a stuffed one), viewing amazing rock art at Ubirr and Nourlangie; seeing the wonderful bird life on the Yellow River cruise; swimming in more waterfalls than we thought possible including the gorgeous Maguk and learning so much from Dan and others about indigenous history, culture and custom (plus the odd campsite Jenga showdown!). It was a truly fantastic trip - so many great family memories created. We can't rate Dan highly enough - his experience and good nature meant we always felt we were in good hands and just made the trip so enjoyable and fun (plus he laughed at a lot of our jokes!). Thanks so much. Chris (aka Luddy), Emma, Lucy and Alice.
Travelled on 7 Day Kakadu & Beyond Tour in July 2018.Schulz family- Australia
Kimberley and Kakadu Safari Trip
We had a fabulous 13 day camping trip with GT. He is very experienced and yet extremely passionate and knowledgeable about the environment, plants, animals, bird life and the indigenous people of this area. GT is a great guide who made our group feel incredibly relaxed to enjoy this amazing landscape. Nothing is too much for GT and we would highly recommend him and love to travel with him again.
Travelled on 13 Day Kakadu & Kimberley Tour in July/ August 2018.Susan R., Australia
A camping adventure with two young girls
Travelled on 4 Day Kakadu & Litchfield Tour in August 2018.We booked this trip with Charter North, the whole booking experience was very easy and Alina was most accommodating indeed. We were met at our Hotel in Darwin by Dan our guide for the 4 days. Dan was a super host, he interacted with us all and the kids enjoyed their time with him, swimming, cooking, toasting marshmallows and just general outdoor fun. Dan made the trip for us all, he was knowledgeable and most personable. Kakadu is a special place and well worth a visit. We enjoyed it so much I spoke to a friend today about it and he is going to book a similar trip himself. Making memories is good and we made a lot on this trip. Highly recommend.
Lyn & Garry, UK
Memorable Trip!
Better than we could have imagined! Spending what we thought would be 6 days traveling with a complete stranger, turned into one of our best holidays we've had! Dan, our personal guide, was a sensational guy, he knew every inch of the Top End, was incredibly knowledgeable of the flora and fauna and had a fantastic sense of humor. Not only was he friendly, he was hard working, patient, super organized, efficient and had very creative cooking skills. We learnt quickly he was very well known in the area and well regarded. Dan's planning was immaculate and we were always ahead of the big tour groups. I highly recommend Charter North for an unforgettable experience. Thanks Charter North, and thank you especially Dan!
Travelled on accommodated 6 Day Kakadu & Beyond Tour in July 2018.Sterley family- Singapore
