Nestled in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory lies a hidden gem that offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and wildernessāBamurru Plains. This all-inclusive safari camp is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience that captivates your senses and redefines your understanding of adventure. Situated on the border of the World-Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, Bamurru Plains offers an exotic sanctuary that is rich in both wildlife and cultural heritage. Whether you’re an avid nature lover, a thrill-seeker, or someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this is a destination that promises an unforgettable journey.
Accommodation Experience: Where Luxury Meets Wilderness
When it comes to Bamurru Plains accommodation, the phrase “sleeping under the stars” takes on a whole new meaning. The camp offers twelve safari-style bungalows and retreats, each designed to provide an intimate and immersive experience with nature.
Safari-Style Bungalows
Imagine waking up to the sounds of the Australian bush, as agile wallabies and buffalo move in silhouette against the morning sky. The bungalows feature three walls of mesh screen from ceiling to floor, allowing you to feel at one with your surroundings, even as you lie in bed. It’s not just accommodation; it’s an experience that brings you closer to the heart of the Australian wilderness.
Private Retreats
For those seeking a more secluded experience, Bamurru Plains offers two larger safari private retreats: the Kingfisher Suite and the Jabiru Retreat. These retreats offer additional amenities and privacy, making them perfect for couples, families, or groups looking for a more personalized experience.
Amenities and Comfort
While the focus is on connecting with nature, comfort is not compromised. Each accommodation space is equipped with rustic yet luxurious amenities, including chef-prepared meals paired with Australian wines. The attentive service ensures that your stay is as comfortable as it is adventurous.
Sustainability
In line with its commitment to eco-friendly tourism, Bamurru Plains has a small footprint. The camp is off-grid, relying on sustainable practices to minimize its impact on the environment.
Wildlife and Nature: An Untamed Symphony
One of the most compelling reasons to visit Bamurru Plains is the opportunity to experience Australia’s unique flora and fauna in their natural habitat. The camp is situated on 300 square kilometers of floodplains and savanna woodland, offering a rich tapestry of biodiversity.
Guided Safari Experiences
Your stay at Bamurru Plains includes guided safari experiences tailored to capture the seasonal variety and number of wildlife that inhabit the area. Whether it’s an on-water safari through the floodplains or an open-air drive through the savannah woodlands, each experience is designed to be both educational and awe-inspiring.
Birds and Wildlife
From the iconic saltwater crocodile to the elusive wallaby, the area is teeming with wildlife. Bird enthusiasts will be particularly thrilled, as the region is home to some of Australia’s most spectacular and diverse bird species. The guided tours offer interpretative insights into the unique flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of this complex ecosystem.
The Sounds of Nature
As night falls, the floodplains come alive with a different kind of musicāthe chorus of the Australian bush. It’s a symphony of sounds, from the croaking of frogs to the distant howls of dingoes, that lulls you to sleep and reminds you of the untamed beauty that surrounds you.
Seasonal Changes
The experience at Bamurru Plains is ever-changing, influenced by the seasons. Whether it’s the migration of birds or the blooming of native plants, each visit offers something new and exciting to discover.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
At Bamurru Plains, the dining experience is as much a part of the adventure as the safaris and nature walks. The camp’s culinary offerings are designed to tantalize your taste buds while introducing you to the flavors of the Australian outback.
Chef-Prepared Meals
Headed by Chef Matthias Beer, the culinary team at Bamurru Plains takes pride in crafting meals that are both delicious and representative of the local cuisine. From succulent seafood to hearty bush tucker, each dish is a culinary journey in itself.
Australian Wines
What’s a good meal without the perfect wine to accompany it? The camp offers a selection of fine Australian wines, carefully chosen to complement the flavors of each dish. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual wine drinker, you’re sure to find something that delights your palate.
Dining Settings
The dining experience is not just about the food; it’s also about the atmosphere. Meals are often served in a variety of settings, from intimate dinners under the stars to communal feasts around a roaring campfire. Each setting offers a unique ambiance that enhances the overall dining experience.
Special Dietary Requirements
Understanding that every guest is different, Bamurru Plains is more than happy to accommodate special dietary requirements. Simply let them know in advance, and they’ll tailor the menu to meet your needs.
Activities and Experiences: More Than Just a Stay
Bamurru Plains is not just a place to sleep; it’s a place to live, explore, and discover. The camp offers a range of activities designed to immerse guests in the magic of the Australian tropical outback.
Nature Walks
Guided nature walks are a fantastic way to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna. Led by skilled field guides, these walks offer interpretative insights into the ecosystem, making it an educational experience as much as it is a recreational one.
Fishing Adventures
For those who love angling, Bamurru Plains offers fishing adventures that are both exciting and rewarding. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a complete novice, the guides will help you find the best spots and even share some local fishing secrets.
Cultural Experiences
The camp also provides opportunities for cultural immersion. Learn about the deep history and traditions of the Mary River, Kakadu, and Arnhem Land Aboriginal Communities through storytelling sessions, art workshops, and more.
Star Gazing
Don’t forget to look up when the sun goes down. The absence of city lights makes Bamurru Plains an excellent location for stargazing. Whether you’re spotting constellations or simply enjoying the celestial show, it’s a magical experience that rounds off your day perfectly.
Customized Experiences
If you have a specific interest or activity in mind, the team at Bamurru Plains is more than happy to customize an experience just for you. From photography safaris to private boat tours, the possibilities are endless.
Guest Reviews and Testimonials: Hear It from Those Who’ve Been There
There’s no better way to gauge the quality of an experience than to hear from those who have lived it. Here are some testimonials from guests who have had the pleasure of staying at Bamurru Plains.
“A Journey Like No Other”
“The scenery and wildlife are like nothing I’ve seen in Australia before, and I loved being in such a remote location. The staff are great, very knowledgeable and passionate about their surroundings, which makes your trip even more special.” – Emily, Sydney
“Beyond Expectations”
“We sat in the heart of outback Australia on a lily pond, surrounded by Melaleuca trees, silence, and wondrous isolation from the world. Exceeded our high expectations.” – Mark and Lisa, Melbourne
“An Australian Safari”
“Bamurru was FAB, a similar setup to an African safari lodge. Very knowledgeable, professional guides with the Aussie sense of humor, wonderful bird life, and comfortable accommodation with good food.” – Sarah, Brisbane
“A True Wilderness Experience”
“The field guides really made the experience and brought everything to life. From the guided safaris to the culinary delights, everything was top-notch.” – Karen, Adelaide
These reviews not only attest to the exceptional quality of the Bamurru Plains camping experience but also highlight the diverse range of activities and comforts that await you.
Amenities
- Safari Bungalows: Accommodation options include Safari Bungalow, Kingfisher Suite, or Jabiru Retreat.
- Meals: All meals are prepared by an on-site Head Chef and culinary team.
- Beverages: Unlimited beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits.
- Guided Safaris: Daily guided Wild Bush Luxury safari programs are available.
- Activity Program: A varied activity program is curated daily.
- No Wi-Fi: Intentional disconnection from the digital world for a more immersive experience.
- Emergency Contact: Land-line numbers are provided for emergencies.
- Air Conditioning: Available in three bungalows upon request and at an additional cost.
- Swimming Pool: An outdoor pool at the main lodge and a sole-use pool for Jabiru Retreat guests.
- Mosquito Control: Insect repellent is provided in rooms.
- Bathrobes: For added comfort during your stay.
- Pillow Menu: Guests can choose from soft, medium, or hard pillows.
- Ceiling Fans: Installed in all rooms.
- Ensuite Bathrooms: High-pressure hot showers are available.
- Filtered Drinking Water: Provided in rooms.
- No Laundry Service: Intentional to maintain the wilderness experience.
- Solar Power: The majority of the camp’s power is solar-generated.
- No Pets Allowed: To maintain the natural ecosystem.
Activities
- Airboat Safaris: Experience the floodplains from an airboat, offering a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife.
- River Cruises: Take a river cruise to spot saltwater crocodiles and other aquatic life.
- 4WD Safaris: Explore the savannah woodlands in an open 4WD vehicle, guided by expert field guides.
- Nature Walks: Guided walks through the bush, offering educational insights into the local flora and fauna.
- Birdwatching: With a diverse range of bird species, birdwatching is a popular activity.
- Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the local waterways, guided by experts.
- Stargazing: The absence of city lights offers a fantastic opportunity for stargazing.
- Cultural Experiences: Learn about the local Aboriginal communities through storytelling and art workshops.
- Photography Safaris: Capture the beauty of the landscape and wildlife through your lens.
- Private Boat Tours: Enjoy a more intimate experience with private boat tours available upon request.
Bamurru Plains is more than just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of Australia’s untamed wilderness. From the moment you embark on your trip from Darwin to Bamurru Plains, you’re in for an experience that transcends the ordinary. With its unique blend of luxury and adventure, Bamurru Plains offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone looking to escape the daily grind, this is a place where memories are made, and adventures are waiting to be discovered.
As at the time of publishing the rates are as below:
2023 Rates
- Shoulder Season (September, October 2023 / March 2024)
- Twin share, per night: $2,580
- Single occupancy: $1,935
- Peak Season (July, August 2023)
- Twin share, per night: $2,900
- Single occupancy: $2,175
2024 Rates
- Low Season (September, October 2024 / March 2025)
- Twin share, per night: $2,425
- Shoulder Season (April, May 2024)
- Twin share, per night: $2,795
- Peak Season (June, July, and August 2024)
- Twin share, per night: $3,195
Note: A minimum two-night booking applies. Swag bedding for children aged 8-17 years can be arranged upon booking, at $525 per swag. One swag per bungalow only.
Booking and Contact
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: Bamurru Plains Official Website
Special Offers
- Early Bird Discounts: Save 20% off all Wild Bush Luxury experiences for bookings in 2024.