A simple & deeply authentic stay with basic comforts and limited internet - perfect for slowing down, disconnecting from the fast-paced world and fully immersing yourself in authentic local culture.
Trip Type
Women’s OnlyTwin Share
Maximum of two adultsSingle
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Rita is a weaver who loves to share her knowledge and traditions with guests. She is the wife of Timmy, who is the founder of Bawaka Aboriginal Corporation and Lirriwi Tourism and a traditional owner of the Bawaka homeland. Rita is also the daughter of Reverend Dr Djiniyini Gondarra OAM, a well-respected civil rights activist for her people. She has a history of working in health care, particularly in bush medicine and a Master's of Indigenous Knowledge from the Mawul Rom Project.
5 Days
12 Peoples
Moderate
Travel to Bawaka in East Arnhem Land for an intimate cultural experience guided entirely by Yolŋu custodians. Over several days, you will live alongside the Burarrwanga family on their ancestral saltwater Country, a place shaped by story, ceremony and connection for more than 60,000 years.
This women-only journey offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from Yolŋu elders, sharing in weaving, bush medicine, healing traditions, storytelling, and spend time in the women's space and Bawaka family. Here, knowledge is shared through relationship — gently, generously, and always under the guidance of those who carry Yolŋu law.
With limited phone reception and no modern distractions, each day unfolds in rhythm with Country, tides and family life. You are welcomed as a guest, held as part of the group and invited to learn through doing, listening and being present.
This is a powerful and unforgettable experience led by women, for women.
Disclaimer: Please be prepared to leave your watches and smartphones behind. The purpose of this tour is to experience the unstructured, less regimented rhythm of Yolŋu daily life. Nothing is fixed for a specific time or day. Activity timing depends on the family member leading your group. Flexibility is essential, as the itinerary is subject to change at any time. Some activities may not be possible due to weather conditions, or for cultural reasons.
There will be Yolŋu men present at the homeland. This is their home; it is where they live. However, most activities will be led by Yolŋu women.
This journey is hosted entirely by Yolŋu custodians and supports community-led programs that preserve cultural knowledge, women’s weaving practices, youth teaching on Country, and homeland sustainability. All experiences are shared with full permission; your visit supports families maintaining life on ancestral Country.
Women seeking a deeply authentic cultural experience centred on Yolŋu knowledge, connection to Country, women’s stories, and sharing time with Traditional Custodians. Ideal for mother-daughter getaways and for those seeking meaningful time together to connect on a deeper level.
Day 1
Welcome to Bawaka Homeland
Arrive on Country and be welcomed with a Bungul and smoking ceremony led by Yolŋu elders. Settle into your accommodation and join the family for cultural orientation, learning about kinship, Country, and the stories that shape life in this saltwater homeland. Gather around the fire at sunset for stories and songs shared by the women of the community.
Day 2
Learning from Yolŋu Women
Day 3
Deepening Connection on Country
Day 4
Yirrkala Art & Cultural Heritage
Day 5
Departure from East Arnhem Land
Is this tour women-only?
Yes - all departures for this itinerary are women-only.
How remote is Bawaka?
What level of physical fitness is needed?
Are facilities basic?
