Pedro and I were privileged to stay at Wildman Wilderness Lodge and experience the Northern Territory (NT) at its best. Everything in NT is big – the landscapes are expansive, the crocodiles are enormous, the anthills resemble small high-rise buildings, the storm clouds tower above the horizon and the hospitality is extremely warm and welcoming.
Wildman Wilderness Lodge is an intimate safari-style lodge situated about 170 kilometres (about 2 hours drive) from Darwin. The lodge comprises of a central lodge, 10 air-conditioned cabins (‘Habitats’) and 15 Safari Tents, all which en-suite bathrooms. The view from your room is across the floodplain dotted with termite mounds and is a very pleasant vantage point from which to relax and watch the passing wildlife.
One of the highlights of our stay included a “culture walk” with Neddy (one of the traditional owners of the land) across the floodplain. Neddy was a wealth of knowledge and brought the scenic backdrop, animals and his family’s interactions with the landscape to life. It was a privilege to spend time with him learning of the traditional ways of life in such an abundant but harsh landscape. We did not taste any bush tucker on the walk but were instead treated to chilled sparkling wine – a very welcome opportunity to rehydrate.
We returned to the lodge in time for sundowners and to witness the sunset over the plain while the plethora of wildlife emerged for the evening feed.
Next day we were once again joined by Neddy and taken on a cruise of the local billabong (waterhole). We quietly motored through the landscape, sneaking up on monstrous crocodiles lurking in the lily pads and water birds going about their daily business.
After lunch we enjoyed a quad bike (ATV) ride through the countryside and around the edge of the floodplain. Neddy, once again, shared his history with us, allowed us to taste some bush tucker and provided us with privileged access to his family’s traditional burial ground. This was a most humbling experience and one we will treasure.
Wildman Wilderness Lodge is the perfect place to enjoy the incredible NT landscape in comfort and style. If you would like us to assist you plan your next NT adventure please do not hesitate to contact us.