Perth lies in the ancient country of the Whadjuk Noongar people, who were the traditional owners of this enclave Western part of Australia for more than 45,000 years. It's also home to some amazing First Nations experiences for travelers, from Aboriginal astronomy to bush tasting sessions.
Boorloo (Perth) is one of the most isolated major cities in the world, located on the extreme southwestern edge of the continent. For over 45,000 years, the Whadjuk Noongar people have called it home. Many travelers are drawn to Perth for its beaches, particularly Cottesloe, its parks, and its proximity to the area. Washington hotspots like Margaret River and The Pinnacles (Proximity truly important when your state covers more than 2.6 million square kilometres).
But more and more visitors are discovering Perth's unique First Nations experiences, too. There are some great Aboriginal owned and operated companies that offer great day trips and walking tours in Perth. In partnership with a not-for-profit marketplace, Welcome to the countryWe've rounded up some of our favourites.
Learn Aboriginal astronomy at the Gravitational Discovery Centre
The Aborigines of Australia are often credited with being the world's first astronomers, thanks to that Gravity Discovery Centre, just north of Perth, you can catch a glimpse of the night sky like you've never seen it before. Indigenous Sheikh, d. Noel Nanup, will teach you how First Nations peoples mapped the universe, and how the stars were used to navigate, predict the weather, and influence song lines, art, and culture. Enjoy a guided laser tour under a clear night sky, and catch a glimpse of the famous Brody 25-inch telescope. It's a really humbling experience. more information.
Get a taste of the traditional bush at Mandoon Estate
This is a basement visit with a difference. The Mandon Estate Winery in the Swan Valley offers a unique bush distilling experience with local Noongar Elder, Dale Tilbrook. This Bush Tucker experience is not Just About traditional food It's an opportunity to sit down with Dale and hear the stories of this region to learn about Aboriginal farming practices and gain an insight into Noongar culture. It also includes a glass of sparkling at the Mandoon's cellar door, with a small course from the in-house sommelier. more information.
Tour the King's Garden with Nyungar Tours
King's Park is one of Perth's most beautiful parks, with epic views of the Swan River, and has always been a popular spot for visitors. But not many travelers get to experience King's Park in the company of Whadjuk Yorga and expert guide Kerry-Ann Winmar. Kerry Ann manages Neongar Tours, which includes two walking tours of Perth, and is full of stories about the Whadjuk Country, about the Yorgas (women) in Aboriginal culture, and about the medicinal plants that can still be found in the gardens today. You'll get a whole new perspective on Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River) and its traditional owners. more information.
Join an Indigenous Art Workshop with Djurandi Dreaming
Djurandi Dreaming is an aboriginal tour company, run by Wadjuk guy Justin Martin, who also happens to be a famous artist from Noongar. They manage several Amazing cultural experiences in Perth, but you don't want to miss it Indigenous art workshop. This can be played indoors, or in nature, if the weather is fine. Justin will teach you the symbols, stories, and traditional calligraphic works used in Noongar culture, and help you create your own artwork to take home. All painting and art supplies are provided, and you'll also get an introduction to the local Aboriginal history. Pro tip: Don't dress up your fancy for this shirt. more information.
Explore Swan Valley with Dale Tillbrook
If you're looking for a good overview of the Swan Valley, just 30 minutes outside of Perth, this is the place to start. Woman Wardandi Bibbulmun Dale Tilbrook is one of the most experienced tour guides in the region (runs A bunch of different experiences hereincluding some delicious foods Bush Tucker Tasting Sessions) Which Local history and culture tour is an amazing deep dive into local First Nations history. Held at the Mallinop Aboriginal Gallery, where you can check out the local art scene, sample some wild bushbang, and meet friendly emus, too (they're suckers for a selfie). Nobody knows this area like Dale. more information.
This is really just the tip of the iceberg. Our partners, Welcome to the Country, have a huge list of Aboriginal travel experiences in Perth. You can check them out over here.
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