Best Indigenous Experiences in Australia for Kids
If you're looking for something truly meaningful and memorable for your kids to do on your upcoming Australia road trip, diving into Indigenous experiences is a fantastic option. As one of the world's oldest living cultures, Aboriginal people hold the key to unlocking an ancient world of Australian traditions and cultural knowledge—and that door is through Aboriginal tours and experiences!
This blog will guide you through some of the best Indigenous experiences across Australia that are perfect for kids. From hands-on art and music activities to workshops where kids can learn ancient skills, we have the full list of the best Aboriginal experiences that are a perfect way to engage kids with Aboriginal land and culture on your road trip. But first...
What are Aboriginal experiences?
Aboriginal experiences are immersive activities that offer a deep dive into the rich culture, history, and traditions of Australia's First Peoples. These experiences are typically led by an Aboriginal guide. They can include a wide range of activities such as cultural tours, storytelling sessions, traditional art workshops, bush tucker foraging, and learning about ancient survival techniques. These experiences provide a unique opportunity to learn directly from Aboriginal people, gaining insight into their deep connection to the land and the spiritual significance of various places and practices.
What kinds of Indigenous experiences are there for kids in Australia?
Indigenous experiences are all about connecting with the rich culture and history of Australia’s First Peoples. For kids, these activities are a great way to learn about Aboriginal traditions in a hands-on and engaging way. Here are a few of the top ways for kids to learn about Aboriginal cultures:
Image: Tourism Australia
Learning through art and music
Art and music are big parts of this ancient culture, and they’re also super fun ways for kids to get involved. Indigenous art classes are a great start—kids can try their hand at traditional dot painting. Then there’s music and dance. Whether they join in a traditional dance or try playing the didgeridoo—an instrument that’s been used in ceremonies for thousands of years—they’ll get a taste of the rhythm and movement that’s central to Aboriginal ceremonies and celebrations.
Interactive workshops and activities
Interactive workshops are another awesome way for kids to learn about Aboriginal culture in a hands-on way. Instead of just watching, they get to participate, which makes the learning experience that much more memorable. One of the coolest options is a bush tucker tour. These tours teach kids about traditional Aboriginal food sources. They’ll learn how to identify edible plants, discover which animals were hunted for food, and even get to taste some of these unique bush foods.
Then, there are workshops that teach traditional hunting and gathering techniques. In these sessions, kids can learn how to track animals, understand the importance of seasonal cycles, and try using tools like spears and boomerangs. These workshops often include storytelling, where elders share their knowledge about the land and its significance, giving kids a deeper connection to the culture.
Aboriginal dining
Aboriginal dining experiences offer a fun and tasty way for kids to learn about Indigenous culture. These meals are like a culinary adventure, where kids can try unique flavours like bush tucker, native herbs, and even meats like kangaroo, all while discovering the stories behind each dish. Restaurants like Big Esso by Mabu Mabu in Melbourne make it kid-friendly with delicious and educational dishes that introduce young taste buds to ingredients like finger lime and wattleseed in a way that’s exciting and approachable.
Why take a campervan trip to learn about Indigenous Australia?
The Aboriginal community is a huge part of Australia’s history and present, and many of these sites are found in the country's more remote and out-of-reach corners. Travelling in a campervan allows you to visit remote Indigenous sites, explore at your own pace and spend as much time as you want at each location.
And let’s not forget the added bonus: your kids will be experiencing Australia’s spectacular landscapes up close as you drive between these cultural sites. In Indigenous culture, the idea of 'being on country' is highly linked with their existence and lifestyle. So, travelling in a campervan, from the ancient rock art in the rugged Outback to lush rainforests, gives you a chance to connect deeply with the environments that are part of the stories you’re learning about.
Top Indigenous experiences for kids in Australia
When it comes to exploring Aboriginal culture, Australia offers a wealth of experiences that are both educational and fun for kids. In this section, we’ll highlight some of the top Indigenous experiences for kids, from the lush landscapes of New South Wales to the rugged beauty of Tasmania and the iconic red centre of the Northern Territory.
Aboriginal experiences in New South Wales
Aboriginal Cultural Tours
If you are planning a road trip along the East Coast, the Aboriginal Cultural Tours offered by NSW National Parks are an excellent choice. These tours take you deep into the history and traditions of the land, led by knowledgeable Indigenous guides who share stories passed down through generations. In these kid-friendly workshops, kids can learn traditional skills like tool-making and bushcraft and even try their hand at making bush tucker. These tours are available in various locations across NSW, with some of the most popular being in Sydney, the Blue Mountains, and the South Coast. If you plan to visit from Sydney, most tours are just a short drive away, making it easy to include them in your Australia itinerary.
The Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour
Another must-do in New South Wales is the Rocks Aboriginal Dreaming Tour. This tour takes you on a journey through one of Sydney’s most historic areas, The Rocks, where your family will discover the deep cultural significance of this place to the local Gadigal people. Aside from the stunning location with a view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the tour is incredibly engaging for kids. Your guide will introduce your family to the Dreamtime stories of the local Indigenous community and explain how these stories are connected to the land and the history of Sydney's traditional owners.
Where to stay in NSW in a campervan:
For a convenient stay in your motorhome, consider setting up camp at one of these family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in NSW, which are all within easy reach of Sydney’s main attractions.
Aboriginal Experiences in Tasmania
Wukalina Walk
Tasmania might be known for its wild landscapes and unique wildlife, but it’s also a place where you can dive deep into Aboriginal culture. The island’s rich Indigenous heritage is beautifully preserved, and several experiences offer a mix of cultural education and outdoor adventure. The Wukalina Walk in Tasmania is one such experience that combines breathtaking scenery with deep cultural immersion. This four-day guided walk takes your family through the stunning landscapes of the Bay of Fires and Mt William. For active kids, the Wukalina Walk is perfect. It includes hands-on cultural activities, such as learning about traditional Palawa tools, foraging for bush foods, crafting their own cultural items and learning about the importance of the land and the stories that connect the Palawa people to it. Located in northeastern Tasmania, the Wukalina Walk is accessible from Launceston, which is the nearest major city. It’s about a two-hour drive, making it a great addition to any Tasmania road trip.
Where to stay in Tasmania in a campervan:
If you're travelling with a campervan, you’ll find plenty of beautiful spots to stay along the way. Check out these family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Tasmania to find the perfect base for your adventure.
Image: Tourism Australia
Aboriginal experiences in the Northern Territory
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
No list of Indigenous experiences in Australia would be complete without mentioning Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This iconic destination in the Northern Territory is not only a stunning natural wonder but also a place of deep spiritual significance to the local Anangu people with sacred Aboriginal rock art and cultural knowledge. The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park offers a variety of activities that are perfect for families. Storytelling sessions led by Aboriginal guides and traditional owners are a highlight, where your kids can listen to the ancient tales of the Anangu people and learn about the cultural significance of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. There are also traditional craft workshops where children can try their hand at making their own art inspired by the local traditions. Uluru is located in central Australia, about 450 kilometres southwest of Alice Springs and just an hour from Kings Canyon. When you arrive, you can set up camp at the Ayers Rock Resort Campground, which offers excellent facilities and campsites for families travelling in a motorhome.
Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is one of Australia's most iconic Indigenous destinations. Located in the Northern Territory, about an hour's drive from Darwin, Kakadu is a place where ancient stories come to life through the landscape. One of the highlights of visiting this corner of the northern territory with kids is the chance to explore ancient rock art, some of which dates back over 20,000 years. These artworks offer visual stories that provide insight into the beliefs, traditions, and daily life of the Indigenous people who have lived here for millennia.
Arnhem Land
Adventure seekers and anglers should not miss the chance to venture up towards Arnhem Land. Aboriginal tours through Arnhem Land are the perfect way to gain a deeper understanding of the laidback lifestyle of these more remote First Nations communities.
TOP TIP: Located around four hours from Darwin, a 4WD is necessary in these parts! so you will need to plan your campervan hire accordingly.
Where to stay in the Northern Territory in a campervan:
If you're planning to visit Kakadu as part of your Australia road trip, staying in a campervan is a great option. There are several campgrounds within and around the park that cater to families. For a convenient and comfortable stay, check out these campsites in the Northern Territory that are ideal for exploring the Northern Territory.
Aboriginal experiences in Western Australia
Western Australia is a vibrant hub for Aboriginal art experiences. Visiting Aboriginal art galleries in WA is a fantastic way for kids to learn about the stories and symbols that are central to Aboriginal culture. These galleries showcase various art styles, from traditional dot paintings to contemporary pieces, each telling a unique story about the land and its people.
Where to stay in Western Australia in a campervan:
For a convenient place to stay with your campervan while exploring Aboriginal art in Western Australia, check out these family-friendly campsites and holiday parks in Western Australia.
Image: Tourism Australia
Aboriginal experiences in South Australia
Adelaide CBD Cultural Tours
South Australia offers a rich cultural experience right in the heart of Adelaide with the Adelaide CBD Cultural Tours. These tours are an excellent way to immerse your family in the local Kaurna culture, which is deeply intertwined with Adelaide's history. During these tours, kids can engage with Aboriginal culture through storytelling, traditional art demonstrations, and guided walks highlighting the cultural significance of various landmarks in the city.
The interactive nature of these tours makes them perfect for families, as children can ask questions, participate in activities, and learn about the rich traditions of the Kaurna people in a hands-on way. Adelaide is easily accessible, and these tours start right in the city centre, making them a convenient option for families exploring South Australia.
Where to stay in South Australia in a campervan:
If you’re travelling by campervan, you can stay at Adelaide Caravan Park, which offers comfortable facilities and is located just minutes from the CBD, making it an ideal base for your cultural adventure.
Aboriginal experiences in Queensland
Smoking Ceremony in the Daintree Rainforest
Want something unique? Why not join a tour with a smoking ceremony? This ceremony is designed to be somewhat of a traditional welcome to the lands and sacred sites you will be visiting. Kids will love the opportunity to participate in the rich aboriginal heritage and understand the cultural significance behind each part of the ceremony.
Want more ideas? There are plenty of incredible Queensland Indigenous experiences that are perfect for kids, from interactive cultural performances on the beautiful beaches of Byron Bay to hands-on workshops and cultural ceremonies in the Daintree. For more ideas, check out the full list of experiences on Tourism Australia's website.
Where to stay in Queensland in a campervan:
Check out our list of campsites and holiday parks in Queensland for convenient places to stay that accommodate your whole family, including your furry friends.
Indigenous Experiences in Victoria
Budj Bim Cultural Landscape
Tucked away in Victoria is the culturally significant landscape of the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Budj Bim Cultural Landscape is one of the oldest and most significant cultural sites in Australia, where the Gunditjmara people have lived for thousands of years. For kids, visiting Budj Bim is an eye-opening experience. The site includes ancient aquaculture systems, where children can learn how the Gunditjmara people engineered the landscape to harvest eels and other food sources sustainably. There are also guided tours that delve into the history and traditions of the Gunditjmara, including storytelling sessions and opportunities to see traditional stone structures.
Tips for crafting an Australia itinerary for kids to experience Aboriginal culture
Planning a road trip that introduces your kids to Aboriginal culture can be a rewarding adventure. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey:
-
Plan your route around key experiences: Identify the must-see Indigenous cultural sites and activities, then map out a route that efficiently connects them. Then look at any other nearby attraction you may want to see, ensuring you cover multiple regions without excessive driving.
-
Book your Aboriginal tour ahead: Book in advance to secure your spots in popular tours and workshops, especially during peak travel times. This also applies to campsites, as some locations fill up quickly, particularly in more populated areas.
-
Pack with purpose: When planning what to pack for your campervan road trip, we suggest bringing along items that will enhance your kids’ cultural experience. Items like sketchbooks for art sessions or books about Aboriginal culture are a great way to document the experiences and learn even more during the trip. Don’t forget road trip essentials like snacks and entertainment for the drive.
Ready to discover Aboriginal experiences in Australia with a campervan hire?
Ready to hit the road and join these experiences for yourself? You can book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from any Apollo branch before starting your adventure. With your campervan packed and a well-planned itinerary full of ancient stories and cultural sites, you’re all set to explore the ancient landscapes of Australia.