Although Australia’s big cities and inspirational coastal areas present the biggest tourism opportunities in the country, trips to Aboriginal areas of the country are growing in popularity as people look to discover more about the heritage and history behind Australia as well as that of the indigenous people who still live there.
However, visiting such areas of the country is not as simple as just rocking up in a campervan, jumping out an exploring the place at will. You have a huge responsibility in these areas to be a considerate, thoughtful tourist. Here are the ways in which you can achieve this in Aboriginal Australia.
Respect Privacy
Privacy is hugely important to the indigenous people of Australia, and as such many areas and pieces of land require you to have a permit to enter. This is so tourists do not continually overrun the lives of indigenous people, and maintains their privacy.When you’re visiting an Aboriginal area, explore the stunning landscape and surroundings, but don’t approach homes, fires, or groups of people unless you’re invited to. You should also avoid funerals and other ceremonies, as these are sacred moments for the people, which you’ll probably be able to relate to yourself.
Certain areas and tribes will have rules around photography; ensure you’re aware of these prior to travel.
Beware of Restrictions or Cultural Customs
While a river or a network of caves may seem open and free for you to roam, you should always check to ensure this is the case. Many Aboriginal cultures forbid visitors from entering or using what they believe to be facilities sacred to them, while other places may only be accessible to men or women.
Certain types of food and drink, especially alcohol, may also be forbidden by some indigenous cultures, so leave your libations in the campervan while you’re exploring such an inspirational place.
Hurrying A
round
One of the best ways to enjoy indigenous areas and cultures is to request an Aboriginal guide to take you around certain sites and tell you about the history of places. If you choose to do this, be aware that the pace of many cultures is slow and relaxed, so if you’re hoping to just spend an hour looking around the whole area it isn’t going to happen.
Ensure you’re respectful of whoever is guiding you around; they aren’t going to change their whole way of life after thousands of years in the name of tourism! Remember, too, that things like the time of day will be based on the position of the sun or the weather conditions, rather than the time on your watch. Prepare to adapt to your surroundings.
How to Visit Aboriginal Communities
While there are guided tours from most towns and cities that will take you out to Aboriginal communities, the best experiences are undoubtedly when you discover settlements for yourself. If you take advantage of Transfercar campervan hire, you can explore the outback at your own pace and visit whichever indigenous areas you’re most interested in.
All you need to remember is to be a thoughtful and responsible tourist; ensure you have permission before doing anything, and be respectful of the living space of others.
Gabe Saunders is a tourism expert who loves visiting Australia and interacting with the country's indigenous communities. Gabe writes regular features around respecting indigenous areas and finding the most inspiring places to visit.
