Kooyang Yana Full Day Tour - Budj Bim

Heywood, AU
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (79 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Snacks
  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    Air-conditioned vehicle

Meeting Point

Please meet at the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism office 15 mins before the start of your tour. We cannot wait if you are late.

Meeting point

,

End point

End Point

Please meet at the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism office 15 mins before the start of your tour. We cannot wait if you are late.

Meeting point

,

End point

What to expect

1

Heywood

Meet at the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism offices in Heywood and board your bus and travel around 20 mins to the next location.

Duration 5 minutes
2

Homerton

Your Gunditjmara cultural guide will show you a historic stone house used by Gunditjmara men, a stone wall art installation, as well as an area of lava flow featuring two weirs and a dam associated with trapping and holding kooyang. Travel around 20 mins to the next location.

Duration 90 minutes
3

Lake Gorrie

See the Bessiebelle Sheepwash, the best surviving example of a traditional pastoral sheep wash in Victoria. Gunditjmara workers constructed some of the dry stone walls on the property in years past.

Duration 30 minutes
4

Budj Bim National Park

See the Budj Bim volcanic crater now Lake Surprise, as you take a guided bush walk and step inside the lava tunnels and a cave. Travel around 20 mins to the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre for a light lunch.

Duration 60 minutes
5

Lake Condah

Lunch at the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre cafe.

Duration 90 minutes
6

Lake Condah

Take an informative guided walk with your Gunditjmara cultural guide and explore the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre, Lake Codah and ancient eel traps. This location includes stunning wetland views and extensive wildlife including native birdlife. Travel around 20 mins to the next location.

Duration 120 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    There is travel time of around 20 mins between each location visited on this tour. The total time on tour is 8 hours.
Provided by Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism

What our experts say

  • icon
    Arrive early to secure your spot.
  • icon
    Try the local eel dishes at lunch.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Don't forget your camera for wildlife!
  • icon
    Explore nearby Heywood for local crafts.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the rich Indigenous culture and explore the breathtaking World Heritage-listed Budj Bim sites through the eyes of the Gunditjmara people. Embark on the unforgettable Kooyang Yana Full Day Tour and delve into the fascinating history of the region. Discover the ancient aquaculture network built by the Gunditjmara, allowing them to cultivate and harvest the elusive kooyang eel. Walk along raised boardwalks, carefully designed to preserve the natural environment, as you witness historical stone kooyang traps, stone channels, eel smoking trees, and other remarkable natural wonders.

What to expect?

During this 8-hour tour, you can expect an immersive journey through the Gunditjmara culture and heritage. Explore various locations, including a historic stone house, stone wall art installation, and impressive lava flows with weirs and dams. Visit the Bessiebelle Sheepwash, a well-preserved traditional pastoral sheep wash, and then venture into the Budj Bim volcanic crater. Engage in a guided bush walk, where you'll explore lava tunnels and caves. Enjoy a delicious light lunch at the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre, followed by an informative guided walk around Lake Codah, showcasing ancient eel traps and breathtaking wetland views.

Who is this for?

The Kooyang Yana Full Day Tour is perfect for those who seek a profound cultural experience and have a deep interest in Indigenous heritage. It is ideal for curious travelers who appreciate the importance of preserving historical sites and understanding the traditions of local Indigenous communities. This tour is suitable for all ages and backgrounds, offering a unique opportunity to connect with the rich heritage of the Gunditjmara people and gain an appreciation for their sustainable aquaculture practices.

Why book this?

Uncover the secrets of the ancient Gunditjmara aquaculture network and witness the extraordinary engineering skills of this Indigenous community. By booking the Kooyang Yana Full Day Tour, you will embark on an educational journey like no other. Engage with experienced Gunditjmara cultural guides who will share captivating stories and insights throughout the tour. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings while learning how the Gunditjmara people thrived in harmony with the land for thousands of years. This tour offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Indigenous culture and gain a new perspective on sustainable practices.

Good to know

It is important to arrive at the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape Tourism office at least 15 minutes before the tour's scheduled start time. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated. The tour duration is approximately 480 minutes, providing ample time to explore the different locations and immerse yourself in the rich cultural experiences. Lunch is included at the Tae Rak Aquaculture Centre's cafe, where you can enjoy a delicious meal with beautiful views. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, as this tour involves moderate physical activity. Don't forget your camera, as you'll encounter stunning landscapes and extraordinary cultural sites along the way.

Reviews

Previous participants of the Kooyang Yana Full Day Tour have praised the knowledgeable and engaging Gunditjmara cultural guides. They were impressed by the richness of the cultural information provided throughout the tour and the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Budj Bim. Participants have reported feeling a deep connection to the land and an increased understanding of the Gunditjmara people's sustainable practices. The tour has been described as an eye-opening and immersive experience, highly recommended for those seeking a meaningful cultural encounter in an awe-inspiring natural setting.

Select Currency