While Aboriginal tourism is often associated with WA’s outback regions, Perth and surrounding areas are rich in ancient heritage and culture.

Several local Aboriginal owned and operated tourism businesses are now making it easier for locals and visitors to participate in their unique experiences with a range if tours on offer.

Kwillana Dreaming is keen to give locals and visitors a greater insight into the rich indigenous culture of the Peel and Rockingham area.

According to owner Karen Jacobs, there are many culturally significant sites around Pinjarra, Mandurah and the Serpentine River, some of which are among the most important in the country.

“Our tours are educational and give people a new view on nature. The locals that come on the trips are amazed by what they learn about their own backyard,” said Karen.

As part of their desire to improve the understanding of indigenous culture, residents of the Mandurah and Peel areas are able to enjoy the tours at a discounted rate.

Kwillana Dreaming offer canoe trips along the Serpentine River, as well as land-based eco tours along the Peel Inlet, Harvey Estuary and Lake Clifton.

The eco tours observe wildlife, sample bush tucker, demonstrate boomerang and spear throwing and look at the environment from a Noongar perspective. Tasty bush tucker morning teas come in the form of wattle seed bread, quandong jam and bush berry muffins.

For a view of Aboriginal art and artefacts, head to Maali Mia in the Swan Valley where you’ll find works by the Noongar and Yamaji tribes.

Maali Mia sells authentic didgeridoos, traditional clapping sticks, carved emu eggs and traditional paintings. Its boomerangs were the only ones to have the endorsement of the organising committee for the Sydney Olympics.

Yanchep National Park is doing much to incorporate indigenous culture into the experiences it offers visitors.

Its full day environmental and cultural activity includes an Aboriginal tour, a didgeridoo dance performance and bush tucker experience.

Aboriginal guides take visitors into the natural bushland to learn more about native wildlife and bush.

For more information about holidays and tours in Western Australia call 1300 361 351.