At a Glance
Revel in the magic of the Top End from top to bottom on this action-packed 4-day 4WD voyage of Kakadu and Katherine / Nitmiluk. Perfect for those wanting to see and experience the region’s best landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture.
The Top End of the Northern Territory is legendary for its tropical weather, laidback lifestyle, rich Indigenous culture and, of course, its national parks. One of the Northern Territory’s best kept secrets, Litchfield is home to stunning waterfalls that cascade into crystal clear pools, iconic magnetic termite mounds and clusters of weathered sandstone pillars at the Lost City. Kakadu, meanwhile, is Australia’s largest national park, renowned internationally for its incredible Aboriginal rock art, spectacular landscapes and abundant wildlife including some 280 species of birds and giant crocodiles.
Commencing in Darwin, set out ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 3 nights accomodation on a twin share basis
- Meals 3 x breakfast, 4 x lunch, 3 x dinner
- Accredited outback driver-guide with comprehensive tour commentary
- Aboriginal culture and rock art viewing
- Guided bush walks (~9.5km, grade 2-6)
- Air-conditioned 4WD off-road mini-coach travel
- Cultural Boat Cruise on East Alligator River
- Aboriginal rock art viewing
- Kakadu Park pass entry fees
Itinerary
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Driving Distance: approx. 420km Departing from Darwin, start your adventure with a short journey to the picturesque the Wetlands Region. Along the way we have ample opportunity to spot a huge range of Top End birdlife, not to mention some fresh and salty apex predators... crocodiles! Travel to the renowned Kakadu National Park with a visit to the Bowali Visitor Centre. Get a sense of the history and landscapes of this historical place before unwinding at your lodge. With some relaxation time and feeling revitalised, fasten your seatbelts for an exhilarating drive across the notorious Cahills Crossing, the most dangerous water crossing in Australia. Conquer a high tide river crossing filled with an abundance of saltwater crocodiles, a drive that will keep your heart pounding! Immerse into the culturally significant Aboriginal art site, Ubirr, located within the East Alligator region of the park. With a local guide, explore several breathtaking Aboriginal art sites and storytelling of the great Rainbow Serpent. In time for sunset, hike the Nadab Lookout for sweeping panoramic views as the red and orange hues glow across the floodplain and beyond the spectacular Arnhem Land. Tonight, indulge in a delicious dinner at your loge before retiring in your bush styled bungalows. |
Anbinik Kakadu Resort or similar
Lunch, Dinner |
Driving Distance: approx. 250km Awake to the tranquility of a desert oasis before delving deeper into Kakadu’s renowned waterfalls, Jim Jim or Twin Falls, reflecting the majesty of this world-heritage listed national park. Its waterfalls capture Kakadu’s dramatic seasonal change and will depend which waterfall you venture out to explore. Along the way, walk through monsoon forests, lush vegetation and close up moments with unique wildlife. Swim in its pristine natural plunge pools to cool off keeping you refreshed all day. Discover a huge array of aquatic life including a large black bream. Spend the afternoon soaking in the sheer beauty of your spectacular surrounds of stunning escarpments and towering cliffs. Journey to the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre and absorb the insights of how this World Heritage Listed Park is managed. Feeling inspired, unwind back at the lodge. |
Anbinik Kakadu Resort or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Driving Distance: approx. 420km Journey to the iconic Aboriginal rock art site of Nourlangie. At Nourlangie you can see how local Aboriginal people lived in this area through changing times. Environmental and social changes are reflected in the rock art and the ground, where archaeologists have uncovered over 20,000 years of Aboriginal occupation. The rock art here is simply astounding and you will see the world-famous Namarrgon, the Lightning Man, at Anbangbang gallery. Walk to Kunwarddewardde Lookout boasting sweeping views of Kakadu’s magnificent escarpment. Take on the dirt 4WD tracks where your waterfall escapade continues as you explore more of Kakadu’s picturesque falls at Maguk Falls. Be captivated as it majestically flows down the steep walks of rugged gorge into a serene natural plunge pool. Take a refreshing dip and be captivated by the sheer beauty of your spectacular surroundings and towering cliffs. Here, enjoy a serene picnic lunch before a journey to your hotel. |
Knotts Crossing Resort or similarBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Driving Distance: approx. 470km Rise and shine! An early start this morning see's you venturing to Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge). Here, an array of options are available for you to uncover the breathtaking Katherine Gorge, the Arnhem Land escarpment and local wildlife in your style. Embark on a 2 hour serene boat adventure or a thrilling scenic helicopter flight for a birds eye view of this natural wonder (both optional activities at own expense). Alternatively, explore on foot and get up close as you embark on a leisurely hike along the sheer rock walls with trails that range from 1.4km to 4.8km return. Continue to spend the day exploring brilliant waterfalls, tropical rainforest and crystal clear waterholes. Uncover the picturesque Edith Falls or Butterfly Gorge which will be dependent on the time of year and access conditions. Both spectacular in their own right, enjoy an invigorating swim in its cascading pools and be captivated by the sheer beauty of your spectacular surrounds and towering cliffs before enjoying a delicious lunch here. Feeling inspired and refreshed, journey back to Darwin where along the way you will stop by the bustling and flavourful Mindil Market for some delicious local delights as you witness a sunset on your last evening. Tour concludes in Darwin. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Departs Monday on request. Please contact us for private departures and group bookings.
Prices are per person for Adults or Children. Solo passengers who book this fare option will be paired in a room with another traveller, where possible with the same gender but not guaranteed. Minimum age is 11 years old, must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian.
More Info
The start and finish point for this tour is Darwin, Northern Territory
Darwin International Airport (DRW) receives scheduled flights from other destinations in the Northern Territory, Australia and South East Asia.
The Top End experiences distinct dry and wet seasons. Average daily maximum temperatures in the dry season (April to September) range from 29 degrees (Celsius) in July to 38 degrees in September with little rain and low humidity. Overnight, temperatures decrease to become considerably cool by early morning and sunrise. Average daily maximum temperature during the waterfall season (October to March) is 40 degrees with significant humidity. Most of the 500-700mm annual rainfall occurs between December and March resulting in unsealed roads becoming impassable and park closure.
- Itinerary may change due to cultural reasons, seasonal changes, operational logistics and accessibility.
- In recent years, Parks Australia have closed areas of Kakadu National Park with little warning to Tour Operators and the public. As such certain areas may not be accessible in particular between the shoulder periods of May-June. As such our itineraries must be fluid and we trust our professional guide to show you the best locations available. We have access to a number of waterfall locations to allow the best trip, including Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), the Yurmikmik Region (Motor Car Falls or Boulder Creek) 7km return walk, Moline Rockhole, Gunlom Falls, as substitutes for Twin & Jim Jim Falls.
- Twin Falls if visited has a boat shuttle fee is an additional $12.50 payable on day of departure.
- Due to limited space on the vehicle please restrict luggage to one day pack and one soft overnight bag/backpack. Excess luggage should be stored at your Darwin accommodation.
- Travel Insurance and flexible flight tickets are highly recommended.
6:15 – Darwin Resort – 378 Stuart Hwy Winnellie NT
6:25 – Frontier Hotel Darwin – 3 Buffalo Ct Darwin City
6:30 – Travelodge Resort Darwin – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City
6:35 – H on Smith Hotel – 81 Smith St Darwin City
6:40 – The Cavenagh Hotel – 12 Cavenagh St Darwin City
6:45 – Tourist Precinct Mini Bus Zone – 69 Mitchell St Darwin City
6:50 – H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment – 105 Mitchell St Darwin City
6:53 – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade – 116 Esplanade Darwin City
6:55 – Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin – 88 Esplanade Darwin City
7:00 – Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront – 7 Kitchener Dr Darwin City
- We will try to cater for most dietary needs and/or food allergies - passengers MUST notify us of any special dietary requirements, medical conditions at the time of booking.
- A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. Length of walks will be between 2km to 4km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9.5km walk is included in this tour. Embarking on walks will be at the guide’s discretion to ensure safety of guests. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years (30-days prior to travel).
- Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times and must stay in private twin rooms. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under.
- All private rooms are subject to availability and on-request.
- Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag.
- This tour is not suitable for mobility impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers or strollers.
- Itineraries may vary to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally sites in the parks close or do not allow swimming. As safety is our top priority we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour.
- Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean up and vehicle unpack/loading, so everyone can relax together after a long day touring. It’s also a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 8 passengers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
