At a Glance
Over 5 days, journey through the timeless beauty of the Top End on this action-packed 4WD camping adventure of Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Litchfield. Immerse in rich Aboriginal culture while discovering ancient rock art sites, famed natural swimming holes and rocky escarpments leading to incredible vistas of the Northern Territory’s most loved wilderness areas.
Over 5 days, journey through the timeless beauty of the Top End on this action-packed 4WD camping adventure of Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Litchfield. Immerse in rich Aboriginal culture while discovering ancient rock art sites, famed natural swimming holes and rocky escarpments leading to incredible vistas of the Northern Territory’s most loved wilderness areas.
Departing from Darwin, discover the legendary and well-kept secrets of the Top End. Over 5 days step into an ancient ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 4 nights permanent tented camp accommodation (with shared facilities) on a twin share basis
- All linen including pillow and pillowcase, fitted sheet, sleeping bag hire, drinking water (please provide your own bottle)
- All meals specified as specified in itinerary
- Professional guide
- Guluyambi Cultural Cruise
- Tour transportation of an all-terrain air conditioned vehicle
- National park entry fee
Itinerary
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Total driving time: about 6 hours (approximately 350 km) Total walking time: about 1.5 hours (including stops for informative talks) Rise and shine! Wake up with the sun for an early approx. 6.50am departure for an adventurous drive to Wulna Country. Be greeted with a ‘Welcome to Country’ as you meet the land’s Traditional Owners. Find connection and immersion as you gain insight to their culture and engage in bush tucker, didgeridoo and basket weaving demonstrations. Delve deeper into the journey to the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land for an exhilarating Guluyambi cruise along the East Alligator River with a local guide. A discovery adventure taking you through the rich wildlife, dramatic rugged scenery and the cultural importance it has on the Bininj people. Back on dry land, journey to the culturally significant Aboriginal rock art site at Arnhem Land’s Mawurndaddja. Spend the rest of the afternoon with a local guide, immersing into breathtaking Aboriginal art sites and storytelling that are said to lie over 50,000 years old. You’ll stay at a permanently tented campsite in Kakadu. Enjoy the basic luxuries of shared facilities before a hearty dinner celebrating your first night with fellow travelers. Tonight, retire in your comfortable tent beneath the stars in a true state of zen. |
Campsite at Kakadu
Lunch, Dinner |
Total driving time: about 4 hours (approximately 120 km) Total walking time: about 2.5 hours Awake to the tranquility of a desert oasis before delving deeper into one of Kakadu’s renowned waterfalls, Jim Jim Falls, reflecting the majesty of this world-heritage listed national park. Its waterfalls capture Kakadu’s dramatic seasonal change. Conquer a challenge walk traversing monsoon forests and lush vegetation and boulders before finding a pristine natural plunge pool to cool off keeping you refreshed. Enjoy a delicious lunch before journeying to Anbangbang rock art site. explore some of the most diverse and breathtaking rock art painting of the area. Be inspired by how local Aboriginal people lived in this area through changing times. This afternoon take pleasure in a scenic flight (optional extra) over Kakadu boasting boasts an ultimate bird's eye view of the sheer magnitude of this natural wonder showcasing the escarpment that teem with wildlife. Those who favour a slower paced discovery on land can embark on a visit to the Bowli Cultural Centre for deeper understanding of Kakadu’s landscape and moods. |
Campsite at Kakadu Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Total driving time: about 5.5 hours (approximately 340 km) Total walking time: about 1.5 hours Your waterfall escapade continues as you explore more of Kakadu’s legendary cascading falls to wither Gunlom or Maguk Falls*. Both spectacular in its own right, Gunlom* boasts a steep climb to its plunge pool giving breathtaking views of Kakadu. Maguk Falls majestically flow 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 you spectacular surrounds and towering cliffs. You’ll find many 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. Feeling relaxed and refreshed, step back in time with a visit to the old gold mining town of Pine Creek for lunch. A remnant of a past time, traverse mining relics and feel the sense of simplicity, hardship and tenacity of the miners. A long yet adventurous 3 hours journey sees you at your private campsite on the foots of the spectacular Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park. Once comfortable, have dinner with the group before settling in under the stars for the night. * Subject to parks' closure notification. The alternative itinerary will be offered if those sites are closed by National Parks. |
Campsite at KatherineBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Total driving time: about 4.5 hours (approximately 350 km) Total walking time: about 3.5 hours Spend the whole day discovering deep into majestic Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) and all its splendour. With its sheer ochre walls that move through a spectrum of colours and glow in the changing light, Nitmiluk Gorge is a true natural wonder. Be captivated by the towering cliff faces and listen as the Jawoyn people, the traditional owners, transport you into a spiritual world of their culture and history. Keep eyes peeled as many species of colourful birds, fish, flora and freshwater crocodiles call this spectacular location home. A paradise of colours, ancient rock art, waterfalls and an array of wildlife, explore by foot, take a cruise or helicopter or rent a kayak and simply be captivated by the impressive gorges that make this sandstone country so spectacular. ***All optional activities (Optional cruise or helicopter or kayak on Day 4 can be booked on tour with the guide and it's extra charge.) Come afternoon, journey to Edith Falls, a hidden oasis of clear, cool waters embraced by bronze boulders. Take a refreshing dip in its tranquil rock pools before settling into camp at the edge of Litchfield National Park. Indulge in another delicious dinner and unwind to a magical evening under a canopy of stars. |
Campsite at LitchfieldBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Total driving time: about 3.5 hours (approximately 250 km) Total walking time: about 1 hour Your final day adventures out to the serene Litchfield National Park, one of Northern Territory’s best kept secrets. Spend the morning exploring brilliant waterfalls, tropical rainforest and crystal clear waterholes. Uncover Florence Falls, Wangi Falls or Bluey Rockholes for an invigorating swim in its cascading pools. Enjoy a picnic lunch before a peaceful stroll traversing steamy rainforests and one final dip into its tranquil swimming holes. Leaving inspired and rejuvenated, a 2 hour drive return to Darwin. Feeling refreshed and invigorated, journey back to your Darwin accommodation arriving at approximately 4-6:00pm. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
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NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Darwin
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Darwin
- The tour can pickup from several Darwin Hotels between 6.30-7.15am on Day 1. The drop-off on the last day is available at the same hotels and usually happen between 4.30-6pm.
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.
- We recommend arriving in Darwin the night before, or earlier, so you make the departure. Pick up Day 1 is from 6.30-7.15am from selected hotels in Darwin CBD.
- This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves a lot of walking, allowing you to truly enjoy the surrounding nature. Some hikes are longer and more challenging than others. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothing.
- Litchfield National Park occasionally closes attractions if they are considered unsafe to access. If Florence Falls, Wangi Falls or Bluey Rockholes are closed, activities will be substituted.
- Itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year to reflect the current situation in each destination. Contributing factors such as, weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors may lead to the order and timing of included activities to vary, this will ensure the best possible experience for all travellers.
- Tour is not suitable for children under 12 years of age.
- Due to limited space on the vehicle please restrict luggage to one day pack and one soft overnight bag/backpack, with a maximum of 10kg. Excess luggage should be stored at your Darwin accommodation.
- Travel Insurance and flexible flight tickets are highly recommended.
- Travellers are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19
- Minimum 8 passenger is required to guarantee a departure
WHAT TO BRING ESSENTIALS:
– Lightweight clothing. You will need to bring a mixture of lightweight clothing and layers. Long shirts and pants are useful to protect against the harsh Australian sun. Clothes should be easy to wash and dry.
– Comfortable closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings.
– Towels (for shower & swimming)
– Sun protection – hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
RECOMMENDED:
– Personal medical kit. A larger kit will be on hand with your guide, but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids and insect repellent
– Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5litre capacity
– A headlamp or torch is recommended for around your accommodation at night
– Camera with spare batteries
OPTIONAL:
– Sleep sheet. If you are travelling during the hot season you may wish to pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter what the weather.
– Ear plugs
– A good book, a journal and music player
– Binoculars for spotting wildlife
WET SEASON & WEATHER
Given the unpredictable nature of weather and travel in the tropics, we are sometimes forced to make late itinerary changes due to unexpected heavy rain and/or storms and road closures. In the event of this occurring, itinerary changes may need to be implemented after commencement of you trip. In this event, your Tour Leader/Driver has full authority to change the itinerary and/or order of activities and substitute alternative destinations and activities as necessary. No refunds are available due to itinerary changes and missed activities caused by extreme weather conditions and/or road closures.
Note: Should any of the attractions on days 1-3 of the standard itinerary not be open as a result of National Park decisions surrounding accessibility and safety, the activities listed below will be substituted. The standard attractions will be visited immediately as they begin to reopen. The opening and closing of ‘dry season’ activities varies from year to year.
SHOULDER SEASON ITINERARY (May apply in the months of April/May and September/October)
Day 1 – Mamakala Wetlands | Ubirr | Overnight camp at Jabiru (LD)
Day 2 – Gubara | Nawalundja lookout | Bowali Culture centre | Waradjan Cultural centre | Camp at Cooinda (BLD)
Day 3 – Motorcar Falls and Boulder Creek Falls | Overnight camp at Katherine (BLD)
Day 4 – Katherine Gorge | Edith Falls | Overnight Camp at Litchfield (BLD)
Day 5 – Florence Falls | Wangi Falls | Bluey Rockholes | Return to Darwin (BL)
*Should any of the attractions on days 1-3 of the standard itinerary not be open as a result of National Park decisions surrounding accessibility and safety, the above listed activities will be substituted. The standard attractions will be visited immediately as they begin to open. The opening and closing of ‘dry season’ activities varies from year to year.
During Apr – May & Sep – Oct it is likely that you will experience temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius with high humidity. Be prepared to endure extra physical stress due to the heat at these times, especially while on walks. These extreme temperatures can also place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your tour guide will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping hydrated. Please come prepared for all extremes.
Access to Arnhem Land can be restricted by conditions and the water level at Cahills Crossing especially early in the season. (Apr-May) Please note that this trip may occasionally be rerouted if the crossing is impassable.
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 tour 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 guests 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.
