จาก
This Private Double/Twin Share Ensuite Room fare price is (Per Person)
for Adults or Children. Children aged between 8 to 17 years old, must be
accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times.
TOUR CODE: KO4-S
OPERATES: *Mon, fortnightly (Apr to Jun) / Mon, weekly (Jul to Oct)
DEPARTS: 08:00am
RETURNS: 18:30pm
TOURING STYLE: Comfort-level
TOUR DURATION: 4 Days / 3 Nights
MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: The Leea Darwin Hotel - 64 Cavenagh St
Darwin City @ 8:00am.
HIGHLIGHTS:
ITINERARY:
Kakadu and Katherine National Park, and the surrounding area can be explored
in the comfort of a fully guided tour, showcasing the best of culture and
scenery. Discover the oldest and best preserved Aboriginal rock art in the
world, spot some prehistoric reptiles (crocodiles) as we cruise the river
system by boat, and experience local culture, stories, and traditions. We'll
explore monsoon forests, spectacular escarpment country, and the amazing
biodiversity of Kakadu's landscapes, home to many endemic species of flora and
fauna. Enjoy comfortable air-conditioned accommodations in Kakadu and
Katherine. Get ready to immerse yourself in a delightful cultural experience
at a relaxed leisurely pace. This isn’t just another tour; you’re becoming
part of the community! Join your guide and friendly outback companions as you
explore the rich traditions and stories of the area. Enjoy engaging
conversations, learn about local customs, and experience the vibrant culture
firsthand. This journey is all about celebrating connections to the land and
fostering community. Let the warmth of the locals and the joy of learning
enhance your time in the Top End!
Day 1: Darwin - Kakadu National Park
We head back to our accommodation for a delicious dinner, reflecting on the
incredible landscapes and cultural experiences of the day.
We depart from Darwin (Larrakia Country) and head toward the wetlands region
known as WakWak—a name sometimes associated with the traditional lands of the
Larrakia and other local clans—located about an hour outside the city. Here,
the Top End’s remarkable scenery comes into full view, and we’ll have the
chance to spot a wide variety of birdlife as well as apex predators like
saltwater crocodiles. Our journey continues as we make our way into Kakadu
National Park (Gagadju Country), located approximately 300 km east of Darwin.
Upon arrival, we check into our accommodation and begin to immerse ourselves
in the natural beauty of this iconic region. We’ll stop at the Bowali Visitor
Centre—Bowali meaning “sacred” in the Bininj/Mungguy language—to gain a deeper
understanding of the park's ecology, history, and traditional custodians.
You’ll then have the option to take a scenic flight with Kakadu Air, offering
a bird’s-eye view of Kakadu’s spectacular landscapes—an unforgettable
perspective of escarpments, wetlands, and winding billabongs. Alternatively,
you can visit Marrawuddi Arts and Culture, an Aboriginal art centre showcasing
the work of local artists from Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Here, you’ll have the
opportunity to connect with the stories, traditions, and creativity of the
region's Indigenous communities.
In the afternoon, we travel to the East Alligator region (Gunjurri), located
at the northeastern edge of the park. Here, we’ll view the Cahill Crossing,
the only road access point between Kakadu and Arnhem Land and a well-known
spot for crocodile sightings. We then visit the iconic Ubirr Rock, one of the
most significant Aboriginal rock art sites in Australia. As we explore the
ancient galleries, we gain insight into the traditions of the Bininj/Mungguy
people. A short climb to the lookout rewards us with a spectacular sunset over
the Nardab Floodplain and Arnhem Land—a truly breathtaking end to the day. We
return to our accommodation for a delicious dinner and a chance to reflect on
the incredible cultural and natural experiences of the day.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner. Accomm: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, options
include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite. Options: Kakadu Air Scenic
Flights in the afternoon or sunset. Driving Distance: 420km. Hike Distance and
Grading: 2km loop Grade 2-3.
Day 2: Kakadu National Park
Today is dedicated to further exploring the rich cultural heritage of Kakadu
National Park (known as Gagadju in the traditional language).
We begin the day with an early morning Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the
East Alligator River (Guluyambi in the local language), which marks the
boundary between Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Led by an Indigenous guide, this
experience offers powerful insights into the region’s creation stories,
traditional customs, and local ecology. Along the way, we’ll keep an eye out
for majestic birdlife, and of course, saltwater crocodiles in their natural
habitat. (Note: In April and early May, the Guluyambi Cruise is replaced with
the Yellow Water Cruise due to seasonal conditions.)
Later, we explore the remarkable Burrungkuy region (also known as
Nourlangie)—a site rich with Aboriginal rock art and spiritual significance.
Our guided walk includes stops at Kunwarddewardde Lookout, Anbangbang
Billabong, and Nawurlandja Lookout, offering panoramic views over Kakadu’s
diverse landscapes. For those up for more adventure, there's the option to
extend the walk to the Naguluwurr Art Site, where some of the park’s oldest
and most significant rock art can be found. As we journey through these
breathtaking escarpments, billabongs, and woodlands, you’ll learn about the
ancestral beings and creation stories embedded in the land and its art—stories
that continue to guide and connect the Bininj/Mungguy people to Country. We
wrap up the day with another spectacular Kakadu sunset, before returning to
our accommodation for a delicious evening meal and a chance to reflect on the
deep cultural insights and natural beauty experienced throughout the day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accomm: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel,
options include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite. Driving Distance:
100km. Hike Distance and Grading: 3km grade 2.
Day 3: Kakadu - Katherine
After a leisurely morning, we set off southwest toward our next incredible
destination: Katherine (also known as Katherine in the Gurinji language) and
Nitmiluk (the traditional Jawoyn name for Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine
Gorge). The scenic drive takes us through the stunning landscapes of Northern
Australia, showcasing the vibrant earthy hues of the bush. Keep your eyes
peeled for local wildlife, including the Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo, Agile
Wallabies, wild horses, and buffalo. As we pass through the historic township
of Pine Creek (known to local Aboriginal groups as Binjari), we'll stop to
stretch our legs and enjoy a selection of refreshments, including the popular
homemade ice cream loved by locals.
After checking into our accommodation in Katherine, we’ll head to Nitmiluk
National Park (the traditional land of the Jawoyn people) and Katherine Gorge
(also known as Nitmiluk Gorge) for the 2-hour NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge
Cruise. This leisurely journey offers a glimpse into the history and stories
of this stunning area, as you glide between 70-metre sheer rock walls, with
wildlife often peeking out from the shadows. Surrounded by rich creation
stories, you’ll marvel at the breathtaking scenery and the tranquil atmosphere
of the cruise. After the cruise, we’ll return to Katherine (Gurinji Country)
to unwind in our comfortable accommodations, enjoying local hospitality as we
prepare for our fourth and final day of exploration in this beautiful region.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accomm: Katherine either Knotts Crossing
Resort or Contour Hotel, options include twin, double, single rooms with
ensuite bathrooms. Options: Katherine Gorge Scenic Helicopter Flight, free-
time between 2pm-3:30pm. Driving Distance: 310km. Hike Distance and Grading:
1km.
Day 4: Katherine - Darwin
This morning, we’ll make the most of the Katherine area (known as Katherine in
the Gurinji language), starting with a rejuvenating dip at the Katherine Hot
Springs (also known as Nitmiluk in the Jawoyn language), where you can enjoy a
swim. Next, we’ll visit the Nitmiluk Cultural Centre, located in the heart of
Nitmiluk National Park, for an immersive experience that offers a unique
insight into Jawoyn culture, where you’ll learn about the traditions that
shape this ancient land. After this enriching cultural experience, we’ll stop
for lunch at Top Didj Art Gallery (a contemporary Aboriginal art gallery),
where guests can explore local artworks. Then, we’ll continue our journey to
the stunning Edith Falls (also known as Leliyn, meaning “cascading waterfall”
in Jawoyn), where you can relax in a picturesque Top End setting, enjoying a
large plunge pool beneath a cascading waterfall—a perfect spot to cool off!
On the way back to Darwin (known as Larrakia Country), we’ll make a refreshing
stop at the Lazy Lizard Tavern in Pine Creek (also known as Binjari, a
traditional Aboriginal name for the region), for a quick break and a chance to
stretch your legs. This charming spot offers a laid-back atmosphere and is a
great place to enjoy a drink or a snack before continuing the journey. In the
evening, we’ll return to Darwin, enriched by your cultural awakening and
connection to the land. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant
Mindil Markets, where drivers can drop you off. Please note that you’ll need
to arrange your own transportation home afterward. Alternatively, you can
unwind at your accommodation, taking some time to reflect on the adventures
and new friendships you’ve made along the way.
_Meals: Breakfast & Lunch. Driving Distance: 350km. Hike Distance and
Grading: 1km Grade 1. _
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule
during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to
traditional landowner ceremonies.
INCLUSIONS:
EXCLUSIONS:
WHAT TO BRING:
3L Refillable water bottle, hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, beach towel &
toiletries, bathers or swimwear, comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed
shoes), all-weather clothing (extreme conditions day/night), 15kg overnight
bag & small day pack, tropical strength insect repellent, mosquito or fly net
(summer months), flashlight, headlamp, or torch, recharge power bank limited
access, money for snack and meals, camera.
CHILD POLICY:
Children aged between 8 to 17 years old, must be accompanied by an adult or
legal guardian at all times. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and
under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to
complete the walks.
WEATHER:
The weather in the Top End of the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be
extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees
Celsius with high humidity in the dry season and temperatures can drop
dramatically in the evening. Please ensure you have checked the average
temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate
clothing
IMPORTANT NOTES:
Autopia Tours - Northern Territory
THB 50,446.18