Kakadu & Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Day 1  Darwin to Kakadu NP  
Cruise on the Adelaide River, home to over 1,600 crocodiles, on the Jumping Crocodile cruise to see these prehistoric creatures up-close as your guide shares details on these prehistoric creatures. Then you’ll travel into Kakadu National Park. Covering more than 20,000 square kilometres, World Heritage listed Kakadu. The combination of mangrove fringed coastal areas, expansive flood plains, lowland hills, and open woodland and forest habitats, make Kakadu one of the most diverse landscapes you’ll ever experience. It’s home to a myriad of animals, hundreds of bird species and thousands of different insects and plants. Enjoy lunch in Kakadu National Park before a stop at the Marrawuddi Art Gallery. Continue to Ubirr, where you’ll climb up through the ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries, believed to be 20,000 years old, to the lookout for a spectacular view over the surrounding wetlands.  

Day 2  Kakadu NP to Katherine
This morning there is the opportunity for an optional scenic flight (own expense). You’ll be mesmerized as you wander around the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock art site. It has provided shelter to the indigenous people for many thousands of years, and while taking shelter, the rock evolved into a canvas that illustrates the traditional owner's very deep spiritual culture. With your Driver Guide, you’ll have the opportunity to see many different forms of Aboriginal rock art paintings. The Bininj people are the traditional custodians of Kakadu and now you’ll visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre where you will be introduced to their way of life. Later, join your local guide for a cruise on Yellow Water Billabong, Kakadu’s most famous wetland. The picturesque yellow waters are home to thousands of saltwater crocodiles and up to 60 species of colourful birdlife. This afternoon we travel to Katherine, the third largest town in the Northern Territory.

Day 3  Katherine to Darwin
Begin your day with a memorable Breakfast Cruise through the stunning Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic natural landscapes. Carved over millions of years, the gorge system features towering sandstone cliffs, calm stretches of river, and seasonal waterfalls fed by the Katherine River. Guided by an experienced local, you’ll learn about the culture and traditions of the Jawoyn people while watching for freshwater crocodiles, birdlife, and ancient Aboriginal rock art along the gorge walls. After the cruise, visit the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre to deepen your understanding of the region’s heritage. Browse informative displays and explore a range of handcrafted Jawoyn souvenirs that make meaningful mementos of your visit. Continue on to Edith Falls (Leliyn) for a refreshing swim, then stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery before returning to Darwin with lasting memories of this remarkable region.