We depart from Darwin, heading to the wetlands of WakWak, an hour outside the city, where you can spot Top End birdlife and crocodiles. Our journey continues into Kakadu National Park, where we check into our accommodation and take in the sights and sounds of nature. After visiting the Bowali Visitor Centre, we head to the East Alligator region, the northeastern tip of Kakadu, for a cultural tour. We join the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the East Alligator River, exploring creation stories and observing birdlife and crocodiles. We’ll also visit Ubirr Rock, home to some of the best-preserved Aboriginal rock art and gallery, and enjoy a breathtaking sunset. We return to our accommodation for dinner.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Accomm: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, options include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite.
Driving Distance: 420km.
Hike Distance and Grading: 2km loop Grade 2-3

We depart Darwin (Larrakia Country) and head toward the wetlands region, where the Top End’s stunning scenery unfolds. Here, we may spot diverse birdlife and apex predators such as saltwater crocodiles.
Continuing into Kakadu National Park (Gagadju Country), approximately 300 km east of Darwin, we check into our accommodation and stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre (“sacred” in Bininj/Mungguy) to learn about the park’s ecology, history, and traditional custodians.
In the afternoon, there’s the option for a scenic flight with Kakadu Air, offering a bird’s-eye view of escarpments, wetlands, and billabongs, or a visit to Marrawuddi Arts and Culture, connecting with local Aboriginal art and traditions.
Next, we explore the East Alligator region (Gunjurri) and view Cahill Crossing, the only road access to Arnhem Land, known for crocodile sightings. We then visit Ubirr Rock, one of Australia’s most significant Aboriginal rock art sites. A short climb to the lookout offers a spectacular sunset over the Nardab Floodplain and Arnhem Land, capping a day rich in cultural and natural experiences.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Options: Kakadu Air Scenic Flight
Driving Distance: 420 km
Hike: 2 km loop, Grade 2–3

After a leisurely morning, we head southwest toward Katherine (Gurinji Country) and Nitmiluk National Park (Jawoyn Country). The scenic drive showcases Northern Australia’s vibrant bush landscapes, with chances to spot local wildlife, including Red-Tailed Black Cockatoos, Agile Wallabies, wild horses, and buffalo.
We stop in the historic township of Pine Creek (Binjari) to stretch our legs and enjoy refreshments, including the locally loved homemade ice cream.
Upon arrival in Katherine, we check into our accommodation and continue to Nitmiluk Gorge for the 2-hour NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Cruise. Glide between 70-metre rock walls while learning about the area’s history, creation stories, and rich cultural significance. Keep an eye out for wildlife peeking from the shadows, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery of the gorge.
After the cruise, we return to Katherine to relax and enjoy local hospitality at our accommodations, preparing for the next day of exploration.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Knotts Crossing Resort or Contour Hotel (twin, double, single ensuite)
Options: Katherine Gorge Scenic Helicopter Flight, free time 2–3:30 pm
Driving Distance: 310 km
Hike: 1 km

This morning, we enjoy the Katherine area (Gurinji Country) with a refreshing swim at the Katherine Hot Springs (Nitmiluk in Jawoyn). Next, we visit the Nitmiluk Cultural Centre for an immersive experience in Jawoyn culture, learning about the traditions and stories that shape this ancient land.
Afterward, we stop for lunch at Top Didj Art Gallery, a contemporary Aboriginal art space showcasing local artworks. We then continue to Edith Falls (Leliyn), where you can relax in a stunning Top End setting and cool off in the large plunge pool beneath the cascading waterfall.
On the journey back to Darwin (Larrakia Country), we pause at the Lazy Lizard Tavern in Pine Creek (Binjari) to stretch your legs and enjoy a drink or snack.
In the evening, return to Darwin enriched by your cultural experiences and connection to the land. You’ll have the option to explore the vibrant Mindil Markets (transport home is self-arranged) or unwind at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s adventures and new friendships.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Driving Distance: 350 km
Hike: 1 km, Grade 1