6 Day Alice Springs to Darwin plus Kakadu

Summary

"Travel from Alice Springs to the Top End and experience the dramatic changes in the landscape. Visit national parks, small outback towns and the sacred Devil's Marbles rock formation."

Itinerary

Day 1: Alice Springs to Banka Banka

We pass by the Tropic of Capricorn then stop at the Barrow Creek Pub, home to a telegraph station – catch a glimpse of what outback telecommunication used to be like! Precariously balanced on their rocky perch are the Devils Marbles, a site sacred to its traditional owners. Last stop for today is our camp at Banka Banka Cattle Station and if the weather's good, you can take a dip in the pretty waterhole.

Meals: L, D

Day 2: Banka Banka to Katherine Gorge

No visit to the Top End would be complete without a visit to the famed Daly Waters pub, a quintessential outback roadhouse and 'watering hole' for travellers from far and wide. Mataranka lies in the heart of the 'never-never', and you'll feel a million miles from anywhere as you soak in the steamy thermal springs. As the day draws to a close, we reach our overnight camp at stunning Katherine Gorge.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3: Katherine Gorge to Darwin

The gorge is all yours this morning, with a half day to spend canoeing or cruising (at own expense and seasonal) the spectacular waters. Want to see more? Jump aboard a helicopter flight (at own expense) which will take you high above the vast gorge system. We'll head to Darwin after a stop at idyllic Edith Falls. Overnight dorm accommodation included.

Meals: B, L

Day 4: Darwin to Mary River

A refreshing start to your day checking out the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. Travel west into Woolna Country and receive a Cul Cul or unique 'Welcome to Country' by the traditional owners of the land, the Limilngan – Wulna people. Experience the local Aboriginal culture including cooking bush tucker, playing the didgeridoo, basket weaving and spear throwing. To fi nish the day we head to the spectacular Mary River Wetlands, where birds aren't the only wildlife abundant; keep a watch for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge is where we'll stay tonight.

Meals: L, D

Day 5: Mary River to Kakadu

Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it's on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu National Park.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 6: Kakadu to Darwin

Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we'll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon.

Meals: B, L

Days 4-6 Tropical Summer Program (DEC-MAY)

Day 4: Darwin to Mary River

• Litchfield National Park
• Cultural Experience
• Crocodile Cruise
• Overnight Camp Point Stuart (LD)

Day 5: Mary River to Kakadu

• Mamukala Wetlands (seasonal)
• Ubirr or Nourlangie Rock (seasonal)
• Bowali Visitor Centre
• Walk to Gubara Springs
• Overnight camp Kakadu (BLD)

Day 6: Kakadu to Darwin

• Cathedral Termite Mounds
• Boulder Creek Falls
• Hike to Motor Car Falls
• Return to Darwin (BL)

Further Information

What's Included

Experienced Guides, Meals as Indicated, Accommodation Transfers, Camping Fees and Equipment, Overnight Dorm Accommodation .

What to Bring

Sturdy Walking Shoes (Ankle High), Hat and Sunscreen, Water Bottle, Toiletries, Torch, Warm Clothing in Winter, Insect Repellent/Net, Camera, Sleeping Bag (or $20 hire), Pillow.