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Darwin · Northern territory · Australia

Kakadu Katherine Litchfield 4WD Adventure (Camping) 5 Day - Bush Swag

Starting From From $1,349.07 per person Current Project Expedition rate
5 Days 3.98 / 5 0 reviews Moderate activity level Multiday Trip Operated by Autopia Tours (Northern Territory)
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The Experience

What your day looks like

Join us on an exclusive 4WD safari through the iconic Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk, and Litchfield National Parks. Discover some of the world’s oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal rock paintings, keep an eye out for our prehistoric residents—crocodiles—and visit stunning waterfalls where you can cool off in pristine natural plunge pools. Explore breathtaking landscapes, from rugged terrain to lush rainforests filled with endemic flora and fauna. After a day of exploration, relax in comfort at our private campsites, featuring well-equipped camp kitchens and spacious safari tents or traditional swags. Unwind under the stars in a peaceful bushland setting, enjoying the comforts of your twin safari tent or canvas-covered bedroll. This is not just a tour, but an immersive adventure. Work alongside your guide and fellow travellers to prepare delicious meals, learning the traditional art of bush cooking. It’s a unique opportunity for team-building, surrounded by the stunning outback, with sunset views, stargazing, crackling campfires, and plenty of laughter along the way. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

At a Glance

The experience, in brief

  • Visit the World Heritagelisted Kakadu National Park.
  • Explore Kakadu Aboriginal Cultural Centres.
  • Take a wildlife cruise on the Mary River Wetlands.
  • Watch for Crocs and Barramundi at *Cahills Crossing.
  • Breathtaking Aboriginal rock art and sunset views at Ubirr Rock.
  • Hike through Kakadu’s biodiverse environments including rocky river beds and monsoon forests.
  • Enjoy rewarding swims in pristine plunge pools under cascading waterfalls.
  • 2 Hour Katherine Gorge Cruise in Nitmiluk NP.
  • Be impressed by centuryold magnetic termite mounds.
  • Uncover the wonder of Litchfield National Park’s roaring waterfalls and hidden waterholes.
  • Take a dip in the pools of Florence Falls, Buley Rockholes, or Wangi Falls.
Your Itinerary

Your day, step by step

Day 1

Darwin

Leisure at Ubirr Rock . Day 1: Darwin - Kakadu National Park Start your adventure by departing from Darwin and heading out to the Wetlands Region where the magnificent scenery of the top end puts on a show. Along the way, we have ample opportunity to spot a huge range of Top End birdlife, not to mention some fresh and salty apex predators… crocodiles! We journey on to Kakadu National Park where our home for the next two nights in Jabiru awaits. The Bowali Visitor Centre offers a beautiful introduction to the Park’s landscape and wildlife and we take time to soak it in, before checking into our local accommodation. After some relaxation, we journey northeast to *Cahills Crossing on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land. We will visit one of the best-preserved collections of Aboriginal Rock Art in the world at Ubirr rock upon sunset. This incredibly significant site showcases many styles of rock art and allows us to climb up high for a sunset that will blow you away looking out over the Nadab Floodplain. After a big day, we head back to our cozy private camp and prepare dinner together, enjoying an evening with our fellow travellers. Meals: Lunch, Dinner Camping: Private Jabiru Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities) Driving Distance: 420km Hike Distance and Grading: 1km loop Grade 2-3.

Day 2

Darwin

Hiking at Kakadu National Park. Day 2: Jim Jim Falls - Plunge Pools - Jabiru Return We rise and shine early on day 2 and make our way south into Kakadu National Park. Today we’ll spend the day soaking up the spectacular natural beauty of the area, hiking through lush monsoon rainforests, and swimming in pristine plunge pools and waterfalls surrounded by steep escarpments and rocky cliffs. We aim to visit one or more of the available waterfalls depending on the group's physical ability to complete the hike(s). This can include any of Motor Car Falls, Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls or Moline Rockhole. There are many factors affecting accessibility although your guide will ensure you get the best experience possible. Time permitting, we stop at Warradjan Cultural Centre and gallery where we explore the stories of the artefacts that the traditional owners wish to share with visitors. Feel free to discuss the evolving social, cultural and environmental changes to the area over time as we then make our way back to camp for a hearty dinner and a well-earned rest. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Camping: Private Jabiru Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities) Driving Distance: Minimum 150km depending on waterfall access. Please note this includes a minimum of 40kms offroad on each journey. Hike Distance and Grading: 1.5km - 4km & up to Grade 5/6.

Day 3

Darwin

Adventures & Thrills at Nitmiluk National Park. Day 3: Kakadu - Katherine This morning we discover Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art, Kunwarddewardde Lookout and have the potential to explore the surrounding areas of Nawurlandja Lookout and Anbangbang Billabong. Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock features incredible Aboriginal rock art and Dreamtime stories of the Bininj people. Another 4WD track awaits us as we travel south and enjoy a picnic lunch at the plunge pool of Barramundi Gorge (Maguk) Waterfall, one of the most picturesque and pristine waterfalls in Kakadu. Please note at least a moderate to high level of fitness and agility is required here with flat pathways combined with rocky crossings leading you to the plunge pool through the monsoon forest. After our 2km walk, swim and lunch, we head south through Kakadu National Park towards our private safari campsite in Katherine where we will be able to relax under the stars and enjoy the evening’s hospitality around the campfire. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Camping: Private Katherine Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities) Driving Distance: 420km Hike Distance and Grading: 1.5km Grade 3.

Day 4

Darwin

Cultural Immersion at Nitmiluk National Park. Day 4: Katherine - Nitmiluk National Park It’s an early start today to reach Nitmiluk National Park and board your 2 hour NitNit Katherine Gorge boat cruise - an absolute must-do in the Top End. This cruise guides you down the middle of 70m sheer rock walls with wildlife hiding around every corner. An area rich in creation stories you will marvel at your surroundings and the relaxed atmosphere of the cruise. If you are also interested in doing a scenic helicopter flight after the cruise there are a range of options available to take in the spectacular views of Nitmiluk and Katherine Gorge. It’s now time to continue our journey, making our way to the beautiful Edith Falls for further relaxation in picture-perfect Top End surroundings with a picnic lunch, a huge plunge pool beneath a cascading waterfall, and a welcome chance to cool off! After your day of culture, walks and swims we head back to our private campsite for a stunning sunset and evening stargazing. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner Camping: Private Katherine Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities). Options: Scenic helicopter flights Driving Distance: 470km Hike Distance and Grading: 2km Grade 2-4 depending on the walk embarked on. The main pool (when open) is a short walk with low grades. Upper pools require a reasonably steep climb and descent, and at least a moderate level of fitness and agility.

Day 5

Darwin

Swimming at Litchfield National Park. Day 5: Katherine - Litchfield - Darwin ​Our adventure is not yet complete as we now head into Litchfield National Park on our way back to Darwin for the end of our fifth day. Leaving Katherine we travel north towards the world-class Litchfield National Park, surrounded by thick pockets of tropical rainforest, offering a cool escape from the heat of the Top End.​ View the monolithic Magnetic Termite Mounds and then have an opportunity to cool in Litchfield’s beautiful natural plunge pools like Buley Rockholes or Wangi Falls. Visit a thundering waterfall like Florence Falls or Tolmer Falls and marvel at the sheer beauty carved out among the rocky escarpment. Fully relaxed and rejuvenated after your fifth day of exploration and adventure, relax back in comfort as your guide delivers you back to Darwin for a well-earned rest. Meals: Breakfast, lunch Driving Distance: 470 km Walking Distance: 1km - 2km *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.

Before You Go

What to know before booking

Included

Aboriginal culture and rock art viewing. Billabong Wetlands River Cruise. Kakadu Pass & National Parks entry fees included. Guided bush walks (up to 3km each day, grade 2-4). Hosted by an accredited outback driver-guide. Air-conditioned 4WD off-road bus travel. Comprehensive local tour commentary. Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off points. Australian bush swag - canvas-covered bush bed roll (Bush Swag option).

Not Included

Sleeping bags can be hired from us for $40 AUD. This includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own. Payment is to be made through our reservations department prior to departure. Any meals not indicated on the itinerary. For those with special dietaries, we recommend you bring snacks as options are limited in the outback. Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point. Personal travel insurance is highly recommended. Spending money for personal items and expense.

What to Bring

3L Refillable water bottle - Your guide will be monitoring hydration and encouraging water consumption at all times during your daily adventures in order to avoid health concerns arising. Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen. Beach and shower towel & toiletries. Bathers or swimwear, flip-flops shoes (beach thongs). Comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed-toe shoes). All-weather clothing (extreme conditions inc wind, heat, cold, day/night). 15kg overnight bag & small day pack. Tropical strength insect repellent. Mosquito or fly net (summer months). Flashlight, headlamp or torch, travel first aid kit. Your own sleeping bag & pillow (optional - if staying in a swag). Recharge power bank (limited access to power to charge phone or cameras). Money for snack and meals. Camera to capture every moment.

Restrictions

Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag. 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. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.

Meeting & Pickup

Meeting departure point, Darwin, Northern Territory. Pickup Locations: (alternative locations available) 6:25 - Mindil Beach Casino Resort - Casino Dr The Gardens Darwin 6:25 - Cullen Bay Resort - 26 Marina Boulevard Darwin 6:30 - Travelodge Resort Darwin - 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City 6:35 - H on Smith Hotel - 81 Smith St Darwin City 6:40 - The Cavenagh Hotel - 12 Cavenagh St Darwin City 6:45 - Tourist Precinct Mini Bus Zone - 69 Mitchell St Darwin City 6:50 - H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment - 105 Mitchell St Darwin City 6:53 - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade - 116 Esplanade Darwin City 6:55 - Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin - 88 Esplanade Darwin City 6:58 - Ramada Suites Zen Quarter - 6 Carey Street Darwin City 7:00 - Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront - 7 Kitchener Dr Darwin City 7:10 - Darwin Resort - 383 Stuart Hwy Winnellie (meeting point Bus Stop ID: 183 Stuart Hwy) 7:20 - Darwin FreeSpirit Resort - 901 Stuart Hwy Deviney Rd Holtze

Languages Offered

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Optional Add-ons

Optional Sleeping Bag Hire - 40.00 Per Person

Before Booking

Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, and a contact phone number. Dietary Requirements: While we strive to accommodate most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking. As we travel to remote areas, we have limited options once the tour departs, so prior notice is essential. Medical Conditions: Please notify the tour operator of any known medical conditions when booking. This tour is physically demanding and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility. Fitness Level: A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The length of walks will be between 2 km to 4 km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate - 9 to 11km walk is included in this tour. Walks will be conducted at the guide’s discretion for guest safety. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 70 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel. Age Restrictions: Children aged 8 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 7 and under due to safety requirements and the physical demands of the walks. Mobility Considerations: This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers. Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 15 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. Large suitcases need to be stored at your hotel while on tour. Itinerary Variations: Itineraries may change due to seasonal conditions, and occasionally sites in the parks may close for cultural reasons or restricted swimming hole access. We prioritise safety and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests. Guest Participation: Guests are encouraged to participate in lunch preparation, unpacking, and loading luggage into the vehicles. This collaborative effort promotes a relaxed atmosphere, fostering connections among travellers after a day of touring. Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 03 9393 1333.

Planning Notes

Minimum age: 8 Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic

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