4 Day Kakadu and Katherine Gorge Experience - from Darwin

We depart from Darwin and head towards the wetlands region known as WakWak, an hour outside of Darwin, where the top end's magnificent scenery is on display. We have the chance to spot a vast range of Top End birdlife and apex predators such as crocodiles. Our journey continues as we wind our way into Kakadu National Park, where we check into our local accommodation and continue to take in the sights and sounds of nature, 300 kms east of Darwin. We take some time to soak in the landscape and wildlife of the park at the Bowali Visitor Centre before heading to the East Alligator region, the most north-eastern point of Kakadu, for a cultural tour of a lifetime. The group will join the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise down the East Alligator River on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land to experience the creation stories of the area, observe majestic birdlife, and, of course, hope to see crocodiles. In this same area we'll visit Ubirr Rock, home to one of the best-preserved collections of Aboriginal Rock Art in the world, and climb up high for a sunset that will take your breath away. We head back to our accommodation for dinner. Meals: Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, options include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite bathroom. Driving Distance: 420km. Hike Distance and Grading: 1km loop Grade 2-3.

Today is a day of perusing the art galleries and cultural centres that portray the stories of former and present clan groups of the north and south of Kakadu, as well as into Arnhem Land. We will journey on a guided walk through the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) art site areas, enjoying any combination of places including Kunwarddewardde Lookout, Anbangbang Billabong, Nawurlandja, and should the group feel like an extra bit of walking there is also potential for Naguluwurr art site. Offering unmatched vistas of escarpments, sweeping stone country, savannah woodlands, lowlands and endless floodplains and wetlands, take your time to enjoy the different creation stories and artworks in the various galleries, hear stories about local groups and traditions as well as commentary on the plant and wildlife you see before you. After an amazing sunset on day two of your adventure, we head back to our accommodation for our evening meal and restful sleep. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, options include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite bathroom. Driving Distance: 150km. Hike Distance and Grading: 1km grade 2.

After a leisurely morning, we get ready to hit the road southwest toward our next amazing destination of Katherine and Nitmiluk. The road south winds its way through vistas showcasing the radiant earthy colours of the typical Northern Australian bush. Keep a lookout for wildlife including the Red Tailed Black Cockatoo, Agile Wallabies, wild horses and buffalo. Heading through the historical township of Pine Creek we stop to stretch our legs and enjoy an array of refreshments available to those who are keen, including homemade ice cream - extremely popular with Top End locals. Enjoy stories of the Overland Telegraph construction, leading to the Pine Creek gold rush era of the 1870s. We also have the option of visiting the Pine Creek Museum - a National Trust building and the oldest prefabricated corrugated iron building in Australia. After checking in to our Katherine accommodation, we head out to the wonderful Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge where we enjoy the 2-hour NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Cruise, a leisurely snapshot into the history and stories behind this beautiful area. 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. After your cruise, we head back to Katherine where we can settle in and relax in our comfortable accommodation, enjoying local hospitality in readiness for our fourth and final day of exploring the region. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Katherine either Knotts Crossing Resort or Contour Hotel, options include twin, double, single rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Driving Distance: 310km. Hike Distance and Grading: none.

This morning we make the most of the Katherine area, visiting the Hot Springs for a dip and float, followed by a stop in afterwards at the Top Didj Gallery where you will have the chance to view art created by locals, and experience the bush tucker and bush medicine gardens. It’s now time to continue our journey south, 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! This evening upon your return to Darwin fully relaxed and refreshed after your cool swim, we'll have you back in Darwin in time for you to meander down the famous Mindil Markets or spend a relaxing night at your accommodation reflecting on all the adventures you've had and new friends you've made. 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.