5 Day Top End Explorer

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Itinerary

Highlights

Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), Gunlom Falls, Nitmiluk National Park, Aboriginal Culture, Aboriginal Rock Art, Edith Falls, Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Ubirr, Wildlife Boat Trip

Day 1 Mary River Wetlands & Ubirr

Leaving Darwin, we travel into Wulna Country and receive a Cul Cul or unique ‘Welcome to Country’ by the traditional owners of the land, the Limilngan-Wulna people. They’ll share with us their local Aboriginal culture with bush tucker talks, didgeridoo lessons, basket weaving and spear throwing. Next stop is the Mary River wetlands system, with the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the southern hemisphere. Get close (but not too close) to ‘salties’ and other wild creatures on a unique billabong cruise. We arrive at history rich Ubirr in time for sunset. You will see vivid Aboriginal rock art that dates back over 20,000 years. Then we head to our overnight camp in Kakadu. (LD)

Day 2 Kakadu National Park

It’s an early start this morning as we travel to Twin Falls, getting in some 4WD action along the way. The spectacular gorge is experienced onboard a National Park operated boat cruise and a walk along the boardwalk. Unwind and relax for a bit on the sandy banks before we head to explore Jim Jim Falls. First we have a quick lunch break and then take in the views of this 200m natural wonder before taking the challenging walk to the base where you can choose to swim or relax on the beautiful beach. This is really a site to admire and not rush so we spend the whole afternoon enjoying the spectacular scenery and waterholes before making the short drive to our overnight bush camp. (BLD)

Day 3 Kakadu National Park to Nitmiluk National Park

With more amazing waterfalls to experience we either head to Maguk and cool off with a dip in the plunge pools, or hike to the top of Gunlom Falls for a swim and the breathtaking view of the escarpment country. After lunch we visit the historic gold-mining centre of Pine Creek, before heading further south and settling in for the night at our private campsite on the doorstep of Nitmiluk National Park. (BLD)

Day 4 Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls

We spend the morning at the majestic Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Relax and enjoy the serenity. Want to see more? Take a cruise along the gorge or rent a canoe and paddle yourself downstream. These options are seasonal and at your own expense. Next we head off to Edith Falls where you can cool down with another refreshing swim. Settle down for the night in a comfortable camp with your group. (BLD)

Day 5 Litchfield National Park

Filled with waterholes and waterfalls, Litchfield National Park is well deserving of all its hype and the perfect place to soak up the tranquility of the tropics. Exploring Litchfield is the perfect way to complete this tour, visiting Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and the Buley Rockholes. Enjoy a picnic lunch, stroll through steamy rainforests and cool off with a dip in one of Litchfield’s picture perfect swimming holes. As with all good things, this Top End tour must come to an end. Hit the road and head back to Darwin to enjoy a night on the town toasting your adventure with new friends. (BL)

What to Bring

It is essential that you bring a torch, broad-brimmed hat with sun visor for all round sun protection, sunscreen, swimming costume and towel, good walking/trekking shoes and a personal 1.5L water bottle.

It is also recommended that you bring insect repellent, warm clothes for the evening (particularly if travelling in winter), personal toiletries and first aid, with any personal medication required.

You will also need to bring a sleeping bag. 10ºC sleeping bags are available for sale at $35pp – these must be requested with our office prior to travel and can be kept following your trip or donated to local indigenous communities.

Notes

Your tour vehicle may be branded as Adventure Tours Australia, Western Exposure or Wild Expeditions, but this tour is operated by Adventure Tours Australia.

The Aboriginal Wulna-Limilngan cultural experience is only available during the dry season (April/May to October) as site is subject to flooding. Participants may be absent due to cultural commitments with minimal prior notification and Wild Expeditions reserves the right to amend the itinerary in these circumstances with no obligation to refund.

Travel Insurance is compulsory for all travellers on all tours and details must be presented to tour guide before departure.

Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted for any cause including seasonal conditions (including the opening and closing of Jim Jim Falls and other natural attractions), weather extremes, traditional owner and national park requirements. Please note that the opening dates of waterfalls and attractions vary each year and can change on a daily basis during the wet and shoulder seasons.

It is your responsibility to advise Wild Expeditions if you have any special dietary requirements or medical conditions (including allergies) well ahead of departure.

During the shoulder seasons (Apr, May, Sep and Oct) it is likely that you will experience temperatures of over 35 degrees Celsius with high humidity. Be prepared to endure extra physical stress due to the heat at these times, especially while on walks. These extreme temperatures can also place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your tour guide will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping hydrated. Please come prepared for all extremes.

The default pick up point is where we will meet you for your tour, unless you or your travel agent requests an alternative location (contact our Reservations team for more information). It is your responsibility to contact us with your preferred pick up point well ahead of departure. We do not take responsibility for missed tours if we have not been advised of an alternative in advance and you are not at the default location on time.

Due to vehicle weight restrictions, a strict luggage limit of 10kg applies for all tours in Kakadu National Park. Please arrange storage of excess luggage at your Darwin accommodation.

Are you over 70 years old? Due to the remote location and challenging nature of our extended camping tours it is essential for older travellers to review and sign our Medical Form to ensure you can participate fully in the itinerary.

Camping

Nights 1, 3 & 4  We stay overnight in Explorer Tents at our conveniently located private wilderness camps. The Explorer Tents are simple permanent twin share tents with bed blocks and sleeping mats. Sleeping bags are required – you may bring your own or pre purchase with our office. Shared ablution facilities are nearby.

Night 2  Tonight we camp at our private camp at Garnamarr. This camping involves tourer-style tents pre-erected on platforms and featuring twin stretcher beds. Sleeping bags are required – you may bring your own or pre purchase with our office. Shared ablution facilities are nearby.