Kakadu's Ancient Secrets
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,052
Learn about ancient traditions and explore lush national parks on this journey through Australia’s Top End. Cruise alongside crocodiles and exotic birds along the Corroboree Billabong, gaze upon millennia-old rock paintings at Nourlangie in Kakadu National Park, and try your hand at traditional painting in Katherine while enjoying luxury accommodations in idyllic settings.
This 5-day small group escorted vacation takes you around the national parks and ancient sites of Australia’s Top End, with a maximum of 20 guests and staying in boutique luxury accommodation.
Your Australian vacation begins in Darwin, the tropical city where the Outback meets civilization. Soak in the city’s atmospheric blend of Southeast Asian, Indigenous, and Australian cultures before heading south to Litchfield National Park to swim beneath Florence Falls and learn about the ancient Indigenous traditions of the area at Wangi Falls. Continue on to Mary River, passing through cattle country and rugged Outback, where you’ll take a wildlife cruise along the Corroboree Billabong, spotting exotic birds and crocodiles across the impressive floodplains. Head east to enter Kakadu National Park, the country’s largest national park.
Kakadu National Park catapulted to fame after the release of Crocodile Dundee in the 1980s and has continued to amaze Globetrotters ever since with its diverse wildlife and landscapes. The park is home to over 70 mammal species and 280 bird species, accounting for about a third of Australia’s entire bird population. Marvel at the wallabies and saltwater crocodiles that wander the park before watching the sunset at Ubirr. At Nourlangie, marvel at the ancient rock paintings of extinct Tasmanian tigers and the Creation myths, which are some of the oldest artworks on the planet. Dip south to Katherine to cruise down the Katherine River, swim in the pools beneath Edith Falls, and try your hand at traditional Indigenous arts like brushing with a reed brush called a julk. Then return to Darwin to close out your exploration of the Top End.
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,052
Itinerary View Trip Map
Litchfield National Park to Kakadu
Welcome to Darwin! This morning, meet your Journey Director and board your luxury 4WD vehicle to begin your journey of discovery in the Top End. Travel across the Finniss River to Litchfield National Park. You'll enjoy a swim to cool off at tumbling Florence Falls and you'll also visit Wangi Falls, surrounded by tropical monsoon rainforest and hear about its importance in Aboriginal custom before stopping for lunch.Get ready for a cross-country journey into the magnificent Kakadu National Park. Keep your eyes open for Crocodiles as you cross the South Alligator River, Brolgas, Magpie Geese and Jabiru as you traverse along the long grasses of the marshes and wetlands. Kakadu really is a diverse UNESCO world heritage site. This afternoon check into the renowned Crocodile Hotel in the town of Jabiru and enjoy the wonderful Aboriginal Art Gallery within the hotel before getting to know your fellow travellers over dinner with wine.
| Meal Plan | Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel |
| Location | View map |
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Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
From the marble foyer to the uniquely shaped exterior, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is a cool retreat in the midst of Kakadu National Park's wilderness. Just a two and a half hour drive from Darwin, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is the only full service hotel …
From the marble foyer to the uniquely shaped exterior, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is a cool retreat in the midst of Kakadu National Park's wilderness. Just a two and a half hour drive from Darwin, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is the only full service hotel for Kakadu accommodation and is the ideal base to explore the Ubirr, Nourlangie and Jim Jim areas of Kakadu.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Barbeques (BBQ)
- Bellman/Porters
- Business Centre
- Concierge
- Conference Facilities
- Gift Shop
- Laundry facilities
- Newsstand
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Reception (24 hrs)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
- Wheelchair Accessible Rooms
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Kakadu
This morning there’s a chance to take to the air an optional scenic flight over Kakadu. One of the best ways to experience the enormity of this wonderful National Park as well as the diversity from waterfalls and billabongs to flood plains and wildlife. Join your Journey Director on a walk at Kakadu’s stunning Ubirr rock art site. You'll see ancient rock art and take a walk to discover remarkable views over the surrounding wetlands and escarpments from the fantastic vantage point, Nadab lookout. After lunch the famous Yellow Waters Billabong boat cruise will be a highlight of your journey. You will see a myriad of different bird species, spot estuarine crocodiles and simply enjoy the stunning billabong and floodplains system. Returning to your hotel you will have the chance to relax and unwind with a refreshing dip in the hotel’s shaded outdoor pool or even wander through the on-site art gallery before enjoying a delicious dinner with wine.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Kakadu to Katherine Gorge
If you're an early riser there's a chance to take an early morning scenic flight over Kakadu and Arnhem Land, or, perhaps you might just want to sleep in before your day of activities. This morning you'll visit Nourlangie to see its fascinating Aboriginal rock art for yourself. You'll also hear first-hand from your Journey Director a detailed interpretation of the art and the rich Aboriginal culture as you explore the various outdoor 'galleries' with art that dates back some 20,000 years. Later you'll veer off the sealed road and onto a gravel track for a scenic cross-country journey to Gunlom Falls. You'll have time to take a hike to the top of the falls for a splash in picturesque natural plunge pool where you're awarded with spectacular views over the National Park. Take in the natural beauty of the area while you enjoy a picnic lunch. This afternoon you continue through Katherine to Nitmiluk National Park. Indulge in five-star luxury at Cicada Lodge, a stunning architect designed eco-lodge surrounded by nature, where each room has a private balcony that opens to the glories of Nitmiluk National Park.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Cicada Lodge |
| Location | View map |
-
Cicada Lodge
Cicada Lodge, a luxury lodge perfectly positioned as your base from which to explore Nitmiluk Gorge and its ancient landscape. 300km south of Darwin along the Stuart Highway and 32km from Katherine town centre, the Lodge is nestled in natural bush, high above the ancient …
Cicada Lodge, a luxury lodge perfectly positioned as your base from which to explore Nitmiluk Gorge and its ancient landscape.
300km south of Darwin along the Stuart Highway and 32km from Katherine town centre, the Lodge is nestled in natural bush, high above the ancient waterways of the Katherine River system.Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Katherine
Today meet Manual Pamkal who will welcome you with a traditional welcoming tune on the didgeridoo. Manual was born and raised immersed in his rich traditional culture. He'll share with you stories of growing up in the bush and teach you the fine art of rarrk painting using a special brush from a reed called Julk. Call up the inner artist within you and paint your own masterpiece to take home! This evening, relax on a special dinner cruise along Katherine River. You'll marvel at the gorges while you spot wildlife and learn about the history and culture of the local Jawoyn people. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance during the candle-lit three course dinner cook on board your boat.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Farewell from Darwin
This morning, enjoy a lay in or get up early to enjoy the National Park completely immersed in the mystical morning light. Travel north along the Stuart Highway stopping at Edith Falls along the way for a relaxing dip. Continue to Adelaide River War Cemetery. During WWII, Adelaide River was the headquarters to a large military base and a large cemetery was created especially for those who gave their lives in the service and defense of their country. Your Inspiring Journey concludes on arrival in Darwin.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2022: Jun 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Jul 14, 21, 28; Aug 4, 11, 25; Sep 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Oct 6
2023: May 4, 11, 18, 25; Jun 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; Jul 6, 13, 20, 27; Aug 3, 10, 17, 24, 31;
Sep 7, 14, 21, 28; Oct 5
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 4 nights' accommodation
- Transport in luxury coach or 4WD vehicles
- Services of Tour Driver Guide
- Meals as indicated
- Touring listed in itinerary
- Airport transfers
- Complimentary select refreshments throughout the journey
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
6 Oct 2022
