Top End & Kakadu Adventure - 6 Days



Who is this trip for
Age range
15 - 99Start / End
- Darwin
- Darwin
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
8Highlights
- Spot eagles, crocs and more of Kakadu National Park’s rich wildlife on an Indigenous-owned river cruise along Yellow Water Billabong.
- Marvel at ancient First Nations rock art at Ubirr and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and learn more about the wildlife and histories of the respective areas.
- Glide or walk along the spectacular Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge – a maze of waterways spanning over 12 km carved out of ancient sandstone.
- Refresh yourself with incredibly scenic swims in the natural pools of Litchfield National Park, with stops at Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole.
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Summary
Take in the treasures of Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks and more magical Top End moments on this six-day adventure. From your starting point in Darwin, you’ll soon sample the incredible sights of Kakadu National Park. Cruise down the Yellow Water Billabong and tour the fascinating First Nations rock art at Ubirr. Then it’s on to the contrast of Katherine, where the red expanses of the outback meet the flowing waters of the Katherine River. Finally, the wonders of Litchfield National Park await – all the idyllic swimming holes will leave you spoiled for (a refreshing) choice.
Itinerary
Day 1
Darwin
Welcome to the Top End! Your adventure begins in Darwin (Gulumerrdgen in the language of the local Larrakia people, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Darwin is now located), capital of the Northern Territory. A welcome meeting at 6 pm will give you a chance to meet your fellow travellers, then you’re free to spend an evening resting before your early start tomorrow. If you arrive early, you might like to take a dip in the Darwin City Lagoon, or visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory for a taste of the state’s culture, history and art.
Day 2
Kakadu National Park
Rising bright and early this morning, head towards Kakadu National Park. Covering an enormous 20,000 sq km, the park is truly bountiful in its biodiversity. After a chance to stretch your legs on a short walk at Mamukala Wetlands, stop for a picnic lunch by the river at Cahill's Crossing. Then, hop aboard a cruise down the East Alligator River (despite the name, you won’t see any alligators – this is crocodile country). You’ll be joined by a First Nations guide who’ll provide a unique insight on the cultural significance of the landscape, and the plants and animals that live there. After your cruise, set off on the Ubirr walk with your leader. The 1 km loop will lead you past incredible examples of First Nations rock art and to an awe-inspiring lookout point. Tonight, chill at your accommodation of get to know your fellow travellers over a few card games.
Day 3
Kakadu National Park
This morning, drive to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), famous for its World Heritage-listed rock art created by the Bininj people. There are various short walks available while you’re here, offering a different perspective on the wildlife, art and natural features of the area. Your exploration of the natural wonders of Kakadu National Park will continue with an Indigenous-owned cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong. As you glide through the wetlands and tributaries of the South Alligator River, keep an eye out for the area’s rich wildlife – eagles, jabirus, brolgas and plenty of crocodiles all call the billabong home. When you’re back on dry land, you’ll visit the local cultural centre and, depending on the time of day, you may be able to join a weaving or damper making class.
Day 4
Nitmiluk National Park / Katherine
Say farewell to Kakadu National Park and head out on a short drive to Katherine. Along the way, you’ll stop at the historic gold mining town of Pine Creek, then the idyllic Leliyn (Edith Falls). At the falls, there’ll be a chance to take a short hike along the upper pools circuit, go for a swim and stop for lunch. Later, continue to Katherine – a town where the outback meets the tropics. When you arrive, you’ll drop into the Arts and Culture Centre for an introduction to the rich heritage of the area, before making your way to your accommodation for the night.
Day 5
Nitmiluk National Park / Katherine
Start the day with a visit to Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge – a truly impressive series of sandstone gorges sculpted by the Katherine River. Here you’ll have some free time to choose your own adventure – maybe take a cruise down the river to marvel at the dramatic scenery, as local guides provide the historical and cultural context of the region’s flora and fauna. Alternatively, you could head out on foot with your leader and explore Nitmiluk up close. Later, head back to Katherine for lunch and a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs.
Day 6
Litchfield National Park / Darwin
For the final day of your Top End adventure, drive to the magnificent Litchfield National Park. Sitting on a huge sandstone plateau, the park is home to stunning waterfalls, secret swimming spots and towering rocky pillars. Your first stop will be Litchfield’s famous Magnetic Termite Mounds, then you’ll visit the Buley Rockhole – a series of shallow rock pools perfect for a quick dip. Then, walk to Florence Falls for a picnic lunch and another swim. If that’s not enough, the amazing Wangi Falls also provide a picturesque spot for a swim. Then, it’s time for the drive back to Darwin. Say goodbye to your newfound friends as your adventure comes to an end when you arrive. If you’d like to spend more time in Darwin, just speak to your booking agent.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotel (3 nights), Twin/Double rooms with shared facilities (2 nights)
Meals
Breakfasts: 5, Lunches: 3, Dinners: 0
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Aug 25
from £1,269Sep 25
from £1,128Oct 25
from £1,307May 26
from £1,564Jun 26
from £1,629Jul 26
from £1,688Aug 26
from £1,629Sep 26
from £1,564Oct 26
from £1,564
- Save 6%Fri 5 Sep 2025 > Wed 10 Sep 2025Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 left£1,445£1,359
- Save 16%Fri 19 Sep 2025 > Wed 24 Sep 2025Guaranteed Departure6+ spaces of 16 left£1,340Best offer£1,128
Customer reviews & ratings
The Northern Territory is a beautiful place. Intrepid makes it easy to see the best sights and make traveling easy.
Jodie Jun, 2025 VerifiedHighly recommend the Top End adventure. The tour leader Sean was highly experienced, knowledgeable and friendly. We saw some amazing scenery and swam in some stunning waterholes.
Waltet Jun, 2025 Verified
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
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