Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Adventure | Adventure Tours Australia (2023)

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Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Adventure

Journey into the Northern Territory’s rugged Top End on this short but sweet four-day tour. Spend time with the Traditional Owners of Wulna Country to learn about their culture, go bird and croc spotting in the lush Mary River and see traditional rock art in Ubirr. Climb high to look down on the Nardab Floodplain and then find refuge from the tropical heat in the swimming holes of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Discover the history of the First Peoples of Australia at Anbangbang and cruise through the towering rock walls of Katherine Gorge. The reds of the soil and orange of the sunsets will leave you with a lasting impression of the Territory’s beauty and biodiversity.

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(Video) Northern Territory: How to Explore the Top End – Darwin, Kakadu, & Litchfield [4K]

Start Darwin, Australia Finish Darwin, Australia Destinations Kakadu & Top End,Northern Terriory Style Original Theme Explorer Code POSK Physical rating More info”> Trip rating 3 reviews Ages Min 15 Group size Min 1, Max 16

Explore the highlights of Australia’s iconic Top End on this family-friendly adventure
Enjoy the flexibility of a private vehicle, the local knowledge of a passionate guide and the magic of camping under the great southern sky in comfortable permanent tents
Learn about the ancient culture and traditions of The First Peoples of Australia during an interactive experience in Katherine.
The Mary River Wetlands feature a wealth of wildlife, including the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the southern hemisphere. Get up close to the snappy beasts on a river cruise
Discover the wonders of Kakadu National Park. See ancient traditional rock art and take an optional flight over astounding landscapes

You’ll spend some nights of the trip sleeping in outback camping grounds. While conditions can be basic and facilities are minimal, this is all part of the adventure. You’ll need to pitch in with preparing meals and cleaning.
This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves a lot of walking, allowing you to truly enjoy the surrounding nature. Some hikes are longer and more challenging than others. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and comfortable clothing.
Temperatures in the Top End can be extreme. During the day the weather can be hot (and the Australian sun is strong) so please bring appropriate clothing, use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures really drop, so ensure you have base layers and warm clothing.
This trip has a strict luggage limit of 10kg. Excess luggage can not be carried however, it can be stored at Darwin accommodation.
This trip is operated by our trusted partner Intrepid Travel. Adventure Tours Australia works closely with Intrepid Travel to ensure that all of our customers enjoy their time away.

Welcome to the Northern Territory! Your adventure begins in the tropical city of Darwin. Set off from Darwin and head south to Litchfield National Park, a huge sandstone plateau with dozens of waterfalls. Explore Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and the Buley Rockholes. After a picnic lunch, stroll through steamy rainforests and cool off with a dip in one of Litchfield’s picturesque swimming holes. We then hit the road to Wulna Country, where your Limilngan-Wulna hosts – the land’s Traditional Owners – will greet you with a Cul Cul or ‘Welcome to Country’. Learn about their culture during bush tucker talks and didgeridoo and basket weaving demonstrations. Enjoy a camp dinner before climbing into bed at private campsite in the Mary River region.

Accommodation

Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities) (1 night)

Included Activities

Litchfield National Park
Pudakul Cultural Experience

Meals Included

Special Information

Total driving time: approximately 5.5 hours (approximately 400 km)
Total walking time: approximately 45 minutes

Please note that all tents are twin-share and come with a proper bed.

After breakfast this morning, head toonto the water on a wildlife cruise in the Mary River Wetlands, a network of waterways home to crocodiles and native bird species. Kakadu National Park and discover ancient Aboriginal rock art in Ubirr. Your guide will lead an interpretive cultural walk through the numerous rock galleries, before you climb to the top of a lookout for views over the Nardab floodplain. Tonight, relax by the pool at the Kakadu campground and enjoy a group dinner.

Accommodation

Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities) (1 night)

Included Activities

Ubirr Rock
Kakadu National Park Fee
Mary River cruise

Meals Included

Special Information

Total driving time: approximately 6.5 hours (approximately 550 km)
Total walking time: approximately 2 hours

This morning you have the option to take a scenic flight over Kakadu (at your own expense). The flight takes in views over the Arnhem Land escarpment, vast flood plains and billabongs. Later spend time exploring Kakadu’s other major Aboriginal rock art site – Nourlangie (Burrunggui), while your guide provides a glimpse into how the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people live. After lunch head south and stop to visit the historic gold-mining centre of Pine Creek. Stop for a quick dip at Maguk or Gunlom Falls, before continuing on to Katherine, where you’ll settle in for the night at a private campsite near Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge).

Accommodation

Permanent tented camp (with shared facilities) (1 night)

Included Activities

Bowali Visitor Centre
Pine Creek Gold-Mining Centre
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge)

Optional Activities

Flight (Fixed Wing Aircraft) over – Kakadu – from – AUD150

Meals Included

Special Information

Total driving time: approximately 5.5 hours (approximately 400 km)
Total walking time: approximately 1 hour

Depending on the season, head out on a morning cruise along the inky waters of Katherine Gorge, or canoe between red rock walls that are up to 70 metres high (both of these activities are optional and at your own expense). This 23 million-year-old landscape was formed by the Katherine River, which flows from Arnhem Land out to the Timor Sea. After lunch we head to the beautiful Edith falls for one last refreshing swim in the huge plunge pool before we hit the road back to Darwin, where your adventure comes to an end on arrival.

Included Activities

Optional Activities

Katherine Gorge Scenic Cruise – AUD95

Meals Included

Special Information

Total driving time: approximately 5 hours (approximately 400 km)
Total walking time: approximately 1 hour

3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners

(Video) Private Tours Kakadu Katherine and Litchfield

Permanent, furnished tented camp (with shared facilities) (3 nights)

Litchfield National Park
Pudakul Cultural Experience
Ubirr Rock
Kakadu National Park Fee
Mary River cruise
Bowali Visitor Centre
Pine Creek Gold-Mining Centre
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge)
Edith Falls

(Video) Litchfield, Katherine, & Kakadu | Top End Roadtrip, Northern Territory

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(Video) 3 Day Kakadu & Litchfield Tour from Kakadu Wild Expeditions HD

1. The tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 7am am and finishes back in Darwin on the final day (Day 4) at approximately 6pm. We recommend you arrive a day earlier, and onward travel must be booked for the following day.

2. A strict luggage limit of 10kg applies on this trip. Excess luggage should be stored at your accommodation in Darwin.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what’s included – pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Reviews

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(Video) KAKADU and LITCHFIELD | The limits of VAN LIFE in Australia’s Northern Territory

It’s true that Kakadu might have the edge when it comes to its variety of walks and experiences. However, Litchfield just beats Kakadu for ease of access, quality of walks, and the fact that most of Litchfield’s walks end at beautiful waterfalls where you can have a swim.

What is the best season to visit Kakadu? › No matter what time of year you visit Kakadu, there is always something to see and do.

Dry Season. (May to October) This is the most popular time to visit, with most of our visitor sites open. …
Tropical summer. (November to April) …
Seasons. Curious about our seasons?

Is Katherine NT worth visiting? ›

Katherine is a great base for exploring the nearby gorge country and learning about local Aboriginal culture. Stop in at the galleries in town showcasing Aboriginal art, where you can meet the artists, browse the pieces or buy one of your own to take home.

How long should I spend in Kakadu? ›

Ideally three days are required, though seven days or more will reward you with an experience that you will never forget. We have come up with some itineraries that will help you build your ‘Kakadu Experience’.

Are there crocodiles in Litchfield? ›

With heavy monsoonal rains (Oct – April), many of these sites are closed due to inaccessible roads, the risk of flash flooding and the possibility of Saltwater (Estuarine) Crocodiles entering the areas.

How many days do you need in Litchfield? ›

It’s best to stay at least two to three days in Litchfield to experience the true beauty. With plenty of plunge pools and rockholes to keep you busy. You can spend as little as one day in the park however to really experience the park we suggest you stay longer.

Why is Kakadu at risk? ›

Overall THREATS

Some of the invasive species are of particular concern. The establishment of cane toads has caused severe declines in Kakadu and elsewhere of many native predators. Feral cats remain uncontrolled across almost all of the park, and impacts of pigs and some weeds continue.

Why is Kakadu so famous? ›

Kakadu is one of the largest national parks in Australia and one of the largest in the world’s tropics, Kakadu preserves the greatest variety of ecosystems on the Australian continent including extensive areas of savanna woodlands, open forest, floodplains, mangroves, tidal mudflats, coastal areas and monsoon forests.

Is it safe to swim in Kakadu? ›

The safest places to swim are the public swimming pool in Jabiru and the pools at the resorts and hotels. We do not recommend people swim in Kakadu’s waterways.

Which is better Kakadu or Katherine? ›

Kakadu is where to go for escarpment scenery, floodplains, crocs, birds, rock art. Katherine’s main point of difference is its gorge. All three have excellent walking trails, though I’d say Kakadu offers more spectacular options for fit folk, particularly those with the benefit of a 4wd that can get to some of them.

How many days should I stay in Katherine? ›

With 7 days to discover the beauty of Katherine and surrounds, you’ll see how this region is prime adventure territory. Discover gorges, waterholes, waterfalls and thermal springs and learn about the traditional owners on a cultural tour.

What movie was filmed in Katherine gorge? ›

Inspired by the dramatic life of the Murrinh-Patha warrior Nemarluk, Jedda was Australia’s first feature to be filmed in colour, the first to star Indigenous leads, and was largely shot in Nitmiluk Gorge near Katherine.

Can you do Kakadu without a tour? ›

Kakadu is fine to ‘do it yourself’. There are tours to join in with on the way and when you get there, ie Window on the Wetlands (a small museum), the Jumping Crocodiles at the Adelaide River crossing, and then once in Kakadu the visitors centre is a must, as well as a Yellow Waters Cruise.

What should I wear in Kakadu? ›

Warm layers (for cold nights)
Towel.
Bathing costume.
Broad-brimmed hat.
Sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Mask and snorkel.

Is it easy to drive from Darwin to Kakadu? ›

Driving from Darwin to Kakadu

Altogether, you need about 3 hours to get there. Driving to Kakadu is easy. You don’t need a 4WD at this stage and the road is in good condition however, you do need to be prepared to drive 6 hours in one day (about 600km).

Is it safe to swim in Litchfield? ›

Swimming is one of the best activities in Litchfield National Park, and is considered safe for tourists.

Is it safe to swim in Litchfield National Park? ›

Be safe around water

Park rangers monitor the safety of swimming holes. You must swim in designated areas. Conditions change rapidly with flash flooding and electrical storms. If it doesn’t feel safe, don’t swim.

Do crocodiles come on beaches? ›

Crocodiles are an ancient and fascinating species, but they can also be dangerous if you don’t give them the proper respect. They can be found in estuaries and beaches around Tropical North Queensland as well as in rivers, lagoons and swamps hundreds of kilometres from the sea.

Is Litchfield worth a visit? ›

Litchfield is a great place to visit for treks, tours, swimming and sightseeing. Popular attractions include the waterfalls at Wangi, Florence and Tjaynera/Sandy Creek Falls, take a dip at Buley Rockhole, or explore the Lost City by 4WD. Walk around the giant Magnetic Termite Mounds.

Is Litchfield Park expensive? ›

Litchfield Park’s housing expenses are 66% higher than the national average and the utility prices are 3% higher than the national average. Transportation expenses like bus fares and gas prices are 7% higher than the national average. Litchfield Park has grocery prices that are 0% lower than the national average.

How much does it cost to go to Litchfield National Park? ›

You might also be stoked to know that you don’t need to pay to enter Litchfield! Yes, there are campsite fees, with each night costing around $10 per adult, but apart from this, it’s absolutely free to enter the national park.

Are there crocodiles at Kakadu? ›

There are around 10,000 crocodiles in Kakadu – that’s 10% of all the crocs in the Northern Territory! We have two types: freshwater crocs and the ‘salties’ (saltwater crocodiles).

Is Darwin safe to walk around? ›

In general, Darwin can be considered a safe city, but minor crimes happen here. Beware worth scammers and pickpocketers. Perhaps the greatest danger is brought by the wildlife of this region – dangerous crocodiles, poisonous snakes, and sweltering heat.

Is it worth staying in Kakadu? ›

If you are looking for a cheap weekend getaway then Kakadu might not be it. Considered as a true once in a lifetime experience, given the proper planning, time and the experience is actually very good value, but if you are looking for a cheap overnighter, you might find Kakadu on the expensive side!

Are there dingoes in Kakadu? ›

From campgrounds you may hear dingoes howling at night, or glimpse them as you travel through the park. These canines are thought to have reached Australia in the company of humans about 5 000 years ago. About one-third of all Australian bats are found in Kakadu.

Why is Kakadu closed? ›

Site closed due to events beyond Kakadu’s control. For example: flooding, bushfires, roadworks or extreme weather. Inspect the site and plan upcoming works. Takes one day to complete.

Which big city is the Kakadu park closest to? ›

The closest major city is Darwin, which is 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of the park, and roughly a 3-hour drive away. What is this? There are two towns inside the park, Jabiru and Cooinda. You can stay in one of those, or camp.

Are there snakes in Kakadu? ›

Apart from the crocodiles, Kakadu is home to a few species of venomous snakes, including the Northern Brown snake, Mulga or King Brown snake, Northern Death Adder, and Great Black Whipsnake.

Are there mosquitoes in Kakadu? ›

Plus, novelty items can ruin Kakadu’s natural beauty for others. Mosquitoes and flies come with the territory in Australia’s largest national park, and they can be relentless. Mostly, mozzies pester you at dawn and dusk, so pack environmentally friendly spray and citronella candles.

Can you swim with saltwater crocodiles? ›

This off-the-scale opportunity to swim with two saltwater crocodiles is the only one of its kind in Queensland and allows park visitors to swim eye-to-teeth with these terrifying apex predators and live to tell the tale! CrocArena is home to the spine-tingling Swim With The Salties experience.

Are there crocodiles in the Katherine River? ›

Freshwater crocodiles roam the inland rivers and lagoons and are commonly found in the Katherine and Victoria rivers and the Mataranka area.

Are there crocodiles in Katherine Gorge? ›

You’ll see freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks but they won’t kill you. Saltwater crocodiles will kill, and do. They can drift in with the floodwaters of the wet season. During this time, (November to March) it is not safe to swim in Katherine Gorge.

Can you see Katherine Gorge without a tour? ›

Walk it. A well-earned soak on the Jatbula Trail. There are more than 100km of walking trails around the gorge, allowing visitors to take their time and meet much of the wildlife abundant in this lovely area, including the fish.

What is the best time of year to visit Katherine Gorge? ›

The perfect time to visit Australia’s largest national park and take in its extraordinary biodiversity, its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage is from June to August. The days are sunny (average temperature is around 30°C), there’s little chance of rain and humidity is low.

Where do you stop between Litchfield and Katherine? ›

The top stops along the way from Katherine to Litchfield National Park (with short detours) are Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, Katherine Hot Springs, and Window on the Wetlands. Other popular stops include Wangi Falls, Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, and Adelaide River.

Why is Katherine Gorge famous? ›

In one of the most spectacular and beautiful places in Australia, Edith Falls flow into the awesome 12 kilometre long Katherine Gorge with its 70 metre high stunning sandstone cliffs. Made up of 13 gorges with falls and rapids, the 23 million year old Katherine Gorge is a must see experience when traveling the Top End.

Where do Katherine Gorge cruises leave from? ›

Tour departs from Nitmiluk National Park Boat Ramp.

What is Katherine Gorge called now? ›

Aboriginal owners

Nitmiluk is the Jawoyn name for Katherine Gorge. It’s pronounced ‘Nit-me-look’, and literally means ‘Cicada Place‘. There are many Aboriginal rock art paintings on sandstone walls throughout the gorge system, some of which are thousands of years old.

How much is the entrance fee to the Kakadu National Park? ›

In the tropical summer (1 November to 14 May), an adult pass will cost $25. In the dry season (15 May to 31 October), an adult pass will cost $40. Kakadu will remain free for Territorians, all year round. A discount will be introduced for seniors, pensioners, disabled pensioners and their carers.

How much does Kakadu National Park cost? ›

For each:	Dry Season (15 May – 31 October)	Tropical Summer (1 November – 14 May)
Adult (16 years and over)	$40.00 per pass	$25.00 per pass
Child (aged 5-15 years)	$20.00 per pass	$12.50 per pass
Family (2 adults and 2 or more children)	$100.00 per pass	$65.00 per pass
Concession*	$30.00 per pass	$19.00 per pass

What to see between Katherine and Kakadu? ›

The top stops along the way from Kakadu National Park to Katherine (with short detours) are Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, Katherine Outback Experience, and Waterfall Creek Falls. Other popular stops include Jim Jim Falls Carpark, Katherine Hot Springs, and Tjuwaliyn (Douglas) Hot Springs Park.

Is alcohol allowed in Kakadu? ›

Kakadu. You cannot drink alcohol in Kakadu except when you are camping at any of the following places: Merl. Garnamarr.

Does Kakadu get cold at night? ›

It can get to about 17 degrees Celsius overnight, especially during the middle of the year. Even though 17 degrees Celsius doesn’t sound cold, it is. The low humidity makes it feel cooler. Dry season is seen as winter to the locals because of the cooler nights and mornings.

Do you need to book Kakadu? ›

There’s no need to book ahead at our managed campgrounds as they operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and the on-site campground manager will collect your camping fees. Bush campgrounds are unmanaged, and there’s no need to book.

What is the best month to visit Kakadu? › No matter what time of year you visit Kakadu, there is always something to see and do.

Dry Season. (May to October) This is the most popular time to visit, with most of our visitor sites open. …
Tropical summer. (November to April) …
Seasons. Curious about our seasons?

Is Kakadu or litchfield better? ›

For those looking for a short, cheap weekend filled with walking and waterfalls Litchfield probably looks like the better park. For those interested in a longer immersive experience of wildlife, natural history, and indigenous culture, you’ll surely think Kakadu is the winner.

Where do you fly into for Kakadu? ›

Fly. Flight hubs are at Darwin and Alice Springs, from there, choose whether you hire a vehicle or jump on a tour to get to the park.

Is Litchfield worth visiting? ›

Is Litchfield National Park worth visiting? ›

Litchfield is spectacular, and completely worth the effort you’d make to get there. Everything is so close, so easy to get to and stunning. It is busy, but that’s the price you pay when everything is so easy to get to, and so beautiful.

Is Litchfield good rdr2? ›

The Litchfield Repeater is a great choice for hunting, with the best damage of all repeating rifles and a large ammo capacity. Despite a slower fire rate and reload speed, the Litchfield excels at medium range combat; perfect when needing to clear an area.

Can you do Litchfield by yourself? ›

Whatever car you have, it is certainly possible to do Litchfield yourself and it’s certainly possible to do it in a day.

Does it cost to enter Litchfield National Park? ›

There are no entrance fees. There are camping fees per person, per night that range in price but normally no more than USD 8. Permits are not required to visit the park.

What is Arthur Morgan’s favorite gun? ›

Cattleman Revolver

Arthur Morgan begins the game with this weapon, and a second one can be bought from any gunsmith once the off-hand holster is acquired, allowing Arthur to dual-wield a pair of them. The Cattleman Revolver can be customized at any gunsmith to increase its performance and to change its appearance.

Videos

1. Darwin Litchfield Katherine Kakadu 2. 5-Day – Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield Tour 3. The Top End NT (including Kakadu, Darwin & Litchfield). Episode 7: 4WD Australia Series 4. 5 Day Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield Tour 5. Intrepid Kakadu & Top End 6. Motorhome Tour from Katherine Gorge – Kakadu National Park | Explorer’s Guide

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