Day 1
Fly to Darwin and transfer to your hotel. You have a free afternoon to explore Darwin on your own.
Accommodation: Oaks Elan, Darwin
This is the perfect adventure for the less intrepid traveller. Our convoy of modern four-wheel drives, each with its own driver/guide, will take you to some of the most spectacular and remote parts of the Northern Territory, a number of which are only accessible with special permits. Your days will be filled with the glories of nature; your nights, tucked up comfortably in a hotel bed. PERFECT!
Day 2
We start our 4WD trip this morning travelling south along the Stuart Highway towards Katherine. On route we will stop at Edith Falls for morning tea and a swim. A 3km loop walk up to the escarpment provides spectacular panoramic views and swimming opportunities along the way.
Continue on to Katherine and Nitmiluk National Park, which is home to Katherine Gorge. This spectacular gorge has been created over millions of years by the Katherine River slowly eroding the ancient sandstone below – what is left is a huge gorge stretching many kilometres.
After checking in to our accommodation we will join the Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise through Katherine Gorge. Sit back and relax and discover the stories and ways of the local Jawoyn people as we cruise along the first two gorges. The tour includes a three course candle light dinner, featuring fresh local Australian produce cooked on board, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
Accommodation: Katherine Motel
Day 3
This morning we will make our way to Kakadu National Park via the southern entrance to the Park. Covering almost 20,000 square km of exceptional natural beauty and unique biodiversity, Kakadu is one of very few places World Heritage listed for both its cultural and its natural values. Kakadu is home to the Bininj and Mungguy Aboriginal people who have inhabited this area for thousands of years.
Our first stop in Kakadu will be Moline Rockhole, a special permit area in which only a few select operators are permitted to access, thus guaranteeing minimal crowds. The small waterfall and waterhole below the falls is a great place to cool down and relax.
After a picnic lunch we will travel into Gunlom Falls, another great swimming hole. A 15 minute climb to the rock pools above the falls provides sweeping views across the bushlands of Kakadu.
Next we’ll continue north along the Kakadu Highway to our accommodation.
Accommodation: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Day 4
Today we’ll travel to Cahill’s Crossing where the East Alligator River separates Kakadu from Arnhem Land. Arnhem Land consists of vast amounts of Aboriginal owned land (approximately 100,000 square km) where many local people still practice their traditional ways. Access is strictly regulated through a permit system.
After crossing the river into Arnhem Land a 15 km scenic drive to Gunbalanya (also known as Oenpelli) Aboriginal community provides some of the best driving views in the Top End with floodplains covered in bird life and water lilies running up alongside the Arnhem Land escarpment.
Once we reach the community we will visit the Gunbalanya Health Centre. Here we will be shown around the facilities by the on duty manager.
Next, we will be joined by a local Aboriginal guide for a hike around the Injalak Hill rock art sites. A moderate climb takes us up into one of the most spectacular Aboriginal rock art sites in Australia. It’s here where we spend time exploring the many rock shelters which are covered in Aboriginal x-ray art dating back over 20,000 years. Relax under the shelters as your Indigenous guide shares and interprets the stories of their ancestors and helps you to understand the meaning behind their ancient tradition.
After a picnic lunch we will visit Injalak Arts and Crafts Centre where you have the opportunity to meet and see traditional local artists in action. This art centre has a reputation for producing fine quality Aboriginal works with many displayed in galleries around Australia and overseas.
Later in the afternoon we will travel back to Kakadu and visit Ubirr Rock where we spend time viewing some of Kakadu’s best Aboriginal rock art. A short walk to the top of Ubirr offers spectacular views of the surrounding wetlands and stone country.
Accommodation: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Day 5
This morning we will explore more of Kakadu. After checking out of our hotel we will travel to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) via a 4wd track. Once at Maguk enjoy a scenic walk along the edge of Barramundi Creek before arriving at the base of Barramundi Falls. Here you have the opportunity to swim or snorkel in the large plunge pool below the falls and discover an array of aquatic life.
After a picnic lunch we’ll begin to make our way out of Kakadu via the Old Jim Jim Track. Our destination this afternoon is Wildman Wilderness Lodge, a luxury lodge located on the Mary River Floodplain, just to the west of Kakadu. This stylish lodge has all the modern comforts including a quality restaurant, lounge, bar, pool and very impressive, super luxurious safari-tents. The grounds around the lodge are home to many wallabies as well as different bird species.
Accommodation: Wildman Wilderness Lodge (Luxury Safari Tent)
Day 6
This morning embark on a relaxing cruise on the picturesque Home Billabong. On this scenic cruise you have the opportunity to view a large variety of birdlife as well as salt water crocodiles in their natural environment. Learn more about the wildlife on the billabong from your knowledgeable guides who will make the cruise both fascinating and informative.
After lunch we will check out and begin to make our way back to Darwin. Enjoy touring on route, including a stop at Fogg Dam. Originally built as a rice-plantation, Fogg Dam has become a conservation reserve and is now an important refuge for various bird and reptile species.
Arrive back into Darwin at approximately 6pm. You are free to enjoy dinner in Darwin on your own.
Accommodation: Oaks Elan, Darwin
Day 7
Transfer to the airport for your homeward flight.
SPACES ARE STRICTLY LIMITED:
PRE TOUR: 35 PEOPLE
MAIN CONFERENCE: 60 PEOPLE
POST TOUR: 30 PEOPLE