Australia, Kakadu's Ancient Secrets

Arrive into Darwin and board a 4x4 vehicle for your journey into the Top End. Begin by travelling to Litchfield National Park for a swim in Florence Falls and to learn about the Aboriginal importance of Wangi Falls. Continue along unsealed tracks, past cattle stations and through back country to the Mary River region, known for its abundant wildlife. Stay overnight in a permanent tent at Wildman Wilderness Lodge, offering true outback luxury. (L, D)

 

Start the day with a wildlife cruise on the Corroboree billabong in search of the bird species and estuarine crocodiles found in the Mary River floodplains. Continue to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park, where you will stay at the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel for 1 night. Later in the day, view paintings that are up to 20,000 years old at the Ubirr rock art site. (B, L, D)

 

This morning view more rock art at Nourlangie. Continue cross country to Gunlom Falls where you can hike to the top for a chance to cool off in a natural pool overlooking the park. Enjoy a picnic lunch then drive to Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Stay 2 nights at Cicada Lodge, a contemporary eco-lodge surrounded by nature. (B, L, D)

 

Today, enjoy a number of cultural activities: listen to music played on a didgeridoo and try your hand at rarrk painting, a crosshatch style of painting using a reed brush. A trip will also be made to Mataranka for a relaxing swim in a natural spring-fed thermal pool. This evening indulge in a candlelit three-course dinner on a cruise along the Katherine river. (B, L, D)

 

The morning is at leisure before your journey back to Darwin along the Stuart Highway. Stops will be made at Edith Falls and the Adelaide River War Cemetery, in memory of Australians who died in the second world war. (B, L)