Top End Natures Way, 8 Day Self-Drive Journey

Embark on a road trip through the Northern Territory's Top End, from Darwin to Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, and Litchfield National Park, encountering rugged landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable experiences in Australia's untamed wilderness.

Darwin, celebrated for its bustling markets, vibrant festivals, scenic harbor, and stunning sunsets, embodies a cosmopolitan city with a relaxed, tropical lifestyle. The city's deep Indigenous roots are evident in its diverse linguistic landscape and the abundance of Indigenous art showcased in its museums and galleries. Influenced by its proximity to Asia, Darwin's culinary scene offers a dynamic fusion of flavors, particularly evident in its lively night markets, where local delights like laksa are highly favored.

Among Darwin's notable attractions are the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, held bi-weekly from April to October, featuring a diverse array of international food stalls and live music. Similarly, the Parap Village Markets, a weekly event, offer a tempting selection of Asian-inspired street food every Saturday morning. For a memorable experience of Darwin's famed sunset, enjoy the Charles Darwin Sunset Buffet Cruise, where you can enjoy a laid-back buffet showcasing local seafood and produce in air-conditioned comfort against the backdrop of the setting sun.

Explore Crocosaurus Cove, centrally located, where visitors can get up close and personal with Australia's iconic saltwater crocodiles. A visit to Darwin would not be complete without exploring Litchfield National Park, famous for its pristine waterholes. Whether opting for a self-drive excursion or joining a guided tour, the park is conveniently located just an hour and a half away. Pack a picnic and spend the day unwinding by the waterholes, taking refreshing dips, or admiring the scenic views from the Tolmer Falls and Florence Falls viewing platforms.

Stay in Darwin for 3 nights.

Depart from Darwin and drive towards the northern entrance of Kakadu, making a stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru. Keep in mind that a park pass is necessary for entry into Kakadu National Park, which can conveniently be purchased online prior to your departure.

Kakadu National Park stands as one of the Northern Territory's most precious gems. Spanning over 20,000 square kilometers and inhabited by the Bininj/Mungguy people, it offers a breathtaking display of natural beauty and wildlife within its unique landscape. Take in the awe-inspiring ancient rock art sites such as Ubirr or the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Nourlangie Rock. Explore the tranquil rock pools and cascading waterfalls like the Gunlom Pools, Maguk, and Jim Jim Falls.

A fantastic way to acquaint yourself with Kakadu's renowned wetlands is through the Yellow Water Cruise, which traverses the Yellow Water Billabong in Cooinda. Here, you can observe an array of wildlife including crocodiles, wild horses, and jabiru birds in their natural habitat. Delve deeper into the Aboriginal culture of Kakadu with a visit to the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

Stay in Kakadu for 2 nights.

Embark on a journey through time and tradition as you explore the Katherine region, renowned for its vibrant Indigenous art and craft scene, dramatic gorges, rejuvenating thermal springs, and misty waterfalls. No visit to Katherine is complete without delving into the breathtaking landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park. Carved by time into the ancient sandstone, the park boasts 13 mesmerizing gorges, each with its own story to tell. Begin your exploration at the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, where you'll gain insights into the cultural significance of the land to its traditional owners.

The highlight of your holiday awaits as you embark on the Nit Nit Dreaming 2 Gorge cruise through the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge. Drift along the tranquil waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, while learning about the rich history and mythology of the area from knowledgeable guides.

Stay in Katherine for 2 nights.

Make an early start as you make way back to Darwin and return your car hire before your flight.