Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets

5 Days

Duration

Darwin

Location

12+

Age

May - Oct

Dates

Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets
Tour departs WEDNESDAY ONLY May to Oct.
Departs Darwin 7.30 am from Hilton Hotel, 32 Mitchell St. Darwin
Returns Darwin day 5 at approximately 6.30 pm

2025 Prices
Adult From $4649 per person twin/double share | single supplement From $6137
Rates fluctuate for this tour / please contact us to check best rate for your departure date

Optional 30 minute Kakadu Air Plane Flight @ $159 per person

Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets Highlights

Indulge in a three course meal on Katherine Gorge
Immerse yourself in WWII history at Adelaide River War Cemetery
Stay in luxury accommodation at Cicada Lodge
Climb Nourlangie for spectacular views over the National Park
Learn about Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr
Yellow Water Cruise
Get off road on the Marrakai 4WD track
Cool off with a refreshing dip at Wangi Falls
Enjoy picnic lunches in secluded locations off the beaten track
Enjoy an exclusive Aboriginal cultural experience
Katherine Gorge Dinner Cruise
Small group experience of 20 guests maximum

Inclusions

Experienced Driver Guide
Hand-picked accommodation
Travel by luxury small group 4WD vehicle with up to 20 guests
Complimentary refreshments throughout the journey
Airport transfers (see flight information below)
Meals as per itinerary

Day 1: Darwin – Mary River

This morning you will be greeted by your Guide and begin your journey in the Top End. Travel across the Finniss River into Litchfield National Park where you will visit Florence Falls and Wangi Falls where you can enjoy a swim to cool off. Surrounded by monsoon tropical rainforest you will hear about it’s importance in Indigenous Culture before stopping for lunch. After lunch we make our way to Kakadu National Park. Crossing the South Alligator River be sure to keep an eye out for crocodiles, magpie geese and Jabiru that inhabit these wetland areas. On arrival at the Mercure Crocodile Hotel you can get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome reception whilst viewing the Aboriginal Art Gallery before checking into your room to freshen up for dinner.

Meals included: Dinner & Wine
Hotel: Mercure Crocodile Hotel

Day 2: Kakadu

This morning you have the option to take a 30 min plane flight over Kakadu. This is a great experience and will give you a birds eye view of this magnificent area from the air. We make our way to the East Alligator River Area to Ubirr Rock Art Site and Lookout where you will see ancient rock art and the magnificent view over the wetlands and escarpments from Nadab Lookout. After lunch we head down to Cooinda and join the famous Yellow Water Cruise where you will see a variety of different bird species, saltwater crocodiles and the stunning floodplains of Yellow Water.

After returning to your hotel you can cool off at the pool with a refreshing swim before dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner & wine. Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Jabiru.

Day 3: Kakadu – Nitmiluk National Park

Today you will visit Nourlangie to see its fascinating Aboriginal rock art for yourself. Your guide will provide you with a detailed interpretation of the rich aboriginal culture and the rock art as you explore the main rock art Gallery dating back 20,000 years. We then depart Kakadu and head down the Stuart Highway to Katherine and onto Nitmiluk National Park to check in to Cicada Lodge. This stunning eco-lodge is on the doorstep of Nitmiluk “Katherine” Gorge. Cicada Lodge is a stunning architect designed five star luxury eco-lodge surrounded by nature with each room having a private balcony. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the pool before a beautiful dinner.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner & wine.
Hotel: Cicada Lodge, Nitmiluk National Park, Katherine, 2 nights.

Day 4: Katherine

Today immerse yourself as you meet Manual Pamkal who will welcome you with a traditional welcoming tune on the didgeridoo. Manual was born and raised immersed in his rich traditional culture. Manual will teach you the art of Rarrk painting which is done using a reed called Julk and share stories of growing up in the bush. Design your own masterpiece to take home to remember this wonderful experience.

After a lovely lunch back on the deck at Cicada Lodge you will have a break this afternoon to relax and unwind before indulging in a special sunset dinner cruise on the Nitmiluk Gorge. Learn about the history of the local Jawoyn people of this area and spot wildlife all while enjoying a peaceful candle-lit 3 course dinner cooked on board your boat.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner & wine.

Day 5: Katherine Gorge – Farewell from Darwin

This morning you can enjoy a lay in or rise with the birds to enjoy the National Park in the mystical morning light. We then travel back up the Stuart Highway stopping off at Edith Falls for a relaxing swim and some lunch. After lunch it is off to the Adelaide River War Cemetery where during WWII was the headquarters to a large military base. The cemetery was was especially created for those who sacrificed so much in the line of duty to defend their country. Your tour concludes on arrival back to the Hilton Hotel.

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

What to bring