The Northern Territory offers contrasting landscapes of red deserts, clear waterholes, and tropical wetlands. This 5 day escape is exactly that, taking you into some of the most remote landscapes on earth. From the cultural melting pot of Darwin, journey into Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks and connect with the oldest living culture on Earth. Witness crocodiles in their natural habitat, be dwarfed by Magnetic Termite Mounds and see how the local Aboriginal communities have lived and thrived for thousands of years.
Family touringWildlife & natureThis Tour Also Features
- Meals included: 4 breakfasts
Our rental car range includes the latest vehicles from the top suppliers. We have a fantastic range, from economy hatchbacks to prestige sedans and SUVs. Insurance can often be included with a small excess or deductible.
Welcome to the Northern Territory's unhurried capital, Darwin. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with rich Aboriginal connections to country as well as strong Asian influences in its cuisine, thanks to its close proximity to Asia. Spend a balmy night at the buzzing night markets, see crocodiles up close, or slow things down with a cruise on the harbour.
The Waterfront Precinct is Darwin's entertainment and dining hub, located within close proximity from Smith Street Mall and the Esplanade. Swim in the man-made (and protected) recreational beach, or take a plunge in the popular Wave Lagoon. This attraction rolls out 10 different wave patterns every 20 minutes, startling with gentle swells before increasing to waves up to 1.2 metres high. There are plenty of sun loungers and shady areas to hang out, or continue to explore the many eateries and bars surrounding the waterfront. Stokes Hill Wharf is a short walk away, and offers plenty of alfresco eateries and entertainment.
Your accommodation: Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter Darwin
The Ramada Suites by Wyndham Zen Quarter is located in the heart of the city, with restaurants and activities all within walking distance. Experience spectacular 360 degree views of Darwin from the top of the rooftop lounge of the hotel while enjoying complimentary canapes every evening. Enjoy the incredible amenities of Zen Quarter, including a 28m outdoor pool.
The Kakadu National Parks Pass allows entry to explore ancient sites such as Ubirr, Jim Jim Falls, Burrunkguy and Maguk. You will be required to keep your Kakadu National Parks accessible when within the National Park and produce to Park Rangers upon request.
Set off from Darwin eastbound towards Humpty Doo and keep an eye out for the Big Boxing Crocodile as you travel along the highway. After about 32km, you will reach the town of Wak Wak, where you can join a Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise. Seize the opportunity to get up close and personal with these giant, prehistoric creatures from the safety of your boat. This one hour cruise will take you out on the Adelaide River and entice crocodiles up to 6 metres long to jump. If you're interested in learning more about the local culture, head down the road to the family-run Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours where you will learn about local bush food and medicine, weaving, spear throwing, and playing the didgeridoo.
When you are ready, continue travelling east on Arnhem Highway. Mary River National Park is a beautiful wetland reserve located down the road from Wak Wak. Bird lovers will be spoiled with the diversity of species living here and will have plenty of opportunities to spot them while cruising the billabongs. For the anglers out there you can also enjoy world-class fishing, with the opportunity to catch barramundi, getting up to 1.4m in length!
From here it is a very straightforward drive to Jabiru, the main township of Kakadu National Park. Before leaving town, stop at Bowali Visitor Centre and get some great local tips on what you can do and see in the region. There is also beautiful art on display at the Marrawuddi Gallery before journeying south to explore the Yellow Water and Mary River regions of Kakadu.
Your first stop is to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), where you will find a painting of the culturally important creation ancestor Namarrgon (Lightning Man). From the carpark, take the walking track to see the painting. If time allows, explore some of the other scenic walks that showcase the biodiversity and beautiful landscapes that make up this part of the Arnhem Land escarpment.
Continue on the Kakadu Highway towards Cooinda Lodge. If you have extra time in the region and you are looking for some hikes to do, the Mirray Lookout Trail is a shop and steep track not far from Burrungkuy. Those who complete it will be rewarded with some expansive 360 degree views of the park. The 2km track takes a moderately fit person 1.5 hours to complete. Be sure to have adequate sun protection, sturdy footwear, and lots of water as it can get very hot here, particularly in October and November leading up to monsoon season.
While you are in Cooinda, doing a Yellow Water Cruise is a must-do. Cruising along the beautiful billabong to find sea eagles, jacanas, brolgas, crocodiles, and buffalo.
In the afternoon, you may choose to travel to East Alligator River and jump on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise with a local Aboriginal Guide. After, head to Ubirr and walk the short route past incredible rock art dating up to 40,000 years before reaching the top of Ubirr Rock and enjoying the stunning display of colours in the sky as the sun sets over Kakadu National Park.
The small township of Cooinda sits 300km from Darwin, within Kakadu National Park. Home to the South Alligator River and close to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock, Cooinda is bustling with culture and landscapes incomparable to anywhere else in the world. Native residents include water buffalo, crocodiles and Brolgas, making the Yellow Water Cruise an exciting activity for all visitors. Stop at Warradjan Cultural Centre and learn of the local Bininj people and browse one of the most incredible displays of Aboriginal art available for purchase.
Cruise Kakadu's most famous wetland and see the billabong come alive. Located at the end of the Jim Jim Creek, Yellow Water is part of the South Alligator River system. This river system is unique as it is included in its entirety within a UNESCO World Heritage listed National Park.
Kakadu is home to over 280 different species of birds being around a third of the bird species found in Australia. Kakadu National Park has such a large footprint that multiple ecosystems and habitats exist within its border providing a home for the many species that live in the Park.
Your accommodation: Cooinda Lodge
The village-style property is located beneath a canopy of trees beside Yellow Water Billabong, home to world-renowned Yellow Water Cruises, where crocodiles and birds are seen on the flood plain amongst Paperbark, Pandanus, and Fresh Water Mangroves. With its oasis style atmosphere, Cooinda Lodge offers an inviting shaded swimming pool, bistro-style dining, bars, petrol station, and a store that offers locally-made crafts as well a wide range of essentials for touring.
Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 315 kms / 195 miles : 3.4 hours
Head north back to Jabiru, before turning off to go west on the Arnhem Highway past the Mamukala Wetlands and Mary River National Park as you head towards Darwin. If you're interested in learning more about the local culture, head down the road to the family-run Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours where you will learn about local bush food and medicine, weaving, spear throwing, and playing the didgeridoo.
Your journey ends in Darwin, a city full of contrasts with Asian-influenced food and its unique tropical lifestyle. While you're here, take time to learn about the history of Darwin's recovery after it was bombed in 1942 during World War II, and when Cyclone Tracy ripped through the city in 1974.
Be introduced to the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles and some of the largest Saltwater Crocodiles in the world, right in the heart of Darwin City. Crocosaurus Cove is passionate about showcasing the huge array of reptiles found primarily in the Top End of Australia. Meet a variety of critters that you are likely to encounter at various times of the year across the Kimberley, Kakadu & Litchfield National Parks and Arnhem Land regions and further afield to the Central Australian desert. It is these unique landscapes that are home to the many varieties of species that you will encounter at Crocosaurus Cove. From the freshwater aquarium’s Barramundi, Whipray & Turtles to 70 reptile species on display in the Reptile House and the active juvenile crocodiles in the Fishing for Crocs area, Crocosaurus Cove provides the perfect introduction to your Northern Territory adventure.
With beautiful views of the Top End city, there is no better way to experience Darwin’s renowned sunsets than on board the Charles Darwin. Enjoy a Territory-style dinner with fresh seafood and local produce. This two and a half hour cruise is the perfect way to experience Darwin’s world-famous sunsets.
Your accommodation: Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter Darwin
The Ramada Suites by Wyndham Zen Quarter is located in the heart of the city, with restaurants and activities all within walking distance. Experience spectacular 360 degree views of Darwin from the top of the rooftop lounge of the hotel while enjoying complimentary canapes every evening. Enjoy the incredible amenities of Zen Quarter, including a 28m outdoor pool.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 292 kms / 182 miles : 3.1 hours
Just a 1.5-hour drive from Darwin lies Litchfield National Park. Get up early and pack a picnic and your swimwear to make the most of your day by exploring the highlights of this incredible national park.
Heading towards Batchelor, your first stop will be one of Litchfield’s most impressive sights, the Magnetic Termite Mounds. These stand up to two metres (6.5 feet) high and can be more than 100 years old. Stop by the nearby information centre to learn about the fascinating creates that build these natural structures.
Just ten minutes further down the road will bring you to Florence Falls, your first chance to pop in for a swim or to dip your feet in the refreshing water today. From the Florence Falls car park, walk just three minutes to a viewing platform that offers breathtaking views over the gorge and pools below. Continue down the staircase to be met with a crystal-clear plunge pool, along with two cascading waterfalls – they’re especially impressive after the wet season ends in April.
From Florence Falls, choose between driving a few minutes down the road, or taking the 3.2-kilometre (two-mile) walking track that connects to Buley Rockhole. Buley Rockhole is a series of natural pools that flow from one to the next.
The next stop is the one waterfall not to be missed in Litchfield, Wangi Falls. Located 25 minutes drive from Buley Rockhole, the falls are home to a picnic area and a café, but what makes this place a must-do is its incredible natural beauty. Two breathtaking waterfalls plunge over the rock escarpments and splash into the waterhole below. From Wangi it is a one and a half hour drive back to Darwin.
Head to the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets on a Thursday or Sunday evening, to browse a wide selection of local and handmade goods or taste some of the best food in the city. With over 200 stallholders, the Mindil Markets is a cultural melting pot which is bound to satisfying your appetite. Try grilled crocodile or a buffalo burger, then sit on the foreshore of Mindil Beach and witness one of the most stunning sunsets you have ever seen.
Your accommodation: Ramada Suites By Wyndham Zen Quarter Darwin
The Ramada Suites by Wyndham Zen Quarter is located in the heart of the city, with restaurants and activities all within walking distance. Experience spectacular 360 degree views of Darwin from the top of the rooftop lounge of the hotel while enjoying complimentary canapes every evening. Enjoy the incredible amenities of Zen Quarter, including a 28m outdoor pool.Driving distance and time (approximate) for this leg: 279 kms / 173 miles : 3.5 hours
Explore more of Darwin before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.
Pure Journeys - Privacy Policy
Last review: 28 March 2024
1. About this Privacy Policy
1.1 This is the Privacy Policy for Inside Australia Travel Pty Ltd ABN 34 661 344 690 (IAT Inside Australia Travel, us, we, our). This Privacy Policy sets out Inside Australia Travel’s obligations in line with the Australian
Privacy Principles in the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) (Privacy Act) and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR - Regulation (EU) 2016/679 of the European Parliament and of the Council) - as it applies to persons in the
European Union who interact with us. A reference to ‘Personal Information’ in this policy is a reference to both ‘Personal Information’ as defined in the Privacy Act and to ‘Personal Data’ for the purposes of the GDPR (if it applies to you).
1.2 This Privacy Policy does not deal with IAT’s obligations under the Privacy Act 2020 (New Zealand), which are dealt with by New Zealand Fine Touring Ltd https://nzft.co.nz
1.3 This Privacy Policy sets out the different types of Personal Information we collect, why we collect it and what you can do if you would like to remove yourself from our mailing list, correct any details we may hold about you, or exercise other rights you have.
1.4 We will update this Privacy Policy from time to time at our discretion, and we will notify you of updates. You can visit our website to see the latest copy of the Privacy Policy.
1.5 By using our site or acquiring goods or services from us, you consent to us applying this Privacy Policy and to our website Terms of Use, if any.
2. What Personal Information Do We Collect?
2.1 We collect the following Personal Information:
(a) personal identification information including: name, email, address, telephone numbers, dates of birth, itineraries; and
(b) information you supply in emails, requests for services, information we must pass on to third party suppliers.
3. How Do We Collect and Store Your Personal Information?
3.1 We collect Personal Information in a number of ways, including:
(a) information submitted through our website;
(b) in some cases, through web analytics;
(c) being provided it by third parties who you deal with; and
(d) through communications with you, including emails, and voice calls.
3.2 We hold Personal Information:
(a) in systems that we use in connection with our business, some of which may be owned and operated by our suppliers; and
(b) in our hard copy files; and
(c) in the databases associated with our website.
3.3 Provided that it is lawful and practical, we will give you the option of not identifying yourself, using a pseudonym, or not providing Personal Information when you enter into a transaction or deal with us. However, if you elect not to provide us with Personal Information then it is unlikely we are able to provide you with the information, products, services or support that you may want.
3.4 We may receive other unsolicited Personal Information in the course of our business. We will deal with this unsolicited Personal Information in accordance with this policy.
3.5 We will retain your Personal Information for as long as needed or permitted in light of the purpose(s) for which it was obtained. The criteria used to determine our retention periods include:
(a) the length of time we have an ongoing relationship with you and provide services to you;
(b) legal obligations we may have to keep (or destroy) your data; or
(c) legal advice we receive (such as in regard to litigation, regulatory investigations or applicable statutes of limitation).
4. What Do We Use Your Personal Information For?
4.1 We collect, hold, use and disclose Personal Information for the following purposes:
(a) supplying you with goods and services;
(b) arranging for third parties to provide you with goods and services;
(c) improving the website experience of our visitors; and
(d) analysing goods and services that our customers purchase so that we can better understand what future customers want in the future.
4.2 We also use Personal Information for our own internal business purposes including:
(a) data analysis to improve our products and services;
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(c) fraud and security monitoring;
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(e) identifying usage trends so we can understand which of our services are of most interest to our customers;
(f) determining the effectiveness of marketing campaigns so that we can adapt to the needs and interests of our customers; and
(g) operating and expanding our business activities such as understanding which of our services are of most interest to our customers, so we can focus on our customers’ needs.
5. Do we share your information?
5.1 We may send Personal Information outside Australia in the following circumstances:
(a) where our website, or any hosting service we use to support our managed services, software or software as a service, is hosted by us or a third party, and the hosting facilities and/or the back-up/disaster recovery sites are located overseas. We have no control over where these third party providers host the website and it is impractical for us to be able to advise you of the countries where the Personal Information may be held or processed;
(b) where a third party application is being used in connection with our interactions with you, e.g. when we use email, help desk or VoIP providers, the third party providers of the relevant application may have their applications hosted overseas. We have no control over where these third party providers host their applications and it is impractical for us to be able to advise you of the countries where the Personal Information may be held or processed; or
(c) where we must do so to give you the benefits of what you have paid for.
When we send Personal Information outside Australia for processing we will enter into formal contracts with those processors, which will contain privacy terms and conditions that allow us to meet our privacy obligations to you.
6. Use of Social Media
Our website includes links to social media, including blogs, Twitter feeds, Facebook, Instagram, and similar services. The nature of social media is that these applications actively enable exchange and disclosure of any information, whether personal or otherwise, that is included within those applications. All information, including Personal Information that you enter in those applications may be used, stored, handled and disclosed in any way that is consistent with the privacy policies of the relevant applications, if any. We have no control over those interactions.
7. Cookies
7.1 Cookies are text files placed on your computer to collect standard internet log information and visitor behaviour information. When you visit our website, we may collect information from you automatically through cookies or similar technology.
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7.3 If you do not allow cookies to be used some or all of the website or other applications or tools on it might not be accessible to you and you may not be able to purchase goods from us.
8. Your Rights Regarding Your Personal Information
8.1 You have the right to access your Personal Information that we hold, and request that it be rectified or erased. If you want to access your Personal Information we hold or you believe any of your Personal. Information that is held by us is inaccurate, out of date, incomplete, irrelevant or misleading or it is not necessary for us to continue to hold it, you can contact us, and we will either provide you with access to the Personal Information (in so far as we are required to do so by law,) or we will correct it, as applicable, within a reasonable period. We may make a reasonable charge for giving you access to your Personal Information, but we will not charge for you making the request, correcting Personal Information or making a statement as to why we are not correcting your Personal Information.
8.2 In certain circumstances if you raise a complaint on how we have handled your Personal Information, you may also request that we ‘restrict processing’ meaning that the data will be preserved from further processing ‘as evidence’ either while we investigate your complaint or to support your complaint to the Australian Information Commissioner.
8.3 Where you have provided your personal data directly to us that is processed by automated means and is done so solely on the basis of your consent, then you will have the right to obtain your personal data in an electronic format for your own purposes across different services.
8.4 You have the right to object any aspect of our processing of your personal data under certain circumstances under the GDPR. ‘Processing’ is the term under that law that describes all uses of your personal data. This will include the collection, sharing, storage, retention and destruction of your data.
8.5 You may unsubscribe from our direct marketing at any time. We will not send you direct marketing without your consent and you can withdraw your consent at any time by selecting the ‘unsubscribe’ link within each email.
9. Complaints
9.1 If you wish to complain about a breach of any Australian Privacy Principle that binds us, a registered privacy code that binds us, the GDPR or this Privacy Policy, then you should contact us using the information in the Contact Us section of this Privacy Policy.
9.2 We will use our best efforts to respond to any complaint within 5 business days of the date of receipt. We will attempt to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction. If you are not satisfied with how we deal with your complaint you may contact the Australian Information Commissioner, whose contact details can be found at http://www.oaic.gov.au/.
10. Mobile APP location permissions
If you use our APP please be aware of the following. The APP collects location data to display real-time risk alerts and personalised assistance notification features, even when the APP is closed and not in use. This option can be changed in the settings on your own device.
11. Contacting Us
11.1 If you have any questions regarding this privacy policy or your information, we invite you to contact the privacy officer by :
(a) email at the following email address privacy@nzft.co.nz
(b) writing to: Privacy officer, 73 Brownston Street, Wanaka, Otago 9305, NEW ZEALAND.