Kakadu & Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Depart Darwin and travel south into the heart of the Top End. Explore the natural beauty of Litchfield National Park, renowned for its cascading waterfalls, rugged sandstone escarpments, magnetic termite mounds and pockets of lush monsoon rainforest. Purchase lunch en route before continuing through the Northern Territory's vast landscapes to Katherine, stopping at Leliyn (Edith Falls) for a dip along the way (conditions permitting). Settle into your accommodation, with time to relax before tomorrow's exploration of Nitmiluk National Park.

Begin your day with a Breakfast Cruise through the spectacular Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Carved over millions of years by the Katherine River, this remarkable gorge system reveals towering sandstone cliffs, tranquil waterways and a landscape of profound cultural significance. As you cruise, learn about the traditions of the Jawoyn people while keeping watch for freshwater crocodiles, birdlife and ancient Aboriginal rock art.

Continue into World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park, covering almost 20,000 square kilometres of natural and cultural landscapes. Enjoy lunch at Cooinda Lodge, a welcoming retreat nestled amongst Kakadu's paperbark forests and wetlands.

Afterwards, join your local guide on the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, where you'll explore one of Kakadu's most celebrated wildlife habitats. Keep watch for saltwater crocodiles and an abundance of birdlife as you journey through this ever-changing wetland landscape. Later, visit Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), where remarkable Aboriginal rock art galleries reveal stories and traditions that have been passed down for thousands of years.

This morning, you may choose to join an optional experience scenic flight for a breathtaking perspective over Kakadu's vast floodplains, winding rivers and rugged escarpments. Then visit Ubirr, one of Kakadu's most significant cultural sites, where ancient Aboriginal rock art provides a fascinating insight into the beliefs and traditions of the Bininj people. Climb to the lookout for sweeping views across the Nadab floodplains, one of the park's most spectacular panoramas. Purchase lunch with time at leisure before departing Kakadu and travelling west towards Darwin.

Along the way, cruise on the Adelaide River aboard the renowned Jumping Crocodile Cruise. Home to one of the highest concentrations of saltwater crocodiles in the world, the Adelaide River offers an unforgettable opportunity to observe these prehistoric predators in their natural environment while learning about their behaviour and habitat from your expert guide. Return to Darwin this evening with lasting memories of the Northern Territory's remarkable landscapes, wildlife and living Aboriginal culture.