Kakadu & Katherine Gorge (Nov-Apr)

As this Short Break departs at 6.30am, accommodation will need to be pre-booked for the previous night. Depart Darwin and travel along the Arnhem Highway, their major river systems and wetlands, into Kakadu National Park. Located 257 kilometres east of Darwin, the national park covers 20,000 square kilometres of landscape varying from rocky escarpment that is home to historic Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years, to the floodplains that are abundant with wildlife. Stop at Nourlangie, where your Driver Guide will lead you on a walk to view the rock art galleries.

After lunch, join your local guide on a cruise of Yellow Water Billabong. Search for saltwater crocodiles and the colourful range of birdlife for which this region is renowned. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre to view the informative displays depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu. There is the opportunity for an optional 50-minute scenic flight (own expense). (L) Stay: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

This morning join your Driver Guide to explore a Rock Art Site, where you'll be shown through the ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries, believed to be 20,000 years old. A visit to the Marrawuddi Art Gallery is next, then it's off to Corroboree Park Tavern for lunch. After lunch, we make our way to Adelaide River to join the Jumping Crocodile Cruise. Cruise the river and thrill as these awesome creatures launch themselves out of the water. After the Cruise, we stop at Fogg Dam Nature Reserve before your return to Darwin. (L) Stay: Travelodge Resort Darwin

Travel south from Darwin and stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery. Continue to Edith Falls, where there is time for a refreshing swim (conditions permitting). After lunch enjoy a 2-hour scenic cruise through Katherine Gorge. One of the most visited sites in Australia's Top End, it is a stunning network of thirteen gorges carved from billion-year-old sandstone that are home to many rapids and falls, flowing from the Katherine River. The cruise will put you at the heart of Katherine Gorge among freshwater crocodiles, wonderful birdlife and some of the most amazing scenery the Northern Territory has to offer. There is a short walk to reach the second gorge. Enjoy a brief tour of Katherine, before returning to Darwin. (L)