Best of the Top End & Kakadu

Welcome to the Top End! Your adventure begins in Darwin (Gulumerrdgen in the language of the local Larrakia people, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Darwin is now located) with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, take some time to get acquainted with the capital of the Northern Territory. You may like to take a dip in the Darwin City Lagoon – a protected bay with a net that keeps out crocs and other unwelcome creatures. A visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is also a must for a taste of the state’s culture, history and art. After the meeting, enjoy a restful evening before an early start and exciting day tomorrow.

Today, drive into the magnificent Litchfield National Park. Situated on a huge sandstone plateau, the park is home to stunning waterfalls, secret swimming spots and towering rocky pillars. Your first stop will be the Wangi Falls, where you’ll be able to take a short loop walk or go for a plunge in the picturesque natural pool. Then it’s off to the dramatic Tolmer Falls and Florence Falls. Hidden amongst monsoon forest, you'll have a picnic lunch next to a bubbling creek. The last stop for the afternoon is Litchfield’s famous Magnetic Termite Mounds, which are up to 100 years old and unique to the northern parts of Australia, before returning to Darwin for the evening. (L)

Rise bright and early, have breakfast and drive towards Kakadu National Park this morning. Covering an enormous 20,000 sq km, the park is a world of its own. Stop for a stretch at the Mamukala Wetlands (and see if you can spot the wetland birds), then journey across Cahill’s Crossing into Arnhem Land. There you’ll visit the entrance to Mikkinj Valley, with its stunning scenery of billabongs, wildlife and towering escarpment providing a great backdrop for your lunch stop. Then, drive on to Ubirr, one of Kakadu's rock art gems, where you’ll learn more about the local First Nations history and stories. Later in the afternoon hop aboard a cruise down the East Alligator River (despite the name, you won’t see any alligators – this is crocodile country). You’ll be joined by an Aboriginal guide who’ll provide a unique insight on the cultural significance of the landscape and the plants and animals that live there. After, continue to your Kakadu accommodation for an included dinner with your group. (L/D)

Your final morning at Kakadu National Park begins with a drive to a local cultural arts centre at Jim Jim Creek. Here, you’ll take part in a cultural weaving class, learning the craft and listening to local stories about the significance of weaving in the local culture. After lunch, a drive will take you to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), famous for its World Heritage-listed rock art created by the Bininj people. There are various short walks available while you’re here, each offering a different perspective on the wildlife, art and natural features of the area. Then, a drive north will take you back to Darwin where your adventure will finish. If you’d like to extend your stay in Darwin, just speak to your booking agent. (B/L)