Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets

5 Days

Duration

Darwin

Location

12+

Age

May - Oct

Dates

Kakadu’s Ancient Secrets
Tour departs THURSDAYS ONLY & operates from the 4th May 2022 – 5 October 2023
Departs Darwin 7.30 am from Hilton Hotel, 32 Mitchell St. Darwin
Returns Darwin day 5 at approximately 6.30 pm

2024 Prices – Please note current rates are advertised at 15% off and will increase without notice
9 May 2024 – 23 May 2024
Adult From $4220 per person twin/double share | single supplement From $5368

6 Jun 2024- 26 September 2024
Adult From $4348 – $5365 per person twin/double share | $5534 – $6825 single supplement

Optional 30 minute Kakadu Air Plane Flight please enquire

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

Welcome to Darwin! This morning meet your Journey Director and board your luxury vehicle to begin your journey of discovery in the Top End. Travel across the Finniss River to Litchfield National Park. You’ll visit tumbling Florence Falls and you’ll also enjoy a swim to cool off at Wangi Falls, surrounded by tropical monsoon rainforest and hear about its importance in Aboriginal custom before stopping for lunch.
Included Meals: Dinner & wine
Hotel: Mercure Crocodile Hotel

Day 2: Mary River – Kakadu

Get ready for a cross-country journey into the magnificent Kakadu National Park. Keep your eyes open for Crocodiles as you cross the South Alligator River, Brolgas, Magpie Geese and Jabiru as you traverse along the long grasses of the marshes and wetlands. Kakadu really is a diverse UNESCO world heritage site. After lunch the famous Yellow Waters Billabong boat cruise will be a highlight of your journey. You will see a myriad of different bird species, spot estuarine crocodiles and simply enjoy the stunning billabong and floodplains system. This afternoon check into the renowned Crocodile Hotel in the town of Jabiru and enjoy the wonderful Aboriginal Art Gallery within the hotel before getting to know your fellow travelers over dinner with wine.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner & wine. Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Jabiru.

Day 3: Kakadu – Nitmiluk National Park

This morning there’s a chance to take to the air an optional scenic flight over Kakadu. ($150 per person 1/2 hour plane flight) One of the best ways to experience the enormity of this wonderful National Park as well as the diversity from waterfalls and billabongs to flood plains and wildlife. Then you’ll visit Nourlangie to see its fascinating Aboriginal rock art for yourself. You’ll also hear first-hand from your Journey Director a detailed interpretation of the art and the rich Aboriginal culture as you explore the various outdoor ‘galleries’ with art that dates back some 20,000 years. You will continue driving through the ancient lands of Kakadu National Park through to the town of Katherine and further on to Nitmiluk National Park. Indulge in five-star luxury at Cicada Lodge, a stunning architect designed eco-lodge surrounded by nature, where each room has a private balcony that opens to the glories of Nitmiluk National Park. Cool off from the heat of the day while enjoy a swim in the pool as the sunsets 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. He’ll share with you stories of growing up in the bush and teach you the fine art of rarrk painting using a special brush from a reed called Julk. Call up the inner artist within you and paint your own masterpiece to take home! You will enjoy lunch back on the deck of Cicada Lodge overlooking this natural surrounding before having a free afternoon to relax. This evening indulge on a special sunset dinner cruise along Katherine River. You’ll marvel at the gorges while you spot wildlife and learn about the history and culture of the local Jawoyn people. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance during the candle-lit three course dinner cook on board your boat.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner & wine.

Day 5: Katherine Gorge – Farewell from Darwin

Enjoy a lay in or get up early to enjoy the National Park completely immersed in the mystical morning light. Travel north along the Stuart Highway stopping at the gorgeous Edith Falls the way for a relaxing dip and some lunch. Continue to Adelaide River War Cemetery. During WWII, Adelaide River was the headquarters to a large military base and a large cemetery was created especially for those who gave their lives in the service and defence of their country. Your Inspiring Journey concludes on arrival in Darwin.

Included Meals: Breakfast and Lunch