7 Day Top End Adventure Itinerary

Darwin is nearer to Singapore than it is to Sydney, which gives you an idea of the sheer size of Australia. This multicultural, fast-developing city has a chilled-out feel and a beautiful climate.

After settling in you could relax and see a movie at the outdoor Deckchair Cinema, catch sunset over the Timor Sea, or try street food at the Mindil Beach Markets. The city's proximity to Asia means you'll also find strong Asian influences, especially in the energetic food scene and night markets. You'll feel like a laid-back local in no time.

Accommodation: Darwin - 1 Night

Embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of Australia's largest predator, the Saltwater Crocodile, with a fully guided tour that offers exclusive opportunities and thrilling experiences. 

Begin with an introduction to the world's largest collection of Australian reptiles and aquatic creatures from the Top End, and enjoy behind-the-scenes access to learn about the fascinating habitat and behavior of these formidable creatures. Under the guidance of expert crocodile handlers, feel the excitement of feeding an adult Saltwater Crocodile while gaining insight into its incredible strength and agility. 

As part of your VIP access, visit the "Fishing for Crocs" platform for an interactive encounter and explore the baby crocodile handling area to get up close with these remarkable young reptiles. 

Make your way to the Katherine region to experience the incredible scenery of Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge). Break your journey with a pit stop at Litchfield National Park to cool off in the stunning waterfalls.

Litchfield National Park
Known for its cascading waterfalls, natural spas, and whirlpools, Litchfield National Park is the ideal place for a refreshing swim.

Litchfield is also famous for its bizarre landscape of giant termite mounds. Standing up to two metres tall, they are astounding feats of architecture not to be missed.

Nitmiluk
Also known as Katherine Gorge, the 13 gorges of Nitmiluk are hugely significant to their traditional owners, the Jawoyn people, as home to the spirits of creation. This ancient sandstone gorge system conceals many Aboriginal rock art paintings, some of which are thousands of years old.

Approximate Distance: 345 km | 215 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Katherine (Nitmiluk) - 2 Nights

Considered the jewel in the crown of the Nitmiluk experience, this is a must-do experience for your stay in Nitmiluk. Sit back, relax, and be transported to a spiritual world of Jawoyn culture and history in tranquil surroundings. 

Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of Nitmiluk Gorge. As the colours change with the setting sun and the night sky emerges, you will enjoy a candlelit, fine dining experience prepared by your onboard chef and delivered by attentive wait staff. Your delectable three course meal features fresh, local, Australian produce cooked onboard and service with a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.

Included Meals: Dinner

Today you will make your way to Kakadu National Park. The park is renowned for the richness of its Aboriginal cultural sites and covers an area of 19,804 square kilometres. 

Aboriginal people have occupied the Kakadu area continuously for at least 40 000 years. There are more than 5000 cave paintings and rock carvings illustrating Aboriginal culture over thousands of years. 

Kakadu is a magnificent area with many different landforms and habitats. There are over 60 species of mammals and a great many reptiles including goannas, frill-necked lizards and the frightening saltwater crocodile.

Approximate Distance: 285 km | 177 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins

Accommodation: Kakadu - 2 Nights 

Join your included cruise Yellow Water Billabong cruise in Kakadu's most famous wetland and is located at the end of Jim Jim Creek, a tributary of the South Alligator River. The river system is the largest in Kakadu and contains extensive wetlands that include river channels, floodplains and backwater swamps. 

About one third of Australia's bird species are represented in Kakadu National Park, with at least 60 species found in the wetlands. Whistling Ducks and Magpie Geese are the most abundant. There are plenty of crocodiles in their natural habitat, and buffalo on the floodplains, as well as a huge Jabiru's nest nearby.

Say farewell to the Top End today as you travel to Darwin to return your rental car and board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Australian experience. We know you will enjoy your 5 Day Top End Adventure Self Drive Tour and we hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.

Approximate Distance: 305 km | 126 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 15 mins