Looking for an adventurous 3-day tour in Australia? Then look no further than the 4WD Camping Tour in Kakadu & Litchfield National Park! This tour will take you off the beaten path and into some of Australia’s most stunning wilderness areas. You’ll get to see incredible wildlife, including kangaroos, crocodiles, and birds of prey. And, of course, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to explore the amazing landscapes of Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. So if you’re looking for an adventure-filled 3 days in Australia, this tour is for you!
Description
This exclusive 4wd safari adventure tour is an experience of a lifetime! Over 3 days you’ll get to enjoy the highlights of both Kakadu & Litchfield National Park. You’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the most magnificent natural landscapes and immerse yourself in luscious monsoon rainforests, glorious cascading waterfalls and pristine natural plunge pools.
You’ll discover an abundance of native flora and fauna unique to the Top End, as we cruise along the ancient Mary River wetlands by boat, including the world’s largest reptile, the saltwater crocodile. You’ll also have the chance to encounter some of the oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal Rock Art in the world at Ubirr. This camping tour is fully accommodated. After action-packed days of adventure, exploration and cultural experiences, you’ll be relaxing outdoors in comfort each evening and provided with either comfortable twin share or single pop up safari tents -which offer a little more comfort, privacy and security, or try out our traditional swag experience (canvas enclosed bed roll).
Highlights
- Explore Australian World Heritage Listed site, Kakadu National Park, widely acclaimed for its extraordinary natural environment, wildlife and cultural value.
- Visit Kakadu Aboriginal Cultural Centre
- Enjoy a Wildlife Cruise along the Mary River Wetlands
- Pass through the notorious *Cahills Crossing and observe saltwater crocodiles and Barramundi in the wild safely from the viewing platform (*seasonal conditions permitting)
- Experience breathtaking Aboriginal rock art dating back over 20,000 years old and sunset views at Ubirr Rock
- Take a guided Darwin tour through some of the oldest and best preserved rock art sites in the world, Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) or Ubirr walk (conditions/seasonality permitting)
- Venture out into Kakadu’s most spectacular waterfalls and crystal clear water holes at Barramundi Gorge (Maguk), or Jim Jim Falls
- Be blown away by some of the largest magnetic termite mounds in the Top End, over a century-old
- Discover the natural wonderland of majestic waterfalls and waterholes in Litchfield National Park
- Take a swim in the pristine plunge pools and natural spas and whirlpools at Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole or Wangi Falls
*Due to seasonal conditions and access restrictions in certain areas pre and post the dry season, this itinerary is subject to change. Please be aware that the waterfalls are rarely open before late June. Kakadu’s diverse landscape and extreme weather conditions require a high amount of flexibility and adaptability. These itinerary highlights are to be used as a rough guideline only.
OPERATES
| MON | TUE | WED | THU | FRI | SAT | SUN |
| ⚫ | ⚫ | ⚫ |
Itinerary
Day 1: Darwin - Kakadu National Park
Our adventure departs from Darwin and heads to the Mary River Wetlands region for a Crocodile Cruise on the river. You’ll see a diverse range of birdlife native to the Top End, not to mention some of the region’s largest apex predators… the saltwater crocodile!
From here, we travel to Kakadu National Park, stopping in for a visit at the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn more about the park’s wildlife, landscapes and the vibrant Aboriginal art, culture and history of this remarkable region.
After some relaxation at camp, we journey north to Cahills Crossing on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land.
We then arrive at the World Heritage Listed site, Ubirr and take a guided walk through this sacred site containing some of the most ancient and best-preserved Aboriginal Rock Art in the world.
We climb up high to the lookout over the Nadab Floodplain and watch the sun set majestically over the horizon. Then, after a massive day of adventures, we head back to our cosy campsite to cook up a feed together and enjoy a relaxing evening with our fellow travellers.
Day 2: Kakadu Waterfalls & Plunge Pools
Early to rise on day 2 as we travel south towards Kakadu National Park.
Together we spend the day absorbed in the striking natural beauty of the region, hiking through thick, luscious tropical monsoon rainforests, cooling off in crystal clear plunge pools and waterholes surrounded by glorious cascading waterfalls and steep rocky escarpments and cliffs.
Depending on seasonal weather conditions and accessibility permitting, we generally visit Twin Falls or Jim Jim Falls. Alternatively, we stop at Barramundi Gorge (Maguk) or another waterfall, such as Yurmikmik (Motor Car Falls). Your guide will ensure you get the best experience wherever you end up.
If time permits, we visit Nourlangie Rock, another important indigenous rock art site where archaeologists estimate works date back over 20,000 years. We delve into the important social, cultural and environmental changes that evolved in this area over time before making our way back to camp for a a warm hearty meal and a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Litchfield National Park to Darwin
We set off together and travel south through Pine Creek, a small pioneering town outside of Kakadu National Park in the Katherine region, famous for its gold discovery in the 1970s. We stop off briefly for a refreshment break by the Adelaide River before journeying to Litchfield National Park.
Our afternoon is immersed in Litchfield’s natural water wonderland and an oasis of waterfalls, spring-fed streams and rocky sandstone escarpments. We spend time cooling off with a refreshing soak in picturesque plunge pools, rock holes and waterfalls at either Buley Rockholes, Wangi Falls or Florence Falls.
We then venture out to explore some of the largest and most impressive Magnetic and Cathedral Termite Mounds in the Top End before making our way back, arriving at your accommodation in Darwin.
Details
What's Included?
- 2 Nights bush camping outback in Basic Swag or Safari Tent (Kakadu National Park)
- Includes: 2 x breakfast, 3 x lunch, 2 x dinner
- Aboriginal culture and rock art viewing
- Corroboree Billabong Cruise
- Kakadu Park permit pass fees
- Guided walks and bush tours (up to 3km, grade 2-4)
- Accredited outback driver-guide
- Travel in air-conditioned off-road 4WD mini-coach
- Comprehensive commentary on tour
- Pick-up/ drop-off from selected inner-city Darwin points
What you need to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 3 Litres)
- Sun protection - wide brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Beach towel, swimwear & toiletries
- Sturdy & comfortable shoes for hiking (tread closed toe)
- Clothing suitable for all weather (extreme conditions inc wind, rain, heat, cold, day/night)
- Soft luggage (max 15kg) & small day pack
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Mosquito or fly net (summer)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Cash for extra snack and meals
- Rechargeable power bank (access to power for charging phones or cameras will be limited)
- Camera
Comprehensive Pickup List
Our central meeting point for this tour will be The Leea Darwin Hotel – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City (formerly known as Travelodge Resort Darwin) @ 6:30am. Guests are to be waiting outside the main gates on Cavenagh Street for collection.
- 6:25 – Mindil Beach Casino Resort – Casino Dr The Gardens Darwin
- 6:25 – Cullen Bay Resort – 26 Marina Boulevard Darwin
- 6:30 – The Leea Darwin Hotel – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City
- 6:35 – Courtyard by Marriott Darwin – 81 Smith St Darwin City
- 6:40 – The Cavenagh Hotel – 12 Cavenagh St Darwin City
- 6:45 – Tourist Precinct Mini Bus Zone – 69 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 6:50 – H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment – 105 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 6:53 – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade – 116 Esplanade Darwin City
- 6:55 – Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin – 88 Esplanade Darwin City
- 6:58 – Ramada Suites Zen Quarter – 6 Carey Street Darwin City
- 7:00 – Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront – 7 Kitchener Dr Darwin City
- 7:10 – Darwin Resort – 383 Stuart Hwy Winnellie (meeting point Bus Stop ID: 183 Stuart Hwy)
*Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup location and time, so as not to delay or miss your tour. We ask you to wait outside the front of the hotel and not inside the foyer.
Weather
The weather conditions in the Top End can fluctuate rapidly and be quite intense at times. Temperatures can soar to over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and drop dramatically in the evening. Prior to your journey, we recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’re travelling and pack suitable clothing. In the case of rain or harsh weather, expect that your tour will still go ahead, unless otherwise advised by the provider.
Important Notes
- Mandatory passenger details that are required when booking include; date of birth, dietary requirements and phone number.
- We do our best to cater for most dietary needs and/or food allergies, however passengers MUST notify the tour operator of any special requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking.
- Hiking included in this tour requires a medium/ high level of fitness and a doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years (30-days prior to travel). The walks vary from each day from 2km to 4km, often over steep rocky areas and in direct sunlight with high humidity. An approximate total of 9.5km walk is included throughout the 3 day tour. Hiking is always embarked on at the guide’s discretion to ensure safety of passengers.
- Children between the ages of 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied at all times by an adult or legal guardian and must stay in private twin rooms. This tour is not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under.
- Private rooms are available on request and subject to availability.
- Our vehicles have limited storage space, therefore baggage must be kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag and 1 x 5kg day bag.
- This terrain is unsuitable for mobility impaired travellers with wheelchairs, walkers, prams or strollers.
- This itinerary is interchangeable and may vary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions and fluctuations or park closures due to ceremonies or events held by traditional custodians.
- Occasionally sites within the parks close or do not allow swimming for safety purposes. We plan accordingly to make sure our guests always have the best experience possible on tour.
- Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, cleaning up and the loading/unpacking of the vehicle.
- All tours MUST be re-confirmed with the tour operator within 7 days of departure on 03 9393 1300.
- Private charter tours are available upon request.
COVID Safety Measures
Wildlife Tours is registered as a COVID Safe business under the guidelines of Safe Work Australia and the ATEC COVID Ready badge program. Our procedures address four key areas to help control the risks of coronavirus for both our Tour Guides and our Guests:
- Manage staff and passenger well being
- Wherever possible, practice practical physical distancing
- Enhancing our hygiene and cleaning protocols
- Providing hand sanitiser and disposable face masks onboard all our vehicles.
- Ensuring our business is a fully vaccinated workplace
Exclusions
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
Special or Fun Facts
| NIGHT | PRICING OPTIONS | FACILITIES | INCLUDES |
| 1st,2nd | Single Swag (under the stars) | Outback camp; unpowered site with shared facilities, hot showers & toilets. | Canvas-covered bush bed roll, self-contained with the mattress to sleep on the ground outdoors |
| 1st,2nd | Pop-up Safari Tents Twin Share (sleep 2) | Outback camp; unpowered site with shared facilities, hot showers, and toilets. | Portable campsite, protected from the elements with tents, inflatable mattress, lantern; bed linen supplied. |
| Option Name | Description | RRP |
| Optional Extra | Sleeping Bag Hire | $40 [POB] |
Check Availability & Book Now!
FAQ
What's included in the 3-Day 4WD Kakadu Camping Tour & Litchfield National Park package?
This package encompasses guided expeditions through Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, off-road transportation, camping gear (including permanent safari tents or bush swag), all entry fees for the national parks, meals as outlined in the itinerary, and a seasoned guide.
Do I need to pack my sleeping bag?
Participants must bring their own sleeping bags. However, you can rent sleeping bags for a $40, payable directly on the tour.
What's the physical intensity of the tour?
A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The length of walks will be between 2km to 4km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9.5km walk is included in this tour.
Can kids join the tour?
Children over 8 years old are welcome on this tour. Due to the length and nature of this tour and the activities involved, it is not suitable for children 7 years and under.
Where does the tour kick off?
The tour sets off from major hotels and hostels in Darwin. Confirm your pick-up spot upon reservation.
What's the size of the tour groups?
The size of the groups varies but is generally kept small for a more intimate and enjoyable experience. Check the maximum group size upon reservation.
What type of vehicle will we be using?
Outback 4×4 Bus (21-seater) with air-conditioning plus trailer or similar alternative.
The tour utilizes 4WD vehicles that are well-equipped for off-road conditions and tailored to navigate the rugged landscapes of Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks.
What wildlife might we encounter?
Depending on the time of year, you might spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, crocodiles, kangaroos, and other native Australian species.
What's the plan in case of poor weather?
The tour goes ahead come rain or shine. Nevertheless, itineraries might be modified for safety reasons in extreme weather conditions. Always touch base with the tour provider for the latest updates.
