3-Day Kakadu and Litchfield 4WD & Camping Tour from Darwin | Northern Territory
Explore the floodplains of Ubirr, Barramundi Gorge or Jim Jim Waterfall, & Litchfield National Park.
- Visit the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park
- Uncover the wonders of Litchfield National Park’s roaring waterfalls and hidden waterholes
- Take a Wildlife Cruise on the Mary River Wetlands and watch for crocs and barramundi at Cahills Crossing
- See the breathtaking Aboriginal rock art and sunset views at Ubirr Rock
- Camp out under the stars and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Australian wilderness
Package Options
Camping Activities
| Camping type | Tent camping |
| Tent setup | Pitch your own |
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
Product Info
— What You Can Expect —
Join us on an exclusive 4WD safari adventure of a lifetime showcasing the very best Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks have to offer. Discover some of the oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal Rock Art in the world, and keep a lookout for some of our prehistoric friends (crocodiles) as we cruise the ancient wetlands by boat. Visit spectacular waterfalls and cool off in some of the most beautiful natural plunge pools imaginable. Explore some truly spectacular countryside amongst pockets of rainforest packed with endemic species of flora and fauna. This fully accommodated tour has you relaxing indoors in comfort each night after action-packed days of exploration, culture, and unmatched vistas. We provide comfortable twin share or single pop-up safari tents which give you a little more comfort, privacy, and security or you can try out a traditional swag experience (canvas-covered bed roll).
— Itinerary —
- Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu National Park
Meals: Lunch and dinner
Camping: Kakadu National Park sleeping in Basic Single Swags under the stars
Driving Distance: 420 km
Hike Distance and Grading: 1 km loop Grade 2–3
Start your adventure by departing from Darwin and head out to the Wetlands Region for a Crocodile & Wildlife Cruise on the Mary River Wetlands, a great opportunity to spot a huge range of Top End birdlife, not to mention some fresh and salty apex predators… crocodiles! Journey on to Kakadu National Park visiting the Bowali Visitor Centre, which offers a beautiful introduction to the Park’s landscape and wildlife. After some relaxation at camp, journey north to *Cahills Crossing on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Here, embark on a cultural tour of a lifetime — cruising down the East Alligator River on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land to experience the Dreamtime stories of the area, majestic birdlife, and of course, hope to see crocodiles along where they and the locals aim to catch some barramundi! Visit one of the best-preserved collections of Aboriginal Rock Art in the world at Ubirr Rock upon sunset. This incredibly significant site showcases many styles of Rock Art and allows you to climb up high for a sunset that will blow you away looking out over the Nadab Floodplain. After a big day, head back to your cosy camp and prepare dinner together with fellow travellers.
- Day 2: Kakadu Waterfalls and Plunge Pools
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Camping: Kakadu National Park sleeping in Basic Single Swags under the stars
Driving Distance: 150 km
Hike Distance and Grading: 1.5 km–4 km
Wake up early and make your way south to Kakadu National Park. Today, spend the day soaking up the spectacular natural beauty of the area, hiking through lush monsoon rainforests, and swimming in pristine plunge pools and waterfalls surrounded by steep escarpments and rocky cliffs. If seasonally accessible, visit Twin Falls or Jim Jim Falls; alternatively, stop at Barramundi Gorge (Maguk) or other waterfalls such as Yurmikmik (Motor Car Falls). There are many factors affecting accessibility, although your guide will ensure you get the best experience possible. Time permitting, stop at Nourlangie Rock, another indigenous rock art site where archaeologists have uncovered works dating back over 20,000 years old. Explore the evolving social, cultural, and environmental changes in the area over time before making your way back to camp for a hearty dinner and a well-earned rest.
- Day 3: Litchfield National Park to Darwin
Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Driving Distance: 500 km
Hike Distance and Grading: 1–2 km
Travel south through Pine Creek, a small pioneering town in the Katherine region outside of Kakadu National Park, famous for its discovery of gold in the 1970s. Stop for a quick refreshment break at the Adelaide River before going to Litchfield National Park. Spend the afternoon immersed in Litchfield’s natural oasis of waterfalls, spring-fed streams, and rugged sandstone escarpments. Spend time in any combination of Buley Rockholes, Wangi Falls, or Florence Falls for a refreshing soak in picturesque rock holes and waterfalls. Discover the uniquely impressive Magnetic and Cathedral Termite Mounds before making your way back to Darwin, arriving back to your accommodation at approximately 7:00 pm.
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies
Spot the rainforest's top apex predator on a Crocodile & Wildlife Cruise on the Mary River Wetlands
Take a dip in the famous Jim Jim Falls
Discover some of the oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal Rock Art in the world
Purchase Notice
- Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times and must stay in private twin rooms. Tour is not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under
- This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers
- What to bring:
- 2–3L Refillable water bottle
- wide-brimmed hat
- sunglasses, sunscreen, and beach towel
- toiletries
- bathers or swimwear
- comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed shoes)
- all-weather clothing (extreme conditions day/night)
- camera, flashlight, headlamp, or torch
- tropical strength insect repellent, mosquito or fly net (summer months),
- 15 kg-overnight bag and small day pack
- bring your own sleeping bag and pillow
- recharge power bank (limited access to power to charge phones or cameras)
- money for snacks and meals
- The weather in the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider
- A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The length of walks will be between 2 km to 4 km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9.5 km walk is included in this tour. Embarking on walks will be at the guide’s discretion to ensure the safety of guests. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years (30-days prior to travel)
- Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag. Not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers or strollers. Itineraries may vary to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally sites in the parks close or do not allow swimming. As safety is our top priority, we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour
- Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean up, and vehicle unpacking/loading, so everyone can relax together after a long day of touring. It’s also a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers
Includes/Excludes
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
How to Redeem Your Voucher
How to Use Your Voucher
- Please present the e-voucher on-site
Validity Period
- The voucher must be used on the selected date and within operating hours; Invalid after expiration
Pickup Point
Location Name: Frontier Hotel Darwin - 3 Buffalo Ct Darwin City
Address: Frontier Hotel Darwin - 3 Buffalo Ct Darwin CityCancellation Policy
- Cancellations 31 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–30 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once the cancellation is confirmed, you will receive your refund within 14 working days.
FAQ
Kakadu National Park, a World Heritage-listed site, offers diverse experiences, from ancient Aboriginal rock art sites at Ubirr to vast floodplains. Visitors can embark on wildlife cruises on the Mary River Wetlands to spot saltwater crocodiles and various bird species, explore scenic gorges and waterfalls, and immerse themselves in a rich ecosystem of unique Australian flora and fauna.
The optimal time to visit Kakadu National Park for a 4WD and camping tour is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to October. During this period, park roads are generally more accessible, water levels are lower, enhancing wildlife viewing opportunities, and the weather is ideal for camping under the stars and exploring various attractions like waterfalls and gorges.
Yes, a 4WD vehicle is highly recommended and often essential for accessing many of Kakadu National Park's key attractions, particularly those off the main sealed roads. Destinations like Barramundi Gorge (Maguk) or Jim Jim Falls require a 4WD due to unsealed tracks, creek crossings, or rugged terrain, allowing visitors to fully explore the park's more remote and pristine areas.
While the main sealed roads in Litchfield National Park allow 2WD access to some popular spots, a 4WD vehicle is often recommended for exploring its more secluded waterfalls, hidden waterholes, and less-trafficked areas. This provides greater flexibility and access to the park's diverse natural pools and cascades, especially when venturing beyond the primary tourist routes.
To comprehensively experience the major sites and diverse landscapes of Kakadu National Park, a visit of at least 2 to 3 full days is generally recommended. This allows ample time to engage in activities like exploring ancient rock art at Ubirr, enjoying a wildlife cruise on the Mary River Wetlands, and discovering the various gorges and waterfalls, considering the vast distances within the park.
At Ubirr Rock in Kakadu, visitors can explore stunning galleries of ancient Aboriginal rock art. These sites feature various styles of paintings and engravings depicting animals, ancestral spirits, and creation stories. The art provides a deep connection to the culture and history of the Bininj people, illustrating traditional hunting, gathering, and spiritual beliefs through detailed rock formations.
A Mary River Wetlands cruise offers exceptional opportunities for wildlife observation. Guests can expect to encounter numerous saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat and a spectacular array of birdlife, including jabirus, egrets, and various raptors. The serene wetlands ecosystem is also home to diverse aquatic species, providing a rich experience for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
When deciding between a guided 4WD tour and independent travel for Kakadu and Litchfield, consider that tours offer expert guides providing cultural and ecological insights, pre-arranged logistics including 4WD transport and camping, and access to areas that might require special permits or local knowledge. Independent travel offers flexibility but necessitates personal planning for routes, accommodation, and often owning or renting a suitable 4WD vehicle for full park access.
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