Katherine and Kakadu Explorer

Tour Details

Operator

The Adventure Collective

Destination

Darwin

Departs From

Alice Springs

Tour Description

Alice Springs to Darwin - 7 days / 6 nights

2008 Departure Dates: 21-27 May, 6-12 August, 24-30 September

Day 1
We begin our trek into Australia's 'Top End' with a drive up the Stuart Highway crossing the Tropic of Capricorn and popping into quirky roadside towns, each with their unique claim to fame. Lunch is in the UFO capital of Australia only a short drive from the DEVILS MARBLES. An evening ride from Tennant Creek along a purpose built cycleway winds its way to Mary Ann Dam. A great place for a quick dip, before cycling on to the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station before arriving into camp. (D)

Days 2 & 3
Red termite mounds dot the landscape as we drive to an interesting old Australian icon, the DALY WATERS PUB. The nightly entertainment and eccentric decorations provide a great atmosphere for our Barra and Beef dinner. The next day we arrive in MATARANKA (the setting for the novel 'We of the Never Never') for lunch and a swim in the relaxing crystal clear thermal pool. Refreshed, we continue onto KATHERINE GORGE for our overnight camp. Day 2 (B, L) DAY 3 (B, L, D)

Day 4
We have the whole day to spend here at Katherine Gorge, with time for swimming, opportunity to explore KATHERINE GORGE in a canoe or breakfast cruise (optional). The afternoon is yours to spend walking, riding and just soaking up the magnificent surrounds of Katherine Gorge. We spend the night camping here again. (B, L, D)

Day 5
We bid Katherine farewell and drive on through to the gates of KAKADU NATIONAL PARK. We’ve got the full day for riding, walking and exploring. Our camp tonight is at GUNLOM WATERFALL, and we can climb to see the spectacular view from the top of the falls for sunset! (B, L, D)

Day 6
We spend the next two days further exploring the scenic beauty of KAKADU NATIONAL PARK. We begin the day with a morning swim in the plunge pool before heading to the Termite Plains for our ride into BARRAMUNDI GORGE. We climb to the top of the falls to enjoy the view and explore the serene chain of waterholes. As the day progresses we travel to Cooinda, home of the YELLOW WATERS BOAT CRUISE. The cruise is optional, but highly recommended for the most spectacular array of wetlands bird life – and usually quite a few saltwater crocodiles, too! (B, L)

Day 7
Our last day begins with a bush walk through ancient Aboriginal art sites to the breathtaking view from NOURLANGIE ROCK. We will also visit the Information Centre and more amazing ancient Aboriginal rock art sites at UBIRR ROCK. Leaving Kakadu in the afternoon, we travel to the BARK HUTT INN, and arrive in Darwin late afternoon. Seven days of sun, exercise, good food and camping will leave you feeling very satisfied! (B)