Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Nitmiluk & Litchfield Walk
8-Day Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Nitmiluk & Litchfield Walk
Premium Pack Free Guided Tour (Private Groups Only) by Life’s An Adventure
Embark on a premium 8-day Pack Free walking tour with Life’s An Adventure, designed exclusively for private groups. This extraordinary journey takes you deep into the heart of Northern Australia, exploring the ancient landscapes and cultural heritage of Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Nitmiluk, and Litchfield National Parks. With a focus on comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion, this tour offers an unforgettable experience in some of Australia’s most iconic and remote wilderness areas.
The adventure begins in Arnhem Land, where you’ll stay at the exclusive Davidson Arnhem Land Safari Lodge, a remarkable location inaccessible to mainstream tourists. Over two nights, explore this sacred Aboriginal site, home to the world’s largest collection of ancient rock art spanning over 50,000 years. Marvel at the six-meter rainbow serpent rock art, just a 15-minute drive from the lodge, and discover extraordinary rock catacombs, pristine natural swimming pools atop towering escarpments, lush rainforests, and enigmatic caves. The cultural significance and natural beauty of this region will captivate you as you connect with the ancient heritage through guided walks and activities.
Cruise through a maze of paperbark tree canals and wetlands, framed by the red cliffs of Arnhem Land’s escarpment. The landscape is alive with an astounding diversity of birdlife, with 275 species including elegant egrets, colourful cockatoos, kingfishers, cormorants, brolgas, and majestic sea eagles, creating a symphony of life in this remarkable region.
The journey continues into Kakadu National Park, where you’ll explore the iconic regions of Nourlangie, Jim Jim Falls, and Mary River. Experience the breathtaking scenery of Kakadu’s rugged landscapes, ancient rock art sites, monsoon forests, and cascading waterfalls. The guided walks take you to viewpoints and hidden cultural treasures, providing a comprehensive understanding of this World Heritage-listed park’s natural and cultural significance.
Next, head to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its awe-inspiring Katherine Gorge. Walk along trails that offer spectacular views of the dramatic sandstone cliffs and the Katherine River below. The park’s diverse terrain promises a unique experience in each of the two regions you will explore.
The final leg of the tour takes you to Litchfield National Park, where you can cool off with a swim in the park’s renowned waterfall-fed swimming holes. Enjoy the refreshing waters and stunning surroundings as you explore this beautiful area.
Throughout the tour, accommodations are selected for their comfort and premium quality, ensuring a luxurious and relaxing stay after each day’s adventure. The Davidson Arnhem Land Safari Lodge provides a truly unique experience, while other lodgings offer comfort and style amid the natural beauty of Northern Australia. Enjoy gourmet meals featuring local ingredients, complemented by fine Australian wines, offering a taste of the region’s culinary delights.
The Pack Free approach ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to walk without the burden of carrying heavy packs. Travel in a 4WD bus, accessing remote locations and enjoying seamless transitions between each stunning destination. With all logistics taken care of, the tour caters to different fitness levels and ensures a memorable journey from start to finish.
The 8-Day Arnhem Land, Kakadu, Nitmiluk & Litchfield Walk by Life’s An Adventure is more than just a walking tour—it’s an immersive exploration of some of Australia’s most culturally and naturally significant landscapes. Experience the unspoiled beauty and ancient stories of Arnhem Land, the iconic wonders of Kakadu, the dramatic gorges of Nitmiluk, and the refreshing waterfalls of Litchfield. Join us for a premium Pack Free adventure that captures the essence of the Northern Territory, promising a once-in-a-lifetime journey filled with unforgettable moments and extraordinary landscapes.
Pack-Free Walking Experience
One of the biggest drawcards of this tour is that our guests won’t be asked to carry their clothes or overnight bags for the entire tour, these will be transported for you each day. With Life’s An Adventure, you will carry as little as your water bottle, camera and lunch each day!
Arnhemlander Wilderness Cruise
Wow Factor inclusion
Embark on a journey through the rainforest and meandering through the channels to arrive at a waterfall. A cruise through the many water channels and the open floodplains in Arnhemland is sure to excite as you pass the resident crocs and some of the 275 bird species found in the region. Finish up with a glass of wine and nibbles as the sun sets over the floodplain.
Sunset River Cruise
with 3 course dinner and sparkling wine in Nitmiluk
Sit back and relax on a Sunset Dinner Cruise in Nitmiluk, Katherine Gorge and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge which will be changing colour with the setting sun. Tour includes a three course candle light dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked on board, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine.
Davidson Arnhemlander Safari Lodge
Set in Restricted Area
Located within the expansive 700 sq-km remote expanse, Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris at Mt Borradaile stands as a registered Aboriginal sacred site. This exclusive leased area is nestled adjacent to the Arnhem Land Escarpment. The property is embraced by a landscape adorned with rugged ranges that gently meet serene billabongs, expansive flood plains, tranquil paperbark rivers, and vibrant monsoonal rainforests, collectively crafting a truly enchanting wilderness haven. Revel in the meticulous attention to detail that befit an eco-lodge, all with the distinct touch of Arnhem Land’s uniqueness. Situated within a natural bush backdrop, the lodge showcases contemporary furnishings in a new and tasteful manner. Its layout encompasses a dining room, lounge, bar, library, and a spacious outdoor deck, perfect for alfresco dining, all of which overlook the inviting sandstone-paved pool.
Cooinda Lodge
Cooinda Yellow Waters Region
We’ve chosen 2 nights at Cooinda Lodge for its close proximity to the amazing walks of southern Kakadu. This beautiful outback Lodge beside Yellow Water Billabong features a swimming pool to cool off after a day’s walk and modern air-conditioned rooms with ensuite. Dinners at the lodge are a true outdoor Australian alfresco dining experience. With a wonderful menu featuring an array of local produce such as barramundi and crocodile.
Nitmiluk Cabins
2 night stay Katherine Gorge
Nestled within the breathtaking Nitmiluk National Park, Nitmiluk Cabins are a short stroll to Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) and provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rugged landscapes, as you wake up to the serene sights and sounds of the park’s lush surroundings. With a range of cosy and well-furnished accommodations they cabins are perfect base for exploring the stunning Nitmiluk Gorge.
Litchfield Outback Resort
Close to Litchfield National Park
We’ve chosen the best accommodations near each walk to reduce travel time. Situated close to Litchfield National Park, these rooms feature private balconies/patios with pool and garden views, ideal for unwinding after a day of adventure. Enjoy ensuite facilities, large LCD TVs, and complimentary Wifi throughout your stay.
Our CEO Guides
Chief Experience Officers
Our guides are truly exceptional at what they do. We call them our CEOs – Chief Experience Officers and it’s their job to ensure your tour exceeds your expectations. Our guide’s caring attitude and wonderful outgoing nature ensure your tour is relaxing, fun and informative.
Local Produce and wines
Included on your tour
Mealtime is a special time on tour. Not only does it provide the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers in a relaxed environment, but it also allows you to sample regional specialities. On tour we have many highlight dinners including a special outdoor campfire dinner at Hawk Dreaming Lodge and at Cooinda lodge enjoy outdoor dining under the stars with the choice of regional delicacies such as crocodile and emu.
Personalised Tours
and personalised service
Our group sizes are small and intimate with a maximum of 12 people, we find this delivers more personalised service, a great social environment and has less impact on the environment.
Genuinely all-inclusive
We provide a genuinely all-inclusive experience. When you travel with us you won’t need to keep putting your hand in your pocket to pay for additional items not included in your tour, such as meals, wine, activities, cruises.
To find out more click on any of the below links:
What Life’s An Adventure is renowned for?
Tour Itinerary
This is an all-inclusive tour with no hidden extras:
PACK-FREE WALKING:
- Pack Free Walk – Carry only a day pack
WOW-MAZING EXPERIENCES INCLUDED:
- Arnhem Land sunset cruise
- 4WD tour and walk to Jim Jim Falls
- Sunset cruise with 3-course dinner and sparkling wine in Nitmiluk National Park
BEST ACCOMMODATION IN EACH AREA:
- 2 nights at the exclusive 4-star Davidsons Arnhemland Safari Lodge in northern Arnhemland
- 2 nights accommodation at beautiful Cooinda Lodge, Yellow Waters
- 2 nights accommodation at Nitmiluk Cabins
- 1 night accommodation at Litchfield Outback Resort
SUPERB MEALS & WINE:
- Complimentary Australian wine served with evening meals
- 7 x delicious restaurant dinners featuring beautiful local produce
- 7 x buffet breakfasts
- 8 x lunches
- Fresh fruit and trail mix to enjoy during your walk
GUIDES & TRANSFERS:
- Professionally guided – Our CEO’s – Chief Experience Officers are passionate, well trained and enthusiastic with the ability to bring to life a depth of information
- Transfers to/from Darwin to Kakadu in our 4WD bus
- National Park Fees
SUGGESTED PRE-TOUR ACCOMMODATION: We suggest the Novotel Atrium Darwin ideally located on the esplanade overlooking Darwin Harbour.
MEET TIME: 6.45am meet in the foyer of the Novotel Atrium Darwin
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking: 5kms. Medium walk includes 250m climb
TERRAIN: A combination of formal paved path and natural trail that can be rocky underfoot. There is a short climb, over uneven rock, at Ubirr.
WALK ITINERARY: Our journey begins at the Novotel Atrium Darwin where you will meet your guides and jump onboard our 4WD bus. Enroute we stop for a short break in the Mary River region. We continue to famous Ubirr Rock for our mid-morning walk. Our walk leads us along a path that guides us through a sequence of natural rock galleries leading to the top of the escarpment where we’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that overlook the vast expanse of Kakadu National Park. From here we head to Cahill Crossing to enjoy lunch overlooking the river on viewing platforms. Afterwards we leave the rest of the tourists behind as our Arnhemland land adventure begins by traversing Cahill Crossing and making our way to the secluded northern reaches of Arnhem Land. This leg of our expedition leads us to Davidson’s Arnhem Land Safari Lodge, our exclusive retreat for the next two nights. After settling in we head out for our afternoon walk, taking in consideration of the area’s sacred significance, we’ll be under the guidance of a knowledgeable local guide. This area is known for the world’s largest Rock Art collection and its rare collections of magnificent work needs to be seen to be believed. We wander along a creek and up through eroded rock platforms to witness the spectacular six-metre Rainbow Serpent artwork, it will be one of the most amazing examples of rock art you are likely ever to see. Tonight unwind and fully appreciate the picturesque surroundings of your unique lodging. Indulge in a delightful dinner, expertly served within the lodge’s restaurant, accompanied by a selection of fine wines.
Please note crossing Cahill crossing is tide dependent and our itinerary above may be adjusted to work in with the low tide times which allows us to cross the river.
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking: 8kms. Medium walk includes 250m climb. Combination of walks available – flexible for each person which ones you elect to partake in.
TERRAIN: A combination of formal paved path and natural trail that can be rocky underfoot.
WALK ITINERARY: After breakfast, we set out for today’s walk to explore major art sites, delving into catacombs of rock sculptures and astounding artworks. Arnhem Land’s rock art spans an unbelievable timeline, from 50,000 years ago to just two centuries back, depicting European encounters and ancient creatures like Tasmanian tigers. Walking along the escarpment, surrounded by fig tree roots and pandanas palms, the excitement is tangible. The rock art galleries, unparalleled in quality, quantity, colorfulness, and preservation, make this area magical. They tell prehistoric stories, transporting you to another era, depicting extinct animals such as a Tasmanian devil a rare sight since rediscovery and offering a window into the past. Following our walk, we indulge in a refreshing swim at a nearby billabong nestled high on the escarpment, offering the reassurance of being crocodile-free. This untouched natural swimming oasis, perched on the escarpment’s heights, invites safe and serene aquatic enjoyment. The sandy bed and exceptionally clear water create an inviting space to take a cooling dip. It’s yet another exquisite location radiating pure beauty. As the afternoon unfolds, we’ll embark on a captivating cruise aboard a shallow-bottomed boat, navigating through a mesmerizing labyrinth of canals, their banks adorned with majestic paperbark trees. Our journey will lead us into the embrace of magnificent open wetlands, their horizons framed by distant red escarpments that lend an awe-inspiring backdrop. This panoramic scene encapsulates one of our most remarkable ecosystems, where the vast wetlands teem with an astounding array of egrets, magpie geese, cormorants, kingfishers, the stately presence of brolgas, and the free-spirited drift of sea eagles. We finish our cruise with a glass of wine and nibbles as the sun sets over the floodplain. Later we head back to the lodge for a wonderful dinner served with wine.
TRAIL NOTES: Walk 1: 4.2km, 1.5 hours of walking. Easy grade.
Walk 2: 1.5km, 2 hours of walking. Moderate Grade
TERRAIN: The first walk of the day begins with an easy, flat trail along the billabong’s edge, followed by a ladder climb and a brief scramble over rocky terrain to reach the lookout point. The second walk begins with a wide, paved track before encountering steep and rugged sections, involving scrambling over broken slabs of rock.
WALK ITINERARY: After an early breakfast, we head south and make our way back to Kakadu by returning across Cahill Crossing. Today we head to Nourlangie Region for a dramatic walk in Kakadu’s Stone Country. Begin your adventure with the Anbangbang Billabong and Nawurlandja Lookout track, circling the picturesque billabong where birdlife thrives and wallabies seek refuge under paperbarks. Marvel at the views of Nourlangie Rock as you navigate through shaded areas and scramble to the Nawurlandja Lookout for breathtaking vistas. Spot jabirus along the shore before concluding your journey. Then, embark on the Nourlangie Art Site track, traversing steep and rugged terrain to discover ancient Aboriginal artwork at Anbangbang Rock Shelter. Delve into stories of Nabulwinjbulwinj and Namarrgon depicted in the captivating art. Continue to Gunnwarrdehwarrdde Lookout for panoramic views before descending stone steps and concluding your exploration.
The next two nights are spent at the beautiful outback resort of Cooinda Lodge beside Yellow Water Billabong. This wonderful lodge features a swimming pool and modern air-conditioned rooms with ensuite. Tonight we enjoy true outdoor Australian alfresco dining experience. Enjoy a wonderful menu featuring wonderful local produce such as barramundi and crocodile.
Please note crossing Cahill crossing is tide dependent and our itinerary above may be adjusted to work in with the low tide times which allows us to cross the river.
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking 3 kms. Medium grade. Easier option available.
TERRAIN: This natural walking trail can be rocky and sandy underfoot. There is some scrambling over large boulders.
WALK ITINERARY: Enjoy an early breakfast then we head out by 4WD to experience the remote and spectacular Jim Jim Falls, the crown of Kakadu National Park. Our walk is to the spectacular Jim Jim Falls gorge and plunge pools. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the river where you will see views of the Jim Jim Falls gorge, you can relax here taking in the amazing views down the gorge or continue on. For those that wish to swim in the plunge pools at the base of the falls, the second half of the walk requires scrambling and rock hopping and requires a good amount of agility. The closer you get to the end of the gorge the more impressive it becomes and worth the effort to get there. Sit down and relax on the sandy white beach, take in your amazing surroundings and the pretty plunge pool surrounded by enormous vertical cliffs and after all that rock scrambling definitely go for a swim. We also have the option to walk to the top of the escarpment overlooking Jim Jim Falls for magnificent views. Afterwards, enjoy the drive back to Cooinda taking in spectacular vistas of the Arnhemland Escarpment. In the afternoon enjoy time to relax at the resort. Tonight enjoy a relaxing outdoor dinner in the lodge restaurant.
Please note: Today’s touring is subject to the opening of Jim Jim Falls. If for any reason these areas aren’t open alternative locations will be substituted.
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking 8.5kms.
TERRAIN: This natural walking trail can be rocky and sandy underfoot. There is a steep climb, which is rocky and uneven.
WALK ITINERARY: After breakfast, we set off to explore the Mary River region in the southern part of Kakadu National Park to walk. Today we enjoy a series of short walks with a refreshing waterhole swim. The reward for each walk. The first of our walks take us to Maguk previously known as Barramundi Gorge an awesome gorge with a big plunge pool. The walk follows Barramundi Creek through monsoon forests with lush thick vegetation and interesting plants, birds and lizards to admire. Here we will walk to the head of the falls for magnificent views, the pool at the top of the falls is flanked by tall vertical cliffs then head on down to the plunge pools for a relaxing swim to cool off. Afterwards we head to Motor Car Falls. Surrounded by forest this small waterfall remains one of Kakadu’s hidden gems and is a favourite in the tropical summer when Kakadu’s larger falls tend to be inaccessible. Although it’s a bit of a trek at 7.5 kms return, it’s well worth the effort. Especially if you want to sit under the spray of the waterfall by swimming across the pristine pool. We may even see wallaroos along the way!
Afterwards, we transfer from Pine Creek to Katherine. For the next 2 nights, we stay at Nitmiluk Cabins a short stroll to the gorge. Tonight enjoy dinner in a local restaurant
Note: due to warmer weather in the Territory our guides will determine the best walking experiences for the day. Early morning starts will mean we will walk in the cooler part of the day. Some days include several short walks. Most walks include a swim to cool off during the walks. All walks outlined above are subject to them being open. Note we start our walks in June to try and avoid this, however due to weather some walks may not be opened until later in the season. When walks are not opened alternative walks or activities will be substituted
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking 12kms – moderate. Easier walking options available of 4.8km
TERRAIN: This natural walking trail can be rocky and sandy underfoot and there are short, steep ascents and descents, in and out of the gorges.
WALK ITINERARY: After breakfast, we head to Nitmiluk National Park. Nitmiluk to the south of Kakadu National Park has its own appeal and beauty and is endowed with features not found in its larger and more renowned neighbour. The major attraction in this area is Katherine Gorge which has been cut over centuries into the sandstone of the Arnhem Land escarpment by the Katherine River. We start our day with a walk to Butterfly Gorge and follow the gorge rim which showcases stunning views of rocky escarpments and shady valleys with rainforest and refreshing swimming holes. We visit pretty Butterfly Gorge a shaded side gorge frequented by black and white butterflies before returning. Later we return to Nitmiluk Cabins with the remainder of the day at leisure before we enjoy a celebratory sunset cruise up the spectacular Nitmiluk (Katherine) gorge with a three-course dinner featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked by one of the chefs on board, accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine.
TRAIL NOTES: 9kms return. Grade Moderate. Easier Option available 2.6kms. Grade Moderate
TERRAIN: Well-formed trail, with a good compact surface, some rocky sections and sand.
WALK ITINERARY: On our final day, we enjoy breakfast and head towards the northwestern part of Nitmiluk National Park to explore beautiful Edith Falls (Leilyn) a series of cascading waterfalls and plunge pools where the Edith River descends the Arnhem Land escarpment. Our walk begins with a climb into escarpment country through bushlands of spinifex and grevillea listening out for the calls of the local birds. Once at the top dramatic views can be seen of the spectacular Upper Pool. This is a wonderful place that has a stunning waterfall and swimming hole and is the perfect place to cool off after a walk. We will spend time here sitting under the waterfall and soaking up the dramatic scenery. Afterwards, we make our way to Litchfield Outback Resort. Tonight enjoy a final dinner with your fellow guests including wine.
TRAIL NOTES: Total walking: 7kms. Grade moderate.
TERRAIN: A combination of formal paved path and natural trail that can be rocky underfoot. Short, steep ascent and descent at Tolmer Falls.
WALK ITINERARY: After breakfast we head to Litchfield National Park for the last of our walking adventure. This beautiful National Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls which cascade from a sandstone plateau called the Tabletop Range. Today’s walk takes us from Florence Falls to beautiful Buley Rockhole. Along the track, you will experience plenty of birdlife, including honeyeaters, kingfishers and pigeons. Besides birdlife, you might spot other wildlife as well including northern quolls and black flying foxes. Arriving at Buley Rockhole we stop for a refreshing dip in the crystal clear waters and watch the streams cascading over the rocks in this beautiful oasis. After lunch, we continue walking to the lookout at Tolmer Falls, where you can view water cascading into a stunning pool below and linger in the rock pools above the falls. Afterwards, we make a brief stop at spectacular Wangi Falls, surrounded by monsoon rainforest where you can enjoy a cool swim in the pool. From here we head back to Darwin the end of a fantastic journey
Tour Availability
The tour is only available for private groups of 6 or more people.
A departure date of your choice, subject to availability.
Please enquire for price based on your group size.
Email us at walks@lifesanadventure.com.au or contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
* Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
* A deposit of $300 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
* Note: If you are booking within 90 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
* Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
* Payments must be made online via our NAB (National Australia Bank) secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
* We advise taking our Travel Insurance to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. Click here
* Credit for cancelled activities. If a tour activity has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a credit for this missed activity can be applied to any future bookings. Click here.
