Kakadu Arnhemland Walk Ultimate Experience – Premium 5-Day Pack Free Walk with Wow-Mazing Inclusions by Life’s An Adventure
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with Life’s An Adventure’s premium 5-day Pack Free guided walking tour that takes you deep into the heart of Kakadu National Park and Arnhemland. This exclusive journey provides a rare opportunity to explore the iconic landscapes of Kakadu alongside the untouched beauty and ancient heritage of Arnhemland. Designed to offer a blend of adventure, culture, and comfort, the tour includes special experiences and premium accommodation that elevate the walk into an unforgettable journey.
The tour begins in Kakadu National Park, where you’ll explore some of Australia’s most iconic natural and cultural landscapes. Walk through the renowned regions of Nourlangie, Jim Jim Falls, and the Mary River, each revealing a different side of Kakadu’s extraordinary diversity. From ancient rock art galleries and towering escarpments to lush monsoon forests and plunging waterfalls, these guided walks showcase the raw beauty and deep cultural significance of the park. Cool off in natural plunge pools, enjoy sweeping viewpoints, and gain insight into the stories and traditions that have shaped this remarkable landscape for tens of thousands of years.
The adventure continues with a cruise through a maze of wetlands and paperbark-lined waterways, framed by distant red escarpments. This rich ecosystem is a haven for wildlife and birdlife, with an astonishing 275 bird species recorded in the region. Keep watch for elegant egrets, colourful cockatoos, poised cormorants, vivid kingfishers, graceful brolgas, and majestic sea eagles. The sounds and movement of the wetlands create an atmosphere that is both calming and deeply immersive.
The journey then ventures north into the remote expanse of Arnhemland, where you’ll arrive at the secluded Davidson Arnhemland Safari Lodge, a truly unique destination inaccessible to mainstream tourism. Staying here for two nights, you’ll have the rare privilege of exploring sacred Aboriginal land with over 50,000 years of continuous cultural history and one of the world’s greatest collections of rock art. Guided walks reveal awe-inspiring sites, including a remarkable six-metre rainbow serpent rock art piece located just a short walk from the lodge.
Experience the breathtaking diversity of Arnhemland’s landscapes, from rugged rock catacombs and pristine swimming holes perched atop towering escarpments to lush rainforests, meandering valleys, and hidden caves. This ancient environment offers a profound connection to the land, its stories, and the Traditional Owners, engaging all your senses through immersive cultural experiences and thoughtfully guided walks.
Accommodation is carefully curated for a premium experience, featuring luxury stays at Davidson Arnhemland Safari Lodge and top lodges in Kakadu. Each evening, relax in comfort while enjoying gourmet meals made with fresh local ingredients, complemented by fine Australian wines. The combination of remote luxury and high-quality dining ensures that you can unwind in style after a day of exploration.
The Pack Free approach means you’ll walk with only a day pack, while all logistics and accommodations are taken care of for a seamless experience. Travel in a 4WD bus, providing access to exclusive locations and ensuring a safe and comfortable journey through this remote and stunning region.
The Kakadu Arnhemland Walk Ultimate Experience is more than just a walking tour—it’s an extraordinary journey through one of the world’s most culturally and naturally rich regions. With its blend of breathtaking landscapes, ancient rock art, vibrant wildlife, and luxury inclusions, this tour offers a rare chance to experience the magic of Arnhemland and Kakadu in a way that few others will ever get to. Join us for a Pack Free adventure that captures the essence of Australia’s Top End, promising wow-mazing moments and memories that will last a lifetime.
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!
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 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.
Arnhemlander Wilderness Cruise
Enjoy this fantastic Wow-mazing inclusion. Cruise the water season sees you boating through the rainforest and meandering through the channels to arrive at our 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.
Explore Arnhemland's rare and remote Indigenous Rock Art Sites
We travel deep into Arnhemland. With a history spanning more than 50,000 years, you’ll be captivated by the unspoiled magnificence of this region, boasting the world’s biggest collection of magnificent rock art. Notably, within a mere 15-minute drive from avidson’s Arnhemland Safari lodge, lies a breathtaking six-meter rainbow serpent rock-art, leaving a lasting impression.
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.
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.
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.
This is an all-inclusive tour with no hidden extras:
PACK-FREE WALKING:
WOW-MAZING EXPERIENCES INCLUDED:
BEST ACCOMMODATION IN EACH AREA:
SUPERB MEALS & WINE:
GUIDES & TRANSFERS:
SUGGESTED PRE-TOUR ACCOMMODATION: We suggest the Novotel Atrium Darwin ideally located on the esplanade overlooking Darwin Harbour.
MEET TIME: 7.15am meet in the foyer of the Novotel Atrium Darwin
TRAIL NOTES: Walk 1: 4.2km, 1.5 hours of walking. Easy grade.
Walk 2: 1.5km, 2 hours of walking. Moderate Grade
TERRAIN: 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.
WALK ITINERARY: Our journey begins at the Novotel Atrium Darwin where you will meet your guides and board our 4WD bus. We head south into Kakadu and make our way to the Nourlangie Region for a dramatic walk in Kakadu’s Stone Country. Our adventure begins with the Anbangbang Billabong and Nawurlandja Lookout track, circling a tranquil billabong where birdlife thrives and wallabies shelter beneath paperbarks. We then climb to Nawurlandja Lookout for sweeping views of Nourlangie Rock and the escarpment beyond, a breathtaking panorama of Kakadu. Next, we explore the Nourlangie Rock Art Site. The trail leads us across rugged stone country to the Anbangbang Rock Shelter, where vivid Aboriginal artwork brings to life the stories of the Lightning Man, Namarrgon, and the spirit figure Nabulwinjbulwinj. Continuing upward, we reach Gunnwarrdehwarrdde Lookout, offering one final panoramic view before descending stone steps and completing our circuit. Afterwards we make our way to Cooinda lodge, where we’ll be staying the next two nights. After checking in we embark on the renowned Yellow Water Cruise. This unforgettable journey through Kakadu’s wetlands offers exceptional opportunities to observe saltwater crocodiles, buffalo and an extraordinary variety of birdlife in their natural habitat. As the wetlands come alive around us, our expert local guide provides fascinating insights into the ecology and cultural significance of this remarkable landscape.
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 9.5 km. Medium Grade
TERRAIN: A combination of well formed walking tracks, rocky sections, uneven surfaces and short steep climbs. Good mobility is required, particularly for those choosing to access the upper Gunlom infinity pools.
WALK ITINERARY: Enjoy an early breakfast then we set out to explore two of Kakadu’s most spectacular natural swimming spots, each offering a completely different perspective of this extraordinary landscape. Our day begins with a walk to Motor Car Falls, a hidden oasis tucked amongst lush monsoon forest. Following a scenic trail through woodland and alongside a peaceful creek, we arrive at a beautiful cascading waterfall and plunge pool, an ideal place to cool off and soak up the serenity of Kakadu. We then continue south to the iconic Gunlom Falls, one of Kakadu’s most photographed locations. Framed by towering escarpments and expansive bushland, Gunlom is renowned for its crystal-clear plunge pool and breathtaking natural infinity pools perched high above the landscape. Guests can choose to relax by the lower falls, enjoy a swim, or, for those seeking a little more adventure, take the short but rewarding climb to the upper pools for magnificent panoramic views across Kakadu National Park. After a day immersed in Kakadu’s stunning scenery, we return to Cooinda Lodge where there is time to unwind before gathering for a relaxing outdoor dinner at the lodge restaurant.
Please note: Today’s touring is subject to the opening of Jim Jim Falls. If the area is open for the season we will plan to go, there instead.
TRAIL NOTES: Dependent on Davidsons Arnhemland Safari Lodge
TERRAIN: A combination of formal paved path and natural trail that can be rocky underfoot
WALK ITINERARY: After breakfast we make our way across to Arnhemland. 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. 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: 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: After an early breakfast, we set out from Davidson’s Arnhem Land Safari Lodge for a morning walk in one of the most culturally rich regions of Arnhem Land. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, we explore an area of sacred significance, home to the world’s largest collection of rock art. The highlight of our walk is the spectacular six metre Rainbow Serpent painting, a masterpiece of Indigenous artistry that has endured for thousands of years. Wandering along the creek and over eroded rock platforms, we gain a deep appreciation of the stories and traditions that connect this land to its people. Following this unforgettable experience, we depart Arnhem Land and cross back over Cahills Crossing into Kakadu. We pause to enjoy lunch overlooking the East Alligator River, with the chance to spot crocodiles moving with the tide and birdlife along the banks. After lunch, we visit Ubirr, one of Kakadu’s most iconic Aboriginal rock art sites. Here, ancient galleries, dramatic sandstone formations and sweeping views across the Nadab floodplains come together to create one of the Top End’s most memorable cultural experiences. Our guide will share the significance of this remarkable place and the stories that have been passed down through generations. We then continue our journey across the floodplains and woodlands of Kakadu before joining the Arnhem Highway for our return to Darwin. Following a fantastic day, we’ll journey back to Darwin where this extraordinary adventure finishes.
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.
FINISH TIME: Transfer back to Darwin arriving at approximately 5pm-6pm
Prices in AUD (Australian Dollars)
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Date of your choice is available for groups of 10 -12 people. Subject to availability.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: groups@lifesanadventure.com.au
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 10 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement and upgrade extras.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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SOLO TRAVELLERS & EXTRAS:
SOLO TRAVELLERS WILLING TO SHARE
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 8 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost. Subject to availability at time of booking.
SOLO TRAVELLERS
WANTING THEIR OWN ROOM
For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking. Subject to availability.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: $3160
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BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here.
SALE TICKET CONDITIONS:
* Super Earlybird, Earlybird and Spot Special Sale Tickets: Must be paid in full at time of booking. Refunds or cancellations are not permitted for Sale Tickets however, transfers to another date are permitted 8 weeks or more prior to departure. We advise taking out travel insurance in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly with them Click here. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking. Flexiwalk Add-On option not available on these tickets.
* Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. This discount will automatically be deducted from future bookings when you book online using the same email address used for past bookings.
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 tour with us. Click here.
* FlexiWalk Option – Cancel for any Reason Click here for full conditions on our FlexiWalk Option.