Arnhemland & Kakadu Ultimate Walking Experience

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: Walking: 12 km. Grade: moderate. 6 hours. Easier option available 8kms.

TERRAIN: Today’s walk has no formed path but is a well-trodden foot track. It begins with a steep climb up a rocky valley. The track then flattens out into plateau heathland with sandy soil. It is criss-crossed by dry creek channels. You follow one small creek and climb up a series of rock slabs. The ground is rough in places and there are steep slopes. You may be walking through tall spear grass and there is prickly spinifex along the track.

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.  Burrunggui or Nourlangie is a large sandstone island standing above the surrounding woodland. This 12km walk starts with a short walk to view spectacular Aboriginal Rock Art Sites dating back to pre-historic times including the Namarrgon lighting man. From here we head through sandstone country experiencing a variety of habitats and magnificent contrasts between lowlands and escarpment. Marvel at the great lookout points across the Arnhem Land Escarpment and look out for the native black wallaroos and chestnut quilled rock pigeon. Pass through heathland, layered sandstone pillars, and open woodland. Lavender-flanked wrens flit around the shrubs while peregrine falcons hunt from the thermals created by hot air rising from the rocks. 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 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 back to Darwin.

FINISH TIME: Transfer back to Darwin arriving at approximately 8.30pm

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