3 Day Kakadu and Litchfield 4WD Adventure, Hiking, and Camping Holiday from Darwin, Australia
Australia Adventure Holiday
Join Autopia Tours on an exclusive 4WD safari in the adventure of a lifetime, showcasing the very best of Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Discover some of the world’s oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal rock paintings, and keep an eye out for their prehistoric residents—crocodiles—while cruising the ancient wetlands by boat. Venture off the beaten path as we hike through monsoon rainforests to spectacular waterfalls, where you can cool off in breathtaking natural plunge pools. Explore stunning landscapes and culturally rich areas.
Highlights
- Visit the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park
- Explore Kakadu Aboriginal Cultural Centres
- Take a wildlife cruise on the Mary River Wetlands
- Watch out for crocs and barramundi at Cahills Crossing
- See the breathtaking aboriginal rock art and sunset views at Ubirr Rock
- Be impressed by century-old magnetic termite mounds
- 2 nights accommodation in permanent tents or bush swags
- Meals and air-conditioned 4WD off-road bus travel included
Skill level
- Intermediate
Styles
Accommodation
On this tour, participants will stay at the exclusive permanent campsites. You will have the option to sleep in a twin bed safari tent or in a bush swag. Autopia Tours has comfortable twin permanent safari tents, providing a little more comfort, privacy, and security, or you can try out a traditional swag experience (canvas-covered bedroll).
The permanent tented campsites have access to communal campground showers and toilets. These sites generally have limited solar power or are unpowered. Therefore, guests are asked to bring rechargeable power banks (limited power access to charge phones or cameras). Towels are not provided.
- GPS Campsite Coordinates: Jabiru -12.661077, 132.835840
Campsite amenities: Jabiru (Kakadu) Permanent Campground
- Shower and toilet shared facilities
- Private dining area
Option 1: Bush Single Swag (sleeps 1)
This is a self-contained canvas-covered bush bed roll with mattress, to sleep on the ground outdoors under the stars, unpowered.
Option 2: Safari Tent Twin Share (sleeps 2)
You will stay in a tented campsite, with twin-share single beds with mattress, pillow, bed linen supplied, unpowered, and protected from the elements. It is for guests wishing to sleep in the outback.
Solo travelers booking separately in a twin share safari tent will be paired with another solo passenger of the same gender where possible but not guaranteed. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times no matter the sleeping arrangements.
Program
Venture off the beaten path as you hike through monsoon rainforests to spectacular waterfalls, where you can cool off in breathtaking natural plunge pools. Also explore stunning landscapes and culturally rich areas.
Each evening, unwind in comfort after a day of adventure. Autopia Tours private campsites feature fully-equipped, enclosed camp kitchens and spacious safari tents or traditional bush swags. After thrilling days of exploration, culture, and spectacular views, relax under the stars in a serene bushland setting, enjoying your comfortable twin safari tent or canvas-covered swag experience.
This tour is more than just a trip. It’s an immersive experience. You’ll join your guide and fellow travellers to prepare meals, learning the traditional art of bush cooking. It’s a fantastic opportunity for team-building, surrounded by the stunning outback, with unforgettable sunsets, stargazing, crackling campfires, and plenty of laughter along the way.
Be guided through world-class aboriginal rock art sites Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and / or Ubirr walk (conditions / seasonality-permitting). Adventure to some of Kakadu’s most impressive waterfalls and plunge pools (conditions / seasonality-permitting). Uncover the wonder of Litchfield National Park’s roaring waterfalls and hidden waterholes.
Take a dip in the pools of Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, or Wangi Falls. Swimming is permitted at many waterfalls and pools in Litchfield National Park while swimming in Kakadu is restricted in some areas due to the presence of crocodiles. Follow safety signs and guidelines at all times.
Prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget!
Fitness level
A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The length of walks will be between two to four kilometers each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9.5km walk is also 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 a doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years old (30 days prior to travel).
The tour is also not suitable for infants or children aged seven years old and under due to safety requirements and the physical demands of the walks.
Vehicle
Autopia Tours has a couple of all-terrain 4×4 range eco-tour bus, uniquely designed to handle the harshest of terrains and off-road tracks. The maximum number of passengers they carry on these tours is 15 to 21 people, with a minimum requirement of eight people to guarantee the departure.
- Fleet specs: Isuzu N Series NPS300 Trucks (15, 17, 21-seater)
In the unlikely event of a breakdown, alternative vehicles may be used.
Day 1: Darwin - Kakadu National Park
Start your adventure by departing from Darwin and heading out to the Mary River Wetlands region onboard the Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise. A great opportunity to spot a huge range of Top End birdlife, not to mention some apex predators… crocodiles!
We 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, we will journey north to *Cahills Crossing on the border of Kakadu and Arnhem Land. We will 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 us to climb up high for a sunset that will blow you away looking out over the Nadab Floodplain. After a big day, we head back to our cozy private camp and prepare dinner together, enjoying an evening with our fellow travellers.
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
- Camping: Jabiru Campground - Permanent Safari Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities)
- Driving Distance: 420km
- Hike Distance and Grading: 1km loop Grade 3, featuring flat pathways and a gradual climb up a rock face to the vantage point at the top.
Day 2: Kakadu Waterfalls & Plunge Pools
We rise and shine early on day 2 and make our way south in Kakadu National Park. Today we’ll 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.
We aim to visit one or more of the available waterfalls depending on the group's physical ability to complete the hike(s). This can include any of the following: Motor Car Falls, Moline Rockhole, Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), or Jim Jim Falls. There are many factors affecting accessibility although your guide will ensure you get the best experience possible.
Time permitting, we stop at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock), another indigenous rock art site where archaeologists have uncovered works dating back over 20,000 years old. We explore the evolving social, cultural and environmental changes to the area over time before making our way back to camp for a hearty dinner and a well-earned rest.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Camping: Jabiru Campground - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities)
- Driving Distance: 150km
- Hike Distance and Grading: 1.5km - 4km Grade 4
Day 3: Kakadu to Litchfield National Park to Darwin
An exciting day awaits as we head out of Kakadu National Park and travel towards Litchfield National Park.
We will spend the afternoon immersed in Litchfield’s natural oasis of waterfalls, spring-fed streams and rugged sandstone escarpments. We’ll 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 our way back to Darwin, arriving back at your accommodation at approximately 7:00pm.
- Meals: breakfast, lunch
- Driving distance: 500km
- Hike distance and grading: 1 - 2 km Grade 2-3.
- 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.
Included excursions
- Visit the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park
- Explore Kakadu Aboriginal Cultural Centres
- Take a wildlife cruise on the Mary River Wetlands
- Watch for Crocs and Barramundi at *Cahills Crossing
- Breathtaking Aboriginal rock art and sunset views at Ubirr Rock
- Be guided through world-class Aboriginal rock art sites Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) and/or Ubirr walk (conditions/seasonality permitting)
- Adventure to some of Kakadu’s most impressive waterfalls and plunge pools (conditions/seasonality permitting)
- Be impressed by century-old magnetic termite mounds
- Uncover the wonder of Litchfield National Park’s roaring waterfalls and hidden waterholes
- Take a dip in the pools of Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, or Wangi Falls
Location
Autopia Tours' three-day Kakadu and Litchfield Tour covers some beautiful highlights of the national parks, including Mary River Wetlands, Cahills Crossing, Ubirr Rock, Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, and more!
Explore the floodplains of Ubirr, Barramundi Gorge, Jim Waterfall, & Litchfield National Park. During this three-day Kakadu and Litchfield tour, Autopia Tours offers an unforgettable journey through Australia’s ancient landscapes. Experience breathtaking waterfalls, stunning views, and the rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture.
Visit spectacular waterfalls and cool off in some of the most beautiful natural plunge pools imaginable. You will be exploring some truly spectacular countryside amongst pockets of rainforest packed with endemic species of flora and fauna.
This camping tour will have you relaxing outdoors amongst nature each night after action-packed days of exploration, indigenous culture, and unmatched vistas.
Food
Most of the meals will be prepared by Autopia Tours' tour guides with basic camping-style food options and on occasion, they will be provided by the accommodation providers onsite. Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean-up, and vehicle unpacking / loading as it’s a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travelers.
Dietary requirements
While Autopia Tours strives to accommodate most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking. As the group travels to remote areas, they will have limited options once the tour departs, so prior notice is essential.
Please notify Autopia Tours if you have any dietary requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking, or at least a few days prior to departure. This way, they can make any necessary arrangements.
Guest participation
Guests are encouraged to participate in lunch preparation, unpacking, and loading luggage into the vehicles. This collaborative effort promotes a relaxed atmosphere, fostering connections among travelers after a day of touring.
The following meals are included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
The following drinks are included:
- Water
- Coffee
- Tea
The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten Free
- Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
- Pescatarian
- Other dietary requirements on request
Things to do (optional)
Sleeping bag hire
Sleeping bags can be hired from Autopia Tours for 40 AUD. This includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own. Payment is to be made through their reservations department prior to departure.
Tour options:
- Option A: Kakadu Air Scenic Flights - Book a 30-minute Kakadu National Park scenic flight, from 159 AUD per person
- Option B: Kakadu Air Scenic Flights - Book a 60-minute Kakadu National Park scenic flight from 259 AUD per person
- Private tours: Private touring groups are available upon request.
Pre-booking optional activities is recommended. To avoid missing out, you can book with Autopia Tours' reservations team. These are non-commissionable items for booking agents; alternatively, you can book directly with the tour operator.
What's included
- Aboriginal culture and rock art viewing
- Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise
- Guided bush walks (up to 3km, grades 2 - 6)
- Hosted by an accredited outback driver-guide
- Kakadu Pass and national parks entry fees
- Air-conditioned 4WD off-road bus travel
- Comprehensive local tour commentary
- Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up / drop-off points
- Australian bush swag - canvas-covered bush bed roll (Bush Swag option)
- Top and fitted sheets, mattress, and pillow and case provided (Safari Tent option)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in permanent safari-style tented campsites (Kakadu)
- 2 breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners (guest participation)
What's not included
- Airfare
- Airport transfers
- Sleeping bags - can be hired from Autopia Tours for 40 AUD
- Any meals not indicated on the itinerary - for those with special dietaries, Autopia Tours recommends you to bring snacks as options are limited in the outback
- Hotel transfers pre / post-tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point
- Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
- Spending money for personal items and expenses
How to get there
Recommended Airports
Darwin International Airport
214 km
Transfer not provided
The group's main meeting point for this tour is Travelodge Resort Darwin, 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT at 06:30. Pickup locations for this tour include:
- 06:25 - Mindil Beach Casino Resort - Casino Dr The Gardens Darwin
- 06:25 - Cullen Bay Resort - 26 Marina Boulevard Darwin
- 06:30 - Travelodge Resort Darwin - 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City
- 06:35 - H on Smith Hotel - 81 Smith St Darwin City
- 06:40 - The Cavenagh Hotel - 12 Cavenagh St Darwin City
- 06:45 - Tourist Precinct Mini Bus Zone - 69 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 06:50 - H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment - 105 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 06:53 - DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade - 116 Esplanade Darwin City
- 06:55 - Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin - 88 Esplanade Darwin City
- 06:58 - Ramada Suites Zen Quarter - 6 Carey Street Darwin City
- 07:00 - Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront - 7 Kitchener Dr Darwin City
- 07:10 - Darwin Resort - 383 Stuart Hwy Winnellie (meeting point Bus Stop ID: 183 Stuart Hwy)
- 07:20 - Darwin FreeSpirit Resort - 901 Stuart Hwy Deviney Rd Holtze
Please ensure your arrival at your pickup location 10 minutes before the departure time to avoid missing the bus.
Cancellation Policy
- A reservation requires a deposit of 25% of the total price.
- The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
- The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.
For this organizer you can guarantee your booking through BookAllSafaris.com. All major credit cards supported.