6D Top End Highlights

On arrival in Darwin, tour the cosmopolitan city before joining the Travel Director and the other travellers in the group at Mindil Beach Sunset Market. As the sun sets, stroll the marketplace and explore the many stalls selling local wares and authentic ethnic cuisine.

Travel to Litchfield National Park, pausing to examine the amazing phenomenon of hundreds of magnetic termite mounds. Stop at Florence Falls, a spectacular double-plunge waterfall. Then continue on to Wangi Falls where you can take a dip in the naturally formed waterhole while being surrounded by the biodiversity of the monsoon rainforest. Finally travel to Katherine, a thriving town that was originally established as an outpost on the Australian Overland Telegraph Line.

Meet Manuel Pamkal and share in his passion for his distinct rarrk style of painting. Snap up the opportunity to purchase some local indigenous art. As afternoon approaches, hop onboard a cruise along Katherine Gorge. Keep your eyes peeled for the Aboriginal paintings on the sandstone walls as the tour takes you through a series of thirteen deep gorges. Learn about the history and culture of the local Jawoyn people as you cruise pass freshwater crocodiles nesting along the riverbanks. Consider joining the optional Stockman’s Bush Dinner for a truly authentic native experience.

This morning swim in the waterholes of the magnificent Edith Falls. Next, stroll through the mining town of Pine Creek, where buildings date back to the heady gold-rush days. Travel deep into World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park and discover spectacular escarpment, serene waterholes, and teeming wildlife. Board the famed Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, spotting basking crocodiles and abundant birdlife with a local guide. Later, take a guided walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock paintings at Nourlangie.

Indulge in an optional scenic flight over Kakadu before visiting Ubirr – host to some of the world’s most outstanding rock art. The paintings here provide a fascinating record of indigenous life over thousands of years: look for naturalistic paintings of animals, traditional x-ray art, and paintings of early contact with European people. Before leaving the site, climb to the top of a nearby rocky outcrop for superb views over the floodplains and escarpment country. In the evening enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow travellers.

Leave Kakadu this morning and return to Darwin. Stop at Fogg Dam - a birdwatcher’s paradise. Then transfer to Darwin International Airport for your departure flight.