Kakadu's Ancient Secrets
Kakadu's Ancient Secrets
$3899
Kakadu's Ancient Secrets
6 Days Starting and ending in Darwin, Australia
Visiting: Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Nitmiluk National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
MNDD25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia's Northern Territory with the "Kakadu's Ancient Secrets" tour. Begin your adventure in Darwin, where you'll explore indigenous art and history before setting off to the breathtaking Kakadu National Park. Experience the serene beauty of the Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise and delve into the rich indigenous culture at the Murrawaddi Art Gallery. Enjoy premium accommodations at the Hilton Darwin, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, and Cicada Lodge, ensuring comfort amidst stunning landscapes. Discover the wonders of Nitmiluk National Park, including a cruise along the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge and a relaxing soak in the Katherine Hot Springs. With private vehicle transfers from Darwin Airport, this tour offers a seamless and luxurious exploration of Australia's top end, filled with cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Darwin
Location: Darwin
Accommodation Name: Hilton Darwin
Touch down in Darwin and let the adventure begin with your airport transfer. Dive straight into the essence of Australia's Northern Territory at Aboriginal Bush Traders, where your taste buds will be tantalized with native flavours, before you explore the indigenous art. Later, immerse yourself in the heart of Darwin, where every corner reveals a new story. Trace the city's history through iconic landmarks like Parliament House, Government House, and the beautifully restored historical administration building, on a short walking tour.
Day 2: Darwin - Kakadu National Park
Location: Kakadu National Park
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Embark on a whirlwind of adventure and cultural immersion in Australia's Northern Territory. Departing Darwin, your journey begins with the serene beauty of the Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise, where you'll glide through pristine wetlands, spotting crocodiles and colourful birdlife. Continue your exploration in Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient landscapes await. Dive into the rich indigenous culture at the Murrawaddi Art Gallery, admiring exquisite artworks that tell stories of tradition and spirituality. Cap off your day with a culinary extravaganza at the Mercure Crocodile Hotel, indulging in a degustation dinner.
Day 3: Kakadu National Park
Location: Kakadu National Park
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
This is another day of unparalleled adventure and cultural immersion in the heart of Kakadu National Park. You might choose to begin your morning with a Kakadu scenic flight soaring over the ancient landscapes and majestic waterways as the sun rises (own expense). Then get ready for a Make Travel Matter® Experience as you delve into the ancient history of the region with a guided tour of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art, hosted by knowledgeable Aboriginal guides, who will share stories of tradition and spirituality. Enjoy some leisure time for lunch. This afternoon, embark on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise, where you'll journey along the East Alligator River, encountering wildlife and learning about traditional customs and practices from local Aboriginal guides. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culture and nature that defines the Northern Territory, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Day 4: Kakadu - Nitmiluk National Park
Location: Nitmiluk National Park
Accommodation Name: Cicada Lodge
Meals Included: Dinner
Travel to the small town of Katherine, where adventure and discovery await. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the heartwarming hospitality of the Curtin family during an exclusive meet and greet, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience ahead. Dive into the immersive Katherine Outback Experience, where the essence of Outback life unfolds before your eyes. From the skills of working dogs to the art of horse training, gain insights into the challenges and triumphs of Outback living, deepening your appreciation for the rugged beauty of the Australian landscape. As the sun sets, retreat to the luxurious comfort of Cicada Lodge in Nitmiluk National Park, where your dinner awaits amidst the whispers of the bush, marking the perfect conclusion to a day filled with exploration, cultural immersion, and the timeless allure of the Northern Territory.
Day 5: Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise
Location: Nitmiluk National Park
Accommodation Name: Cicada Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start the day with a leisurely breakfast before venturing to the tranquil Katherine Hot Springs for a mid-morning soak amidst lush surroundings. Indulge in the soothing thermal waters, allowing nature's warmth to melt away any cares. Afterwards, enjoy free time for lunch in the charming town of Katherine, savouring the flavours of the region. As the afternoon unfolds, embark on an enthralling cruise along majestic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, marvelling at towering cliffs and ancient rock formations that bear witness to millennia of natural history. With the sun beginning its descent, board your Sunset Dinner Cruise, where the golden hues of twilight cast a magical spell over the Nitmiluk Gorge landscape as you savour your meal, perfectly complemented by the stunning scenery. After a day filled with blissful moments and unforgettable experiences, retire again to the sanctuary of Cicada Lodge, where the comforts of home await amidst the rugged beauty of Nitmiluk National Park.
Day 6: Farewell From Darwin
Location: Darwin
Meals Included: Breakfast
On the final day of this remarkable journey, enjoy a delicious breakfast before bidding farewell to Cicada Lodge and setting out for one last adventure. Travel to a different corner of Nitmiluk National Park, where the enchanting Leliyn (Edith) Falls beckon. With the opportunity for a refreshing swim (seasonal) immerse yourself in the cool waters and soak in the tranquillity of this natural oasis. As the day progresses, travel up the Stuart Highway back to Darwin, where this unforgettable tour ends. Reflecting on the memories made amidst the stunning landscapes and cultural treasures of the Top End of Northern Territory, cherish the experiences that have filled your heart and soul along this extraordinary journey.
What's Included
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Private Vehicle Transfers
Enjoy seamless travel with private vehicle transfers included from Darwin Airport to your hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start and end to your adventure in Australia's Northern Territory.
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Small Group Experience
Experience a small group tour with an average of 16 guests, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of Kakadu's ancient secrets.
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Cultural and Wildlife Experiences
Spot crocodiles and other wildlife on the Corroboree Billabong Cruise, and disembark in Arnhem Land on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise.
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Aboriginal Cultural Immersion
Join an Aboriginal Guide at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art Site for a journey through Australia's rural life, showcasing horsemanship, working dogs, and bush tales.
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Relaxation Activities
Soak in the thermal waters of Katherine Hot Springs, and take a dip in the paperbark and pandanus fringed natural pool at Leliyn (Edith) Falls.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price.
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Personal Items
Personal items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, comfortable walking shoes, water bottle, swimwear, beach towel, warm layers in cooler months, and camera are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities, such as the scenic flight over Kakadu, are not included and may incur additional costs.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy seamless travel with private vehicle transfers included from Darwin Airport to your hotel, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start and end to your adventure in Australia's Northern Territory.
Accommodation
Experience premium and authentic accommodation with 5 nights at renowned locations such as Hilton Darwin, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, and Cicada Lodge, offering comfort and luxury amidst the stunning landscapes of Australia's Northern Territory.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 5 Full Breakfast (B)
Explore
- Spot crocodiles and other wildlife on the Corroboree Billabong Cruise, and disembark in Arnhem Land on the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise.
Fitness Requirement
- Moderate level of fitness required.
Flight information
- Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price. Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 12 noon into Darwin AirportDay 6 – flights to depart after 8.00pm from Darwin Airport Private vehicle return airport to hotel transfers are included in the price.
Immerse
- Go on a journey through Australia’s rural life, showcasing horsemanship, working dogs, and bush tales, and join an Aboriginal Guide at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art Site.
Indulge
- Dine under the stars at a bush barbecue in the East MacDonnell Ranges, and on a sunset dinner cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge.
Relax
- Soak in the thermal waters of Katherine Hot Springs, and take a dip in the paperbark and pandanus fringed natural pool at Leliyn (Edith) Falls.
What to Bring
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat Comfortable walking shoes Water bottle Swimwear and beach towel (if swimming) Warm layers in cooler months Camera A maximum of one piece of luggage per passenger (medium sized), as stowing capacity on the coach has limited spacing
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides premium and authentic accommodation, including stays at Hilton Darwin, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, and Cicada Lodge, offering comfort and luxury amidst the stunning landscapes of Australia's Northern Territory.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, private vehicle transfers from Darwin Airport to your hotel are included, ensuring a comfortable and convenient start and end to your adventure.
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
During the Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise, you can expect to see crocodiles and colorful birdlife. Additionally, the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise offers opportunities to encounter various wildlife along the East Alligator River.
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Is there an opportunity to learn about indigenous culture during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to the Murrawaddi Art Gallery and a guided tour of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art, where knowledgeable Aboriginal guides share stories of tradition and spirituality.
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What activities are available at Nitmiluk National Park?
At Nitmiluk National Park, you can enjoy a cruise along the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge, marvel at the towering cliffs and ancient rock formations, and participate in a Sunset Dinner Cruise. You can also visit the Katherine Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as a scenic flight over Kakadu are available but may incur additional costs.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour includes 10 meals, comprising 5 dinners with wine and 5 full breakfasts.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It is important to adhere to departure times while on tour for the comfort of everyone on-board, and to make sure no one misses out on the planned experiences. The coach will not be able to wait for you, and in some instances, if you miss a departure time you will need to make your own way to the next destination to re-join the tour.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays have competitive single supplement rates available if you prefer to confirm your own room. Or we can match you to share with a guest of the same gender at no extra cost. If we fail to match you, we will accommodate you in a single room at no extra cost.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 100 years
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
We will email your documents to you approximately four weeks before your departure date provided you have completed your pre trip registration using the My Travel Portal. If you’ve booked through a travel agent, your documents will be emailed directly to your agent.
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Low Deposit
AAT Kings requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aat kings charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.