Kakadu and Tiwi Island Explorer

Day 1

Darwin – Kakadu

Depart Darwin and travel along the Arnhem Highway, passing through major river systems and wetlands, before arriving at Kakadu National Park. Situated 257 kilometres east of Darwin, this vast park spans 20,000 square kilometres, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from rocky escarpments, home to historic Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years, to floodplains rich in wildlife. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre to explore informative displays that showcase the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu. 

Join your local guide for a cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong, where you’ll search for saltwater crocodiles and spot the colourful variety of birdlife that this region is famous for. After lunch, stop at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), where your Driver Guide will lead you on a walk to view the rock art galleries. There will also be the opportunity to take an optional 50-minute scenic flight (at your own expense).

** As this Short Break commences at 6.30am, accommodation will need to be pre-booked for the previous night.

Overnight: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (or similar)
Meals included: Lunch

Day 2

Kakadu – Darwin

This morning, meet your Driver Guide for an exploration of the World Heritage-listed Ubirr area, where you'll hike through ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries, thought to be over 20,000 years old, and reach a stunning lookout offering expansive views of the surrounding wetlands. 

Next, enjoy the Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River, where an Aboriginal guide will share fascinating insights into the local culture, including stories of mythology, the river’s abundant ecosystem, and traditional bush survival techniques. 

With special permission from the local communities, you'll have the rare opportunity to set foot in Arnhem Land. Before returning to Darwin, take time to visit the Marrawuddi Art Gallery.

Overnight: Travelodge Darwin Resort (or similar)
Meals included: Lunch

Day 3

Tiwi Islands

After making your own way to Cullen Bay Ferry Terminal, just a five-minute drive from Darwin’s CBD, board the Tiwi Mantawi for a 2 ½ hour cruise to Bathurst Island. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your local guide who will take you on an insightful journey through Wurrumiyanga, a modern Aboriginal community.

Visit the Museum, which showcases traditional art and captivating depictions of the Tiwi ‘dreamtime’ stories. Explore the Early Mission Precinct, home to the unique Tiwi-style Catholic Church, and learn about the colourful history of the early mission days and the fusion of Tiwi culture with Christianity. Spend time with local Tiwi women as they weave and paint, and have the chance to sample traditional billy tea and damper.

Your guides and the ladies will also demonstrate their totem dances and perform a smoking ceremony to bless the visitors, explaining the cultural significance of these rituals. Explore the successful Arts & Crafts Centres, where you can observe artists at work and purchase Tiwi arts, crafts, and screen-printed fabric at island prices.

Learn about the intricate rituals surrounding the Pukamani (burial ceremony) before heading back to the ferry landing for your return journey to Darwin, departing Bathurst Island at 3.15 pm.

We recommend that flights depart the following day

Meals included: Lunch