Nature’s Way: 7-day road trip to Kakadu and Litchfield

Aboriginal-owned and operated, Pudakul Cultural Tours offer insight into the local customs and traditions of the Northern Coast Wetland people. You might try bush foods, see crocodiles, throw a spear and more.

Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve was once home to rice crops, but these abandoned paddies are now alive with reptiles, jabirus (large native birds) and blue-winged kookaburras. Easy walks allow you to explore at your leisure.

The Northern Territory is known for their huge crocodiles. Witness their sheer power as they launch themselves out of the water on a tour with Adelaide River Cruises or Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise.

The wetlands of this area make for an incredible ecosystem. Hop on a Wildlands Wetlands Safari Cruise aboard an airboat to zip through billabongs lined with waterlilies and lotus flowers. Passionate guides will tell you all about the abundant wildlife that live here, too.

You can follow the day’s croc theme all the way to your bed at the crocodile-shaped Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel in Jabiru. This is the perfect base for exploring the epic attractions of Kakadu National Park.

Considered one of Kakadu’s most interesting short walks, the Bardedjilidji walk leads you through monsoonal rainforest, towering sandstone pillars and a tree-lined riverbank. Rock art and wildlife make the walk even more exciting.

Some of the country’s most incredible rock art is found at Ubirr. The galleries are impactful, containing paintings from thousands of years ago. Fascinatingly, you can see paintings depicting some of the first interactions with non-Aboriginal people.

Combining nature and culture, a Guluyambi Cultural Cruise is your chance to hear from the Traditional Owners about their mythology, stories, survival skills and bush medicines. You’ll even make a stop in beautiful Arnhem Land.

The full majesty of nature is on show at Nawurlandja Lookout. The view here is nothing short of jaw-dropping – the sheer cliffs and escarpments look like a postcard. If you can peel your eyes away, there’s wildlife and rock art here, too.

A four-hour return walk to Motor Car Falls will treat you to quintessential Top End scenery. Expect lush green rainforest, trickling creeks and cool swimming holes. This is one of the few waterfalls accessible during the wet season.

Accessed via a four-wheel drive track and one-kilometre (0.6mi) walk, Maguk is a dreamy retreat deep within Kakadu. Dive into the crystal-clear plunge pool and let the fresh water wake you up and cool you down.

One of the most powerful parts of Kakadu are the thundering waterfalls that pour from mighty cliffs. The best way to see them? Soaring above them in a helicopter. You’ll get an awe-inspiring view you’ll never forget.

A cruise along Yellow Water billabong is a chance to be a part of nature, just as it is. As the sun sets and your boat glides through glassy water, the billabong shows off its silent crocodiles, chirping birdlife and pastel reflections.

Cooinda Lodge has Kakadu’s most extensive selection of accommodation. Book a villa or lodge room and enjoy the resort’s two shady swimming pools, alfresco dining and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect respite after an adventurous day.

Immerse yourself in the culture of the Bininj/Munguyy peoples at Warradjan Cultural Centre. Browse traditional art that has been practiced for over 65,000 years, visit the interactive museum and meet the region’s Traditional Owners.

A series of natural springs framed by natural vegetation – the pools at Katherine Hot Springs just might be the most relaxing spot you’ve come across. Slip into the healing waters and enjoy the nearby walking trails.

With an Aboriginal guide at your side, Djilpin Arts invites you to accompany them to secret and sacred sites. Wander along the Waterhouse River to reach Melkjulumbu, also known as Beswick Falls, where you’ll learn cultural stories.

A real taste of the Aussie outback lies at Katherine Outback Experience. The show celebrates the history and culture of the Northern Territory with horse-starting, working dog demonstrations and storytelling.

Naturally a balmy 34°C (93°F) all year round, Mataranka thermal pool welcomes you for a beautiful morning swim in the clear waters. But be warned – you’re never going to want to leave these healing springs. 

Nearby Bitter Springs is as picturesque as it is relaxing. The pools cut through beautiful green forest like a lazy river, making you feel like you’re in a fairytale. Be sure to check the status of the springs, as they can close during wet season.

On your way back to Katherine, delve into the limestone landscape of the Cutta Cutta Caves. The caves are home to various species of bats and birds, and boast a rich Indigenous and European history.

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is simply stunning. The best way to see the sheer drop of the gorge’s dramatic cliffs is from the water. You can hire a canoe to paddle at your leisure, taking in the mighty nature that rises up all around you.

Witness the region’s spectacular tapestry from a scenic flight. You’ll weave through the walls of the gorge, seeing this marvel from a whole new angle. Your pilot will give you a fascinating account of the geology and culture of the area.

Nitmiluk National Park is a beautiful place to explore on two feet. A network of walking trails will lead you to lookouts pretty enough to take your breath away, shaded gorges perfect for swimming and sandstone escarpments to impress.

Enjoy your dinner surrounded by the beautiful Nitmiluk Gorge on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Tour. Let yourself be transported into the world of the Jawoyn culture with knowledgeable guides. A three-course meal awaits for the perfect end to your day.

The first stop on your tour of Litchfield’s natural wonders is the Magnetic Termite Mounds. Hundreds of these eerie, towering structures stick up from an otherwise flat plain. Follow the boardwalk to learn about these fascinating towers.

This popular swimming spot is worth a visit. Buley Rockhole boasts cascading waterfalls that slide gently into a waterhole. It’s open most of the year, but be sure to check conditions before jumping in.

The dazzling waterfalls aren’t the only reason to visit Wangi Falls. Nearby walking tracks will lead you through verdant forest, and a large picnic area makes it the perfect place to stop for lunch. If it's dry season, be sure to take a dip before you leave.

Just a three-minute walk from the car park and you’ll reach the lookout over Florence Falls. Marvel at the panoramic views of the cascading falls and waterhole. Follow the gorge rim walk to reach the plunge pool, where a refreshing dip awaits.

Berry Springs Nature Park is a tropical oasis. There’s plenty to do here, from one last dip in a waterhole to meeting reptiles and birds at the Territory Wildlife Park nearby. Then, bid farewell to Litchfield and head back to Darwin.