Autopia Tours: Kakadu Wildlife + Croc Cruise from Darwin

This fare price is for a Kakadu full-day tour plus a Jumping Croc Cruise. 

TOUR CODE: KDC-B

OPERATES: Daily (Jun to Oct) / Mon, Thu, Sat (Nov to Mar) / Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat (Apr) / Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat (May).

DEPARTS: 07:30am

RETURNS: 19:30pm

TOUR DURATION: 12 Hours

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Travelodge Resort Darwin (rebranded to THE LEEA DARWIN) – 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City @ 7:30am.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Kakadu National Park is one of four Australian sites included on the World Heritage Listed for exceptional natural and cultural values
• Explore the floodplains of Ubirr, home to important Aboriginal rock painting sites thousands of years old
• Visit the infamous *Cahills Crossing to safely spot saltwater crocodiles from the viewing platform (*conditions permitting)
• Learn about Kakadu at the Bowali Visitor Centre with time to view and purchase local arts and artefacts
• Get your heart racing with a close encounter with an apex predator on the Adelaide River onboard a Crocodile Cruise (optional extra); or
• Stroll the diverse wetlands boardwalk and observation decks at Fogg Dam Conservation Centre, a bird-watchers paradise and wildlife refuge.

From November to April, we will operate an interchangeable itinerary based on rainfall and road conditions. The guide will visit as many locations within our normal itinerary or find a like-for-like alternative.

TOUR DESCRIPTION:

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime as we explore the wonders of Kakadu National Park!  

We depart from tropical Darwin and begin our journey through the lush floodplains towards the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Spanning over 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu is a haven of incredible biodiversity, ancient Aboriginal rock art and paintings, and stunning landscapes. Prepare yourself for an unforgettable day in one of Australia’s most iconic natural wonders.

Our adventure begins with a choice of two exciting experiences. First, you can opt for the Jumping Croc Cruise on the Adelaide River. Get up close and personal with the mighty Saltwater Crocodiles that call these waters home as they leap out of the river in search of food. This thrilling cruise offers unparalleled views of these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat. Alternatively, choose to visit the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, an important site for the Limilngan-Wulna people. Here, you’ll explore the rich diversity of wildlife in the Top End, from water pythons to an abundance of bird species, including magpie geese and white-bellied sea eagles. The dam is also home to the elusive Saltwater Crocodile, offering an exciting opportunity for wildlife spotting.

Next, we’ll make a stop at the Corroboree Park Tavern, where you’ll have the opportunity to support the local community and purchase a delicious lunch or snacks to keep you fueled for the day. From there, we’ll head to the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture and history of Kakadu. Learn about the region's significant cultural heritage and the connection between the land and its traditional owners. 

Our journey continues with a visit to the famous Cahills Crossing. This is an eye-opening stretch of water that serves as the only road access point between Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. Keep your camera ready as we search for crocodiles and other wildlife along the crossing. Cahills Crossing is notorious for its tidal waters and abundant wildlife, making it a must-see location for anyone visiting Kakadu. Please note: Access to Cahills Crossing is subject to seasonality and weather conditions.

Next, we venture to Ubirr Rock, home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved rock art galleries in the world. As you walk through the galleries, you'll be amazed by the ancient paintings that date back thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural significance of this sacred place. Ubirr is renowned for its stunning views of the surrounding landscape, with its rock formations sitting on the edge of the East Alligator region and meeting the West Arnhem plateau. The panoramic views from the top are truly breathtaking and offer excellent photo opportunities.

Depending on the season and accessibility to Ubirr, we may instead visit Nourlangie Rock (traditionally known as Burrungkuy), another significant site within Kakadu’s rock art heritage. Nourlangie features shaded rock shelters adorned with ancient Aboriginal art, providing further insight into the region’s rich history. In addition to the rock art, the area is also a haven for birdwatching, where you might catch sight of a variety of species, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.

After a day filled with wildlife encounters, ancient art, and awe-inspiring landscapes, we’ll begin our journey back to Darwin, where we’ll drop you off at your accommodation. Reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had in Kakadu National Park and the unforgettable memories made along the way. This day tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure—a truly immersive experience in one of Australia’s most spectacular regions!

• Meals: n/a.
• Driving distance:  620 km.
• Walking distance: 2km.

*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.

INCLUSIONS:

• Kakadu Park Pass entry fee included
• World Heritage Listed Site entry
• Guided walk through Aboriginal rock art site
• Australian flora and fauna sightings
• Accredited outback driver guide
• Air-conditioned mini coach travel
• Comprehensive local tour commentary
• Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off points
• 1 hour Adelaide River Crocodile Cruise (optional extra, instead of Fogg Dam Bird Wetlands)

EXCLUSIONS:

• NT Parks Day Pass Required: Entry to Fogg Dam Reserve if you purchased (KD-B) is not included in the tour price. Purchase in advance to avoid issues on the day.
• Any meals not indicated within the itinerary - at the guest’s own expense. We provide plenty of opportunities for guests to support locals and buy meals along the way.
• Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
• Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
• Spending money for personal items

WHAT TO BRING:

2L Refillable water bottle, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, comfortable hiking shoes (tread closed-toe shoes), all-weather clothing, tropical strength insect repellent, money for snack and meals, camera.

CHILD POLICY:

Child fare prices apply from 6 to 12 years old. Not suitable for infants or children 5 years old and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.

WEATHER:

The weather in the Top End of the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius with high humidity in the dry season and temperatures can drop dramatically in the evening. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, and a contact phone number.
• Medical Conditions: The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. This is a physically demanding tour requiring a moderate to advanced level of fitness and mobility.
• Fitness Level: A minimum moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks in sometimes extreme weather conditions on this tour.
• Age Restrictions: Children aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times due to terrain and walks involved. Not suitable for infants or children aged 5 and under.
• Mobility Considerations: This tour terrain is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
• Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 5-7kg day bag per person. We are not able to accommodate travellers' suitcases on day trips, please store at your hotel whilst on tour.
• Itinerary Variations: Itineraries and touring routes may change to adapt to seasonal weather conditions, park or road closures and traditional landowner ceremonies. Safety is our top priority, and we plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
• Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 03 9393 1333.
• Private Tours: Private charters services are available on request at charters@gltg.com.au.