Kakadu, Katherine and Litchfield 4-Day Adventure: Waterholes, Rock Art and Gorge Cruises
Move through the Top End at an easy pace: crocodile-spotting cruises, ancient rock art at Ubirr, swim-ready gorges and the Buley Rockholes—four days that mix gentle walks, cultural interpretation and campsite comfort.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack a soft bag only
Luggage is restricted to a soft bag of 10 kg—use a duffel to meet the limit and keep transfers quick.
Bring insect repellent
Dawn and dusk on floodplains attract mosquitoes—DEET or picaridin repellent is recommended.
Swim with caution
Only swim where guides indicate—some waterholes are safe in the dry season, but crocodile risk varies by site and season.
Start early each day
Pick-up windows begin 6:30–7:00 a.m.; early starts mean cooler walking and better wildlife viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Moline Rockhole (permit area) for a quieter swim and dramatic rock walls
- •Cahills Crossing lookout for close crocodile-watching and tidal spectacle
Wildlife
- •Saltwater crocodile (estuarine) seen from cruises and riverbanks
- •Black-necked stork (jabiru) and various waterbirds at billabongs
Conservation Note
Kakadu is a jointly managed national park and a Ramsar wetland—visitors should stick to trails, obey signage and avoid disturbing wildlife to reduce impacts.
Kakadu and Arnhem Land contain rock art sites painted by Indigenous peoples for tens of thousands of years; Ubirr and other galleries record ceremony, hunting and ecological knowledge.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ubirr lookout for east-facing floodplain panoramas
- • From the bow on the Nitmiluk/Katherine Gorge cruise for layered gorge shots
- • Maguk edge or pool for cliff-to-water compositions
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support for sandstone scrambling, creek-bed walking and short hikes like Ubirr and Maguk.
Wide-brim hat & sunscreenEssential
Top End sun is intense—full-coverage sun protection prevents burns on exposed floodplains.
Swimwear & quick-dry towelEssential
Many of the tour’s highlights are swimming holes—bring swimwear and footwear that dries fast.
Insect repellent and head net
Handy in the build-up and early-dry season when mosquitoes increase, especially at dusk.
Common Questions
What are the pickup arrangements?
Pickup is from Darwin-area hotels between 6:30–7:00 a.m.; be ready at your hotel by 6:30 a.m. and confirm your pickup point when booking.
Can I bring large suitcases?
No—luggage must be a soft bag of 10 kg per person to fit secure storage and camp transfers.
Are the waterholes safe to swim in?
Guides will advise on which waterholes are currently safe; obey signage and never enter areas marked as crocodile habitat.
Is park entry included?
Yes—national park fees are included in the tour price.
Can I hire a sleeping bag?
Yes—sleeping bags can be hired for AUD 20; request this when you book.
What fitness level is required?
Moderate fitness is recommended: short walks on uneven ground, occasional steps and boardwalks, and the ability to embark small boats.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
Jabiru, Northern Territory
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to manage short walks (up to 1–3 km) over uneven sandstone, and to embark/disembark small boats.
Ready to Explore Jabiru?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now