Kakadu Yellow Waters Cruise & Katherine Gorge Helicopter Scenic — Full-Day Air Tour from Darwin
A single day that pairs a helicopter descent into the twisting canyons of Nitmiluk with an afternoon boat cruise on Kakadu’s Yellow Water. Expect aerial drama, wildlife sightings and concise on-ground time to stretch your legs and absorb ancient landscapes.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack sun and rain protection
Darwin’s climate swings—bring a broad-brim hat, sunscreen and a lightweight waterproof to handle sudden showers.
Bring binoculars
Wildlife viewing is best from the helicopter and the boat—compact binoculars make crocodiles and birds easier to spot.
Check weight limits and ID
Flights are subject to weight restrictions and require full name and age details at booking—honour those requirements to avoid last-minute issues.
Respect cultural signage
Some rock art and sacred sites are off-limits to photography; follow guides and posted instructions to protect heritage.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Cahill’s Crossing viewpoint on the Mary River for late-afternoon bird congregations
- •Nawurlandja lookout in Kakadu for a quieter panorama of floodplains and escarpment walls
Wildlife
- •Saltwater crocodile
- •Jabiru (black-necked stork)
Conservation Note
Kakadu and Nitmiluk are managed cooperatively with Traditional Owners—stick to marked paths, follow ranger guidance and avoid disturbing wildlife to reduce impact.
Nitmiluk and Kakadu are traditional lands of the Jawoyn and Bininj/Mungguy peoples, with rock art sites that record tens of thousands of years of continuous occupation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Helicopter corridor over Katherine Gorge
- • Yellow Water lookout deck
- • From the plane on approach to Kakadu’s floodplains
What to Bring
Broad-brim sun hatEssential
Shields face and neck during open-air flight transfers and the boat cruise.
Compact binocularsEssential
Helps identify birds, crocodiles and distant rock art from both air and water.
Light rain shell
Useful in the wet season when tropical downpours can cancel or shorten segments of the trip.
Camera with spare batteryEssential
Captures aerial vistas and wildlife; access to charging on-ground is limited.
Common Questions
Are there weight restrictions for the flights?
Yes; fixed-wing and helicopter segments are subject to weight and balance limits—your exact weight may be requested at booking and on the day.
What happens if weather cancels a flight?
The operator will refund or reschedule if cancellation is due to weather; check the 24-hour cancellation policy for full details.
Can infants join the tour?
Infants (0–2) are permitted and free, but seating cannot be guaranteed and they may be required to sit on a lap.
Are meals provided?
Bottled water is included and there is a lunch stop in Kakadu; bring snacks if you have specific dietary needs.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour is listed as stroller-accessible, but helicopter boarding and some boarding ramps are not fully accessible—advise the operator of mobility needs when booking.
Can I photograph rock art on this tour?
Some sites prohibit photography; guides will point out restrictions and where photography is allowed—follow their instructions to respect cultural protocols.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Darwin, Northern Territory
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required for boarding and short transfers; able to step into helicopter and on/off boat with assistance.
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