Kakadu National Park
Full Day Tour
Featuring 'Yellow Water River Cruise' 

 

Kakadu National Park - 1 Day Tour

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Tour 3B & Tour 3E

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Kakadu National Park 'Yellow Water River Cruise': Nature, Culture, and Wildlife

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Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, is one of Australia’s most celebrated natural and cultural landscapes. Spanning over 20,000 square kilometers, it is home to diverse ecosystems, from wetlands and floodplains to sandstone escarpments and dense forests. Its rich cultural history, both natural and Aboriginal, makes it an essential destination for those wanting to experience Australia’s wild heart. This is a truly unforgettable experience, combining pristine wilderness, ancient heritage, and extraordinary wildlife, all guided by passionate experts who will help you connect with the land and its stories. Book your spot today, and prepare for a day of adventure, discovery, and awe!

 

Duration: Full Day - 12 hours

 

Experience Level: Easy to Moderate (ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in cultural heritage)

 

Departure: Tour 3B 6:30am - Tour 3E 12:00pm

 

Itinerary:

 

Our adventure begins just after sunrise, as we drive through the lush landscapes of Kakadu National Park, your expert guide will offer fascinating insights into the natural and cultural wonders you’re about to encounter.

 

Morning Tea at the Wetlands Billabong: Our first stop takes us to one of the park’s serene wetlands billabongs, a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. With a cool drink in hand, you’ll settle into the bird hide and be immersed in the quiet beauty of Kakadu’s wetlands. From this vantage point, you’ll spot a variety of monsoonal tropical birds—perhaps a majestic jabiru or an agile magpie goose—as well as fish and turtles gliding through the water. The tranquil atmosphere offers a perfect introduction to Kakadu's biodiversity and a peaceful start to the day.

 

Magnetic Termite Mounds: Next, we venture through the monsoonal rainforest to witness one of Kakadu’s most iconic sights: the Magnetic Termite Mounds. These extraordinary structures, some towering up to 3 meters tall, are carefully constructed by termites to face the magnetic poles. They act as natural climate regulators, designed to capture or deflect the sun's rays depending on the time of day. Your guide will explain the fascinating biology behind these natural wonders, while you have the opportunity to snap some memorable photos with a mound—a striking, otherworldly sight set against the park’s backdrop.

 

Aboriginal Rock Art Gallery: Kakadu is a treasure trove of ancient culture, the Aboriginal Rock Art Galleries are some of the oldest and most significant in the world, with paintings dating back over 20,000 years. You’ll be guided through one of the most renowned galleries, where ancient stories are etched in vibrant ochre on the rocks. These galleries are a testament to the deep connection to the indigenous people have with the land and its creatures.

 

Lunch at the Lodge: After a morning of exploration, we’ll take a break to recharge with a delicious lunch at a local lodge. Here, you’ll enjoy a seasonal menu showcasing regional flavors, including fresh produce, meats, and unique Australian ingredients. Relax, enjoy the local atmosphere, and prepare for the next leg of the journey.

 

Yellow Water River Cruise: In the afternoon, we’ll embark on the Yellow Water River Wildlife Cruise, one of the highlights of the tour. This award-winning cruise allows you to explore the heart of Kakadu’s wetlands in comfort, where the magic of the park truly comes alive. As you glide along the water, your guide will point out the many wildlife species that call this area home. You may spot crocodiles lounging on the banks, magnificent egrets soaring overhead, and flocks of colorful kingfishers darting across the water. The stillness of the river, surrounded by the vast wetlands, makes for an unforgettable experience.

 

During the cruise, you’ll learn about the Indigenous people’s deep connection to the Yellow Water Billabong and the surrounding lands. These waterways have been central to their culture for thousands of years, providing food, water, and a spiritual link to the past. The boat glides effortlessly through these ancient landscapes, allowing you to truly appreciate their timeless beauty.

 

Return to Accommodation: As the tour wraps up, we start out 3 hour drive back to Darwin, your camera full of stunning photographs and your heart full of memories from one of Australia’s most remarkable national parks.

 

Additional Information:

 

Accessibility: The tour is designed to be suitable for most people, but the walk through the rock art galleries may include some uneven terrain. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know in advance.

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Tour 3B -  All inclusive small group tour - lunch included. Maximum of 11 guests per group

Tour 3E -  Group tour - lunch / food / drinks are excluded. Maximum of 21 guests per group

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What’s Included - Tour 3B

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- Expert guide throughout the tour

- Morning Tea at the Wetlands Bird Hide

- Lunch at the Lodge

- All entry fees and permits for Kakadu National Park

- Award Winning Yellow Water River Cruise

- Guided Tour of Ancient Aborignal Art Gallery

- Comfortable Airconditioned transportation

- Meeting Point - 9 Bennett Street Darwin City, 6:30am

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What's excluded - ​

- Travel insurance is highly recommended

- Souvinears

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Depart from

6:30 am Darwin

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Return to

6:30 pm Darwin​​

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What’s Included - Tour 3E

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​- Expert guide throughout the tour

- Morning Tea at the Wetlands Bird Hide

- Lunch at the Lodge

- All entry fees and permits for Kakadu National Park

- Award Winning Yellow Water River Cruise

- Guided Tour of Ancient Aborignal Art Gallery

- Comfortable Airconditioned transportation

- Meeting Point - 9 Bennett Street Darwin City, 6:30am

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What's excluded - ​

- Food / Meals / Snacks

- Travel insurance is highly recommended

- Souvinears

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Depart from

12:00 pm  Darwin

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Return to

11:00 pm Darwin​​

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Fitness Requirements  

This experience calls for a low level of fitness, optional additional walks are graded as a medium level of fitness - these walks are optional. 

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Additional Information:

 

Accessibility: The tour is designed to be suitable for most people, but the walk through the rock art galleries may include some uneven terrain. If you have mobility concerns, please let us know in advance.

If you have a wheelchair, please contact us with your date of travel, and the measurements and other details regarding your chair for transportation. 

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Rates & Prices  ​

Rates are GST inclusive and in Australian Dollars 

 

Cancellations

We require at least 72 hours’ notice for a 100% refund. 
All cancellations under 72 hours will be a 100% cancellation fee.

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Please note: wildlife or cultural events does not promise sightings or interactions which cannot be guaranteed