Kakadu National Park
Yellow Water River Cruise - Exclusive Small Group Tour

Tour 3B: 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 - 13 hours

 

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

 

Departure: 7:30am

 

Tour Highlights:

Yellow Water River Wildlife Cruise

Guided Walk through Ancient Aboriginal Rock Art Gallery

Magnetic Termite Mounds

Wetlands Bird Hide Experience

Indigenous Information Centre

Delicious Restaurant Lunch

 

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 your accommodation, 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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What to bring:                    
- 1.5L re-fillable water bottle
- Camera, Hat, Sunglasses
- Insect Repellent & Sunscreen
- Travel pillow to rest on the way to and from Kakadu. 
- Guests are required to bring their own medication. 
- A Jumper for the cooler months (May to August)

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Key points
Low levels of fitness required 1 km walk on tour (*optional walks on tour call for a medium level of fitness, there are optional)

Maximum of 11 people per group

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Cancellations:
A strict cancellation policy applies, we require at least 72 hours’ notice for a 100% refund. 
All cancellations under72 hours will be a 100% cancellation fee. 

In the unlikely event of the tour being cancelled by the operator, guests will be offered a full refund or an alternative day.

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Days of Operation

This tour operates 7 days per week.

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What’s Included 

• Return Door-to-Door Transfers from Darwin

• Experienced Tour Guide

• Guided Walks through Kakadu National National Park

• 2 Hour River Cruise with Local Indigenous Tribe 

• Spear throwing demonstration

• Wetlands Bird Hide

• Aboriginal Rock Art Site

• Visitor Information Centre

• Comfortable Air-conditioned vehicle

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What's excluded

• ​Lunch

• Travel insurance is highly recommended

 

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

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Pickup from ​

• 7.30 am Darwin

Return from ​

• 7:30 pm Darwin​​

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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.