Attributes

States: NT
Regions: Top End, Central Australia
Themes: History & Heritage, Aboriginal Culture
Days: 8

DARWIN, TOP END, KAKADU & THE GHAN TOUR

THE NORTHERN TERRITORY TOP END

In the first section of our tour we spend some time in Darwin, which has grown from an early and remote outpost to a thriving modern capital city. On its eastern doorstep is the Kakadu National Park. Kakadu covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, contains 275 species of birds, 75 species of reptiles, 25 species of frogs and an estimated 10,000 species of insects. It also contains more than a third of the Top End’s plant life and is so important on the world stage that it’s World Heritage... [view more] In the first section of our tour we spend some time in Darwin, which has grown from an early and remote outpost to a thriving modern capital city. On its eastern doorstep is the Kakadu National Park. Kakadu covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, contains 275 species of birds, 75 species of reptiles, 25 species of frogs and an estimated 10,000 species of insects. It also contains more than a third of the Top End’s plant life and is so important on the world stage that it’s World Heritage listed. Then another highlight! In Gold Kangaroo comfort (First Class) we board the Ghan for the 2979 kilometre journey, through the heart of the Continent, from Darwin to Alice Springs. In 1929 when the first Ghan departed from Adelaide to Alice Springs it was intended that it would one day connect through to Darwin. Now more than 70 years later that dream has become a reality. Apart from the stunning scenery we will be pampered with Gold Kangaroo Service – superior day and overnight sleeper accommodation, stylish restaurant dining car, delicious freshly prepared meals, Lounge and Bar Car, a dedicated Cabin Steward, complimentary toiletries bag and much more.
Overview
Days:

Day 4


Window on the Wetlands

Darwin to Kakadu

After breakfast we head back down the Stuart Highway then join the Arnhem Highway – our destination today is the Top End’s most important asset – the World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park. Aborigines have inhabited the land for more than 50,000 years, leaving behind incredible galleries of rock art - more than 5000 sites of historical or cultural importance have been identified, though only a few are open to visitors. Add Kakadu's magnificent scenery, unique flora and fauna, and you have one of the world's greatest natural wonders. Our first stop on our way to Kakadu is at the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre, which provides an overview of the wetlands. The centre stands on Beatrice Hill, one of the highest places on the Adelaide River floodplain. The top floor of the centre commands superb views across the floodplains. We then enter the National Park. A superb introduction to the Park is at the Mamukala Wetlands - an observation platform where we can view the birdlife, while a mural illustrates the seasonal changes that occur through the year. Our touring today also includes a visit to Nourlangie, for a short walk and to view examples of ancient aboriginal art, and the Yellow Water Cruise on the Yellow Waters Billabong to see a large number of birds and animals including crocodiles resting on the muddy banks. After a great day we check into our hotel and have dinner.






Tourist Attractions
Yellow Waters Cruises
Window on the Wetlands
Kakadu Air / Kakadu Tours

Accommodation
Gagadju Cooinda Lodge
Aurora Kakadu

Meals
Breakfast
Dinner

Day 5

Kakadu to Darwin

First stop today will be the Bowali Visitors Centre – the Kakadu National Park Headquarters. There is time to enjoy the Interpretative Centre and an introductory video... read more...

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