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Darwin Nature & adventure

Our most recommended Darwin Nature & adventure

From Darwin: Litchfield Park Tour & Jumping Crocodile Cruise

1. From Darwin: Litchfield Park Tour & Jumping Crocodile Cruise

Spend a day in the natural habitat of fascinating wildlife creatures at Litchfield National Park. After being picked up from your accommodation, ride to the famous Adelaide River. There, you'll board your private boat and cruise up the river. Feed the crocodiles from the boat that teem in the water and see an abundance of wildlife all around you. You may even see a crocodile launching itself out of the water with the power of its tail. At the famous Litchfield National Park, you'll visit three waterfalls – the Wangi, Florence and Buley rock holes – and get the opportunity to swim in all three. Lunch is prepared in the park by your guide – a big bush picnic with an array of wraps, cold meats, bread, salad and fruit. Snacks are also included along the way if you're ever feeling peckish. Local and knowledgeable guides will give you thorough commentary throughout the day and stop for lots of photo opportunities. Marvel at the magnetic and cathedral termite mounds, and take time to visit the butterfly farm. Return to your accommodation in Darwin, or on Sundays and Thursdays, at the famous Mindil Beach Markets.

From Darwin: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour

2. From Darwin: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour

Discover the spectacular Kakadu National Park for its exceptional natural and cultural values. Visit the infamous Cahills Crossing to safely spot saltwater crocodiles, explore the floodplains of Ubirr, go to Fogg Dam Conservation Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre. Leave tropical Darwin, traveling through the rich floodplains towards Kakadu National Park, a 20,000 square kilometer area, teeming with wildlife, important Aboriginal rock art sites, and diverse landscapes. Make an optional stop at the Jumping Croc Cruise on the Adelaide River, or visit the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre. See the traditional lands of the Limilngan-Wulna people (who are active in the reserve's management) to explore the diverse wildlife of the Top End, home to numerous species of birds, turtles, water pythons, and of course, the iconic Saltwater Crocodile. Go to the Bowali Visitor Centre and learn more about this special place's rich indigenous culture and history. Visit the famous Cahills Crossing searching for crocodiles at this eye-opening stretch of water, the only road access point between Arnhem Land and Kakadu National Park. Visit the World Heritage-listed, sacred site Ubirr rock art, home to some of the oldest and best-preserved rock art galleries in the world dating back some 20,000 years, and discover the hidden secrets with a guided walk.

Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Full-Day Tour from Darwin

3. Katherine Gorge & Edith Falls Full-Day Tour from Darwin

Discover a network of 13 gorges carved into billion-year-old sandstone rock by the Katherine River of Nitmiluk National Park on this scenic full-day sightseeing tour from Darwin. During the tour you will learn about the Aboriginal culture abundant in the area and see rock art sites dotted throughout the park. With its rugged landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and lush gorges, the Nitmiluk National Park is a haven for nature lovers, with plentiful flora and fauna. Travel south through tropical country, passing former World War II airstrips en route to the Adelaide River. Make a short stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery to pay your respects to those killed in the air raids of Darwin in the 1940s. Continue to Edith Falls for a refreshing swim in the paperbark and pandana-lined waterhole (conditions permitting). After an inclusive lunch, enjoy a 2-hour scenic cruise through the Katherine Gorge, looking for freshwater crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the river. Keep your eyes open for the many interesting species of birdlife. Enjoy a brief tour of Katherine, hub of the region’s cattle and farming industries. Then, travel via the historic mining town of Pine Creek to an evening stop along the Adelaide River. From May through September lunch can be taken on board your cruise, while dinner is available at your own expense at the evening stop, before your transfer back to Darwin.

Litchfield National Park: Full-Day & Lunch from Darwin

4. Litchfield National Park: Full-Day & Lunch from Darwin

Enjoy a full-day trip to Litchfield National Park from Darwin. See lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and cascades. Experience a park that includes the spectacular Tabletop Range, a sandstone plateau surrounded by cliffs. During the green season, 4 major waterfalls thunder down to tropical rock pools below. They flow more gently in the dry season, making them perfect spots for a refreshing swim. Follow the Stuart Highway to reach Litchfield National Park. Visit park waterfalls like Florence Falls, where you’ll enjoy a scenic and interpretive bush and monsoon vine forest walk. Go for a swim by making your way down the stairs to the plunge pool below. Continue on to Tolmer Falls and see water cascading down into a deep waterhole at the base of the falls. Visit Wangi Falls, which features a large, crystal-clear pool that’s a perfect spot for a cool dip. Finally, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the park’s natural wonders.

Darwin: Jumping Crocodile Cruise

5. Darwin: Jumping Crocodile Cruise

How close are you willing to get to some of nature’s most aggressive and dangerous reptiles as they leap out of the Australian Northern Territory waterways to grab a little snack? Feel your heart beating as you see the biggest reptile in the world and the oldest creature to walk the planet since the time of dinosaurs from the safety of an Adelaide River boat cruise.  Stand in awe of these prehistoric beasts, which can grow up to 6 meters in length – the size of a small bus – and can weigh up to 1,000 kilograms. Don’t worry, you’re in the safe hands of highly trained guides who will ensure the safety of both the crocodiles and passengers at all times while feeding the crocodiles buffalo meat. See firsthand the powerful and spectacular hunting techniques of saltwater crocodiles.

Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise with Lunch

6. Darwin: Mary River Wetlands Wildlife Cruise with Lunch

Today starts with a pick-up from your Darwin accommodation at around 9:00 AM. Listen to interesting commentary about the region from your knowledgeable guide as you make your way to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve. Originally set up as a large scale rice growing project in the 1950s, this location is now a haven for many varieties of birds that you'll get a chance to admire. A short drive from there takes you to the “Window on the Wetlands” Information Centre, where you can enjoy a hands-on display explaining the wetlands and get a fantastic view over the Adelaide River floodplains from their upper viewing deck. Your highlight for the day is an amazing 2.5-hour cruise on the wetlands! See an abundance of birds, crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat on the Mary River Wetlands. Home to a huge variety of animals, birdlife and also boasting the largest concentration of Saltwater Crocodiles in the world, these pristine wetlands are a nature lover's paradise. Participants generally see about 30 different species of birds on these cruises! Enjoy a delicious cold lunch on the wetlands, surrounded by nature at its best, as you get up close and personal with plenty of local wildlife. Lunches are healthy and consist of individual pre-packed fresh salads with dressings. There will also be a selection of cold sliced meats and bread so you can make sandwiches if you wish. From here it is just under a 90-minute drive to return you to your Darwin accommodation at around 5:00 PM.

Darwin: Premium Litchfield Regional Small Group Day Tour

7. Darwin: Premium Litchfield Regional Small Group Day Tour

Your Top End adventure begins with pickups in the city at your accommodation doorstep before heading out for an early morning dip and morning tea in the crystal clear thermal waters of Berry Springs. Paddle around and watch the many fish, look for turtles, or sit casually under the waterfall - it's your decision to make. Having set the tone for the day it is then off to Litchfield National Park. Visit those that shine for you on the day and suit the guests on board the most. You guided will tweak the schedule to bring you the best that is on offer on the day. Some of the gems include the iconic Cathedral and Magnetic Termite mounds, Wangi Falls, Tolmer Falls, Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, Cascades, Green, Ant, and Tabletop Wetland. There is also ample opportunity to go for short strolls or just sit and relax. If bush survival is of interest to you, you can be shown some of the native plants and their uses by knowledgeable guides.

From Darwin: Litchfield National Park Day Trip

8. From Darwin: Litchfield National Park Day Trip

Get panoramic floodplain views, see sandstone pillars, picturesque waterfalls, and discover the thriving plant and animal life at the Litchfield National Park. Leave Darwin and make your way towards the world-class Litchfield National Park, just over an hour's drive from the city. Be surrounded by thick pockets of tropical rainforest, a cool respite from the top-end heat. Jump on the famous Jumping Crocodile Cruise (optional extra) on the Adelaide River, alternatively visit the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre. Explore the traditional lands of the Limilngan-Wulna people and discover the diverse wildlife, home to numerous species of birds, turtles, water pythons, and the iconic Saltwater Crocodile. Visit some incredible monolithic Magnetic Termite Mounds, then have an opportunity to cool off in one of Litchfield’s beautiful natural plunge pools like Buley Rockholes or Wangi Falls. Go to a thundering waterfall-like Florence Falls or Tolmer Falls and marvel at the sheer beauty carved out amongst the rocky escarpment. After a day in the stunning tropical national park, travel back to Darwin.

Darwin: Kakadu National Park Cultural Day Tour with Lunch

9. Darwin: Kakadu National Park Cultural Day Tour with Lunch

Travel from Darwin to Kakadu on a day trip exploring the best of Kakadu National Park. See ancient rock art, unique plants, and wildlife, and spectacular bush views as you drive, walk and cruise through Kakadu. After pickup from your Darwin hotel, enter Kakadu National Park, and travel to Ubirr Rock, the site of some of the world’s oldest rock art. Join your guide on an interpretative walk through ancient rock galleries, and hear about the history and culture of the traditional custodians. There are plenty of opportunities for bushwalking, but the pace is slow, with plenty of stops to discuss the rock art and the history of those who painted it. Stop at Nadab Lookout for amazing 360-degree views over the wetlands of the Nadab floodplains, before continuing to East Alligator River. A descendant of the traditional owners will join you for a Guluyambi cultural cruise along the East Alligator River. The River which divides Kakadu and Arnhem Land is home to some of the region’s largest saltwater crocodiles. Feel honored to be invited onto Arnhem Land shores to see a cultural demonstration of how the Bininj people work with the waterways to this day. The Guluyambi cultural cruise is a great opportunity to hear about the area, history, and culture directly from the land's traditional custodians. During your Kakadu day trip there is a stop for a picnic lunch and at the end of the day, get dropped off back at your Darwin hotel.

Darwin: Kakadu National Park Day Trip

10. Darwin: Kakadu National Park Day Trip

Enjoy 1.5 hours of spectacular scenic flying, cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, and visit the Warradjan Cultural Center. Take part in an experience which varies between wet and dry seasons: 8:30 AM: Check-in at Kakadu Air Terminal 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Kick start the day with a 60-minute scenic flight paired with informative commentary delivered by your expert pilot. This extended flight tracks over Adelaide River, Mary River National Park, and Kakadu’s winding South and East Alligator rivers. 11:30 AM: Visit the Yellow Water Billabong, rich with flora, wildlife and changing landscapes. Sit back and relax on a 90-minute cruise through Kakadu’s wetlands. 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at Barra Bar and Bistro. 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM: Transfer to the Warradjan Cultural Center. Take in personal histories, videos and artifacts in a place developed by Aboriginal traditional owners. Browse the gallery gift shop offering traditional didgeridoos, local artwork, and much more. 3:00 PM: Depart Kakadu on a 45-minute ferry flight back to Darwin. 4:00 PM: Farewell in Darwin. DECEMBER – APRIL ITINERARY (WET SEASON) 8:30 AM: Check-in at Kakadu Air Terminal, Darwin 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Kakadu comes to life in the Wet season. Start your morning with 1.5 hours of scenic flying paired with informative commentary delivered by your expert pilot. This extended flight tracks over Adelaide River, Mary River National Park, and Kakadu’s winding South and East Alligator Rivers. Finish off your aerial sightseeing with views over the mighty Jim Jim and Twin Waterfalls. 11:30 AM: Visit the Yellow Water Billabong ,which comes alive in the wet season. Enjoy a place rich with flora, wildlife and changing landscapes. Sit back and relax on a 90-minute cruise through Kakadu’s wetlands as you keep an eye out for crocodiles sunbathing. 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch at Barra Bar and Bistro. 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Transfer to the Warradjan Cultural Center. Take in personal histories, videos and artifacts in a place developed by Aboriginal traditional owners. Browse the gallery gift shop offering traditional didgeridoos, local artwork, and much more. 3:00 PM: Depart Kakadu on a 45-minute ferry flight back to Darwin. 4:00 PM: Farewell in Darwin.

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Frequently asked questions about Darwin

What are the best day trips and excursions from Darwin?

The best day trips and excursions from Darwin are:

Kakadu National Park

Other Sightseeing Options in Darwin

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What people are saying about Darwin

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 318 reviews

El Palacio de Versalles es sencillamente ESPECTACULAR.!!

Andrea is such an amazing person. Being an introvert I wasn’t sure if I would be okay with a bunch of strangers for 12 hours but Andrea made us all feel connected with her personality, jokes and stories. I had a great time with everyone! Litchfield is a beautiful place, would love to visit again in future.

beautiful landscapes, beautiful park and nature, good guide, no swimming through the crocodiles beautiful places, many wild animals seen

My Husband had a swim with the crocodile and loved it! So good up close and personal. Very helpful and attentive service.

Great group and guide to Lichfield National Park. Fantastic lunch and swim in a creek to cool off.

Unbelievable

Kakadu is a beautiful place. Everyone should visit it at least once.