5 DAY KAKADU, ARNHEM LAND & COBOURG PENINSULA

Day 1: This morning make your way to Kakadu, enjoy a scenic cruise on Corroboree Billabong with an amazing variety of birdlife before continuing on into the Kakadu visiting White Lily Billabong and Barramundi Gorge, where you can swim or snorkel. Enjoy a sunset across the Arnhem Land Escarpment and relax at Anbinik Kakadu Resort.

Day 2: Head out to the Gunbalanya Aboriginal community with some of the best views in the Top End along the way. Spend the morning watching traditional artists and enjoy some of the best aboriginal rock art in Australia. This afternoon journey to the Cobourg Peninsula for your clifftop camp.

Day 3: Spend the morning exploring the NT’s largest marine park by boat with turtles, dolphins, sharks, crocodiles & more. This afternoon is at your own leisure.

Day 4: Today explore east Kakadu by 4WD with its paperbark swamps & billabongs. Experience hunting for mud crabs using traditional methods and learn how to prepare local delicacies.

Day 5: Travel East Alligator River for lunch on the banks. Then visit Ubirr Rock with spectacular wetland views before heading back towards Darwin.

Departs: Monday & Thursday.

£5,138

3 DAY KAKADU & LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARKS

Day 1: Darwin – Kakadu

Depart Darwin and travel along the Arnhem Highway, passing major river systems and wetland regions, into Kakadu National Park. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre to view the informative displays depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu. Join your local guide on a cruise of Yellow Water Billabong Cruise. Search for saltwater crocodiles and the colourful range of birdlife for which this region is renowned. After lunch, stop at Nourlangie, where your Driver Guide will lead you on a walk to view the rock art galleries. Optional add-on: 50-minute scenic flight.

Day 2: Kakadu- Darwin

This morning stop at Ubirr with a short walk to view Aboriginal rock art. Join the Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River in search of saltwater crocodiles. You’ll have an Aboriginal guide with you and with the special permission of the local people, you’ll be able to go ashore in Arnhem Land. Visit Bowali Visitor Centre before returning to Darwin.

Day 3: Katherine

Travel south from Darwin and stop at the Adelaide River War Cemetery. Continue to Edith Falls, where there is time for a refreshing swim (conditions permitting). After lunch enjoy a 2 hour scenic cruise through Katherine Gorge. It is a stunning network of thirteen gorges carved from billion year old sandstone that are home to many rapids and falls, flowing from the Katherine River. The cruise will put you at the heart of Katherine Gorge among freshwater crocodiles, wonderful birdlife. Enjoy a brief tour of Katherine, before returning to Darwin.

Operated by AAT Kings

Adult Child (15yrs & under)

Tour DK52S £908 £662

On the edge of the Mary River floodplains, just a short distance from the coast is Bamurru Plains, a 300 km² private property on the edge of Kakadu National Park. Here you’ll experience a beautiful wilderness region and its prolific wildlife and birdlife. At night no other lights shine out; the only sound is the deep chorus of the Australian bush – various frog species, barking owls and the occasional dingo. With just 10 Safari Bungalows and a team of expert field guides, Bamurru Plains offers a select few guests the change to immerse themselves in the story of the bush, while also enjoy the ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ touches. Proudly without wifi or even mobile phone reception, a stay here allows you to focus on nature’s stage show.

MARY RIVER Bamurru Plains

Ultimate Wilderness Experience Package

Designed for those guests looking to make the most of their time at Bamurru Plains and would like all guided wilderness experiences included.

Inclusions: Accommodation in a Safari Bungalow or the Kingfisher Suite with ensuite, all chef-prepared meals and beverages (including alcohol) as well as daily guided safaris which may include airboat excursions, open-top 4WD safaris, croc-spotting river cruises, quad bike adventures and wilderness walks, subject to weather conditions.

Cicada Lodge is designed for the sophisticated traveller looking for an authentic Indigenous and natural Australian “experienceof-a-lifetime,” in the heart of Northern Australia’s Timeless North. A sanctuary of elegant comfort, just 29km from the historic township of Katherine, the Lodge provides a level of excellence in accommodation, service and dining.

Cicada Lodge features 18 King rooms with views out across the distinct sandstone country above the Katherine River. Each room features Indigenous artwork from local artists – the rich colours blending with and complimenting the more modern design and fittings – an elegant fusion of modern Australian and Indigenous culture.

The Lodge is designed to provide a base from which you can take part in an experience which very few get the chance to do – exploring the ancient landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park, home to Nitmiluk Gorge. Guests can tour by helicopter to tranquil waterfalls and swimming holes, or to remote rock art sites to interpret images painted thousands of years before. You can cruise or canoe down the timeless Gorge system; or take a small group Cultural Safari to be enriched by the local culture.

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Per Room From Per Room From Apr - May 23 Jun - Sep 23 Oct 23 - Mar 24 Lodge Room B&B £373 £444 £299 NORTHERN TERRITORY | KAKADU The Australia Book 2023 - 24 | UK Sterling

Timeless Land 3 Gorge Cruise - Prepare for a truly memorable experience as you travel through time and the 3 gorges of Nitmiluk Gorge. Marvel at the sheer rock face walls as the scenery becomes more striking as you head further into the Gorge. Freshen up with a swim and light refreshments before you return back to the Nitmiluk Boat Jetty.

Nabilil Sunset Dinner Tour - Sit back and relax as the tranquil surroundings transport you into a spiritual world of the Jawoyn culture and history. Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun. Tour includes a three course candle light dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked on board, a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, tea and coffee. Cash bar available.

Alice Springs

ALICE SPRINGS Stay at Alice Springs Hotel

Hotel

Situated right in the middle of Todd Mall, Stay at Alice Springs Hotel boasts an ideal location in the heart of Alice Springs and is the place to stay for a true Australian Outback holiday experience. The hotel has a total of 109 rooms offering all facilities from Swimming pool, Guest Laundry complimentary wi-fi in all areas and free on-site parking.

Per Room From Apr - Oct 23 Nov 23 - Mar 24

Standard Room £152 £115

Deluxe Room £158 £121

Family Room £213 £176

ALICE SPRINGS Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

4

Hotel

Located at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges and backing onto the Alice Springs Golf Course, this hotel offers contemporary and stylish accommodation.

Facilities include heated resort pool, sauna, day spa, fitness centre and use of mountain bikes as well as a range of fabulous food & beverage options.

Per Room From AprOct 23 Nov 23Mar 24

Standard Room £122 £85

Premier Room £137 £109 Suite Room £193 £154

Hotel

Situated on the Todd River & only five minutes from town, Desert Palms Resort is an oasis in the outback offering individual studio villa accommodation, set around a crystal clear free-form pool with island, waterfall and surrounded by tropical gardens. All villas are air-conditioned & include bougainvillea-covered verandahs, private en suites & kitchenette facilities. There is a small shop, guest laundry & BBQ area onsite, along with secure gated off street parking.

23 - Mar 24

Studio Villa £138

Extra Person £7

WEST MACDONNELL RANGES Glen Helen Lodge

Glen Helen Lodge is the only roofed accommodation located within the Tjoritja - West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, 130km west of Alice Springs. The property offers a quality restaurant and bar, fresh barista made coffees and cafe style food & swimming pool. As the gateway to the spectacular Glen Helen Gorge, there is much to see and do based from Glen Helen Lodge, including a range of 4WD tracks, nature and bush walks.

Per Room From AprMay 23 Jun - Sep 23 Oct 23Mar 24

Standard Room B&B £146 £170 £110

Superior Room B&B £158 £195 £121

A Town Like Alice Hot Air Ballooning

Tour the sights of ‘The Alice’ including the School of the Air which provides an educational service for children living in remote areas. Stop at the historic Telegraph Station & the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Learn how this marvelous facility operates to provide a ‘mantle of safety’ to the people of the outback. Visit the Alice Springs Reptile Centre where you will see unique Central Australian reptiles such as the Perentie lizard & Thorny Devil. Conclude with a panoramic view of Alice Springs and the surrounding ranges from the top of Anzac Hill.

Departs: Daily (April, Nov, Mar) / Mon, Thur, Sat (Dec-Feb)

Operated by AAT Kings

Adult Child (15yrs & under)

Tour A3 £88 £60

Experience the legend of Australia’s Outback in an OUTBACK BALLOON! Outback ballooning provides a high quality, fun & totally safe ballooning experience, which may be enjoyed by people of all ages & physical abilities. The setting over the remote desert, serviced only by a few bush tracks enhances the sense of adventure that you will experience. The location also ensures that you are treated to the spectacular colours of the early morning dawn over the MacDonnell Ranges. On most days you will also see Australian wildlife, particularly red kangaroos, in their natural environment. All flights are followed by sparkling wine & tropical fruit juice accompanied by a selection of muffins, slices, cookies, cheese & fresh fruit, served at the ballooning landing site to complete the morning’s experience before you are returned to your accommodation. Note: AUD$30 per person Aviation insurance charge is payable direct.

Operated by Outback Ballooning

Adult Child (6-16yrs)

30 Minute Flight £211 £173

60 Minute Flight £259 £212

This 4 Wheel Drive Safari travels through the West MacDonnell Ranges down the bed of the Finke River, one of the oldest watercourses in the world, into Palm Valley. Marvel at spectacular rock forms, white sands & an oasis of rock pools & palm trees. Visit the spectacular rock formation known as the Amphitheatre. Enjoy a picnic lunch within Finke Gorge National Park. We’ll visit Hermannsburg (not available Dec – Jan), an Aboriginal community & historic precinct which is renowned for its Aboriginal art collection and the works of Albert Namatjira. On the return journey to Alice Springs watch the changing colours of the West MacDonnell Ranges in the afternoon sunlight. (Morning or afternoon tea is included).

Departs: 7:30am Mon, Wed, Fri & Sun (Apr - Sept).

Operated by AAT Kings

Adult Child (15yrs & under)

Tour A5 £131 £91

Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) aboard a luxury coach. Take in the rugged desert landscapes of the region, passing through the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges. Stop at Camels Australia Camel Farm and learn about the impact camels had in opening up Central Australia. Here you will have the opportunity to ride a camel (own expense). While travelling through this remote country, your friendly Driver/Guide will provide an informative and entertaining commentary. Learn the natural and geological history of the region, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna such as the Perentie Monitor lizard, the thorny devil and the red kangaroo. Also hear about the traditional customs and beliefs of the local Aboriginals. There is time for a stop at Erldunda Roadhouse for a quick break then view flat-topped Atila (Mt Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Departs: Daily 7am-1pm

Operated by AAT Kings

Adult Child (15yrs & under)

Tour A6 £121 £85

ULURU Sails in the Desert Hotel