Up the Track

Itinerary

Day 1 Alice Springs to Banka Banka Station

We travel northwards via the Stuart Highway and cross the Tropic of Capricorn soon after leaving Alice Springs. Our drive takes us through Ti Tree and Barrow Creek and then to the amazing rock formation known as the Devils Marbles. The Aboriginals believe this natural phenomenon to be the sacred eggs of the Great Rainbow Serpent of the Dreamtime. Travelling through Tennant Creek, a township that owes its prosperity to gold and copper deposits, we arrive at Banka Banka, an outback cattle station where we experience sleeping under the stars –outback style! (L, D)
Overnight: Swag (bedroll)

Day 2 Banka Banka Station to Katherine

This morning we roll up our swags and rejoin the Stuart Highway. Our first stop is the famous outback pub at Daly Waters, then on to Larrimah and then Mataranka, an oasis for weary travellers. Here, swim in the clear thermal waters before our short drive to Katherine. (B, L, D)
Overnight: Motel

Day 3 Katherine to Darwin (via Nitmiluk National Park)

A short distance away is Nitmiluk National Park and the impressive Katherine Gorge. Here you have the option of a cruise on the Gorge or share a canoe and paddle yourself through the sheer escarpment. Next is a visit to gorgeous Edith Falls, then to the “Top End” and Australia’s most northern city, Darwin. Tonight we visit one of the many restaurants. (B, L)
Overnight: Motel

Day 4 Darwin to Kakadu National Park (via Litchfield National Park)

Today’s adventure starts at Litchfield National Park (just south of Darwin) where the Florence and Wangi Falls allow for a refreshing swim in the natural pools. Then on to the Arnhem Highway, stopping at the interpretive centre “Window of the Wetland”. Once inside the 20,000 square kilometre Kakadu National Park, we head to the village of Jabiru where we will base ourselves for the next two nights. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 5 Kakadu National Park

Free time today to partake in some special optional activities that will enhance your experience here. These include a 4 wheel drive full day excursion to Jim Jim and Twin Falls, an Aboriginal Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River, or a scenic flight over the Park to view its immensity and raw beauty. A visit to the Bowali Visitors Centre is a must. (B, D)
Overnight: Lodge

Day 6 Kakadu National Park to Darwin

An early morning wildlife cruise on Yellow Waters Billabong to see the large “salt water” crocodiles. Our next stop is at the rock-art site of Nourlangie before visiting Ubirr, which also has many fine examples of indigenous art. A great way to finish our Park visit and remember the beauty of this land on our way back to Darwin and the completion of our outback adventure. (B, L)