Top End Highlights

Darwin is the kind of place that excites all your senses. It’s always tropical, which means you have a constant glow. The aroma of Top End delights wafts from markets. The horizons are wide and sunsets blazing. Take in sights and attractions that tell stories of the NT capital’s history on a city tour. As the day begins to disappear, follow the lead of the colourful locals to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Your Travel Director will give you the lowdown, highlighting the eclectic range of cuisines on offer – expect everything from Greek to Japanese but it is always hard to go past a Laksa. What a tasty start to your getaway.

The ancient landscapes of Litchfield National Park are shaped by water, as you’ll fast discover when exploring this immense protected wilderness. There are rivers, waterfalls and waterholes. Get set to visit Florence Falls, then take a dip in the gin-clear pool of Wangi Falls, this dreamy setting enveloped by monsoon forest. (Swimming is seasonal and opening is controlled by NT Parks). The national park is pocked with enormous termite mounds, which are architectural feats complete with tunnels and nursery chambers. Small creatures with a big vision.

After travelling from Darwin to Katherine, you’ll head deeper into the Top End. The region’s main attraction is its stunning Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, which carves the countryside in spectacular form. This awe-inspiring natural wonder features a series of gorges sculpted from ancient sandstone, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations. Sit back and enjoy a cruise through this ancient landscape, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, home to the Jawoyn people, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about their rich cultural heritage and traditions. The cruise not only provides a visual feast but also enriches your understanding of the deep spiritual connection the Jawoyn people have with the land. In the afternoon, witness Tom Curtain's award-winning Katherine Outback Experience to delve into the Northern Territory's unique pastoral history and culture.

Today is your chance to reset your body’s natural rhythms with a morning dip in Katherine Hot Springs – because days are better when you begin them in thermal waters. These hot springs will have you relaxed in no time. Before venturing deep into Kakadu, you’re poised for refreshments with a short stopover in the film-set-like town of Pine Creek, where buildings date to the heady gold rush days. This afternoon, there’s nothing between you and nature, the dramatic escarpments, waterholes and abundant wildlife of Kakadu looming large. Speaking of large, there are saltwater crocs to spot while you drift away on a Yellow Water Billabong cruise, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your local cruise guide will share the secrets of these ancient waterways.

If you're looking for a different perspective, choose an optional experience and take a scenic flight over Kakadu National Park. From the air, you'll gain a true appreciation of the vast wetlands, rugged escarpments and remote landscapes that make this World Heritage listed destination so remarkable. This afternoon, discover one of Australia's oldest living cultural landscapes on a guided walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock art. Some of these extraordinary paintings and carvings are more than 20,000 years old, offering a powerful insight into the enduring connection between Aboriginal people and Country. As the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner with your Driver Guide and fellow travellers, sharing stories and reflecting on the incredible experiences of the day.

The Dinner Cruise aboard the ‘Charles Darwin’ is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the famous Darwin Sunset whilst enjoying a delicious Territory Style Buffet with Australian seafood and local produce all-in air-conditioned comfort. This two-hour cruise on the ‘Charles Darwin’s’ Captains Deck (main deck) also includes great commentary and offers the best value for money dinner cruise on Darwin harbour. This Sunset cruise is the perfect way to end your Darwin experience. To partake in this experience, you will require an additional post tour night accommodation.