Mataranka, Litchfield And Kakadu

Day 1

Home - Mount Isa
Your early morning flight to Mount Isa will begin your week long adventure into some of our country's most beautiful and untouched wilderness. This morning visit the Mount Isa Underground Hospital and Museum, Australia's only underground hospital constructed by volunteer miners during World War II. Enjoy lunch at a local club before a visit to the Outback at Isa Centre Complex. There is much to see at the Isa Experience - an interactive look into the history of Mount Isa to present day. We will also take a guided tour of the Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre and Laboratory. This afternoon a local guide will join us for a town tour of Mount Isa before heading to Lake Moondarra for a cuppa. Settle into our accommodation for the night.

Day 2

Mount Isa - Barkly Homestead - Tennant Creek
It soon becomes apparent just how big our country is. Camooweal will be the last town before crossing the border into the Northern Territory. From here we will travel past Avon Downs Cattle Station and stop for lunch at Barkly Homestead. Continue on to the Three Ways, where the Barkly and Stuart Highways meet, before arriving into Tennant Creek for our overnight stay.

Day 3

Tennant Creek - Mataranka
Continue north to the famous Daly Waters Hotel. After lunch travel through the area made famous by Jeannie Gunn in 'We of the Never Never', before arriving at Mataranka. Remember to have your swimwear close at hand to take advantage of the famous thermal pools. Crystal clear water set under the palm fronds; this truly is an oasis!

Day 4

Mataranka - Kakadu
Today we experience the beauty of Nitmiluk Gorge with lunch served to us on the deck of the visitors centre before a relaxing cruise. Please be aware there is a 200m walk between the two gorges that needs to be negotiated twice and sensible walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness is required. We then continue on our journey into Kakadu National Park, settling into our accommodation for the next two nights.

Day 5

Kakadu
Today we explore some of what Kakadu has to offer with a visit to the Bowali Visitors Centre before heading on to Nourlangie Rock. A hat and sunscreen is strongly recommended for the walk, taking you past an ancient Aboriginal shelter and several outstanding art sites. This afternoon, relax on board a magical sunset cruise through the Yellow Water wetlands.

Day 6

Kakadu - Batchelor
Today we begin with a scenic flight over the Arnhem Land escarpment which will allow you to enjoy unique vista views over this World Heritage Listed area. We then traverse the Arnhem Highway to Adelaide River for the Jumping Croc cruise before continuing on to Batchelor, in Litchfield National Park, where we'll check in for our overnight stay.

Day 7

Batchelor - Darwin
Explore the wonders of Litchfield National Park and all its natural beauty, including the Magnetic Termite mounds, Florence Falls and Wangi Falls; you may even have time for a quick swim. This afternoon, travel to Darwin to settle into our accommodation for the next two nights.

Day 8

Darwin Free Day
Today is yours to explore at your leisure. With many museums and galleries, Darwin offers many activities to enjoy. You may choose to ride the hop on hop off Darwin Big Bus or alternatively, you might like to do a day tour further a field such as to the Tiwi Islands or a sightseeing harbour cruise (subject to availability).

Day 9

Darwin - Home
Today we will spend the day at the Territory Wildlife Park set within a vast 400 hectares of natural bushland presenting a diverse range of habitats including monsoon forest, woodland and wetlands. Immerse yourself in the picturesque beauty of the park and learn about the Top End's diverse wildlife during their daily presentations and interactive encounters. Purchase your own morning tea and lunch today before transferring to the airport, ready for your flight home.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner