A travel plan suggestion for a 7 day 2wd camping self drive trip from Darwin thru Litchfield, Kakadu and Katherine on the Natures Way and return to Darwin on a loop road trip
• Create a travel plan for a 5 day self drive trip from Darwin thru Litchfield, Kakadu and Katherine on the Natures Way and return to Darwin on a loop road trip.
• Access: 2 Wheel Drive on sealed and minor unsealed roads access
• Start: From Darwin
• Return: To Darwin in Northern Territory Australia
• Highlights: Litchfield National Park , Kakadu National Park
• Nature's Way recognised as Top Travel Scenic route in Australia: Nature's Way winds through a wetland wilderness steeped in pioneering history and Aboriginal culture. The triangular drive commences in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory, and meanders through the Adelaide and Mary River wetlands to World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park - owned and jointly managed by a number of Aboriginal clans. Then it's on to Litchfield National Park with its stunning waterfalls and return to Darwin. For photographic, wildlife and bird watching enthusiasts, this is a dream drive on a fully sealed road - suitable for a two-wheel-drive vehicle.
• Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu National Park
On this day travel a total 250 kms from Darwin to Jabiru in Kakadu National Park. Depart Darwin on the Stuart Highway (Explorer's Way) and turn left onto the Arnhem Highway around 45klm down.
From there turn right and the jumping crocodile cruise (Check with Britz, Maui, Mighty camper motorhome rentals if still allowed) is located on their private stretch of the Adelaide River at the end of Fogg Dam Road. All in all it was about 75 minutes since you leave Darwin. My trip was that I then followed to the right on a dirt track for some 5klm to Harry Bowmans - Adelaide River Crocodile cruise. (Please note motorhome access may not be permitted but there are other Crocodile Cruises leaving from the Adelaide River Bridge a bit further up).
Continue along to Jabiru in the World Heritage on the Arnhem Highway - listed Heritage Kakadu National Park. Birdwatchers and nature lovers should stop along the way at the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre. Spend the night in the township of Jabiru.
There are a few tourist van parks in Jabiru that cater to travelers visiting the national park. Some of the popular ones are:
Kakadu Lodge and Caravan Park: This park is located in the heart of Jabiru and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, restaurant, and BBQ area.
Jabiru Caravan Park: This park is located in Jabiru and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, BBQ area, and laundry facilities.
Aurora Kakadu: This park is located on the outskirts of Jabiru and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, restaurant, and tour desk.
Anbinik Kakadu Resort: This park is located on the edge of Jabiru and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, BBQ area, and laundry facilities.
A Kakadu entry fee is required from 2023.
• Day 2 and 3: Kakadu National Park
Spend the next two or three days experiencing Kakadu. There are many Aboriginal rock art sites, walks to escarpment lookouts, and impressive visitor centres.
One of the best ways to experience Kakadu is from the air, so consider a scenic flight.
Visit Ubir Rock - Ubirr hosts some of the world’s most outstanding rock art and is one of the reasons for Kakadu’s dual World Heritage status.
The paintings document ancient human interaction with the environment. A few galleries have an extra element of intrigue with some of the first interactions with non-Aboriginal people recorded.
Camp the night at Cooinda. Situated 3 hours from Darwin, Gagudju Lodge Cooinda offers convenient access to Kakadu National Park attractions in the south end of the park. From Jabiru go do the southern access called the Kakadu Highway to Cooinda. Cooinda has a free shuttle 250metres to the Yellow Water cruise we regard as the best cruise in kakadu.
• Day 3: Drop into Pine Creek for a visit.
Pine Creek. Gold was discovered at Pine Creek in 1871 and the original buildings built back in the heady gold days still stand. Pine Creek's attractions include a Railway Station that was built in 1888 and Miners' Park which houses original mining machinery.
Travel further down the Kakadu Highway then turnoff on to the Stuart Highway where to the Pine Creek is close by and onto Katherine about 130klm further south.
• Day 3: Katherine
Travel further down the Kakadu Highway to Katherine about 130klm further south
About 52 north of Katherine is Edith Falls now called Leliyn (Edith Falls)
Stay the night in Katherine
here are a few tourist van parks in Katherine, Northern Territory, Australia. Some of the popular ones are:
Katherine Holiday Park: This park is located at the southern end of Katherine and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, BBQ area, and laundry facilities.
Big4 Katherine Holiday Park: This park is located on the banks of the Katherine River and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and villas. The park also has a swimming pool, mini-golf, and a playground.
Nitmiluk Tourist Park: This park is located within the Nitmiluk National Park and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as cabins and safari tents. The park also has a swimming pool, BBQ area, and laundry facilities.
Pine Tree Motel & Van Park: This park is located in the center of Katherine and offers a range of accommodation options, including powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, as well as motel rooms. The park also has a swimming pool and BBQ area.
• Day 4
Katherine Gorge is a stunning natural wonder located in Nitmiluk National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. Here's a quick guide to help you make the most of your visit:
Getting there: Katherine Gorge is located about 30 kilometers northeast of Katherine, and can be reached by car or campervan.
Exploring the Gorge: The best way to explore the Gorge is by taking a cruise along the river. There are a variety of cruise options available, ranging from short scenic cruises to longer cruises with lunch included. The cruises provide a great opportunity to see the towering sandstone cliffs, rock art sites, and abundant wildlife.
Hiking: There are also a number of hiking trails in the park that offer stunning views of the gorge and surrounding landscape. Some of the popular trails include the Windolf Walk and Baruwei Loop.
Swimming: Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the clear, cool waters of the Gorge. There are several swimming spots along the river, including at the base of the waterfalls.
Aboriginal Culture: The Jawoyn people are the traditional custodians of the land, and visitors can learn about their culture and traditions at the Nitmiluk Centre. The center also has an art gallery and souvenir shop.
Accommodation: There are several accommodation options available in the park, including camping grounds, cabins, and lodges. For a unique experience, visitors can stay in one of the park's eco-friendly safari tents.
When to go: The best time to visit Katherine Gorge is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is cooler and the river is easier to navigate.
With its stunning scenery and range of activities, Katherine Gorge is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Northern Territory.
• Day 5: Mataranka
Mataranka Thermal Springs is a beautiful natural oasis located in Elsey National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. Here is a quick guide to help you plan your visit:
Getting there: Mataranka Thermal Springs is located about 106 kilometers south of Katherine and can be reached by car.
The Thermal Springs: The main attraction of Mataranka is the thermal pools, which are crystal-clear and remain at a constant temperature of around 34°C year-round. Visitors can swim, relax and soak in the warm water surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
Walking trails: There are several walking trails around the thermal springs that lead to scenic lookouts and the nearby Roper River. The Mataranka Loop Walk is a popular trail that takes about an hour to complete and provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Camping: There are several camping grounds in and around Mataranka, including the Mataranka Homestead Tourist Resort and the Territory Manor Motel & Caravan Park. Visitors can camp in the park, with a range of camping options available from unpowered to powered sites.
Wildlife: The area around Mataranka is home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, and birdlife. Visitors should keep an eye out for these animals while exploring the park.
Other activities: Visitors can also go fishing in the nearby Roper River, take a guided tour of the area, or explore the nearby historic sites.
When to go: The best time to visit Mataranka Thermal Springs is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is cooler and the river is easier to navigate.
Mataranka Thermal Springs is a stunning natural attraction that offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. With its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and diverse wildlife, it's a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Northern Territory.
• Day 6: Litchfield National Park
Head back up on the Stuart Highway to Litchfield National Park . Spend the night in its gateway township of Batchelor.
Litchfield National Park is a popular natural attraction located in the Northern Territory of Australia. Here is a brief visitor guide to help you plan your visit:
Spend the day exploring Litchfield on the bushwalking tracks, admiring the bird and wildlife species, and swimming in the crystal-clear waterholes under thundering waterfalls that flow year-round.
Getting there: Litchfield National Park is located about 100 kilometers south-west of Darwin and can be reached by car. There are also several tour operators that offer day trips to the park.
Waterfalls and Swimming Holes: The park is home to several stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Florence Falls, Wangi Falls, and Buley Rockhole. Visitors can swim, hike, and enjoy the natural beauty of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape.
Hiking trails: There are several hiking trails in the park that lead to scenic lookouts, waterfalls, and swimming holes. Some of the popular trails include the Litchfield Escarpment Walk and the Tabletop Track.
Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, and birdlife. Visitors should keep an eye out for these animals while exploring the park.
When to go: The best time to visit Litchfield National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is cooler and the waterfalls and swimming holes are at their most spectacular.
Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory of Australia offers several options for tourist van parks. Some popular options include:
Litchfield Tourist Park: This park is located just outside of Litchfield National Park and offers powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping, as well as cabins and villas for those who prefer a more comfortable stay.
Wangi Falls Campground: This campground is located within Litchfield National Park and offers both powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping. It is situated near the beautiful Wangi Falls, making it a popular spot for visitors.
Batchelor Holiday Park: This park is located in the town of Batchelor, which is about a 15-minute drive from Litchfield National Park. It offers powered and unpowered sites for caravans and camping, as well as cabins and villas.
• Day 7: Head home back on the Stuart Hwy to Darwin
If you're traveling up to Darwin along the Stuart Highway, here are some places you might want to consider stopping at:
Adelaide River War Cemetery: This cemetery honors the soldiers and civilians who lost their lives during the bombing of Darwin in World War II.
Litchfield National Park: This park is home to a variety of natural attractions, including waterfalls, swimming holes, and hiking trails. Some popular spots to visit include Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, and Buley Rockhole.
Territory Wildlife Park: This park, located about 45 minutes south of Darwin, offers a chance to see a variety of native Australian wildlife up close, including crocodiles, kangaroos, and wallabies.
Darwin Waterfront: This area is a popular spot for swimming, dining, and shopping, with a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market: If you're in Darwin on a Thursday or Sunday evening, be sure to check out the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, where you can sample food from around the world and enjoy live music and entertainment. May to late October.
Notes:
• Fatigue causes many crashes in Australia.
• When driving long distances, stop and rest every 1-2 hours.
• Try to have someone sit beside you to keep you company driving as our NT roads can be long and straight. (But not distract you)
• Alcohol and driving don’t mix.
• The blood alcohol level is 0.05.
• Seat belts and child restraints must be worn by all vehicle occupants.
• Always carry a copy of your driver’s license in English.
• Take plenty of water on all outback trips;
• Check distances and driving conditions; and ensure you have adequate petrol at all times.
• Remember, rule ‘Number 1’ in the Outback: if your car breaks down you MUST stay with your vehicle for safety reasons.
• Don’t drive after dark.
• Parks & Wildlife Commission Northern Territory provides information on Camping, National Parks, and Permits.
• Ensure you are informed re the safety of swimming in the ‘Top End’ – many areas are not safe to swim due to crocodiles.
Image courtesy: Tourism NT