Kakadu Katherine Litchfield 4wd rental self drive from Darwin returning to Darwin in 7 days
Day 1
On the first day, the 4wd car rental team at the Darwin depot you are picking up your 4wd from will give you an introduction to the vehicle and equipment, and explain the features and 4WD system. The suggested itinerary takes you to Fogg Dam, located outside the small township of Humpty Doo on the Adelaide River floodplain. This area has the world's largest biomass and one of the highest concentrations of lightning strikes in the world, along with thousands of water birds and sacred lotus lilies. You may even spot a crocodile or snake. From there, drive east and pass Window on the Wetlands and Corroboree Tavern. At the tavern, you can buy takeaway alcohol after 11 am, which will be your last chance until you leave Kakadu. Check out Brutus, the pet saltwater crocodile who lives out the back. After a further 40 minutes down the Arnhem Highway, turn left to the Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge. This road is half dirt and half sealed, ending at an amazing campsite surrounded by tropical monsoon forest. At Point Stuart, it is highly recommended to do the two-hour floodplains tour in their 4WD bull catcher wagon.
Day 2
On the second day, wake up early for a 45-minute drive to the Rockhole Billabong, part of the largest permanent wetland area of the Mary River system. You can make boat cruise bookings ahead at the Port Stuart lodge. Cruise the unspoiled wilderness that has the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the world, as well as over 250 species of birds. Your experienced guides will share their passion and knowledge of this beautiful ecosystem. Next, drive to Jabiru,. There is fuel, food, and a range of amenities making it a great place to stay the night to say Aurora Kakadu Lodge in Jabiru. This makes Kakadu the only national park in the world with its own river system. Take a 10-minute detour to Mamukala Wetlands for a short walk to an observation platform nestled among the paperbark trees.
Day 3
On the third day, you have the opportunity to experience a scenic flight with Kakadu Air to see the Park's true expanse and enormity. Visit Nourlangie, Nuwurlandja, and Yellow Waters on your way to Garnamarr Campgrounds, where you can enjoy a late lunch. Garnamarr is your camp for the night and the gateway to Jim Jim Falls (Dry Season only), and the Wet Season camp is at Cooinda. After lunch, enjoy the luxury and 4WD mode of your 4wd. When you reach the Jim Jim car park, make sure you pack water, swimmers, and hiking shoes. It takes about an hour to hike over boulders and through monsoon forest until you reach the dramatic escarpment walls and deep waterfall plunge pool of Jim Jim.
Day 4
Leave camp at a reasonable hour and head back to the Kakadu Highway. Turn left and continue down past Cooinda. Another 25 minutes past the Cooinda turn-off, turn left and follow the track to the stunning Barramundi Falls (or MAGUK as its signposted on the maps) and enjoy a leisurely 20 minute walk to this beautiful waterhole. After lunch our destination will be Gunlom to camp for the night. Climb to the top apparently still not allowed you need to check with the national parks. Later enjoy the comforts of a hearty campfire.
Day 5
This morning we will leave Kakadu through the southern gates and continue south on the Stuart Highway. Enjoy an ice cream at the Mary River Road House or picnic on the way. Next stop will be Edith Falls, which has a pleasant café and facilities. Be sure to take the 20 minute walk to the upper pool as it’s one of the most spectacular places in the Territory.
There is a kiosk located near the car park that offers cold and hot food as well as drinks, ice creams and basic food supplies
https://nt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/413837/leliyn-edith-falls-fact-sheet-and-map.pdf
From Edith Falls it’s only a short drive to the township of Katherine and Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Restock your food and supplies and book your Katherine Gorge Boat Cruise at the Visitor’s Centre, which is in the centre of town or call ahead 1300 146 743. It is always a good idea to book a few days in advance, especially in peak seasons. Cruises depart at 7am and 9am to take advantage of the cooler parts of the day. Travel out to the Gorge for tonight’s campsite.
Day 6
After your cruise and taking in the sights of the Gorge and Katherine township, make your way North towards Litchfield National Park. Don’t miss a stop at Adelaide River along the way. Visit the well maintained war cemetery and share a beer with Charlie the buffalo from Crocodile Dundee who now presides at one end of the bar at the local Inn.
There are a number of places to camp at Litchfield, including Banyan Tree Café, Litchfield Tourist Park, or one of the many bush camps provided within the Park.
Day 7
The attractions at Litchfield National Park include Tolmer Falls, Wangi Falls, Green Ant Creek, lower cascades, Central Valley, Florence Falls, Buley Rock holes, and the massive Magnetic Termite mounds and Cathedral Termite mounds.
Your 4WD makes it accessible to visit Tjanera Falls (Sandy Creek) though some suppliers may not let you there – well worth the look. Then a little further to Wangi Falls where the facilities are great to enjoy your last swim and coffee of the journey. Don’t forget to pop in to the Crazy Acres Mango Farm for a tasty homemade mango icecream or smoothie on the two hour drive back to Darwin.