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Backpackers

5-Day Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Litchfield 4WD Camping Tour

3+ days

Overview

This five-day 4WD camping tour covers a lot of the Top End in one trip, taking in Kakadu National Park, Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk and Litchfield National Park. It is built around active days outdoors, with guided bush walks, Aboriginal rock art sites, waterfalls and plunge pools, plus a wetlands river cruise where you may spot crocodiles. Travel is by small-group air-conditioned 4WD truck, and nights are spent at permanent safari-style tented campsites with camp facilities already set up. It is a stronger fit for travellers who want a structured multi-day trip and do not mind pitching in with meals and camp chores.

Why backpackers love it

If you are short on time but want a proper Top End trip beyond a basic day tour, this packs several big-name national parks into one booking. The camping setup gives you the outback feel without needing to organise your own gear-heavy road trip, and the shared camp jobs can make it easier to meet people. It is not a lazy option though: the walks are physical, conditions are remote and you need to be comfortable with active days and simple group travel. For backpackers who want scenery, swimming spots and cultural sites in one organised trip, it keeps the logistics straightforward.

What to expect

You will travel with an accredited outback driver-guide who provides local commentary along the way. Across the five days, the trip focuses on key natural and cultural highlights of the Top End, including Kakadu rock art, Katherine Gorge and the waterfalls and swimming spots around Litchfield. There are guided bush walks each day of up to 3km, with walk grades ranging from 2 to 6, so a moderate to advanced fitness level is needed. A Billabong Wetlands river cruise is included, and park entry fees for Kakadu are covered. Evenings are spent at permanent safari-style campsites in Kakadu and Katherine, staying in safari tents or swags. Storage space is limited, so you need to pack light, and travellers are expected to help with meal preparation, clean-up and loading or unloading the vehicle.

What's included

  • Hosted by an accredited outback driver-guide with local tour commentary
  • Aboriginal culture and rock art viewing
  • Small-group air-conditioned 4WD off-road truck travel
  • Kakadu Park passes entry fees
  • Guided bush walks (up to 3km each day, grade 2-6)
  • Billabong Wetlands River Cruise
  • 4 Nights’ Permanent Safari Style Tented Campsites (2 x Kakadu, 2 x Katherine)

Features

  • Covers Kakadu, Nitmiluk and Litchfield in one organised multi-day Top End trip
  • Includes Aboriginal rock art sites, wetlands cruising and waterfall swimming opportunities
  • Permanent safari-style camps offer more comfort than basic bring-your-own camping setups

Details

Additional details

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and a doctor's certificate is required for people over 70 years (30 days prior to travel).
  • The tour operator must be notified of any known medical conditions at the time of booking. This is a very physical tour and requires a moderate level of fitness and mobility.
  • While we endeavour to cater to most dietary needs, passengers must advise dietary requirements to their booking agent at the time of booking. As we are venturing to remote areas we are very limited in what we can source once the tour departs, therefore prior notice is required.
  • Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walk.
  • Limited storage space in our vehicles. Baggage must be kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag. Not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers or strollers.
  • Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.
  • Please advise at time of booking whether you require a hire of a sleeping bag?
  • Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean up and vehicle unpacking/loading, so everyone can relax together after a long day of touring. It’s also a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers.

Prices, availability, and cancellation policies are managed by the tour provider and may change. Please confirm all details on the booking page before purchasing.

From A$1,865.00

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