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Hike into Jim Jim Falls for this amazing view - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Hike into Jim Jim Falls for this amazing view  | Shaana McNaught
Trekking in to the stone country on the Nourlangie Massif, Kakadu - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Trekking in to the stone country on the Nourlangie Massif, Kakadu  | Rhys Clarke
Group admiring Nourlangie Rock - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Group admiring Nourlangie Rock  | Shaana McNaught
Hanging out at Gunlom Plunge Pool - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Hanging out at Gunlom Plunge Pool  | Nicholas Gouldhurst
Hiking at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Hiking at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock  | Shaana McNaught
Feel alive at Jim Jim Falls - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Feel alive at Jim Jim Falls  | Shaana McNaught
Evening magic at our Kakadu semi-permanent camp - Kakadu Explorer, Australia
Evening magic at our Kakadu semi-permanent camp  | Shaana McNaught

Kakadu Explorer

Discover Kakadu's most spectacular geographical highlights

Australia
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 131 reviews

6 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: KAK
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 6 Days
Activities
  • Day walks
Accommodation
  • 5 nights exclusive semi-permanent campsites
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Carbon Footprint  

21kg of CO2-e PP per day

(107kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Kakadu Explorer Trip highlights

  • Sunset cruise on the Yellow Water billabong, home to a variety of wildlife
  • Enjoy day walks through the diverse habitat of the escarpment, from cool Monsoon Vine Forest to the rugged stone country on top
  • Experience the iconic Jim Jim Falls (subject to seasonal access)
  • Stay in exclusive semi-permanent campsites
  • View some of the most beautiful indigenous rock art galleries
  • Learn about the area with your expert guides

Overview

This adventure takes place on BININJ and MUNGGUY Country. We acknowledge their enduring connection with this Country, as they are the traditional custodians of this land, and we journey in respect of their Country.

Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage Area covering some 20,000 square kms. Waterfalls tumble from the red cliffs off the Arnhem Land escarpment into shady pools; tranquil wetlands teem with animal and bird life, while 40,000 years of Aboriginal cultural heritage is on display in the numerous hidden rock art galleries. Get away from the crowds on our walking based itinerary, which includes a cruise on the Yellow Waters (a favourite haunt of saltwater crocodiles). It's when you go for a walk beyond the main tourist sites that Kakadu will reveal its true magic.

Our collection of day walks venture in to remote gorges and sparkling waterfalls, as well as visit ancient rock-art seen by very few visitors. The upgraded semi-permanent campsites encourage travellers to relax in idyllic tropical surrounds. The itinerary varies to make the most of the season, choosing the best walks and waterfalls as the wet season floodwaters recede and access opens up. You will return to Darwin having enjoyed a complete adventure across the full range of tropical wilderness of Australia's Top End.

Itinerary

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Our journey begins with a Darwin accommodation pick-up between 7-7:30am and travels south-east to Kakadu National Park. On the way we meet with Wulna Aboriginal elders for a traditional welcome to country, followed by morning tea, damper and a chance to discuss culture, or take a walk by the billabong. In the afternoon, after a scrumptious lunch, we visit a highlight of the Park, the world famous Ubirr Rock and enjoy the stunning walk past numerous breathtaking art sites that lead to the top of Ubirr rock and the awe inspiring view across the flood plains over northern Kakadu and to Arnhem land. In the late afternoon we drive south into in the heart of Kakadu National Park to our Djarradjin Billabong camp. After choosing your tent and enjoying a shower, we relax around the campfire and enjoy a delicious evening meal. Walking distance: 3km Approx drive time: 6 hours spread over the day. *You will need to arrive in Darwin the day before your trip, ensuring that you arrive in time to attend the 3:00pm pre-trip briefing.

Meals: L,D

After a delicious, nourishing breakfast we drive a short distance to Nourlangie massif and begin our walk. We will take in one of the stunning lookouts of the Barrk and Nourlangie Circuit. Barrk is the indigenous name for the male black wallaroo, a member of the kangaroo family which lives in this area. From here it's a short drive to Angbangbang where we have the option of the stunning Angbangbang Billabong Walk. This is a beautiful billabong teeming with bird life. In the late afternoon we take a cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, home to an astounding variety of wildlife. We may encounter Brumbies, wallabies and goannas drinking from the waterside, salt-water crocodile and thousands of birds including Magpie Geese, Brolga, Cormorants, Pelicans and one of Australia's largest flying birds – the Black-necked stork (Jabiru). The flat-bottomed boat is guided by an expert wildlife guide. In the evening we return to our camp at Djarradjin Billabong. Walking distance: 5-6km. Approx drive time: 2 hours spread over the day

Meals: B,L,D

Heading south we will explore some of the other stunning waterfalls and gorges of Kakadu. Maguk (Barramundi) Falls is reached via a stunning walk through the monsoon forest, opening out to a deep plunge pool lined with blonde quartzite cliffs. Keep your eye out for birds such as Rainbow pitas, Emerald doves and Spangled drongos as well as the endemic Anbinik tree – the biggest trees in Stone Country. Tonight, we can relax and enjoy our pre-dinner nibbles and yummy dinner as we can take in another Kakadu sunset. Walking distance: 4km Approx drive time: 2 hours spread over the day.

Meals: B,L,D

Over the day we will undertake our expedition by foot, deep in to Southern Kakadu Buladjang Country. We aim to visit Motor Car Creek Falls areas and undertake a decent walk (up to 11 km), taking most of the day. The highlight is the unspoiled, stunning crystal-clear waterhole and some outstanding views of the surrounding hills and woodland. We have the freedom to set the pace of the walk depending on the group and weather of the day. Our walk takes us through open woodland past some remarkable Salmon Gums, glowing pink in the morning sun, before entering an area of pristine monsoon rainforest. In the afternoon we arrive at our semi-permanent camp near Jim Jim Falls. Walking distance: up to 11km. Approx drive time: 4-5 hours spread over the day.

Meals: B,L,D

We wake up to the dawn chorus of the multitude of birds of the Savannah and wetlands. Our day is focussed on stunning walks within the World Heritage listed National Park. Your Guides will choose one of two options for you depending on access to Jim Jim Falls, (decided by the Traditional Owners and National Park Ranger). Our visits to Jim Jim Falls aim for an active experience, walking beyond the reach of regular tourist groups and swim in the magnificent rock pools at the bottom of Jim Jim Falls. Keep in mind the thundering torrent usually depicted in the postcards is a phenomenon that only occurs during the wet season and this flow declines gradually through the dry season until it is a gentle, but still magnificent, trickle! We return to our semi-permanent camp nearby in the afternoon. NB: Jim Jim Falls is generally only viable after mid-July. When Jim Jim is closed, we will use this day to walk in the Ubirr region including Cahills Crossing and alter the afternoon of day one to walk to an alternative rock art site. Walking distance: 2-3km Approx drive time: 1.5 hours spread over the day.

Meals: B,L,D

After our final night in the semi-permanent camp near Jim Jim Falls, we pack up and make our way back to Darwin. On our way we enjoy a visit to Warradjan Cultural Centre. Warradjan encapsulates the rich cultural heritage and history of Kakadu. It features an interactive museum, an art exhibit, and a gathering area where visitors can connect with our Traditional Owners on their ancestral land. Afterwards we enjoy an optional relaxing swim at Cooinda before continuing north to Darwin. We expect to arrive back into Darwin and drop you at your accommodation at around 4pm. We hope you've enjoyed your journey into the unique and unforgettable country of the Top End! Approx drive time: 5-6 hours spread over the day.

Meals: B,L

Ready to start your adventure?

11 scheduled departures between 13 Jun 2027 and 5 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 13 Jun 2027 – ends 18 Jun 2027 (6 days)
  • Departs 20 Jun 2027 – ends 25 Jun 2027 (6 days)
  • Departs 27 Jun 2027 – ends 2 Jul 2027 (6 days)
  • Departs 11 Jul 2027 – ends 16 Jul 2027 (6 days)
  • Departs 18 Jul 2027 – ends 23 Jul 2027 (6 days)
  • Departs 1 Aug 2027 – ends 6 Aug 2027 (6 days)
  • … and 5 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
  • 2 professional wilderness guides
  • Wildlife cruise
  • Safari camps including tents, stretcher beds and swags for sleeping
  • All National Park and camping fees
  • Emergency communications and group first aid kit
  • Transport from central Darwin/airport hotels
  • All dining and catering equipment

Not included

  • Airfares
  • Accommodation in Darwin before and after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Backpacks
  • Sleeping Bag
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser

Videos

Kakadu Walking Adventure
Kakadu Walking Adventure
Day 1 Kakadu Walking Adventure
Day 2 Kakadu Walking Adventure
Day 3 Kakadu Walking Adventure
Day 4 Kakadu Walking Adventure

Reviews (131)

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I cannot recommend the Kakadu Explorer highly enough. The way that Guides Karl and Clem opened our eyes to the natural and cultural wonders of the region was so professional and friendly. The organisation of the trip was top shelf and we were looked after so well.

Christopher|Broadmeadow, New South Wales
14 Sep 2026
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I had an amazing time on Kakadu Explorer. Our guides, Karl and Clem, were fantastic. They taught us so much about the area and were so friendly and accommodating, even making sure we got a swim every day! My personal highlights were watching crocs in their natural habitat, the Aboriginal rock art and hiking to Motor Car Falls. This is my second trip with AWH/WE and I will definitely be looking at a third. Thanks for a memorable holiday!

Amy|Georgetown, New South Wales
14 Sep 2026
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An absolutely amazing five nights exploring Kakadu. The guides were lovely: skilled cooks, fantastic knowledge of wildlife, culture and the environment, and made sure we got the most out of our itinerary. 100% recommend.

Rebecca|North Perth, Western Australia
23 Aug 2026
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Our recent trip to Kakadu was excellent. The guides were fantastic, energetic, efficient, flexible, helpful and knowledgeable. Although the itinerary had to be adjusted due to recent closures, they still provided an excellent tour of the region, ensuring we got to experience all that Kakadu has to offer. Food was great and plentiful, and the camp tents were comfortable. All in all, highly recommend this tour.

Elizabeth|Carnegie, Victoria
27 Jul 2026
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Very well run tour with very competent and capable guides who communicated really well for the entire trip

Peter|Castle Hill, NSW
7 Sep 2025
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All Australians should visit Kakadu especially with an experienced outfit like Australian Walking Holidays. Our guides were very knowledgable, incredibly energetic, courteous and enthusiastically catered to our every comfort. The talks we had with local indigenous guides provided increased understanding of the world's oldest continuing culture.

We experienced the full range of spectacular geological formations, wildlife and indigenous culture in particular the rock art and were able to swim in the most beautiful waterfalls and pools.

Laura|Peregian Beach, QLD
29 Aug 2025
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A fantastic trip, well catered for and led by two very friendly and knowledgeable young tour guides.

Simon|Reservoir, VIC
21 Aug 2025
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Our trip was amazing. A wonderful combination of being in beautiful country and learning about the cultural heritage of first nations people. Our guides Laura, Nikki and Portia were extremely knowledgeable and also great company. Camps were comfortable and the food was plentiful and good. I would highly recommend this trip, it was a great experience.

Amanda|Canberra, ACT
3 Jul 2025
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This is am amazing cultural trip, my first time in Northern Territory, Kakadu is a great way to experience land and culture. Well organized, loved the tents as I could look out from my bed at the stars at night. Everyday was a new surprise and the guides were an amazing team.

Kim|Forres, NSW
2 Jul 2025

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?FAQs
Relax in comfort at our Kakadu semi-permanent camps | Shaana McNaught

Semi-Permanent Campsites

On this trip we stay at our semi-permanent campsites. Toilets are located nearby and solar-heated hot showers at most camps, subject to seasonal accessibility. We supply safari-style tents, swags and stretcher beds to sleep on. A swag is comprised of a three-inch (5 cm) thick foam mattress with a canvas cover to keep it clean – they are very comfortable!

Relax in comfort at our Kakadu semi-permanent camps | Shaana McNaught

Sleep in spacious comfort

Nestled away from the crowds, our camps feature spacious safari-style glamping tents with raised beds so you are fully recharged for your adventure each day.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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There are 2 USB ports in the bus which can be utilised only when the bus being driven. However we would recommend bringing your own power bank to charge your personal items for the duration of the trip.

The consumption of alcohol may not be permitted at each camp. As of July 2024 it is possible to drink at our camps at Muirella and Garnamarr (JimJim). However this is subject to change. The guides will direct you if there are any restrictions for each camp. Alcoholic and aerated drinks are not included in the tour cost. As this trek is in a remote area, alcoholic drinks may not be able to be purchased while on tour. You are most welcome to bring beer, wine or spirits with you however, they will need to be purchased before your trip. Please note that there are restrictions on the sale of Alcohol in Kakadu and there is a very limited range and quantity available at Cooinda. If you are bringing your own drinks, please avoid glass packaging.

You must arrive in Darwin the day before your trek begins. The trip commences with a COMPULSORY pre-departure briefing in the afternoon on the day before departure. It is ESSENTIAL that you make your travel arrangements to enable you to attend this briefing.

We operate the trip from late May to September when walking conditions are at their best. During the cooler months, from June to August, the temperatures range from 30 degrees Celsius during the day dropping to 10 degrees Celsius at night. Conditions on the trail start to heat up in mid-August with temperatures rising to over 40 degrees Celsius from October to late November.

In Kakadu National Park there are no saltwater crocodiles in the designated swimming areas, making them safe for swimming. While freshwater crocodiles may be present, they are shy and generally avoid humans. Always follow park guidelines and swim only in designated areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Responsible Travel

Reconciliation Action Plan
The cultural conversation at Standley Chasm will teach you more about Arrente country | Luke Tscharke
Our Reconciliation Action Plan
 
As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing custodianship of the land, waters and culture for over 60,000 years.
 
In April 2024, we launched our inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. Our vision is to create cultural safety within the community, our organisation, and on all the lands we are privileged to share, through collaboration, meaningful engagement, and continuous learning while respecting the wisdom of Traditional Custodians.
 
For nearly four decades, we have worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to curate immersive adventure experiences across Australia. Every journey begins with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country, and most of our Australian multi-day itineraries include cultural engagement with local Traditional Custodians.
 
Our Australian Walking Holidays, Tasmanian Expeditions, and Blue Mountain Adventure Company divisions hold Triple Certification from Ecotourism Australia, including the Respecting our Culture Certification, underscoring our dedication to cultural authenticity, responsible business practices, and acknowledging the profound spiritual connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the land and water.
 
Read our RAP

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