Autopia Tours: Kakadu Yellow Water Cruise 2 Day Comfort Tour - Glamping Tent from Darwin

*This Cooinda Retreat Glamping Tent fare price is (Per Person) for Adults or Children. Sleeps 2 people, in an air-conditioned glamping tent, with shared bathroom facilities.

TOUR CODE: KR2-B

OPERATES: Fri, fortnightly (Nov to Apr)

DEPARTS: 08:00am

RETURNS: 18:00pm

TOUR DURATION: 2 Days / 1 Nights

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: The Leea Darwin Hotel - 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City at 08:00am.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Exclusive Kakadu Green Season: Explore Kakadu’s lush landscapes and abundant wildlife during the vibrant green/wet season.
• Ancient Rock Art Sites: View the largest outcrop of rock art paintings of Aboriginal dreaming located in the iconic Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock)
• Yellow Water Sunset Cruise: Enjoy a magical 2-hours sunset boat tour through Kakadu’s wildlife-rich wetlands and billabong teeming with wildlife.
• Warradjan Cultural Centre: Immerse yourself in Kakadu’s history and culture at this insightful cultural centre.
• First Nations Walk on Country: Discover the traditional Aboriginal uses of local plants and wildlife.
• Views from Nawurlandja Lookout: Take in panoramic views of Kakadu’s stunning landscape and scenic spot.
• Mamukala Wetlands: Enjoy a peaceful walk and picnic in the tranquil Mamukala bird wetlands.
• Cooinda Lodge Stay: Relax in comfort at Cooinda Lodge, with luxury accommodations in the heart of Kakadu.

*Highlights are a guideline, Kakadu's diverse landscape, culture, and weather conditions can lead to a high degree of change and flexibility in itinerary. Your expert guides will make sure you have an amazing time!

ITINERARY:

Do summer differently and join us on an exclusive tour of a lifetime, showcasing the best highlights of the Top End during Kakadu’s famous green season. Kakadu National Park, known as Gagudju in the traditional language, offers the opportunity to discover some of the oldest and best-preserved Aboriginal rock art in the world, while immersing yourself in the rich culture and stories of the Bininj and Mungguy people, the traditional owners of this land. Keep a lookout for some of our prehistoric friends (crocodiles) as we cruise the ancient Wurrk wetlands by boat, all while exploring truly spectacular countryside, surrounded by pockets of rainforest packed with endemic species of flora and fauna.

Embark on a captivating 2-day journey from Darwin to Kakadu, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed wonder brimming with natural beauty and cultural significance. This fully accommodated tour allows you to relax each evening in comfort, with stays at Kakadu’s famous Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, offering luxury amidst the Australian bush. Choose between air-conditioned retreat tents with shared bathroom facilities, or enjoy additional creature comforts by staying in a lodge room with private ensuite facilities.

Over the course of this overnight adventure, you’ll explore Kakadu's iconic landscapes, including its vibrant wetlands, diverse wildlife, and ancient rock art. The tour highlights include Fogg Dam, Mamukala Wetlands, and Nourlangie Rock (known as Burrunguy), as well as the unforgettable Yellow Water Sunset Cruise, offering a magical view of the park’s wildlife and landscapes. This tour promises to immerse you in the heart of Kakadu, leaving you with lasting memories of one of Australia’s most extraordinary national parks.

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu National Park

Start your leisurely journey departing from Darwin and heading south towards the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. After a scenic drive, we’ll stop for a relaxing coffee and breakfast at the Humpty Doo Roadhouse, where you can get ready for the adventure ahead.

Our first stop will be Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, a significant site for the Bininj people, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe an incredible array of wildlife, including native bird species endemic to Australia’s Top End. Next, we’ll make a stop at the Corroboree Tavern for a break before heading to the iconic Kakadu entrance sign for a memorable photo opportunity.

We’ll then visit the Mamukala Wetlands, an important area for the Mungguy people, where you can stretch your legs on a scenic walk and enjoy a picnic lunch. This area is perfect for taking in the stunning natural beauty of Kakadu’s wetlands and spotting local wildlife. Afterward, we’ll make our way to the Bowali Visitor Centre to refresh and learn more about the rich cultural and natural heritage of the park. We’ll then continue on to Jabiru, where we’ll take a short break to refuel and enjoy the small township.

Upon arrival at Cooinda Lodge Kakadu, you’ll have time to relax before your evening adventure. We’ll board the famous Yellow Water Sunset Tour, a 2-hour boat cruise that offers spectacular views of the wetland area, where the seasonal rainfall creates a vibrant landscape, teeming with wildlife. As the sun sets, you’ll witness the billabong transform, offering a magical view you’ll never forget.

After your cruise, enjoy a delicious 2-course dinner at Mimi's Restaurant, prepared by Cooinda’s talented chef, offering a taste of the Territory with fresh, local ingredients. During the evening, we’ll prepare for the next day’s adventure by packing lunch and ensuring everything is ready for the day ahead.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner (beverages at own expense). Accomm: Cooinda Outback Retreat Glamping (shared bathroom) or Lodge Room (private ensuite). Driving Distance: 315km. Hike Distance and Grading: 1km loop Grade 1, flat pathways and/or boardwalks.

Day 2: Kakadu National Park to Darwin

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at your accommodation, then set off for a Cultural Walk in the country. This unique experience will either take place on the grounds at Cooinda or along a scenic walk within Kakadu National Park, where you’ll learn about the Bininj and Mungguy people’s traditional use of local plants and wildlife.

After the cultural walk, we’ll continue our cultural journey at the Warradjan Cultural Centre, which offers fascinating insights into Kakadu’s traditional owners and their deep connection to this beautiful land. The centre features exhibits on the history and culture of the park, as well as a gallery and gift shop to explore.

Next, we’ll visit Nourlangie Rock (Burrunguy), one of Kakadu's most famous rock art sites, where ancient Aboriginal paintings have been preserved for thousands of years. It’s an incredible opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region. Following our time at Nourlangie, we’ll head to Angbangbang Billabong for a delicious picnic lunch surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Kakadu's wetlands.

After lunch, we’ll take a short walk to Nawurlandja Lookout, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, where you can take in the natural beauty and reflect on the experiences of the day.

In the afternoon, we’ll begin our journey back to Darwin, stopping for a comfort break at Bark Hut before making our way to HB Quarry, where you’ll see fascinating rock carvings that offer more glimpses into the history and culture of the area.

Our final stop will be the Humpty Doo Hotel, a quintessential outback pub, where you can unwind before completing the journey back to Darwin. By the time we return, you’ll have plenty of time to relax and reflect on the stunning landscapes and cultural wonders of Kakadu. If you’re ready for more adventure, consider returning during the dry season to explore more waterfalls and rock pools.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Driving Distance: 315 kms. Hike Distance and Grading:  1km Grade 3 with steep areas. Good general agility and sturdy footwork required.

*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional owner ceremonies.

INCLUSIONS:

• 1 Nights’ Accommodation (Kakadu Cooinda Retreat)
• Includes: 1 x Breakfast, 2 x Lunches, 1 x Dinner (guest participation)
• First Nations culture experience
• 2 hour Yellow Water Billabong Cruise entry
• Guided rock art and painting viewing
• Kakadu Park Pass entry fee included
• Guided bush walks (up to 1km, grade 3)
• Hosted by an accredited outback driver-guide
• Air-conditioned mini coach travel
• Comprehensive local tour commentary
• Selected Darwin inner-city pick-up/drop-off points

EXCLUSIONS:

WHAT TO BRING:

3L Refillable water bottle, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, beach towel & toiletries, bathers or swimwear, comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed shoes), all-weather clothing (extreme conditions day/night), raincoat, flashlight, headlamp or torch, tropical strength insect repellent, 15kg overnight bag & small day pack, camera, and money for snack and meals.

CHILD POLICY:

Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times and must stay in private twin rooms. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.

WEATHER:

The weather in the Top End of the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius with high humidity in the wet season. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Mandatory Details: Passenger details are required at the time of booking, including date of birth, food allergies, and a contact phone number.
• Dietary Requirements: While we strive to accommodate most dietary needs, passengers must inform their booking agent of any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking. As we travel to remote areas, we have limited options once the tour departs, so prior notice is essential.
• Medical Conditions: Please notify the tour operator of any known medical conditions when booking. 
• Fitness Level: A minimum low to moderate fitness level is necessary to complete daily walks, which range from 1 km to 2 km over steep, often in direct sunlight, high humidity and extreme weather conditions. An approximate 3 km total walking is included in this tour. Walks will be conducted at the guide’s discretion for guest safety. A doctor’s certificate is required for participants over 75 years old, submitted at least 30 days prior to travel.
• Age Restrictions: Children aged 8 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. The tour is not suitable for infants or children aged 7 and under due to safety requirements and the physical demands of the walks.
• Fare Type Accommodation Options: Shared Glamping Tents (KR2-B) are designed for adults 18+ and feature twin or triplet rooms with ensuite bathrooms, providing a unique shared accommodation experience. Solo travellers will be paired with others of the same gender where possible, but this is not guaranteed. Families can book these tents together for a private experience. Not suitable for children unless booked as a family.
• Mobility Considerations: This tour is not suitable for mobility-impaired travellers, including those using wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
• Baggage Limitations: Limited storage space is available on our vehicle. Each traveller may bring 1 x 15 kg travel bag and 1 x 5 kg day bag. Larger suitcases should be stored at your hotel during the tour.
• Itinerary Variations: Itineraries may change due to seasonal conditions, and occasionally sites in the parks may close for cultural reasons or restricted swimming hole access. We prioritise safety and plan accordingly to ensure the best experience for our guests.
• Guest Participation: Guests are encouraged to participate in lunch preparation, unpacking, and loading luggage into the vehicles. This collaborative effort promotes a relaxed atmosphere, fostering connections among travellers after a day of touring.
• Reconfirmation of Details: All travellers are asked to reconfirm their tour details within 7 days prior to departure by calling 03 9393 1333.