Best of the Tropical Outback Tour

Darwin Gourmet Tours guides you to the best of Darwin’s food scene with an escorted walking tour. Experience two of the city’s most iconic restaurants and dive into a feast of incredible tasting plates. Sip on a refreshing glass of wine or beer as a welcome drink, with soft drinks, coffee, and tea available throughout. Along the way, learn about Darwin’s rich food culture, history, and street art, enhanced by augmented reality. Chefs and staff will share behind-the-scenes secrets about the dishes, made from fresh local produce. From duck salad to crocodile and kangaroo spring rolls, each bite will leave you craving more. Dietary needs? No problem! Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. The grand finale? A tropical dessert that’s the perfect sweet ending!

Be introduced to the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles and some of the largest Saltwater Crocodiles in the world, right in the heart of Darwin City. Crocosaurus Cove is passionate about showcasing the huge array of reptiles found primarily in the Top End of Australia. Meet a variety of critters that you are likely to encounter at various times of the year across the Kimberley, Kakadu & Litchfield National Parks and Arnhem Land regions and further afield to the Central Australian desert. It is these unique landscapes that are home to the many varieties of species that you will encounter at Crocosaurus Cove. From the freshwater aquarium’s Barramundi, Whipray & Turtles to 70 reptile species on display in the Reptile House and the active juvenile crocodiles in the Fishing for Crocs area, Crocosaurus Cove provides the perfect introduction to your Northern Territory adventure.

Get ready for the ultimate Top End adventure with the Top End Safari Camp Day Tour. Start with a scenic helicopter flight over the Finniss River, spotting buffalo, wild boars, and various bird species. Then, take a leisurely houseboat cruise along Sweet’s Lagoon as expert guides provide fascinating insights into the region’s wildlife. For more excitement, experience an airboat ride through rainforest channels, where you’ll spot wild crocodiles up close. The tour also includes a unique crocodile encounter, offering the chance to learn about these incredible creatures. After an action-packed day, unwind with a refreshing swim in the infinity pool overlooking the Outback, and enjoy a drink from the licensed bar. This unforgettable experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers looking to explore the wonders of the Top End in one day.

Choose a car to best suit your needs from our fantastic rental car range or ask our team for a suggestion. From compact economy to prestige SUVs. First time driving in Australia? Check out this helpful guide.
Please note, a one-way fee may apply

Traveling from Darwin to Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu National Park is an unforgettable journey through some of Australia’s most iconic landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush savannah woodlands and the Mary River floodplains, with opportunities to stop at Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve for birdwatching or the Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre for panoramic views and insights into the region’s ecology. A highlight is Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock), where ancient Aboriginal rock art tells stories of the Dreamtime, and a short hike to the lookout offers sweeping views of the escarpment and surrounding bushland. Arriving at Cooinda, you can relax by the lodge, explore nearby walking trails, or take a sunrise or sunset cruise on Yellow Water Billabong to spot saltwater crocodiles, jabirus, and other wildlife. Throughout the journey, encounters with wallabies, buffalo, and a rich variety of birds make the trip a true immersion in the natural and cultural wonders of the Top End.

The Kakadu National Parks Pass allows entry to explore ancient sites such as Ubirr, Jim Jim Falls, Burrunkguy and Maguk. You will be required to keep your Kakadu National Parks accessible when within the National Park and produce to Park Rangers upon request.

Experience Kakadu’s most famous wetland at its most magical time of day. This two-hour dawn cruise reveals Yellow Water Billabong awakening with wildlife and golden light. Located at the end of Jim Jim Creek, the billabong forms part of the South Alligator River system, the only river system in the world fully enclosed within a UNESCO World Heritage-listed National Park.

Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is Australia's biggest national park, filled with ancient landscapes. Here you will find stunning waterfalls, lush rainforest, spectacular wetlands and swimming pools, and the oldest Indigenous rock art in the world. Although this remote, untouched outback land is just 3 hour's drive from the city of Darwin, you will feel like you are a world away. This treasured region is filled with adventure opportunities, from learning the cultural significance of Australia's most prominent rock art at Ubirr, cruising along Yellow Water Billabong or the East Alligator River, touring to stunning Koolpin Gorge, or walking through monsoon rainforest to reach crystal-clear plunge pools at Maguk, there is an awe-inspiring experience here for everyone. If you prefer to take it easy, the view from Nourlangie at sunset is nothing short of a spiritual experience and one that can't be missed. If you're looking for a unique experience celebrating cultural diversity and community, check out the annual Mahbilil Festival celebrating Kurrung season (late august to early September).

Journey through Kakadu’s diverse landscapes, from sweeping lowlands and ancient stone country to waterfalls and secluded natural pools. Every destination is rich with Indigenous culture and stories passed down for generations. Your flexible itinerary, shaped by seasonal conditions, may include iconic spots such as Gunlom Falls, Ikoymarrwa, Kubara Pools, Motorcar Falls, Boulder Creek, Koolpin Gorge, or the stunning Maguk. While many of these can be reached by 4WD, travelling with our passionate local guides brings the landscape to life through their stories and knowledge. Enjoy a small-group experience in the comfort of a fully air-conditioned 4WD, complete with refreshments and a buffet lunch at Mimi’s.

The drive from Jabiru to Nitmiluk is a 3 1/2 hour beautiful journey along the National Highway 1 through Kakadu National Park. Roughly 1 hour down the road you will pass through Gulung Mardulk. This beautiful small rural town has a lovely natural infinity pool at the base of a waterfall which can be reached along a 200m accessible flat track. If you are up for a challenge there is a steep 1km hike to the top of the falls, giving breath-taking views of a series of small infinity pools and the top of the waterfall. Further along from Gulung you will reach Pine Creek, a small historical heritage town from the 1800's, known as the gold mining capital of the Northern Territory with plenty of attractions to discover. If you are into heritage, history and wildlife then it is worth visiting to learn about what it must have been like to live and work here in centuries gone by. From here it is approximately 45 minutes to the must-see Leliyn (Edith) Falls. With shady lawns, a kiosk, and a freshwater natural plunge pool at the base of the falls, the park is a little slice of paradise.
From here, it is a further 60 minutes to your base in Nitmiluk National Park, just beyond the town of Katherine - where the outback meets the tropics and nature comes alive.

Considered the jewel in the crown of the Nitmiluk experience, sit back and relax as the tranquil surroundings transport you into a spiritual world of the Jawoyn culture and history.
Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun, and concluding with the shimmering of the stars and the moon. The cruise has its own chef and waitstaff, so you won’t have to worry about moving from the comfort of your seat as all your food and beverage needs are taken care of.

The NitNit Dreaming cruise is one of the most popular tours in the region. A boat will take you to the end of the first gorge, where you will experience the beauty of the large boulders, rock pools and sands that make up the crossover to the second gorge. Along the way, cultural guides will share their knowledge about plants, animals, Dreamtime stories and culture. Surrounded by the limestone escarpment, the scenery is second to none. Immerse yourself in the cultural significance and geology of the park - discover historical facts, such as how the river has been named.

Nitmiluk Heli-Touring is the sole operator permitted to land within the National Park. Depart from the helipad located a three-minute drive from the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre and take off over the park enjoying the magnificent views of Nitmiluk Gorge, the Arnhem Land escarpment and local wildlife. You will have a landing opportunity above the tranquil tenth gorge, where a short 50 metre walk will take you to a unique and breathtaking photo location. Not accessible by road, you’ll have this secluded location all to yourselves allowing you to feel a deep connection to the natural wonders of Nitmiluk Gorge.

Make sure you have your water bottles filled as you depart Nitmiluk, travel through Katherine and northwest along the Stuart Highway. Just before crossing the Ferguson River, you may wish to take a right and detour to the stunning Edith Falls and take a swim in the paperbark and pandanus-fringed natural pool. Back on the highway, cross Wardie Creek before reaching the township of Pine Creek, home of the delicious Kensington Pride mangoes at Pine Cree Mango Plantation.
Continue on through the towns of Adelaide River and Tortilla Flats, passing Manton Dam which is a popular destination for recreational watercraft  and a perfect place stop for a picnic lunch. Further along the journey you will reach the McMinns Lagoon, a favourite spot to stretch your legs and wander along one of the many walking tracks in the 41 hectares of unspoilt wetlands. Carry along Highway 1 to reach Darwin, the tropical capital of the Northern Territory and the gateway to many world-renowned national parks.

With beautiful views of the Top End city, there is no better way to experience Darwin’s renowned sunsets than on board the Charles Darwin. Enjoy a Territory-style dinner with fresh seafood and local produce. This two hour cruise is the perfect way to experience Darwin’s world-famous sunsets.

Darwin has a fantastic mix of things to do, whether you are joining a tour or going the self-guided route. Make sure you head to Mindil Beach Sunset Market and wander the multitude of stalls. Join a sunset harbour cruise and soak up the sunset with drinks and canapes. Catch a film under the stars at the outdoor Deckchair Cinema (known as "The Deckie" to locals); all screenings start at 7:30pm and local eateries have food stalls to keep your hunger at bay.
There are more crocodiles in the Northern Territory than anywhere else in the world, so jump in a boat or visit Crocosaurus Cove and meet the real locals. If you're looking to stretch your legs, visit the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. These beautiful, exotic gardens are home to some spectacular plant species that provide a tropical oasis where you can learn about their natural and cultural history.

Discover the Royal Flying Doctor Service in Darwin with a General Entry Ticket and explore the remarkable history of this lifesaving organisation. Learn how it provides vital medical care across the vast Outback and hear incredible stories of courage and dedication. The exhibit also highlights Darwin’s pivotal role in World War II, including the bombing of Darwin, showing how the city and its people overcame adversity. Explore historic aircraft, interactive displays, and gain a deeper appreciation for both the service and the region’s wartime history.

Explore more of Darwin before dropping your rental car at the airport depot and continuing your onward journey.