Outback Spirit - Arnhem Land & Kakadu Explorer

This morning, fly to Maningrida and experience a Welcome to Country. Spend the next two nights at Barramundi Lodge, owned and operated by Outback Spirit. With special permission from traditional owners, the lodge holds exclusive fishing licenses for several remote waterways, including the Tomkinson and Liverpool Rivers. The lodge offers 12 beautiful safari suites and a restaurant with views overlooking the floodplains below.

This morning, enjoy an exclusive fishing and marine adventure on the pristine Liverpool and Tomkinson Rivers, teeming with Barramundi. Expert fishing guides will take you to the best spots aboard sturdy Ocean Master vessels, ideal for remote marine exploration. These boats come equipped with an on-board restroom and shade canopy. Even if fishing isn’t your thing, the day offers a wilderness tour with stunning scenery and informative commentary. Visit the Maningrida Arts and Cultural Centre and the Djomi Museum to explore the cultural and spiritual richness of the area. The Maningrida Art Centre empowers local Indigenous artists to pursue successful careers. Later, relax with a sunset drink on the deck before dinner and share stories about the one that got away.

After breakfast, depart Maningrida and travel through the stone country of west Arnhem Land, crossing the Goomadeer and Liverpool Rivers. Arrive at the turnoff to Davidson’s Arnhemland Safaris, Mount Borradaile, then journey along a 40km bush track to the safari lodge, arriving in time for lunch. Check into the cabins, the base for the next two nights. In the afternoon, expert staff at Mount Borradaile will guide you through 40,000 years of Aboriginal culture in a breathtaking landscape, home to some of the world’s most remarkable rock art galleries. The artwork, documenting traditional Aboriginal life, includes depictions of extinct animals, 20th-century sailing ships, and the iconic Rainbow Serpent. Return to the lodge later for dinner.

Today, hop into the open-back Toyotas and continue exploring the stunning Mount Borradaile. Discover the variety of techniques used in rock paintings as styles evolved over thousands of years of occupation and storytelling. Wander through various occupation sites and view artefacts from when these sites were still in use. After lunch, venture into the incredible wetlands of Cooper Creek. Marvel at the prolific birdlife and massive crocodiles basking on the banks, as you explore lagoons that seem straight out of a storybook. As the sun sets over the floodplain, enjoy a drink and nibbles before returning to the lodge for the final night with Davidson’s Arnhem Land Safaris.

Continue travelling through Arnhem Land, with the first stop at the Injalak Art Gallery in Oenpelli, home to over 200 active members, including artists, weavers, and craftspeople from Gunbalanya and the surrounding areas. Cross Cahill’s Crossing (keep an eye out for saltwater crocodiles) into the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu is known for its vast wetlands, diverse wildlife, millions of migratory birds, and over 5000 ancient rock art sites. The Bininj/Mungguy people have lived here for 65,000 years. Visit the Ubirr art site, home to remarkable rock art, and enjoy a 1-kilometre circular track walk. For those feeling adventurous, a 250-metre climb offers stunning views across the Magela floodplain. After lunch, explore the cultural centre before checking into the Mercure Crocodile Hotel for a two-night stay. Dinner will be enjoyed at the hotel tonight.

This morning, take to the water for a Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba) wetlands cruise, where you’ll spot a variety of birdlife and impressive saltwater crocodiles. Next, head to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site, home to stunning rock paintings dating back 20,000 years. For those who want to take in the breathtaking views, there’s the option to climb up to the Gunwarddehwarde lookout. After exploring the site, return to the hotel to relax before dinner.

It’s an early start today as the journey takes you to the airstrip for an aerial view of the stunning landscape. Embark on a 30-minute scenic flight over ancient escarpments, floodplains, and winding rivers, showcasing 1.8 billion years of continuous erosion. Heading towards Darwin, cross the South Alligator River and its expansive wetlands, once used for buffalo hunting. Travel via Humpty Doo before reaching Darwin, where the tour concludes. If staying longer, there’s the option to be transferred to a city centre hotel or the airport for your flight home.