Nature’s Way7-day itinerary

For a road trip holiday that highlights the best of the Top End, look no further than the Nature’s Way. In one week, take a self-drive adventure that starts in Darwin, travels through the natural wonders of Kakadu, Nitmiluk and Litchfield national parks, and loops back to the capital.

This easy drive is entirely on sealed roads. For the trailblazer, there are also great options to take 4WD side-trips that take you to hidden gems.

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu (250km)

The unspoiled beauty of Kakadu National Park is only a 3-hour drive from Darwin. On your way to Kakadu, along the Arnhem Highway, there are several opportunities to see wildlife. Stop at the Adelaide River and board a cruise to see huge saltwater crocs jump for a snack from the safety of the riverboat.

Day 2 & 3: Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is a World Heritage-listed site and Australia’s largest national park. Explore and cruise its waterways to see crocs and birdlife, walk through ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries, or join a guided tour. Take in the stunning view of the wetlands from above at the Ubirr lookout at sunset.

Day 4: Kakadu to Katherine via Pine Creek (300km)

Head south along Kakadu Highway to Pine Creek, a small town that experienced a gold rush in 1871. A further 90km down the road is Katherine, a great place to base yourself and explore the region. It’s the gateway to incredible hiking trails, swimming in hot springs, canoeing and cruising, and Aboriginal cultural tours.

After arriving take a refreshing dip in Katherine Hot Springs – a series of clear pools fed by a natural thermal spring located on the banks of the Katherine River.

Day 5: Nitmiluk National Park

Nitmiluk National Park is a short 30km drive from Katherine. There are many options to explore the park: from the air on a helicopter flight, from the water on a guided cruise or canoe, or on foot with well-marked paths.

Day 6: Katherine to Litchfield (265km)

Stop in at Leliyn/Edith Falls on your journey north and enjoy a swim in the pandanus-fringed plunge pool. Just 2.5 hours’ drive away, Litchfield National Park is renowned for its accessible, unspoiled wilderness of monsoon rainforests and waterfalls that flow year-round. Cool off with a swim in the plunge pool below the permanent spring-fed Florence Falls or wade through the rock pools at Buley Rockhole.

Day 7: Litchfield to Darwin (130km)

Head back to Darwin via the Territory Wildlife Park. Wander through treetop aviaries, around a natural lagoon and walk through the aquarium to see animals, including the saltwater crocodile, in their natural habitats.

Before you enter Darwin, stop at Berry Springs Nature Park. A recreation camp for armed forces personnel during the war; today it’s a popular spot for a picnic and a dip in freshwater pools.

Get more inspiration with these NT road trip ideas.