The Northern Territory is buzzing with excitement with its spectacular landscapes and natural attractions. The escarpments, rivers, four-wheel drive tracks and variety of camping terrain make Katherine the adventure capital of the Northern Territory. You can explore Katherine River up-close in a canoe or trek through the dramatic landscapes of Nitmiluk National Park. Around Tennant Creek and the Barkly Tablelands there are challenging four-wheel drive tracks and you can sleep under the stars in the outback next to cool billabongs. The Northern Territory is home to World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks.

The Red Centre has plenty of adventure travel activities to choose from, hot-air balloon or helicopter rides, camel riding,  trekking the famous Larapinta Trail, bushwalking and mountain biking. So make your way to the Northern Territory for your next adventure holiday in Australia's outback

Below is a sample sample of tours available. Tours range from Budget to Deluxe


LARAPINTA TREK
One of the world’s most famous walking trails, the Larapinta Trail runs along the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges and is divided into 12 sections, ranging from easy day trips to challenging overnight walks. There are many Larapinta tour operators to choose from. Tours range from one day to over a week. The trek can be done independently or part of a tour. Arrangements can be made to pick you up at the end of each day here you stay in local accommodations.

7 DAY LARAPINTA TRAIL EXPERIENCE


TOUR DESCRIPTION:
Jungala Enterprises Pty Ltd is the only Aboriginal owned and operated tour company who offers this trek. As an Aboriginal tour guide, Jungala creates an authentic experience that is culturally related to the land and the natural environment incorporating cultural interaction with traditional owners and traditional homelands and providing clients with a deeper, richer experience of Australia and Indigenous Culture.
The MacDonnell Ranges terrain is uneven with frequent ascents. Each day on this trek will involve between 5 – 9 hours walking. This trek is graded moderate, requiring a good level of aerobic fitness.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:
Licensed guided Larapinta Walk with lead Aboriginal guide, support vehicle and camp manager, 2 nights accommodation at the Diplomat Hotel (twin share) including breakfast, cooked breakfasts, morning and afternoon teas, lunches, dinners, snacks on the tour, 4 night desert camping under the stars with all camping equipment included, invitation to stay on Aboriginal land, all coach or 4WD transport, first aid, satellite phones and all National Park entry fees.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour does not include transport to and from Alice Springs and no alcoholic beverages are included.
Our nights under the stars will be a highlight of the trip. Whilst the facilities are basic, there will be a pit toilet and washing facilities. You will be expected to share some tasks around the camp such as rolling up your swag etc.

WHAT TO BRING:
Bring a simple daypack to use on the trek to carry water, jacket, camera etc, suitable footwear and clothing, personal medications, camera and sunscreen.

Cost: $1750 per person

1 DAY LARAPINTA TRAIL EXPERIENCE

TOUR DESCRIPTION:
Walking with an Aboriginal guide, experience this trek with a difference. Walk from the Old Telegraph Station to Wallaby gorge, following landscapes of the Creation time and experience cultural interaction as well as experiencing a section of the Larapinta Trail. We walk in a northerly direction before travelling west along the MacDonnell ranges. Looking back, we view the township of Mparntwe (Alice Springs) from a topographical view. The terrain is varied from trekking along the mountain ridge disappear down into the valley before rising up onto the ridge top for some spectacular views.

PLEASE NOTE: YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A REASONABLE LEVEL OF FITNESS AS THE TERRAIN ON THIS TOUR IS VARIED.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:
Fully guided tour with Aboriginal guide, Park fees, hotel transfers and a light lunch with drink

WHAT TO BRING:
Suitable footwear and clothing, day pack, personal medication, camera, sunscreen, any drinks and snacks you require and at least 3 litres of water.

Cost: $225 per person

3 DAY 4WD KAKADU/LITCHFIELD SAFARI – 2009/10 (CAMPING)

Tour price: APR – NOV AU$595 + Twin Falls (seasonal) fee
DEC - MAR: AU$530 + Twin Falls (seasonal) fee
Not suitable for children under 8yrs – no child discount applies

Tour departs: Darwin 07:00am
All Year - Daily

Max people: 16


Deluxe Camping: Passengers can upgrade to deluxe safari tents (proper beds with linen, lighting & fans) for an additional AU$100 per person twin share.

Evening meals are BBQ style dinners, prepared by the guide (with passenger participation) and eaten as a group. Breakfasts are continental and lunches are picnic style.

ITINERARY

Day 1 - Darwin to Mary River
A refreshing start to your day: the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, followed by the spectacular Mary River Wetlands. Birds aren’t the only wildlife abundant around here; keep your eyes out for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge is where we’ll stay tonight. (LD)

Day 2 - Mary River to Kakadu
Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, our first stop this morning. Clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it’s on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (BLD)

Day 3 - Kakadu to Darwin
Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we’ll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon. (BL)


TROPICAL SUMMER PROGRAM (December - May)
Day 1 - Litchfield National Park • Crocodile Cruise • Overnight camp Point Stuart (LD)

Day 2 – Mamukala Wetlands (seasonal) • Ubirr or Nourlangie Rock (seasonal) • Bowali Visitor Centre • Walk to Gubara Springs • Overnight camp Kakadu (BLD)

Day 3 - Cathedral Termite Mounds • Boulder Creek Falls • Hike to Motor Car Falls • Return to Darwin (BL)

BRING:
Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), swimming gear, hat & sunscreen, toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, sleeping bag (can be hired for $15).

INCLUDED:
Experienced tour guide, meals as indicated, accommodation transfers, permanent campsites, camping fees & equipment (or upgrade to #deluxe camping including proper beds, linen, pillows, towels & fans.

•

3 DAY ULURU SAFARI – 2009/10 (CAMPING)

Tour Price: AU$545 + park entry fee
AU$435 (Child)

NOTES:
Tour may commence in either Alice Springs or Ayers Rock, however, must finish in Alice Springs. *Flight must arrive before 1:30pm to connect with Yulara Airport Shuttle (free) to Desert Gardens Hotel

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru
Kick off your adventure on top of a camel! Our first stop is the Outback Camel Farm where you can choose to ride atop one of these desert giants (at own expense). From here it’s off to Uluru (Ayers Rock), and a bite to eat. Kata Tjuta will fascinate you, and you will discover some of the secrets of this ancient landform on the Valley of the Winds hike. You’ll be mesmerised as the desert sun sets over Uluru, and as the night grows darker, curl up in your swag (Aussie bedroll) under millions of stars. (LD)

Day 2 – Uluru to Kings Canyon
It’s an early start this morning, but you’ll be rewarded with a glorious Uluru sunrise. Stretch your legs with a walk around Uluru’s base (unguided), or climb to the top if you choose. You’ll deepen your understanding of the land and its stories at the Cultural Centre. After lunch we travel to our permanent campsite at Kings Canyon. You’ll fall asleep contented with a delicious camp oven dinner filling your stomach. (BLD)

Day 3 – Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
Get your hiking shoes on today as we head out to explore the impressive formations which make up Kings Canyon. You’ll be left breathless by the sheer beauty of the canyon as we trek through the Amphitheatre, the Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the North and South Walls. Lunch is a welcome prospect, before we make our way back to Alice Springs. (BL)

BRING:
Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for $15)

INCLUDED:
Experienced tour guide, meals as indicated, accommodation transfers, camping fees & equipment

5 Day Kakadu Discovery

WEEKLY DEPARTURES:
Every Monday from mid April until mid October.

This first class safari is a comprehensive tour of the world heritage listed Kakadu National Park. With an area of almost 20,000 square kilometers, the park needs more than just a couple of days to explore. Our 5 day Kakadu Discovery is much more than a sightseeing tour, it is an experience of this famous landscape. On safari we visit the restricted access area of Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge), not available to most tour operators and only accessible by special permit. One of the very best Northern Territory tours!!


MON from Darwin 07:00 to Kakadu
We leave Darwin and travel south to Adelaide River, where we visit the tranquil War Cemetery and break for refreshments. We then travel to Pine Creek, scene of a major gold rush a century ago. We travel into Kakadu National Park and arrive at Gunlom. Here you can swim and explore at the top and base of the falls. We base ourselves at our permanent safari camp at Gunlom for the next two nights. Includes: Lunch and Dinner, exclusive safari camping accommodation.
TUE from Kakadu to Kakadu
This morning we travel to Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge), a pristine wilderness area with limited access. Koolpin Creek flows down several hundred feet through a series of waterfalls and spectacular pools often called the Giant's Staircase. You'll have the entire day to explore this area, photograph its grandeur, swim in the crystal clear pools or just relax on the sandy banks of the creek. Late afternoon we return to our permanent safari camp at Gunlom. Please note a moderate level of fitness is required to do the full day walk. Includes: all meals, exclusive safari camping accommodation
WED from Kakadu to Darwin
We travel northwards to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), on the Arnhem Escarpment, where we can swim and explore the monsoon rainforest. After lunch we visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre, an impressive building built in the shape of the local Pig- Nosed Turtle. From here we travel to Patonga, where we meet Mandy Muir, a Traditional Murumburr woman, who will lead us on an informative walk, explaining the European and Aboriginal history of the area. Afterwards there an opportunity to learn how to use the local pandanus to leave baskets mats and make jewellery, and to discuss the local aboriginal culture. Tonight we stay at our permanent safari camp at Mardugal. Includes: all meals, exclusive safari camping accommodation
THU from Kakadu
Today we travel by 4WD track to Jim Jim and Twin Falls. At Jim Jim we have the opportunity to view the tallest cascade in the Territory. When visiting Twin Falls, we travel by shuttle boat through the gorge and then by foot to the base of the falls. We return in the late afternoon to our permanent safari camp at Mardugal. Includes: all meals, exclusive safari camping accommodation
FRI from Kakadu to Darwin
At dawn, we enjoy a sunrise cruise on the world renowned Yellow Water wetlands. Here you will have a chance to view the abundant birdlife and perhaps, the awesome saltwater crocodile. We then head north across the Jabiluka floodplains to Ubirr to view Aboriginal rock art spanning 23,000 years of seasonal occupation. Our walk around the galleries culminates with a short climb to the highest point in the area. The view from the top of the rock across the floodplains in the late afternoon is magnificent. We arrive in Darwin late afternoon. Includes: breakfast, lunch & Yellow Wetlands Cruise.

Jatbula Trail
Our newest trek, the Jatbula Trail is a truly extraordinary experience. The stone country, or Arnhem Land escarpment, is one of the most exceptional wilderness areas in Australia. The Jatbula Trail in the Nitmilik National Park features magnificent waterfalls tumbling from high quartzite cliffs, shady monsoon forests line the creeks and stunning Jawoyn Aboriginal rock art adorns the caves and overhangs. The tropical equivalent of Tasmania's Overland Track, this full pack bushwalk traverses the heart of the country. We trek during the cooler months to ensure the best experience of this tropical environment. The Jatbula Trail winds along the edge of the escarpment from Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) to Edith Falls (Leliyn), where you will be totally immersed in this stunning wilderness.

Brief Itinerary
DAY 1 Depart Darwin, drive to Katherine Gorge, trek to Northern Rockhole (11km)
DAY 2 To Crystal Falls (12km)
DAY 3 Trek to the Amphitheater and on to 17 Mile Falls (11km)
DAY 4 Trek to Sandy Camp Pool (16km) DAY 5 Trek to Sweetwater Pool (10km)
DAY 6 Trek to Edith Falls and drive to Darwin where trip concludes

Itinerary
DAY 1
We pick you up from your Darwin accommodation between 6:00 and 6:30am, before heading south on the Stuart Highway to Katherine, the starting point to our walk at Katherine Gorge. After lunch, we cross the Katherine River and begin our trek into the stone country. The Northern Rockhole offers a fantastic swimming spot. We then trek to our evening campsite at Biddlecombe Cascades with its clear flowing stream.
Walk approx 8kms
Meals: L, D

DAY 2
Trek to Crystal Falls
Today's trek takes us through more of the rugged stone country. This includes some interesting Jawoyn Aboriginal rock art sites hidden in the many rocky outcrops and overhangs. The cascades of jatbula trail Bushwalking between waterfalls and swimming holes along the edge of the Arnhem
Land escarpment Crystal Falls are an inviting backdrop to our campsite. We are now deep in to the wilderness of the Arnhemland Escarpment and Stone Country which extends almost 1000 kilometres through theheart of the Top End.
Walk approx 10.5kms
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 3
Trek to the Amphitheatre then on to 17 Mile Falls
A good mornings trek brings us to the Amphitheatre, an aptly named natural pocket in the
escarpment. The shade of the cliffs encourages a rich monsoonal rain forest and the rock shelters exhibit the art of the Jawoyn Traditional Owners. Trekking along the edge of the escarpment with its stunning views, we reach our camp and the spectacular 17 Mile falls. The rock pools above the falls offer great swimming in the spring fed clear streams.
Walk approx 9.5kms
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 4
Trek to Sandy Camp Pool A bigger day of trekking takes us to the Edith River as it flows across the stone country. We will follow the course of the river with its gentle gradients to our evening campsite at Sandy Camp Pool.
Walk approx 16kms
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 5
Trek to Sweetwater Pool
We continue following the Edith River with its Paperbark Forests, cascades and water holes arriving at Sweetwater Pool by lunch. After lunch the rest of the afternoon is at leisure to relax and swim, soaking up the last moments in this wonderful country. We spend the night at Sweetwater Pool Camp.
Walk approx 10.5kms
Meals: B, L, D

DAY 6
Trek to Leilyn, Drive to Darwin A short trek brings us to the end of the trail and this outstanding trek at Leilyn (Edith Falls). There is the opportunity for one last swim in the stunning broad plunge pool before lunch and heading back
to Darwin. We aim to arrive back in Darwin by 5:30pm.
Walk approx 4.3kms
Meals: B, L
© 2009 Australian World Expeditions Pty Limited - EP Sep 2009