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The Ultimate Top End Road Trip: Darwin and Beyond
12 Days | 874 km | Darwin – Kakadu National Park – Katherine – Litchfield National Park and much more; the Ultimate Top End Road Trip!
Exploring the Top End of Australia is a traveller’s dream. Iconic landscapes and natural treasures all wrapped up into one road trip you will never forget. This Top End road trip itinerary takes you on a loop from the capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin, through both Kakadu and Litchfield National parks, the Katherine Gorge and much more. These are 12 jam-packed days that you will never forget, and it is seriously a trip you will want to do again and again as it is just that special. However, the itinerary is not all you get in the post. Learn all about what you must bring and everything you need to know for your ultimate Top End road trip!
Best time to make your Top End Road Trip:
The best time to make this road trip would be during the dry season, from May to October. The dry season is less humid and hot than the wet season, and usually, all the major attractions will be open. The wet season, while still a beautiful time to visit, is more challenging to travel in due to road and site closures due to flooding. Furthermore, the weather is much hotter and more humid, making it always challenging to be outside.
Why you need to make a Top End road trip:
Exploring the Top End of Australia is a one-of-a-kind trip that every traveller needs to do. The iconic landscapes of the outback are no better highlighted than through a road trip, and this Top End loop road trip, takes you to some of the most incredible places. Some of the highlights along the way include the jumping crocodiles on the Adelaide River, ancient rock art in Kakadu National Park, the stunning Katherine Gorge and lush swimming holes in the Litchfield National Park. From the capital of the Northern Territory to a World Heritage-listed National Park and everything in between, this is a trip you will never forget.
What to bring on a Top End road trip:
Here is the essential starter list you need to bring on your Top End road trip:
- Lightweight clothing
- Good walking shoes
- sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Swimmers
- lightweight towel
- Swimming noodles (optional – recommended for Litchfield National Park)
- Gas cooking stoves – many campgrounds do not allow campfires.
- Water cans – take plenty of water with you. The best way to do this is to buy some jerry cans from Bunnings and fill them before you go.
- Toilet paper – some remote campsites run out of toilet paper quickly, so best to take some.
- Insect repellent
- Mosquito coils
- Portable chargers/power banks
- Head torch or headlamp
- A small amount of cash, as some campsites only take cash
- Offline maps for when you go out of range
How much does a Top End road trip cost?
Be prepared to spend some money, but if you budget correctly, it is less expensive than you think. Car or van rental will likely be your highest cost if you do not have a vehicle, so it is best to book well in advance for the best prices.
The second significant cost will be accommodation if you are not always camping. We recommend camping as much as you can in either campsites or campgrounds. This is the best way to sleep cheap, so to speak, especially if you find some excellent free campgrounds along the way. You can find some fantastic campgrounds with all the necessary facilities, including a kitchen, showers and toilets, for a third of the price of staying in more contained accommodation. Staying in cabins, motels, or similar will quickly eat away at your budget, so if you have the gear, camping is the best way to do it.
Food is another cost that you cannot avoid. Eating out will quickly destroy your bank account, so having a meal plan and cooking for yourself is the best way. Plan your lunches and dinner, and don’t over-cater so you don’t waste anything. Moreover, the simpler the dish, the cheaper it will be.
Lastly, fuel. Fuel will be expensive as you cover many kilometres, which is unavoidable on this Top End road trip. We found that the best way to save more on fuel is by checking out prices nearby. The easiest way to do this is by putting “fuel station” into Google Maps (or similar apps); most of the time, the current prices will appear. Furthermore, as a general rule, ensure you will up before leaving the bigger towns, as the more rural you are, the more expensive it will get.
Things to know before going on your Top End road trip:
- Snakes. Australia is home to some of the most venomous snakes in the world. If you see a snake on your Top End road trip, do not approach it. If you are bitten by one, keep that part of your body below your heart (i.e., do not put a bitten leg above your head), stay calm and call for help.
- Never leave your car. If your car or vehicle brakes down, do not leave it. The desert can be deceiving, so what you think may only be a short walk away could kill you. Staying in your car is the best and safest thing to do, and wait for help. Always carry emergency water and food in case this happens.
- Water. Ensure you have plenty of water and water storage containers (e.g. jerry cans) to take with you. Water can be scarce in the National Parks, so it is best to bring your own.
- Rubbish and wildlife. The attraction of dingos and other wildlife can be caused by not disposing of your garbage or food waste. Ensure you keep your food and rubbish in air-tight containers or bags, and take your trash with you to dispose of it thoughtfully.
- Permits for national parks. This road trip includes Kakadu National Park, which requires an entry permit. Make sure you purchase it before you go. For more information, see the Kakadu National Park guide here.
More things to know:
- Be Croc-Wise. Saltwater (estuarine) crocodiles are aggressive and dangerous. People have been attacked and killed in the Northern Territory and National Parks. Be vigilant and obey all signage. Never walk close to the water’s edge, and never swim unless signage says it is safe to swim.
- If you are boating, never stick your arm or any part of your body out of the boat over the water. While you cannot always see them, crocodiles can lurk under the water, jump out at any moment, and grab you. Be especially careful putting boats in the water, and do not step into the water.
- You cannot touch rock art. Please stay behind the barriers to protect this incredible cultural heritage.
- Obey all park signs and warning signs. They are there to protect you. Furthermore, do not enter any areas where gates are locked.
- Camp only on designated campgrounds.
- Sunrise Sunset clause. Make sure to check your hire vehicles contract for the sunrise sunset clause. Companies put this into the contract, making any insurance null and void after dark. Therefore, if the clause is in place, if you have an accident after dark, you will not be covered by insurance, thus making you liable for all costs regardless of how much insurance you took out.
- Make sure you get offline maps. Some sections of this Top End road trip will be offline, so it is best to have the maps handy if you lose your way.
- Alcohol. Please be aware that alcohol is prohibited in some parts of the Northern Territory, including National Parks. Please ensure you check that you can drink alcohol in your campground, as they can have different rules.
Top End road trip Itinerary:
Day 1-2: Darwin:
Two days in Darwin will get you around many popular tourist attractions. However, depending on what days you are in, Darwin can determine and change this itinerary. Everyone will want something different from their Darwin experience, so planning your time here is very flexible. We recommend walking around the city along the esplanade to the waterfront in the morning as a great way to wake up, and then from there, everything is up to you! Enjoy the weather at the waterfront precinct, get an adrenaline rush in the Cage of Death or do everything.
To help plan your time in Darwin, make sure you read the complete guide to Darwin here.
Day 3 Darwin to Kakadu:
Today is all about driving to and into Kakadu National Park. Leave Darwin nice and early to get the most out of your travel day. We recommend leaving by around 10 am if you plan to stop along the way. By going at this time, you will be at your campsite (or accommodation) well before dusk, giving you plenty of time to explore.
*Tip: Make sure you put your accommodation/campground into maps, as just putting in Kakadu National Park will take you to the park’s border.
Things to stop and see on your drive into the park from Darwin:
Humpty Doo – The Boxing Crocodile:
340 Arbhem Highway, Humpty Doo NT 0836.
Located just after the turn-off onto the Arnhem Highway, The Boxing Crocodile is a great first stop to stretch your legs and get some photos. Situated next to a service station, it is also an excellent spot to fill the tank and stop at the toilet.
Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve:
Fogg Dam Road, Humpty Doo, NT, 0836.
One of the few wetland systems accessible all year, the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve is about 70km into the journey from Darwin. The dry season is the best time to view the incredible bird life. Two boardwalks in the wetland area let you further explore its beauty. Shaded viewing platforms are also on these boardwalks, so remember your camera! Like Kakadu, the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve continues to be enriched by the strong connection with the traditional owners – the Wulna People.
Wetland View Top Centre:
1599 Arnhem Highway, Lambells Lagoon NT 0836
The Wetlands View Top Centre is open daily from 8 am to 5:30 pm and is another great spot for views of the wetland regions. Further, it is also a great spot to stop for a snack, with a cafe and gift shop also included. The Wetland View Top Centre is also wheelchair friendly/accessible.
Jumping Crocodile Cruises on the Adelaide River:
Not to be confused with the township next to the Litchfield National Park, the Adelaide River is home to the infamous Jumping Crocodile Cruises! Watch these massive saltwater crocs jump vertically from the safety of one of the cruise boats. An experience that everyone will enjoy and never forget, this is an adrenaline show and educational, as the guides tell you a little about each crocodile. Operators include:
Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise
Adelaide River Queen Jumping Crocodile Cruises.
Wetland safari/boating/air boating cruises:
Corroboree Billabong
If you love the wetlands, why not take a wetlands cruise on your way into Kakadu National Park? Choose from a safari experience or even an air boating cruise. Operators include:
Wildlands Wetlands Safari Cruises
Corroboree Tavern:
The Corroboree Tavern is a classic Northern Territory pub halfway between Darwin and Kakadu National Park. Stop for a beer and a meal before heading into the park. If the travel makes you weary, you can even stop and stay at their campgrounds or book a cabin.
The Kakadu National Park Sign:
On the border of the Kakadu National Park is the official welcome sign, a must-do last stop on the way into the park. There are usually some other travellers around, so make sure to offer to take their photo, and they will take one for you too! An excellent place for a picture and a short walk, there are also toilet facilities and a car park to stop and rest for a while.
Day 4-6 Kakadu :
This Top End road trip guide gives you three full days in the Kakadu National Park to maximise your stay. We recommend splitting the park into three sections so you don’t have to drive excessively. Below we have outlined what you can do with these days, but for more in-depth information and planning, make sure you read our Discover the Wild Beauty of Kakadu: The Ultimate Guide.
Day 1:
Day 1 is all about the upper northern section of the park. Top sights in this park section include the incredible Ubirr rock art, Cahills Crossing and the border store. Take your time at each place, but ensure you spend much time at Ubirr.
Day 2:
Day two is all around central Kakadu, including the main town of Kakadu National Park, Jabiru. Visit the Bowali Visitors Centre and the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn more about the park and its significant cultural heritage. Other incredible things to see in this park area are the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) region and Nanguluwurr Gallery, Yellow Water Cruises on the Yellow Water Billabong and the Cooinda Lodge. We recommend staying at the lodge if you want a great location!
Day 3:
Ah, the final full day in Kakadu. Take the morning slow, depending on what you have planned. If you have a 4WD vehicle, this day could be hectic! Some tremendous short hikes are ready for you to conquer, including the Bukbukluk Lookout walk and Gubgurul Lookout. If you love the hike, make sure you do some of the Yurmikmik Walks! If you travel in a 4WD, you cannot miss the incredible and world-renowned Jim Jim and Twin Falls. However, If you do not have a 4WD, look into day tours from Jabiru to the falls and add an extra day if you want to!
For more in-depth information about Kakadu National Park and what is on offer, please click the link below to the Ultimate Guide of Kakadu National Park.
Day 7 Kakadu to Katherine:
Day 7 is a slow travel day, so take your time. If you have missed anything in the park, this is the time to catch up or have a leisurely morning organising and cleaning your vehicle. Yes, it is best to plan this time, as I can assure you it will be an absolute mess by now! Slowly start your journey towards Katherine, stopping at any more sites along the way. Keep in mind the travel time without stopping from Jabiru is around 3 hours. It is best to fill up your fuel tank in the park at either Jabiru or the Cooinda Lodge. Pine Creek will be the next place to get fuel on the way to Katherine.
Some stops along the way to Katherine are worth looking at, including the historic town of Pine Creek and Leliyn (Edith Falls). However, we have planned for the falls to be later on the way to Litchfield National Park, but you can do it when it best suits you.
Furthermore, suppose you arrive in Katherine very early. In that case, you can drive a little longer, about an hour south, and check out the incredible Mataranka and Bitter Springs in Elsey National Park. If you don’t feel like driving anymore, head to the Katherine Hot Springs for a refreshing dip before heading to your accommodation to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s big day!
Day 8 Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and hot springs:
The Nitmiluk Gorge, also known as the Katherine Gorge, is a highlight of this Top End road trip. There are so many ways to see the gorge that you could spend a week here alone. While it is a hiker’s paradise, you can also enjoy the gorge from above on a boat or in a canoe. We recommend starting the morning before leaving Katherine with a dip at the Hot Springs before your long day at the gorge.
Please see the posts below for everything you need to know about Katherine, the Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and the Hot Springs!
Day 9 Katherine to Litchfield via Edith Falls (Leliyn):
Today is another long travel day. Two and a half hours on the road will take you from Katherine to Litchfield National Park, but we highly recommend making some great stops on the way.
Edith Falls (Leliyn):
Located in the northern section of the Nitmiluk National Park, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a great swimming hole and campground worth visiting. 60km north of Katherine on the Stuart Highway, we recommend visiting either on your way to or from Katherine. The Leliyn Loop Walk is a must-do while at the falls, as it takes you to some fantastic lookouts and the upper and middle pools. The Edith Falls Plunge Pool can be very deep in places, so we recommend taking a pool noddle per person if you want to lay and relax in the water.
Adelaide River Inn and Resort:
The Adelaide River Inn is the perfect spot to stop for lunch or a quick drink. An old country-style pub with plenty of charisma, it is home to the infamous “Charlie”, the buffalo from the Crocodile Dundee Movie. Moreover, you can stock up on some beers at the bottle shop.
Adelaide River War Cemetery:
Adelaide River is steeped in WWII history. The War Memorial and Cemetery are full of information about Australia’s involvement in the war and the effects of the Darwin bombing. A peaceful site for reflection.
Day 10-11 Litchfield National Park:
This Top End guide recommends at least two days and one night in the Litchfield National Park but has allowed two nights to cover all the bases. After arriving yesterday evening, you can start the day early. Being a loop track, the park is easy to navigate and get around. If you have a 4WD, add some extra sites to the usual tourist sites as you head down the Reynolds Tracks.
Check out our ultimate guide here for everything you need to know about Litchfield National Park.
Day 12 Litchfield to Darwin:
The final day! Take today easy, don’t rush. If you have missed anything in Litchfield National Park or want to see something again, this is the perfect time to do it again. It is just over an hour’s drive from Litchfield National Park to Darwin, so we recommend some additional sites below if you are in no rush to return.
Berry Springs Nature Park:
A great little break up to the drive, the Berry Spring Nature Park is one of the most beautiful forgotten parks in the Northern Territory. Swim in the gorgeous springs to cool off before having a picnic under the shady trees. If you want to stretch your legs, there are also some great walks around the park!
If you missed the Humpty Doo Boxing Crocodile on the way to Kakadu National Park, this is also a great time to stop and get a photo!
We hope you enjoyed this Top End road trip guide! Please read through the affiliated posts connected to each day to ensure you get the most out of your trip! You will never forget this trip, so make sure you do it properly. If you have any questions, please contact us through the contact page or social media. Happy exploring!
Find everything you need to know in these location-specific posts:
Darwin: The Complete Travel Guide to exploring the Capital of Australia’s Top End
Darwin is the gateway to the incredible Northern Territory - the Top End. Find out
Discover the Wild Beauty of Kakadu: The Ultimate Guide
Kakadu National Park is a dual World Heritage Listed National Park, and this is everything
The ultimate travel guide to exploring the Litchfield National Park.
The Litchfield National Park is a must-visit destination in Australia's Top End. With gorgeous swimming
The ultimate guide to visiting the Nitmiluk/Katherine Gorge
The Nitmiluk/Katherine Gorge is a must-visit destination in the Northern Territory! Find out everything you
The Complete Travel Guide to Visiting Katherine in the Northern Territory
This complete travel guide to travelling to Katherine in the Northern Territory is the perfect
The complete guide to camping and accommodation in Litchfield National Park
Camping in the Litchfield National Park is incredible. With so much to know, make sure
A Guide to the Best Swimming Holes in Litchfield National Park.
Swimming in the Litchfield National Park is one of the main attractions, so make sure
Hiking in Nitmiluk National Park – The best Katherine Gorge Walks!
The Best Katherine Gorge Walks - the most idyllic way to explore one of Australia's
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