5 Day 4WD Kakadu Koolpin Safari

About this tour

Five days traversing Kakadu National Park and the remote Koolpin Gorge in a 4WD, this safari combines ancient rock art sites with swims in secluded waterholes. Based in the Northern Territory, you'll drive to Jim Jim Falls, explore permit-only Koolpin Gorge, and cruise Yellow Waters at dusk while staying in safari camps. The journey connects you with significant Indigenous sites and the region's wildlife, with guides interpreting the landscape's cultural and natural layers throughout.

Highlights

• Ubirr rock art with views across Nardab floodplains into Arnhem Land
• 4WD access to Jim Jim Falls and multiple swimming gorges
• Permit-restricted Koolpin Gorge hike and plunge pool swim
• Sunset cruise on Yellow Waters spotting wildlife and crocodiles
• Warradjan Cultural Centre for Indigenous heritage context
• Camp under stars in safari tents with full facilities
• Maguk and Gunlom Falls swimming stops through paperbark forest

What to expect

Expect a physically demanding journey. Daily 4WD drives navigate rough tracks to waterfalls and gorges, with moderate hikes through scrub and rock terrain to reach swimming holes. You'll camp at fixed safari sites with permanent tents, shared facilities, and screened dining areas. Mornings start early to beat heat; afternoons often involve water-based activities. The sunset cruise on Yellow Waters is the tour's centrepiece—a chance to spot magpie geese, brolgas, and saltwater crocodiles. Guides provide running commentary on both Indigenous culture and natural ecology. Nights are warm and occasionally noisy with wildlife.

Good to know

Hire a sleeping bag at booking ($20) if you don't have one. High fitness required; not suitable for spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health. Minimum age 12. Alcohol isn't included but available to buy. Darwin pickups included. Bring sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, and a torch. Toilets and showers at each camp.