We will supply you with maps and an itinerary. These together provide you with a guide for where to go and what to do. Self driving gives you the freedom to tailor your trip to your own needs and interests. You are not part of a group so you are able to stop to take in breathtaking views, spend time bird-watching or bush walking and taking photographs depending on your personal interests. We supply you with dinner each night, breakfast in the morning and admission to the cruises on Katherine Gorge and Yellow Water.

Due to hire car restrictions, vehicles are not allowed to be driven into Jim Jim and Twin Falls. We offer a full day tour with Kakadu Gorge and Waterfall Tours which will take you into these areas. We have included the cost of this tour in the self-drive itineraries that spend two nights at our Mardugal camp. This day tour is optional so if you do not wish to partake, please let us know when booking and we can give you a reduced rate. Kakadu Gorge and Waterfall Tours are 100% Aboriginal owned and operate out of Cooinda. If you wish to view their website click here.

Each night, except while in Katherine, will be spent at Odyssey Tours & Safaris permanent Safari Camps. Tents are locally built and designed for our tropical climate. The walls are made of canvas and the windows are of mesh, floors are wooden and raised off the floor. There are two single beds in each tent which are made up with linen. All camps except for Minjungari in Litchfield are located in controlled camp areas which contain hot showers and flushing toilets. Minjungari camp is in a remote location and has solar bush showers and composting toilets. Please note that seasonal conditions may delay the opening of our camps. In this case alternative accommodation will be booked and paid for by Odyssey Tours and Safaris.

For further information on availability, bookings and general enquiries Contact Us

Litchfield and Kakadu 4LGM:

One night at Litchfield's Minjungari Camp and one night at each of our Kakadu Camps, Gunlom and Mardugal. Including a 2 hour Yellow Water Wetland cruise.

Odyssey Tours and Safaris
Itinerary 4 Day Self Drive – Litchfield & Kakadu
Tour Code: 4LGM
Departs: May – November, 2008

Litchfield National Park is just 2 hours drive south of Darwin. It features beautiful perennial waterfalls and associated monsoon rainforests. It is the ideal place for to spend time exploring the many beautiful waterfalls, pioneering history and the natural wonders like the magnetic termite mounds. The Township of Katherine is 320km South of Darwin.

World heritage listed Kakadu National Park covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, our two safari camp, Mardugal in the north and Gunlom in the south safari camps are perfectly placed to avoid back tracking and to make the most of the cultural and ecology areas of the National Park. After a days touring enjoy a comfortable relaxed night around the campfire with like minded spirited travellers. All Kakadu National Park camps are equipped with locally designed Safari Tents, which are perfect for our tropical climate. The walls are made of canvas and all have insect screening, creating a comfortable spacious cool design. Tents have single beds, all linen is supplied. Your Camp Host will prepare a delicious evening meals and hearty breakfast for the kitchen and open fire. A large 4WD vehicle is required to drive the Sandy Creek and the southern area of Litchfield National Park.

Day 1
Departing Darwin you have a choice of two entries in to Litchfield National Park, either via the North along Cox Peninsula Road or down the Stuart Highway via Batchelor, please refer to your running sheet and map. Your pack will have a Top End Holiday Guide which has maps of the area. Swim in the crystal clear waterfalls and springs. Visit the Magnetic Termite mounds (found only in this region). After a day of exploring, meet your Odyssey Host at 4pm. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 2
After breakfast, you set off on day two of your adventure, exit is via Batchelor please refer to your running sheet and map. Then continue south, when you arrival at Pine Creek, turn northwards and head into the spectacular stone country of Southern Kakadu National Park. In the late afternoon you will arrive at Gunlom Falls. The Gunlom road has 40km of unsealed road (please advise your rental company). The camp is situated within walking distance to the edge of the beautiful plunge pool.
Check-in at Gunlom Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 3
You can take an early morning hike to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the surrounding Arnhemland escarpment country or enjoy a early morning swim in the plunge pool at the bases of the falls, before continuing your journey to the beautiful Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where you have the chance for a refreshing swim after a short trek through the surrounding monsoon rainforest. Travel north to tonight’s Safari Camp at the Mardugal Billabong. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included Check-in at Mardugal Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm

Day 4
Checkout Mardugal Camp at 6:20am Enjoy the sunrise Yellow Water wetlands cruise at 6:45am. The 2hr cruise gives you the opportunity to see the teeming bird life and perhaps, the awesome saltwater crocodile. Departs from the Boat Cruise area at 6:45am. After the cruise, travel to Cooinda for a continental breakfast in Mimi’s restaurant. Later you can visit Burrungui (Nourlangie Rock), a large sandstone outlier towering more than 200 metres above the surrounding area. Then travel north to Ubirr, which offers a fantastic view over the wet season flood plains.
2 hour Yellow Water cruise and continental breakfast at Cooinda included.

Litchfield and Kakadu 5LLGM:

Two nights at Litchfield's Minjungari Camp and one night in each of our Kakadu camps Gunlom and Margugal. Including 2 hour Yellow Water cruise.

Odyssey Tours and Safaris
Itinerary 5 Day Self Drive – Litchfield & Kakadu
Tour Code: 5LLGM
Departs: May – November, 2008

Litchfield National Park is just 2 hours drive south of Darwin. It features beautiful perennial waterfalls and associated monsoon rainforests. It is the ideal place for to spend time exploring the many beautiful waterfalls, pioneering history and the natural wonders like the magnetic termite mounds. The Township of Katherine is 320km South of Darwin.

World heritage listed Kakadu National Park covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, our two safari camp, Mardugal in the north and Gunlom in the south safari camps are perfectly placed to avoid back tracking and to make the most of the cultural and ecology areas of the National Park. After a days touring enjoy a comfortable relaxed night around the campfire with like minded spirited travellers. All Kakadu National Park camps are equipped with locally designed Safari Tents, which are perfect for our tropical climate. The walls are made of canvas and all have insect screening, creating a comfortable spacious cool design. Tents have single beds, all linen is supplied. Your Camp Host will prepare a delicious evening meals and hearty breakfast for the kitchen and open fire. A large 4WD vehicle is required to drive the Sandy Creek and the southern area of Litchfield National Park.

Day 1
Departing Darwin you have a choice of two entries in to Litchfield National Park, either via the North along Cox Peninsula Road or down the Stuart Highway via Batchelor, please refer to your running sheet and map. Your pack will have a Top End Holiday Guide which has maps of the area. Swim in the crystal clear waterfalls and springs. Visit the Magnetic Termite mounds (found only in this region). After a day of exploring, meet your Odyssey Host at 4pm. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 2
Depart Minjungari Camp at 9:00am. Travel south to Surprise Creek Falls and Sandy Creek Falls. Spend the day swimming and exploring this area. A light picnic lunch will be supplied. Return to Minjungari at 4:30pm at the main gate

Day 3
Checkout Minjungari Safari Camp at 9:00am After breakfast, you set off on day two of your adventure, again you have a choice of two exits south along the Litchfield plains across the Reynolds River or via Batchelor please refer to your running sheet and map. Then continue south, when you arrive at Pine Creek, turn northwards and head into the spectacular stone country of Southern Kakadu National Park. In the late afternoon you will arrive at Gunlom Falls. The Gunlom road has 40km of unsealed road (please advise your rental company). The camp is situated within walking distance to the edge of the beautiful plunge pool.
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Check-in time: 5:00pm – 5:30pm

Day 4
Checkout Gunlom Camp at 9:00am You can take an early morning hike to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the surrounding Arnhemland escarpment country or enjoy a early morning swim in the plunge pool at the bases of the falls, before continuing your journey to the beautiful Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where you have the chance for a refreshing swim after a short trek through the surrounding monsoon rainforest. Travel north to tonight’s Safari Camp at the Mardugal Billabong.
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast Pack, Yellow Water cruise. Check-in 5:00pm – 5:30pm

Litchfield and Kakadu 5LGMM:

One night at Minjungari, one night at Gunlom and two nights at Mardugal. Includes 2 hour Yellow Water cruise and a full day Jim Jim and Twin Falls Tour.

Odyssey Tours and Safaris
Itinerary 5 Day Self Drive – Litchfield & Kakadu
Tour Code: 5LGMM
Departs: May – November, 2008

Litchfield National Park is just 2 hours drive south of Darwin. It features beautiful perennial waterfalls and associated monsoon rainforests. It is the ideal place for to spend time exploring the many beautiful waterfalls, pioneering history and the natural wonders like the magnetic termite mounds. The Township of Katherine is 320km South of Darwin.

World heritage listed Kakadu National Park covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, our two safari camp, Mardugal in the north and Gunlom in the south safari camps are perfectly placed to avoid back tracking and to make the most of the cultural and ecology areas of the National Park. After a days touring enjoy a comfortable relaxed night around the campfire with like minded spirited travellers. All Kakadu National Park camps are equipped with locally designed Safari Tents, which are perfect for our tropical climate. The walls are made of canvas and all have insect screening, creating a comfortable spacious cool design. Tents have single beds, all linen is supplied. Your Camp Host will prepare a delicious evening meals and hearty breakfast for the kitchen and open fire. A large 4WD vehicle is required to drive the Sandy Creek and the southern area of Litchfield National Park.

Day 1
Departing Darwin you have a choice of two entries in to Litchfield National Park, either via the North along Cox Peninsula Road or down the Stuart Highway via Batchelor, please refer to your running sheet and map. Your pack will have a Top End Holiday Guide which has maps of the area. Swim in the crystal clear waterfalls and springs. Visit the Magnetic Termite mounds (found only in this region). After a day of exploring, meet your Odyssey Host at 4pm. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 2
After breakfast, you set off on day two of your adventure, exit is via Batchelor please refer to your running sheet and map. Then continue south, when you arrival at Pine Creek, turn northwards and head into the spectacular stone country of Southern Kakadu National Park. In the late afternoon you will arrive at Gunlom Falls. The Gunlom road has 40km of unsealed road (please advise your rental company). The camp is situated within walking distance to the edge of the beautiful plunge pool.
Check-in at Gunlom Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 3
You can take an early morning hike to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the surrounding Arnhemland escarpment country or enjoy a early morning swim in the plunge pool at the bases of the falls, before continuing your journey to the beautiful Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where you have the chance for a refreshing swim after a short trek through the surrounding monsoon rainforest. Travel north to tonight’s Safari Camp at the Mardugal Billabong. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included Check-in at Mardugal Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm

Day 4
Drive to Cooinda to meet your transfer to Jim Jim and Twin Falls (lunch included). Returning to Mardugal Camp in the late afternoon.
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast and full day Jim Jim and Twin Falls day tour included

Day 5
Checkout Mardugal Camp at 6:20am Enjoy the sunrise Yellow Water wetlands cruise at 6:45am. The 2hr cruise gives you the opportunity to see the teeming bird life and perhaps, the awesome saltwater crocodile. Departs from the Boat Cruise area at 6:45am. After the cruise, travel to Cooinda for a continental breakfast in Mimi’s restaurant. Later you can visit Burrungui (Nourlangie Rock), a large sandstone outlier towering more than 200 metres above the surrounding area. Then travel north to Ubirr, which offers a fantastic view over the wet season flood plains.
2 hour Yellow Water cruise

Litchfield, Katherine and Kakadu 5LKGM:

One night at Minjungari, one night at Knott's Crossing Resort Safari cabins in Katherine, and one night in each of our Kakadu camps, Gunlom and Mardugal. Includes 2 hour Katherine Gorge cruise and 2 hour Yellow Water cruise.

Odyssey Tours and Safaris
Itinerary 5 Day Self Drive – Litchfield, Katherine & Kakadu
Tour Code: 5LKGM
Departs: May – November, 2008

Litchfield National Park is just 2 hours drive south of Darwin. It features beautiful perennial waterfalls and associated monsoon rainforests. It is the ideal place for to spend time exploring the many beautiful waterfalls, pioneering history and the natural wonders like the magnetic termite mounds. The Township of Katherine is 320km South of Darwin. The Katherine region is rich in experiences, like Mataranka Hot Spring or Edith Falls. 35km from Katherine is Nitmiluk National Park, home to the magnificent Katherine Gorge. World heritage listed Kakadu National Park covers almost 20,000 square kilometres, our two safari camp, Mardugal in the north and Gunlom in the south safari camps are perfectly placed to avoid back tracking and to make the most of the cultural and ecology areas of the National Park. After a days touring enjoy a comfortable relaxed night around the campfire with like minded spirited travellers. All Kakadu National Park camps are equipped with locally designed Safari Tents, which are perfect for our tropical climate. The walls are made of canvas and all have insect screening, creating a comfortable spacious cool design. Tents have single beds, all linen is supplied. Your Camp Host will prepare a delicious evening meals and hearty breakfast for the kitchen and open fire. A large 4WD vehicle is required to drive the Sandy Creek and the southern area of Litchfield National Park.

Day 1
Departing Darwin you have a choice of two entries in to Litchfield National Park, either via the North along Cox Peninsula Road or down the Stuart Highway via Batchelor, please refer to your running sheet and map. Your pack will have a Top End Holiday Guide which has maps of the area. Swim in the crystal clear waterfalls and springs. Visit the Magnetic Termite mounds (found only in this region). After a day of exploring, meet your Odyssey Host at 4pm. Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 2
After breakfast, you set off on day two of your adventure, exit is via Batchelor please refer to your running sheet and map. Between Pine Creek and Katherine Township you may like to visit Edith Falls. Overnight accommodation is at Knott’s Crossing Resort (Safari Cabin with shared Facitilits) which is located in the Township of Katherine on the Gorge Road.
Check in is after 2pm and check out is at 10am Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 3
At 9am enjoy a two hour cruise of the famous Katherine Gorge (please allow time to travel the 35km to the gorge). Then continue north, when you arrive at Pine Creek, turn northwards and head into the spectacular stone country of Southern Kakadu National Park. In the late afternoon you will arrive at Gunlom Falls. The Gunlom road has 40km of unsealed road (please advise your rental company). The camp is situated within walking distance to the edge of the beautiful plunge pool.
Check-in at Gunlom Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm 2 hour Katherine Gorge Cruise, Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included.

Day 4
Checkout Gunlom Camp at 9:00am You can take an early morning hike to the top of the falls for spectacular views of the surrounding Arnhemland escarpment country or enjoy a early morning swim in the plunge pool at the bases of the falls, before continuing your journey to the beautiful Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where you have the chance for a refreshing swim after a short trek through the surrounding monsoon rainforest. Travel north to tonight’s Safari Camp at the Mardugal Billabong.
Check-in at Mardugal Safari Camp is at 5:00pm – 5:30pm Dinner, Bed and Breakfast included

Day 5
Checkout Mardugal Camp at 6:20am Enjoy the sunrise Yellow Water wetlands cruise at 6:45am. The 2hr cruise gives you the opportunity to see the teeming bird life and perhaps, the awesome saltwater crocodile. Departs from the Boat Cruise area at 6:45am. After the cruise, travel to Cooinda for a continental breakfast in Mimi’s restaurant. Later you can visit Burrungui (Nourlangie Rock), a large sandstone outlier towering more than 200 metres above the surrounding area. Then travel north to Ubirr, which offers a fantastic view over the wet season flood plains.
2 hour Yellow Water cruise and continental breakfast at Cooinda included.

TRIP NOTES -
Self Drive Litchfield, Nitmiluk & Kakadu National Parks

TOURING
The following information will help you better prepare for your selfdrive tour of the “Top End”. Please read it carefully and if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

BOOKING FORM
If you have not already completed this form please contact your agent or us as soon as possible. We need it to enable us to know of any special dietary requirements or medical conditions you have that we should be aware of.

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK
Litchfield National Park is located approximately 150 kilometres south of Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory of Australia, and the main commercial centre for the region. There is a small township, Batchelor, about 40 km east of the park. The park covers an area of 146,000 hectares. Lying between the latitudes 12 degrees south to 13 degrees south it is subject to the North West monsoon, which brings the majority of the rainfall in the months from December to March. The average daily maximum temperature varies from 31 degrees Celsius in July to around 35 C in the hotter months, October/December. Overnight minimums are around 15 C in July and 24 C in the hotter months. The area was once inhabited by the Werat, Kungarakanj, Maranugu and Warai people who are the traditional owners of the area. Odyssey’s safari camp, Minjungari (meaning Blue Water Lily) is located in a remote part of the park near the Reynolds River. Litchfield Park is a perfect year round destination, however we are unable to access overnight accommodation at Minjungari Camp once the monsoon flooding sets in - usually December to April.

KATHERINE
Katherine is the 3rd largest town in the NT and is famous for the beautiful Nitmiluk Gorges located where the Katherine River cuts through the sandstone escarpment upstream from the town. The township is the service centre for the many outlaying cattle stations, agricultural farms as well as RAAF Base Tindal.
Please Note: The Katherine accommodation is at the Knotts Crossing Resort, in cabin accommodation and is based on a Dinner, Bed and Breakfast bases .

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
Kakadu National Park is located approximately 200 kilometres east of Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory of Australia, and the main commercial centre for the region. The park covers an area of 19,757 square kilometres, about 200 km North to South and 100 km East to West.

A large part of the park is listed on the World Heritage list for both environmental and cultural significance. Much of the park is owned by the various aboriginal clan groups who are actively involved in managing their traditional lands. The park covers a large variety of habitats from the hills and gorges such as Yurmikmik and Gunlom in the Upper South Alligator valley, setting for the Jawoyn legend of Bulla the creator; the sandstone plateau above the escarpment where Barrk, the Rock Wallaby lives; the monsoonal rainforest in the gorges such as Maguk (Barramundi Gorge); the freshwater wetlands, home to enormous diversity of birdlife ruled by Marawuti, the Sea Eagle; the Eucalyptus woodlands which cover most of the dryer ground in the park to the coastal monsoon; and mangrove forest such as Mangarre, the East Alligator River.

BYO Alcohol We provide a welcome drink on the first night of your stay. For the remainder of the trip you are welcome to bring your own alcohol. It is recommended that you purchase your drinks before departing Darwin. The purchase of a small Esky is also recommended. We do not provide ice and cooler boxes along the way, however we will assist if possible.

* Alcohol is NOT allowed on to Aboriginal Land Trust, you are able to carry alcohol (sealed containers only) in your vehicle to our camp and consume within the camp boundaries. Alcohol is NOT to be consumed in any other areas of Kakadu National Park. Alcoholic drinks maybe purchased and consumed in the licensed bars and restaurants with the Park boundaries.

Rental Vehicles and Maps
Please check you itinerary carefully and advise your rental company of all areas that you they visit. When staying at our Litchfield National Park camp, you may self drive in from the main road along a 4wd travel with creek crossings or leave you car (own risk) at Monsoon Café and transfer in. When visiting Gunlon Falls, in the southern area of Kakadu National Park, the last 40KM is on unsealed dirty road.

Most hire companies, do not allow 2WD vehicle on this road. The Jim Jim and Twin Falls road, has 65km of 4WD track. Experienced 4WD driving is required for this road. A great alternative is to take a tour. One day tours to this area are operated from Cooinda and Jabiru (please ask us about making bookings). Please make yourself ware of the different environments that you will be travelling in and research areas of interest prior to departure. This will make your trip more enjoyable and relaxing. Odyssey Tours and Safaris will provided booklets and information on the areas that your itinerary travels through.

CULTURAL GUIDELINES
Australia has many different Indigenous language groups and cultures. Groups often speak of the lands and waters they have traditional affiliation and responsibility for as ‘country’. Throughout Australia, the responsibility to look after or ‘care for country is held by clan and family groups as well as individuals. Senior people in the community, who are responsible for their traditional land and waters, are often referred to as ‘traditional owners’. Travelling in a responsible way includes respecting your hosts and their country. In the same way we act with courtesy when visiting someone’s home, we should respect the land and the people who have important connections to it. The choices you make when travelling can and do make a difference. Respecting Indigenous culture and country is a matter of travelling thoughtfully. We have prepared some information to assist you to travel thoughtfully while on your Odyssey Tours and Safaris journey.

Cultural closures:
Funerals and cultural ceremonies are times of special privacy. Whilst every effort is made by the Indigenous operators we visit to advise us of any closures in a timely manner, there may be times when cultural experiences describes in your itinerary may be cancelled without prior notice due to cultural reasons. We appreciate your understanding in this matter and will provide suitable itinerary adjustments to ensure your continued enjoyment on your safari. If we are able to visit communities at a time requiring special privacy we ask that your are extra sensitive during your visit.

Respecting restrictions:
There may be places that are closed to visitors because of their cultural significance. Please heed advice if you are asked not to enter an area by either your Odyssey Guide or a local Aboriginal Guide or person. Some places can only be visited by men or women – please respect these protocols where they apply to non-Indigenous people. The possession or consumption of alcohol is restricted in some Indigenous communities – these restrictions also apply to visitors.

Taking photographs and filming:
Always ask before taking photos or filming a person, a group of people or cultural activities. Photographs and filming some places and objects are restricted for cultural reasons – please respect this request from traditional owners. If you intend to use your photographs in a publication or for other commercial purposes, you are required to have relevant permits in Kakadu National Park which must be obtained prior to your entry into the Park. You will also need to seek copyright permission from the people featured in the photo.

Specific Guidelines for Eva Valley
On day 3 of the tour you will visit Eva Valley Aboriginal Community. Alcohol is not permitted to be brought into the community so we request that you only bring enough for the first 2 nights. There will be opportunity to purchase alcohol when you reach Katherine on Day 4. When visiting this area, any specific requirements that you must abide by will be provided by your guide while on tour.

Clothing:
For cultural reasons we ask that our guests dress conservatively, but with our tropical climate in mind. We suggest that you wear lightweight, full length clothing and sturdy footwear for your protection and safety. Eg. No short shorts or short skirts, no bare midriff.

Talking to indigenous people:
If you are talking to an Aboriginal person, recognise that they may communicate differently to non- Indigenous people. English may be a second or third language and too much eye contact with Aboriginal people may be considered offensive. Access to specific cultural knowledge or stories may not be open to everyone – it is best to avoid direct questions about matters that could.

Weather Conditions

The Aboriginal people recognise six seasons each characterised by distinctly different climate. These are:
Gunumeleng: From mid-October to late December, it is the pre-monsoon season of hot weather that becomes more and more humid. Thunderstorms build in the afternoons and scattered showers bring a tinge of green to the dry land. As the streams begin to run, acidic water that washes from the floodplains can cause fish to die in billabongs with low oxygen levels. (20°-42°)
Gudjewg: from Jan – Mar, this can be described as the ‘true’ wet season, bringing thunderstorms, heavy rain and flooding. The heat and humidity generate and explosion of plant and animal life. Spear grass grows to over 2 metres tall and creates a silvery-green hue throughout the woodlands (20°-32°)
Banggerreng: in April, us the season when the rain clouds have dispersed and clear skies prevail. The vast expanses of floodwater recede and streams start to run clear. Most plants are fruiting and animals are caring for their young. Violent, windy storms in this season flatten the spear grass, they are called the ‘knock ‘em down’ storms (22°-35°).
Yegge: from May-mid June, is relatively cool with low humidity. Early morning mists hang low over the plains and water holes. The shallow wetlands and billabongs are carpeted with water lilies. Drying winds and flowering Darwin Woolly Butt tell Bininj/Mungguy that it is time to start burning the woodlands in patches to ‘clean the country’ and encourage new growth for grazing animals (15°-32°).
Wurreng: from mid June-August, is the ‘cold weather’ time where the humidity is very low. Most creeks stop flowing and the floodplains quickly dry out. Burning continues, extinguished by the dew at night. By day, birds of prey patrol the fire lines as insects and small animals try to escape the flames. Magpie geese, fat and heavy after weeks of abundant food, and a myriad other waterbirds crowd the shrinking billabongs. (15°-30°)
Gurrung: from mid August – mid October, is hot and dry. It is still ‘goose time’ but also time for Bininj/Mungguy to hunt file snakes and long-necked turtles. Sea turtles lay their eggs on the sandy beaches of Field island and West Alligator head and goannas rob their nests sometimes. Whitebreasted wood swallows arrive as the thunderclouds build, signalling the return of Gunumeleng (20°-36°) There is no “best” time to visit - you choose your favourite from this array of tropical variety.

Eco-tourism

OTS is an Eco Certified Operator with Advanced Ecotourism Accreditation through Ecotourism Australia. A series of criteria must be met by the operation to achieve this level of certification on their products. Definition: "Ecotourism is ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation". More Information: www.ecotourism.org.au

Reading List

*Stephen Page and Ross Dowling (2002) ‘Ecotourism’ Pearson Education
*Press, T. et al (1995) ‘Kakadu, Natural and Cultural Heritage Management’ ANCA, NARU, Australian National University, Darwin. NT.
*Leichhardt, L. (1996) ‘Journal of an Overland Expedition in Australia’, Corkwood Press.
*Slater, P. Slater,(2000) ‘The Slater field guide to Australian Birds’, Rigby. P. & Slater, R.
*Brock, J. (1993) ‘Top End Native Plants’, CCNT, Winnellie, NT.
*Miles, G. (1988) ‘Wildlife of Kakadu’, Barker, Alice Springs, NT.
*Brennan, K. (1986) ‘Wildflowers of Kakadu’, Jabiru, NT.
*Morris, I. (1999) ‘Kakadu National Park Australia’, Steve Parish Publishing, QLD.
*AGSO (2000) ‘Kakadu and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Parks, Northern Territory: a guide to the rocks, landforms, plants, animals, Aboriginal Culture, and human impact.’

Minimal Impact Walking codes

*Remain on walking tracks where provided; - wet/soft ground is actively avoided - ‘scrub bashing’ is avoided by taking the most appropriate detour
*Take all litter (‘carry in – carry out’ policy)
*Use toilets where provided – if no toilet, a hole at least 15cm is dug at least 100m from water bodies or campsites.

Minimal Impact Camping codes

*Use existing campsites
*Fires only in existing fireplaces, kept to a minimum, fully extinguished by guide when breaking camp (until no steam rises);
*Firewood carried in where applicable, not collected from around campsite
*Firewood only to be collected from dead material on the ground that does not resemble animal habitat (eg. hollow logs/nesting material)
*All washing is done at least 100m from any water bodies (includes brushing teeth)
*Discourage the use of soaps/detergents/toothpaste in natural areas
*Public toilets are used wherever possible (if not – 15cm+ hole/100m+ away from water bodies or campsites)

National Park/Protected Area Permit Regulations

*Must behave according to the National Park Regulations or any warning or regulatory signs
*Must not pick fruits, flowers or branches, or otherwise damage any native plant
*Must not interfere with any rock art, sacred site or cultural artefact
*Must not interfere with, feed, handle or disturb any native animal, or damage or disturb a nest or dwelling place of a native animal.
*By choosing to travel with Odyssey Tours and Safaris you are agreeing to the terms and conditions of the National Parks visited.

Crocodile Awareness

Crocodiles have existed unchanged for nearly two hundred million years and are the world’s largest living reptiles. Two species occur in Australia, the freshwater and estuarine crocodile. Freshwater crocodiles can become aggressive if provoked, while estuarine crocodiles are renowned for their aggressive nature, which can result in serious injury and death.

Be aware of signs erected at places where crocodiles may be found.

DO NOT:
- Swim or wade
- Clean fish on or near water’s edge
- Camp next to water’s edge
- Allow your pets near water
- Dangle legs or arms over edge of boats
- Stand at the water’s edge when fishing

Absence of warning signs does not signify a safe area. Seek local or expert advice before swimming, camping, fishing or boating.

About this web site: As one of the Northern Territory's leading small group safari, sightseeing, charter, tour and selfdrive specialists 'Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals' is a Darwin Northern Territory Travel Agent License Number NT 094 and also a full member of 'Tourism Top End'.

Incorporating such web sites as www.kakadusafaris.com,www.uluruadventuretours.com, www.australia4tours.com, www.kakaduayersrocktours.com, www.australia4wheeldriverentals.com.au and www.australia4wheeldriverentals.com. We seek out tours from only reputable experienced tour companies to some of Australia's most famous landmarks including Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park(Ayers Rock) and Kakadu National Park.

From the tropical Top End to the spiritual heart of the Red Centre, from Aboriginal Culture to abundant wildlife - then onto Adelaide and Cairns we have sourced an excellent range of tours for your next vacation in Australia. Our experienced staff have collectively over 30 years in the travel industry will help you discover the best of these unique and special tours offers.

Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals
Australia Business Number 54 561 356 425
Australian NT Licensed Travel Agent No. 094
Tel: International 0061 (0) 8 89 453 338 (Enquiries for tours - 24 hours a day)
Fax International 0061 (0) 8 89 455 507
Mobile: International +61 400 278958 (Enquiries for tours - 24 hours a day)
Email: info@australia4tours.com

341 McMillans Road, Anula, Darwin 0812, Northern Territory, Australia
Postal address for correspondence: P.O.Box 3410, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia 0801
Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals 2002. All rights reserved.

MISSION STATEMENT

Our very experienced Northern Territory staff will help you discover the best of these unique and special tours offers across Australia with camping safaris to one day sight seeing coach trips, eco tours australia adventure camping safaris in Kakadu National Park and Uluru (Ayers Rock) from Alice Springs and Ayers Rock Resort (Uluru) in Northern Territory including learning about Aboriginal culture as one of the Northern Territory's 'local' leading small group safari specialists "Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals" incorporating it's web sites.