Darwin: Top End Safari Camp Overnight Airboat, Croc & Heli

Summary

Top End overnight safari with airboats crocodiles glamping & sunrise

You’ll feel the thrill of skimming across floodplains by airboat, meet giant rescued crocodiles up close, and sleep under canvas with dinner by the fire. Wake to sunrise over the billabong before a scenic helicopter flight—this Top End Safari Camp overnight tour packs adventure and quiet moments both.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we left Darwin for this Top End Safari Camp overnight tour. There’s something about heading out into that big open country — the sky felt way bigger than it does in town. Our guide, Mick, had this dry humor and kept pointing out things I’d never have noticed: a jabiru wading in the reeds, the way the light hit the floodplains just before sunset. The airboat ride was loud and kind of wild — wind in my face, water spray everywhere, and then suddenly everything would go quiet as we drifted near a patch of lilies. We spotted a croc’s eyes just above the surface. I still get goosebumps thinking about it.

The real surprise for me was meeting one of Matt Wright’s monster rescue crocodiles up close. I mean, you see them on TV but standing there during feeding time… it’s another thing entirely. The sound their jaws make is like nothing else — sort of a deep snap that echoes off the water. I tried to ask our host Li how old she thought that big male was (I probably butchered her name), but she just laughed and said “older than you’ll ever be.” Dinner around camp was hearty — grilled barramundi, smoky from the fire, with everyone swapping stories as night came on fast.

Sleeping in those canvas tents was actually more comfortable than I’d guessed (and yeah, I did check for spiders). Woke up early to this soft pink light over the billabong and birds making a racket — magpie geese mostly. There was coffee brewing already and someone frying bacon; honestly, that smell alone made me want to stay another night. After breakfast we had a quick helicopter flight over the floodplains — short but you really see how wild and endless it all is from up there. Then it was back towards Darwin with red dust still on my shoes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Darwin to Top End Safari Camp

• Airboat cruise spotting crocodiles
• Scenic helicopter flight over Top End
• Swim in croc safe pool
• Watch live crocodile feeding demo
• Dine on outback BBQ dinner
• Relax around fire pit

Day 2 — Top End Safari Camp to Darwin

• Enjoy tranquil sunrise at camp
• Eat hearty cooked breakfast
• Transfer back to Darwin

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Top End Safari Camp overnight tour?

Yes, transport by air-conditioned bus is included or you can choose self-drive.

What kind of accommodation is provided at Top End Safari Camp?

You’ll stay overnight in Deluxe Lotus Belle tents (glamping).

Are meals included in this safari camp tour?

Dinner and breakfast are both included during your stay.

Do you really get to see crocodiles up close?

Yes, there’s a live feeding demonstration with large rescued saltwater crocodiles.

Is there an airboat ride on this tour?

Yes, an airboat adventure on the Finniss River floodplains is part of the experience.

Can children join this overnight safari camp tour?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is there a helicopter flight included?

A scenic helicopter flight over the floodplains is included in your booking.

Are vegetarian meal options available?

Yes, vegetarian options are available if advised at booking.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Darwin (or self-drive option), an airboat cruise on Finniss River’s floodplains spotting wildlife and crocodiles, a houseboat billabong cruise with cheeseboard, a live crocodile feeding demo with Matt Wright’s rescue crocs, a short scenic helicopter flight over wetlands, hearty dinner and breakfast cooked by hosts at camp, plus overnight glamping in Deluxe Lotus Belle tents before returning to Darwin or continuing your journey.