THE EXPERIENCE

A fascinating 30 minute scenic flight west of Darwin is the Corroboree Billabong, a wildlife lovers paradise, in the heart of the famous Mary River Wetlands. 

Travelling by scenic helicopter provides a unique aerial perspective highlighting the lay of the land and allowing a clearer understanding of the seasonal dynamics at play. Through periods of heavy rain and long dry spells, this is an ever-changing but always intriguing landscape. 

Our flight path (refer map below) takes us over a section of the mighty Adelaide River as it snakes its way northwards through the Djukbinj National Park, fed by eight major tributaries and an enormous catchment area greater than 7500 square kilometers.  

This region has the highest concentration of Saltwater Crocodiles anywhere in the world ranging from 5 up to a staggering 15 crocodiles per kilometer of river, so keep your eye peeled!

On arrival at Corroboree Billabong, the passionate and knowledgeable guides from Wildlands Wetlands Safari Cruises will introduce you to the flora and fauna of Australia’s largest wetland system.  Please select from one of the two immersive experiences below, both including an additional 30 minute scenic flight back to Darwin.   

WETLANDS SAFARI CRUISE

(90 MINUTES)

See the magnificent Corroboree Billabong and Mary River wetlands from the comfort of a custom-built safari boat, navigating through a maze of waterways lined with colourful flora. 

This natural wonderland is also home to an abundance of wild crocodiles, native birdlife and various land mammals including wallabies, buffalo, jabiru, sea eagles, kites, kingfishers, brolgas and jacanas.

The dynamic nature of the food web, the time of year, or even time of day, creates an unrepeatable experience each and every time the cruise operates. 

INCLUSIONS

• 60 minute return scenic flight 
• Commentary from our experienced pilots  
• 90 minute Wetlands Safari Cruise 
• Complimentary chilled water

WETLANDS AIRBOAT ADVENTURE

(45 MINUTES)

See the amazing Mary River wetlands for a 45 minute airboat safari with Wildlands.  This experience is truly unique and takes you into the Mary River river system where you will glide seemingly endless flood plains. 

This natural wonderland is also home to an abundance of wild crocodiles, native birdlife and various land mammals including wallabies, buffalo, jabiru, sea eagles, kites, kingfishers, brolgas and jacanas. 

INCLUSIONS

• 60 minute return scenic flight 
• Commentary from our experienced pilots  
• 45 minute Wetlands Airboat Adventure 
• Complimentary chilled water

WETLANDS DISCOVERY TOUR

(45 MINUTE AIRBOAT, 90 MINUTE SAFARI CRUISE)

Experience the popular Wetlands Safari Cruise as above, plus an exhilarating, sensory filled Airboat Adventure! 

Having a flat bottom and no underwater rudder or propulsion system to snag on things below, the Airboat glides freely across seemingly endless floodplains and into additional areas inaccessible by conventional craft.  This is definitely on the list of must-do, iconic Top End experiences! 

Being slightly longer in total duration, this option also includes a light picnic lunch. 

Please note: minimum age for the Airboat tour is 4 years. 

INCLUSIONS

• 60 minute return scenic flight 
• Commentary from our experienced pilots
• 45 minute Airboat Adventure  
• 90 minute Wetlands Safari Cruise 
• Light picnic lunch
• Complimentary chilled water

THE HELICOPTER DIFFERENCE

Compared to fixed wing aircraft, our helicopters have enhanced maneuverability and are fitted with oversized viewing windows creating a premium scenic flight experience.  Your pilot can easily adjust speed, altitude and direction of travel in response to wildlife sightings or other points of interest while ensuring passengers on both sides of the aircraft receive equal chance to capture that perfect photo opportunity.   

All guests are supplied with noise cancelling headsets fitted with voice activated microphones to enjoy the live inflight commentary and allow conversation directly with your pilot and other passengers.  

PHOTOGRAPHY

This flight provides countless photo opportunities. The option of flying with the helicopter doors removed is a safe and common practice ensuring unrestricted viewing, removing window reflections in your photographs and providing welcome natural air-conditioning in the warmer summer months.