Kakadu National Park – What to See and Do
Kakadu National Park is a spectacular World Heritage listed site spread across 20,000 square kilometres in the Northern Territory, Australia. With attractions and experiences as diverse and extensive as the region itself, a visit to Kakadu is an essential element of any trip to the Northern Territory.
Described by Lonely Planet as a ‘vibrant, living acknowledgement of the elemental link between the Aboriginal custodians and the country they have nurtured for thousands of generations,’ Kakadu National Park combines environment with culture and offers an abundance of tours and activities for visitors of all ages and interests.
With an area roughly half the size of Switzerland, and so much to see and do, Kakadu Tours and Travel recommends your itinerary is best spread over a number of days. “Sometimes visitors don’t realise the distance between attractions, so to experience everything Kakadu has to offer, I’d suggest you plan for at least four days to really maximise your time.”
If you’re travelling to a time frame, we suggest a Kakadu Tour departing Darwin is a great option to combine the highlights of Kakadu with the added benefit of a professional guide with local knowledge.
Drawing on its natural assets, spiritual connections, and stunning wilderness setting, the following offers a guide to some of the many ‘must see’ attractions in Kakadu, where you can relax or unleash your sense of adventure.
Bushwalking: A great way to experience the natural beauty of Kakadu is on one of the many walks. Explore ancient rain forests, take in breath taking views, or visit wetlands, billabongs, and sandstone pillars.
Wildlife Spotting: Kakadu is home to around 280 bird types and 2,000 different types of plants. For flora and fauna enthusiasts it’s the ultimate setting for closer encounters with Australia’s native species. Look out for giant termite mounds, take an afternoon safari with an indigenous guide, or try your hand at bird watching or crocodile spotting.
Rock Art: Learn the stories of the Aboriginal people – Kakadu is host to ancient indigenous rock art galleries up to 20,000 years old, across several regions. The two rock art sites in Kakadu are Ubirr Rock Art Site and Nourlangie Rock Art Site.
Waterfalls and Rock Pools: Swim in crystal pools, or hike to falls and billabongs. Kakadu is home to several iconic waterfalls including Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, as well as Motor Car Falls, Boulder Creek, Gubara Rock Pools, Ikoymarrwa Rock Pool, Maguk Gorge, Gunlom Falls and Koolpin Gorge.
Fishing Experiences: Whether you have a few hours or a couple of days, Kakadu is a fantastic place to book a fishing tour and hook a barramundi. East or South Alligator Rivers are popular choices, along with several of the larger billabongs.
Boating and Cruising: A cruise through Kakadu’s waterways is not only relaxing, but the best way to experience wildlife. Try Yellow Waters Billabong, East Alligator River or the Mary River Wetlands to see buffalo, bird life and saltwater crocodiles.
Scenic Flights: An aerial view of Kakadu is an experience of a lifetime. A plane or helicopter flight is a spectacular option all year round.
To help plan your holiday around the ‘must do’ attractions in Kakadu National Park, Kakadu Tours and Travel offer a personalised tour booking service based around your group’s requirements, budget, fitness level and time frame.
“We’ve got in-depth knowledge to recommend the right Kakadu tour that will tick all the boxes on your Kakadu wish list, along with the local knowledge to advise on driving conditions, itineraries, distances and weather. It’s the small details that can make a big difference in the Park.”
