Kakadu National Park is a place like no other. It is Australia’s largest national park, covering an area of nearly 20,000 square kilometres, or about half the size of Switzerland. It is also one of the most diverse and rich ecosystems in the world, home to more than 2,000 plant species, 280 bird species, 120 reptile species, 68 mammal species, and 26 frog species. It is also a place of ancient and living culture, where the Aboriginal people have lived for more than 65,000 years, and where you can see some of the oldest and most spectacular rock art galleries on Earth.
Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage Site, recognised for both its natural and cultural values. It is a major tourist attraction, attracting more than 200,000 visitors every year. It is also a place of adventure, where you can explore the rugged escarpments, lush rainforest, stunning waterfalls, and vast wetlands. Whether you are looking for a relaxing cruise, a thrilling fishing tour, a challenging hike, a scenic flight, or a cultural immersion, Kakadu National Park has something for everyone.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide to Kakadu National Park, covering everything you need to know before you visit this amazing destination. We will tell you about the six seasons of Kakadu, and how they affect the landscape and wildlife. We will also show you the best things to do and see in Kakadu, and how to make the most of your visit. Finally, we will give you some practical information and tips on how to plan your trip to Kakadu, such as when to visit, how to get there, where to stay, what to pack, where to eat, and what not to do. By the end of this article, you will be ready to book your trip to Kakadu National Park, and experience the beauty and diversity of this unique place.
The Six Seasons of Kakadu
One of the most fascinating aspects of Kakadu National Park is that it has six seasons, instead of the conventional four. These seasons are based on the Aboriginal calendar, which reflects the changes in the weather, the plants, and the animals. Each season has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, and offers a different perspective of the park. Here is a brief overview of the six seasons of Kakadu:

Gudjewg (Monsoon Season): This season lasts from January to March, and is the wettest and hottest time of the year. It is characterised by heavy rain, thunderstorms, and humidity, which transform the park into a green and lush paradise. The waterfalls are at their most spectacular, the wetlands are filled with water lilies, and the wildlife is abundant and active. However, this season also comes with some challenges, such as road closures, flooding, and mosquitoes. It is not the best time to visit if you want to access all the attractions and activities, but it is a great time to witness the dramatic and dynamic nature of Kakadu.
Banggerreng (Harvest Season): This season lasts from April to May, and is the transition time between the wet and the dry seasons. It is marked by clear skies, cooler temperatures, and less rain. The floodwaters start to recede, and the park becomes more accessible and comfortable. The vegetation is still green and fresh, and the waterfalls are still flowing. The wildlife is also very active, especially the birds, which are busy harvesting the seeds and fruits. This season is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the best of both worlds, and avoid the crowds and the heat.
Yegge (Cooler but still humid season): This season lasts from June to July, and is the start of the dry season. It is characterised by low humidity, mild temperatures, and occasional fog. The park becomes dryer and browner, and the water levels drop. The waterfalls become less impressive, but the rock pools and billabongs become more inviting. The wildlife is also more visible, as they congregate around the remaining water sources. This season is a good time to visit if you want to enjoy the pleasant weather, the scenic views, and the diverse wildlife.
Wurrgeng (Cold Weather Season): This season lasts from August to September, and is the peak of the dry season. It is the coldest and driest time of the year, with temperatures dropping to as low as 15°C at night. The park becomes very dry and dusty, and the water sources become scarce. The waterfalls are almost dry, but the rock art sites are more accessible and visible. The wildlife is also more concentrated and easier to spot, especially the crocodiles, which bask in the sun. This season is a good time to visit if you want to explore the park by road, and see the ancient and living culture of Kakadu.
Gurrung (Hot Dry Season): This season lasts from October to November, and is the end of the dry season. It is the hottest and most uncomfortable time of the year, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C during the day. The park becomes very hot and parched, and the fire management begins. The waterfalls are completely dry, but the wetlands are still full of life. The wildlife is also more active, especially the reptiles, which are preparing for the mating season. This season is not the best time to visit if you want to avoid the heat and the smoke, but it is a great time to see the wetland wildlife and the fire management.
Gunumeleng (Pre-Monsoon Storm Season): This season lasts from December to January, and is the beginning of the wet season. It is characterised by increasing humidity, temperature, and rain. The park becomes more green and alive, and the waterfalls start to flow again. The wetlands are also replenished, and the wildlife is more diverse and abundant. However, this season also brings some challenges, such as road closures, storms, and insects. It is not the best time to visit if you want to access all the attractions and activities, but it is a great time to see the changing and vibrant nature of Kakadu.
As you can see, each season of Kakadu has its own charm and challenge, and offers a different experience of the park. Depending on your preferences and goals, you can choose the best season for you, or visit Kakadu multiple times to see the contrast and variety of this amazing place.
The Best Things to Do and See in Kakadu
Kakadu National Park is a place of endless adventure, where you can find something to suit your taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a relaxing cruise, a thrilling fishing tour, a challenging hike, a scenic flight, or a cultural immersion, Kakadu National Park has something for you. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Kakadu, and how to enjoy them:

Cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong:
One of the most popular and iconic activities in Kakadu is to take a cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong, a large and beautiful wetland that is home to a variety of wildlife, such as crocodiles, birds, fish, and buffalo. You can choose from different cruise options, such as sunrise, sunset, or daytime, and enjoy the stunning scenery and the commentary from the knowledgeable guides. You can also book a private cruise, or combine your cruise with a fishing tour or a scenic flight. A cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong is a must-do for anyone visiting Kakadu, as it will give you a glimpse of the rich and diverse ecosystem of the park.

Fish for barramundi:
If you are a fishing enthusiast, or want to try something new and exciting, you can go on a fishing tour in Kakadu, and try to catch the iconic barramundi, a large and tasty fish that can grow up to 1.8 metres long. You can choose from different fishing options, such as guided, self-guided, or charter, and fish in different locations, such as the Yellow Water Billabong, the South Alligator River, or the East Alligator River. You can also enjoy the scenery and the wildlife, and learn about the fishing techniques and the regulations from the experienced guides. Fishing in Kakadu is a fun and rewarding activity, but you need to be aware of the crocodiles, and follow the safety rules and the catch and release policy.

Hike to the Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls:
If you are looking for a challenge and a reward, you can hike to the Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, two of the most spectacular and secluded waterfalls in Kakadu. You can access these waterfalls by 4WD, and then hike for about 2 kilometres to reach the Jim Jim Falls, a 200-metre high waterfall that plunges into a deep pool surrounded by cliffs. You can then hike for another 1 kilometre to reach the Twin Falls, a double waterfall that cascades into a sandy beach. You can swim, relax, and enjoy the views, but you need to be careful of the crocodiles, and follow the signs and the instructions from the rangers. Hiking to the Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls is a rewarding and exhilarating activity, but you need to be fit, prepared, and respectful of the environment and the culture.
Visit the Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art sites:
If you are interested in the ancient and living culture of Kakadu, you can visit the Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art sites, where you can see some of the oldest and most impressive rock art galleries in the world. These sites are sacred to the Aboriginal people, and contain thousands of paintings that depict their stories, beliefs, and history. You can walk along the marked trails, and admire the art that dates back to more than 20,000 years ago. You can also learn about the meaning and the significance of the paintings from the interpretive signs, the audio guides, or the guided tours. Visiting the Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art sites is a unique and educational experience, but you need to be respectful and mindful of the rules and the etiquette.
Learn about the Aboriginal culture and history at the Warradjan Cultural Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre:
If you want to learn more about the Aboriginal culture and history of Kakadu, you can visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you can find a wealth of information and exhibits. The Warradjan Cultural Centre is located near the Yellow Water Billabong, and showcases the artefacts, art, and stories of the Bininj/Mungguy people, the Traditional Owners of Kakadu. You can also buy some authentic souvenirs, such as paintings, jewellery, and books, from the gift shop. The Bowali Visitor Centre is located near the Jabiru town, and provides an overview of the natural and cultural features of Kakadu. You can also watch some videos, browse some books, and ask some questions from the friendly staff. Visiting the Warradjan Cultural Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre is a great way to enrich your knowledge and appreciation of Kakadu, and to support the local community.
Take a scenic flight over the park:
If you want to see Kakadu from a different perspective, you can take a scenic flight over the park, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the landscape, the waterfalls, and the wildlife. You can choose from different flight options, such as helicopter, plane, or microlight, and fly over different areas, such as the Yellow Water Billabong, the Jim Jim Falls, the Twin Falls, the Arnhem Land Escarpment, or the entire park. You can also listen to the commentary from the pilot, and take some amazing photos and videos. Taking a scenic flight over the park is an unforgettable and thrilling activity, but you need to book in advance, and be prepared for the weather and the motion.
Camp under the stars:
If you want to experience the true essence of Kakadu, you can camp under the stars, and immerse yourself in the nature and the culture of the park. You can choose from different camping options, such as powered, unpowered, or bush camping, and stay in different locations, such as near the waterfalls, the wetlands, the rock art sites, or the visitor centres. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as showers, toilets, barbecues, and picnic tables, or go for a more rustic and adventurous option. Camping under the stars is a wonderful and relaxing activity, but you need to bring your own equipment, food, and water, and follow the camping rules and the safety advice.
Camp under the stars:
If you want to experience the true essence of Kakadu, you can camp under the stars, and immerse yourself in the nature and the culture of the park. You can choose from different camping options, such as powered, unpowered, or bush camping, and stay in different locations, such as near the waterfalls, the wetlands, the rock art sites, or the visitor centres. You can also enjoy the facilities, such as showers, toilets, barbecues, and picnic tables, or go for a more rustic and adventurous option. Camping under the stars is a wonderful and relaxing activity, but you need to bring your own equipment, food, and water, and follow the camping rules and the safety advice.
Join a guided tour or safari:
If you want to learn more about Kakadu, and have a hassle-free and enjoyable visit, you can join a guided tour or safari, and let the experts show you around. You can choose from different tour options, such as half-day, full-day, or multi-day, and explore different aspects of the park, such as the wildlife, the culture, the history, or the scenery. You can also choose from different modes of transportation, such as bus, 4WD, boat, or bike, and experience the park in different ways. You can also benefit from the knowledge, skills, and stories of the guides, who are often Aboriginal people or local residents. Joining a guided tour or safari is a convenient and informative activity, but you need to book in advance, and be flexible and respectful of the schedule and the group.
Stay in a crocodile:
If you are looking for a unique and comfortable accommodation in Kakadu, you can stay in a crocodile, or rather, in the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, a hotel that is shaped like a giant crocodile. The hotel is located in the Jabiru town, and offers a range of facilities and services, such as air-conditioned rooms, swimming pool, restaurant, bar, gift shop, and tour desk. The hotel is also close to some of the main attractions and activities in Kakadu, such as the Bowali Visitor Centre, the Ubirr rock art site, and the Yellow Water Billabong. Staying in a crocodile is a fun and convenient activity, but you need to pay a premium price, and be prepared for the crowds and the noise.
How to Plan Your Trip to Kakadu
Now that you know some of the best things to do and see in Kakadu, you might be wondering how to plan your trip to this amazing destination. There are many factors and details to consider, such as when to visit, how to get there, where to stay, what to pack, where to eat, and what not to do. To help you with your trip planning, we have compiled some practical information and tips that will make your visit to Kakadu easier and more enjoyable. Here are some of the most important things to know before you visit Kakadu:
When to visit:
As we mentioned before, Kakadu has six seasons, and each season offers a different experience of the park. Depending on your preferences and goals, you can choose the best season for you, or visit Kakadu multiple times to see the contrast and variety of this amazing place. However, if you want to have the most options and the least challenges, the best time to visit Kakadu is between May and September, when the weather is cooler and dryer, the park is more accessible and comfortable, and the wildlife is more visible and diverse.
This is also the peak season, so you can expect more crowds and higher prices, but also more events and activities. If you want to avoid the crowds and the prices, you can visit Kakadu between October and April, when the weather is hotter and wetter, the park is more green and dynamic, and the waterfalls are more impressive. This is also the low season, so you can expect less visitors and lower prices, but also more road closures and insects.
How to get there:
Kakadu National Park is located in the Northern Territory of Australia, about 250 kilometres east of Darwin, the capital city. There are several ways to get to Kakadu, depending on your budget, time, and convenience. The most common and easiest way to get to Kakadu is by car, either your own or a rental. You can drive from Darwin to Kakadu in about three hours, following the Arnhem Highway, which is sealed and well-maintained. You can also drive from other locations, such as Alice Springs, Katherine, or Jabiru, but you will need more time and a 4WD vehicle, as some roads are unsealed and rough.
Driving to Kakadu gives you the freedom and flexibility to explore the park at your own pace, but you need to be prepared for the distance, the fuel, and the road conditions. Another way to get to Kakadu is by bus, either a public or a private one. You can take a public bus from Darwin to Jabiru, the main town in Kakadu, in about four hours, and then use the local shuttle bus or a tour operator to get around the park. You can also take a private bus from Darwin or other locations, and join a guided tour or safari that will take you to the main attractions and activities in Kakadu.
Taking a bus to Kakadu is a convenient and comfortable option, but you need to book in advance, and be flexible and respectful of the schedule and the group. A third way to get to Kakadu is by plane, either a commercial or a charter one. You can fly from Darwin to Jabiru in about 30 minutes, and then use the local shuttle bus or a tour operator to get around the park. You can also fly from other locations, such as Alice Springs, Katherine, or Cairns, but you will need to book a charter flight, which can be expensive and limited. Flying to Kakadu is a fast and scenic option, but you need to pay a premium price, and be prepared for the weather and the availability.
Where to stay:
Kakadu National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from camping to luxury, to suit your taste and budget. You can choose from different types of accommodation, such as hotels, resorts, lodges, cabins, or campsites, and stay in different locations, such as near the waterfalls, the wetlands, the rock art sites, or the visitor centres. You can also enjoy the facilities and services, such as air-conditioning, swimming pool, restaurant, bar, gift shop, and tour desk, or go for a more simple and natural option. Staying in Kakadu National Park is a great way to experience the nature and the culture of the park, but you need to book in advance, and be aware of the prices and the availability. Here are some of the best accommodation options in Kakadu National Park, and what they offer:
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel: This is the most unique and comfortable accommodation in Kakadu, as it is shaped like a giant crocodile. The hotel is located in the Jabiru town, and offers 110 air-conditioned rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, a gift shop, and a tour desk. The hotel is also close to some of the main attractions and activities in Kakadu, such as the Bowali Visitor Centre, the Ubirr rock art site, and the Yellow Water Billabong. Staying in the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel is a fun and convenient option, but you need to pay a premium price, and be prepared for the crowds and the noise.
Cooinda Lodge Kakadu: This is the most popular and family-friendly accommodation in Kakadu, as it offers a variety of rooms, cabins, and campsites, as well as a range of facilities and services. The lodge is located near the Yellow Water Billabong, and offers a swimming pool, a restaurant, a bar, a gift shop, a petrol station, and a tour desk. The lodge is also the base for some of the best activities in Kakadu, such as the Yellow Water cruise, the fishing tour, and the scenic flight. Staying in the Cooinda Lodge Kakadu is a relaxing and enjoyable option, but you need to book in advance, and be aware of the prices and the availability.
Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge: This is the most exclusive and authentic accommodation in Kakadu, as it offers a limited number of safari-style tents, and access to some of the most remote and sacred areas of the park. The lodge is located in the northern part of Kakadu, and offers a private bathroom, a fan, a veranda, a restaurant, a bar, and a tour desk. The lodge is also the only place where you can visit the Cannon Hill and Hawk Dreaming rock art sites, which are otherwise closed to the public. Staying in the Hawk Dreaming Wilderness Lodge is a memorable and immersive option, but you need to book in advance, and be prepared for the price and the isolation.
Kakadu National Park is a place of wonder and diversity, where you can experience the beauty and culture of Australia’s largest and most diverse national park. Whether you visit Kakadu in the wet or the dry season, you will find something to suit your taste and budget, from cruising on the Yellow Water Billabong, to fishing for barramundi, to hiking to the Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, to visiting the Ubirr and Nourlangie rock art sites, to learning about the Aboriginal culture and history at the Warradjan Cultural Centre and the Bowali Visitor Centre, to taking a scenic flight over the park, to camping under the stars, to staying in a crocodile, to joining a guided tour or safari.
In this article, we have provided you with a complete guide to Kakadu National Park, covering everything you need to know before you visit this amazing destination.
We hope that this article has inspired you to book your trip to Kakadu National Park, and to experience the beauty and diversity of this unique place. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below, or contact us for more information. Thank you for reading, and happy travels!