Kakadu National Park during a dry season, Australia

Things to do in  Kakadu

A walk in the park

One of the world’s greatest national parks, Kakadu is much more than a green space. Here, among the rugged escarpments, lush rainforest, and natural pools, visitors get a sense of the fundamental link between the land and its traditional owners, the Bininj/Mungguy people. A visit to World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park uplifts the spirit and offers abundant things to do, from admiring 20,000-year-old rock art and thundering waterfalls to cruising along the wetlands in search of crocodiles and migratory birds.

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Top 5 attractions in Kakadu

#1

Ubirr

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Ubirr is one of the most famous and significant Aboriginal rock art sites in the Kakadu National Park. A 0.6-mile (1-kilometer) circuit track leads visitors past the rock art galleries, where local people painted fish, turtles, goanna, and other essential food animals up to 20,000 years ago. Ubirr is especially popular at sunset.More
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#2

Nourlangie (Burrungkuy)

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Nourlangie, also known as Burrungkuy (sometimes written Burrunggui), is an escarpment in Kakadu National Park filled with over 20,000 years' worth of Aboriginal history, making it a site of extreme cultural importance. Burrungkuy, an Aboriginal word, refers to the higher parts of the rocks, while the word Anbangbang references the lower parts. The rock art and archaeological details here illustrate the social and environmental history of the Top End area.There are many ways to experience the heritage of Nourlangie, including following the mile-long circuit trail that winds through what was once a home for the Aboriginal people during wet seasons. Indoors, the Anbangbang Gallery showcases the art of an Aboriginal artist who repainted his works in 1964 to restore much of their original vibrancy. Those who visit Nourlangie during the months of June through September can hear stories of the area's cultural significance from rangers in the area.More
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#3

Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre

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To learn more about the Aboriginal inhabitants of Kakadu, visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre in the heart of the park. It was developed by the traditional owners of Kakadu and shares local stories through multimedia exhibits, artifacts, images, and videos. You can also browse the attached Aboriginal art gallery.More
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#4

Kakadu National Park

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With dramatic sandstone escarpments, ancient Aboriginal rock art sites, and crocodile-filled billabongs, the wild landscapes of the Kakadu National Park are beyond photo-worthy. Spread over 4.2 million acres (1.7 million hectares), Australia’s largest national park offers a thrilling look at the native landscape, wildlife, and culture.More
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#5

Mary River Wetlands

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The Mary River Wetlands are located within the Mary River National Park, in Australia’s “top end”, or northern parts of the Northern Territory. During the rainy season, the plains flood and a variety of animals, birds, and reptiles gather here, including saltwater crocodiles, water buffalo, wallabies, and more.More
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Top activities in Kakadu

Jim Jim Falls - Kakadu Full Day Tour from Jabiru or Cooinda

Jim Jim Falls - Kakadu Full Day Tour from Jabiru or Cooinda

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$262.63
Yellow Water Cruise - Kakadu

Yellow Water Cruise - Kakadu

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422
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$69.81
Maguk Falls Kakadu Half Day Tour from Jabiru or Cooinda

Maguk Falls Kakadu Half Day Tour from Jabiru or Cooinda

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$229.38
Kakadu National Park Wildlife and Ubirr Rock Art Tour from Darwin City

Kakadu National Park Wildlife and Ubirr Rock Art Tour from Darwin City

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25
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$170.21
Jabiru 60 minute Scenic Flight

Jabiru 60 minute Scenic Flight

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90
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$172.20
Jabiru 30 minute Scenic Flight

Jabiru 30 minute Scenic Flight

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36
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$105.72
Arnhem Land Yingana Injalak Hill Full Day Tour from Jabiru

Arnhem Land Yingana Injalak Hill Full Day Tour from Jabiru

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114
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$194.81
30 minute Scenic Flight from Cooinda

30 minute Scenic Flight from Cooinda

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6
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$112.36
60 minute Scenic Flight from Cooinda

60 minute Scenic Flight from Cooinda

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28
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$176.86
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All about Kakadu

When to visit

The dry season, which runs from April to October, is the best time to visit Kakadu. During this period, temperatures typically range from 70–90°F (21–32°C) and humidity levels are lower. This time of year is also better for swimming and other water activities, as heavy rains can cause flash flooding. That said, crowds are far thinner in the wet season.

Getting around

There is no public transportation in Kakadu, so you will need your own vehicle or join a guided tour. Although it is possible to drive standard vehicles on unsealed roads to places such as Two Mile Hole, the Kubara Pools trailhead, Yurmikmik, and Gunlom Falls, some car rental companies prohibit this. Check with your rental company before setting out or, for peace of mind and greater opportunities for adventure, rent a 4-wheel drive.

Traveler tips

If you opt to rent a car, be aware that most rental companies strongly recommend against driving in Kakadu after dark due to the presence of nocturnal wildlife like wallabies and dingoes; in fact, many rental companies will only insure cars that are in transit during the daytime. Also, check the Kakadu Access Report online for seasonal road closures before heading out.

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People Also Ask

Do you have to pay to enter Kakadu National Park?

Yes, you have to pay to enter Kakadu National Park. Visitors will need to buy a park pass, which is valid for seven days. Park pass prices vary depending on the season but are typically lower from November to May. Entrance fees are usually included in tours, and Northern Territory residents can enter free of charge at any time.

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Can you swim in Kakadu?

Yes, you can swim in Kakadu. Before diving in, check with park authorities, as crocodiles inhabit many of the waterways throughout the park. The park’s waterways are also susceptible to flash flooding and rapid currents. Practice caution by following all posted safety notices and not swimming alone.

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How many days do you need in Kakadu?

You need at least three days to explore Kakadu. With three days in the park, you could see Kakadu from the water on a boat trip, enjoy rock art and a stunning sunset at Ubirr, hike up Mount Cahill, and explore waterfalls such as Motor Car Falls.

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What is Kakadu known for?

Kakadu is Australia’s second-biggest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Additionally, Kakadu is recognized as a living cultural landscape—with exceptional natural and cultural values—that has been home to Aboriginal people for more than 50,000 years, as evidenced by the park's extensive rock art sites.

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What should I pack for Kakadu?

You should pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes for your visit to Kakadu. Loose, lightweight clothing is best for the daytime, but pack warm layers for the cool evenings. Also essential is sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat) and a reusable bottle for drinking water.

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Is there cell service in Kakadu?

Yes, there is cell service in Kakadu, but not enough that you can rely on staying connected. To avoid getting caught without service, be sure to download maps and any other necessary information before heading into the park. There is some coverage in Jabiru, Cooinda Lodge, and the Bowali Visitor Centre.

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Frequently Asked Questions
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