Guide to Kakadu National Park
Experience the magic of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park on an outback adventure that defies expectation.
In Australia's biggest national park you'll find rugged escarpments, lush rainforest and rock art galleries up to 20,000 years old. Learn about Aboriginal culture from Traditional Owners, the Bininj/Mungguy people, take in thundering waterfalls and witness millions of migratory birds among the wetlands. Experience Kakadu's magic in six dramatically different seasons.
Things to do in Kakadu National Park
Cruise beside a sunset sky
The billabongs of Kakadu weave through majestic landscapes, and there’s no evening more serene than one spent on a Yellow Water cruise. Watch the sky turn to shades of pastel pink as you float calmly alongside the sunset.
Fish for a keeper
Fishing in Kakadu isn’t just abundant, it’s also picturesque. Take a fishing tour to try your luck at catching the iconic barramundi. Beginners are welcome; guides will coach you to cast, retrieve and use your lure.
Hike rugged escarpments
There are surprises around every corner on a hike in Kakadu – rippling creeks, misty waterfalls and hidden rock art are just a few of the things you might discover. From short jaunts to day-long walks, find out which Kakadu trail to take.
Set off on an Aboriginal-led safari
Kakadu’s traditional custodians are deeply connected to their land, and you can see the landscape from their perspective on an Animal Tracks Safari. Gain exclusive access into the wetland and end the day with a campfire bush food cook-up.
Embark on a road trip
Kakadu is the perfect place for a rugged road trip the whole family will love. You’ll hit all the Top End highlights, including freshwater swimming holes, towering gorges and wetlands abundant in wildlife. Here’s how to plan your trip.
Or let someone else do the driving
If you’d rather gaze out the window than be behind the wheel, book into an outback safari where everything will be taken care of for you. Venture into remote areas, enjoy the knowledge of your guide and take in the scenery.
Stay in a crocodile
Ever thought you’d sleep inside a crocodile? Book into the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and do just that. Kids will love the hotel’s novel shape and outdoor pool, and parents will enjoy its superb location.
Fly over waterfalls
Kakadu’s cascading waterfalls are some of the most impressive in the country. They’re incredible from below, but perhaps even more epic from above. Take a scenic flight and let the sights take your breath away.
Visit a cultural centre
Developed by the land’s traditional custodians, Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a must-visit. Here, you’ll find displays of artefacts, a gallery of art and crafts to purchase and perhaps artists at work.
Witness the beauty of the wet season
Kakadu’s wet season (November - April) may be better described as its green season. The iconic red of the outback is transformed into shades of green and waterfalls begin to thunder down. Take a wet season tour to find Kakadu without the crowds.
Spot more than 60 bird species
Did you know that Kakadu is home to one-third of Australia’s bird species? The area's wetlands are abundant with birdlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatchers to spot jabiru, brolgas, azure kingfishers and more.
See ancient Aboriginal rock art
Kakadu’s rock art dates back 20,000 years, offering rare insight into Aboriginal life from ages past. Visit the sites with a guide to better understand these depictions and gain access to areas not open to the public.
