Kakadu National Park is one of Australia’s most beautiful places, with Aboriginal rock art, wildlife, rock formations and waterfalls. This World Heritage-listed park has culture and nature in spades so if you’re looking for an adventure in the Northern Territory then this is a must visit.
Whether you’re after scenic flights, four-wheel driving, wildlife spotting or history here’s everything you need to know about what to see in Kakadu.
Contents
- 1 Jim Jim Falls & Twin Falls – Waterfalls
- 2 Yellow Water Billabong – Wildlife Cruise
- 3 Nourlangie Rock – Aboriginal Rock Art & Stunning Views
- 4 Cahills Crossing – Crocodile Feeding Frenzy
- 5 Gunlom Falls – Natural Infinity Pool with a View
- 6 Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) – A Secret Spot
- 7 Mamukala Wetlands – Bird Lovers Paradise
- 8 Best Multi Day Tours for an in-depth experience
- 9 Final Thoughts
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
Jim Jim Falls & Twin Falls – Waterfalls
No trip to Kakadu is complete without visiting Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, two of the park’s most famous waterfalls.Mamukala WetlandsNo trip to Kakadu is complete without visiting Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, two of the park’s most famous waterfalls.
- Jim Jim Falls: A 200m cliff face creates a deep plunge pool, best seen in the dry season when the water recedes and you can walk to the bottom of the falls and enjoy a sandy beach.
- Twin Falls: Accessible by four-wheel drive, boat shuttle and boardwalk, this stunning waterfall cascades down a towering escarpment and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
For an unforgettable scenic flight book a 60-minute flight with Kakadu Air and see these iconic waterfalls from above, especially in the wet season when there’s plenty of water.
Yellow Water Billabong – Wildlife Cruise
Visiting the Yellow Water Billabong is one of the best ways to see Kakadu’s wetland wildlife. The award winning Yellow Water Billabong Cruise offers amazing wildlife encounters including:
- Saltwater crocodiles basking on the banks
- Birds – comb-crested jacanas and purple swamp hens
- Water lilies and wetlands
For the best experience take a sunrise or sunset cruise when the wildlife is most active.
Nourlangie Rock – Aboriginal Rock Art & Stunning Views
Nourlangie Rock (Burrungkuy) is one of Kakadu’s most popular rock art sites, with well-preserved Aboriginal rock art galleries telling the stories of the traditional owners of the land.
- Visit the Anbangbang Billabong, a 1.5km circular walk with breathtaking views of the Nourlangie escarpment.
- Take the steep climb to the lookout for panoramic views of the park’s green landscape.
Nearby, the Bowali Visitor Centre will give you insight into Indigenous history, spiritual traditions and Kakadu’s unique ecology.
If you’re staying overnight, the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, in Jabiru, has crocodile-shaped accommodation and a hotel restaurant serving local cuisine.
Cahills Crossing – Crocodile Feeding Frenzy
One of the best places to see crocodiles in the wild, Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River is famous for amazing crocodile sightings.
- During high tide, dozens of saltwater crocodiles converge to catch the barramundi.
- Observation platforms are a safe place to watch these ancient predators.
If you want to explore Arnhem Land, this crossing is the entrance to Indigenous cultural experiences, with daily tours available.
Gunlom Falls – Natural Infinity Pool with a View
One of Kakadu’s most famous waterfalls, Gunlom Falls has a natural infinity pool at the top of a 150m cliff.
- A 600m climb rewards you with breathtaking views over Kakadu.
- Swim in the crystal clear plunge pool while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Nearby shady creeks and picnic areas are a great spot for a picnic lunch—pick up an antipasto picnic box from local vendors.
If you’re short on time, a Darwin to Kakadu day trip is a great way to see Gunlom Falls, Nourlangie Rock and the Yellow Water Billabong in one day.
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) – A Secret Spot
Looking for a less crowded adventure? Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) is a hidden swimming hole surrounded by dramatic rock formations.
- 1.5km walk through monsoon forest to a deep plunge pool beneath a stunning waterfall.
- Shady creeks and cool waters perfect for a refreshing swim.
Mamukala Wetlands – Bird Lovers Paradise
For bird enthusiasts the Mamukala Wetlands is an amazing birdwatching experience especially during the dry season when thousands of migratory birds arrive. See:
- Array of bird life including magpie geese and whistling ducks
- Purple swamp hens wading through water lilies
- Water chestnuts growing in the wetlands
1.5 hour circular walk around the wetlands with great photo opportunities.
Best Multi Day Tours for an in-depth experience
Want to see more than just a day trip, then consider 2 Day Kakadu tours which offer:
- Guided rock art site visits at Nourlangie Rock and Ubirr
- Wildlife cruises on the Yellow Water Billabong
- Visits to Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, and Gunlom Falls
- Indigenous history and cultural experiences
These tours allow you to take your time to appreciate Kakadu’s landscapes, history and wildlife without feeling rushed.
Accommodation Guide
For a comfortable stay Kakadu has:
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel – Iconic crocodile shaped hotel in Jabiru
Anbinik Kakadu Resort – Camping & budget friendly
Aurora Kakadu Lodge – Lodge & camping facilities
For the cheapest accommodation camping at Aurora Kakadu Lodge Camping & Caravan Park.
Road Trip & Transport Tips
Driving: The best way to see Kakadu is by four-wheel drive as many sites have 0.8 metre water crossings.
Public Transport: Very limited, but Sightseeing Tours Australia do guided tours.
Scenic Flights: Darwin Direct Flights or Kakadu Air for stunning views.
For trip information visit the Parks Australia Visitor Centres or Bowali Visitor Centre for maps and road conditions.
Final Thoughts
Kakadu National Park is a once in a lifetime experience with ancient land, Indigenous history, stunning landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re visiting famous rock art sites, swimming in deep plunge pools or spotting wetland wildlife this is an Aussie trip highlight.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Kakadu?
The dry season (May–October) is the most popular time to visit as roads are more accessible and waterfalls like Jim Jim Falls are safe to swim. But the wet season (November–April) offers green landscapes, full waterfalls and fewer crowds but some areas may be closed due to flooding.
Do I need a four-wheel drive to explore Kakadu?
A four-wheel drive is highly recommended as many attractions like Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls and Maguk require it. Some areas like Yellow Water Billabong and Nourlangie Rock can be accessed with a regular vehicle.
Are there crocodiles in Kakadu?
Yes, Kakadu is home to both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles. Swimming is only allowed in designated areas and you must follow safety guidelines. Cahills Crossing and Yellow Water Billabong are the best places to see crocodiles safely.
Can I swim in Kakadu National Park?
Swimming is only allowed in designated areas like Gunlom Falls, Maguk and some plunge pools. Be careful as saltwater crocodiles inhabit many waterways. Always check for safety warnings before you enter the water.
How do I get to Kakadu from Darwin?
Kakadu is a 3 hour drive from Darwin. You can rent a car, join a Darwin to Kakadu day tour or book a 2 Day Kakadu tour for a guided experience. Public transport is limited so self driving or a tour is the best option.
