Kakadu National Park & Darwin

There are many wonderful sights to see in Kakadu National Park. Located about 171 km from Darwin, Kakadu is home to hundreds of plant and animal species. With four river systems flowing across the land, you can visit a number of natural waterfalls and observe the park's varied fauna and spectacular flora.

Seasons

Kakadu Park and its surrounding regions are dominated by two seasons – wet and dry – and the area is amazingly transformed by each, made almost unrecognisable from the preceding season. The dry season typically begins in April and ends in September. During this season, there is little rainfall. The weather is warm and inviting for those who want to spend a few days exploring the park.

The wet season, which usually begins in January, is when the region experiences a huge level of rainfall which transforms Kakadu. Even though temperatures are usually warm, fierce storms and rain are common. In between the dry and wet season, during the months of October-December, wind storms that include lightning and thunder are common.

Must See

There are six landforms that make up Kakadu National Park. These landforms combine to form the Arnhem Land Escarpment. Here, you will find wetlands, cliffs, forests, lowlands and much more. When travelling to Kakadu, there are an almost unlimited number of sights to see that include:

• Crystal Cascades – located in the rainforest. See beautiful waterfalls and other elements only found in nature
• Jim Jim Falls – located in the Arnhem Land, the falls are not accessible during the wet season. You can travel there in the dry season to see the falls up close. Other waterfalls include Twin Falls and Maguk.
• Nourlangie Rock – There are many rock formations that make up the Southern Hills. This rock provides shade for the Anbangbang Billabong, which provides water to many animals and plants.
• Rock Art Sites – There are hundreds of aboriginal rock art sites that have been preserved for visitors to view. Popular art sites include Nanguluwur and Ubirr.

While the landscape of Kakadu may be the main reason for traveling there, the park is also filled with a variety of plants and flowers that add to the beauty and sustainability of the land. Because the landscape is so diverse, you will see different plants and flowers living in the wetland, lowland and plains areas. For those who enjoy bird watching, Kakadu Park is one of the places in the world to see rare or almost extinct varieties.

Even though there are many species of animal that live in the park, crocodiles are among the most popular. Saltwater crocodile and Freshwater crocodile can be found in rivers such as the East Crocodile River or Yellow River. If you want to see a crocodile up close, do so through an organised tour and with caution – crocodiles bite.

In addition to crocodile, you will also have the chance to see over 60 mammals, 117 species of reptile, 25 species of frog, over fifty species of fish, and over 10,000 insects. Depending on the time of year you visit, you will see a variety of endangered species and animals that have learned to adapt to different weather conditions.

Accommodation

For visitors to Kakadu who wish to stay in the National Park, there are many campsites to choose from. The nearest town is Jabiru. Food, water and other necessities can be purchased in Jabiru when planning to spend a few days and nights in the Park.

There are roads throughout the park, but they may be closed at different times during the year, so you may need to hike up to the waterfalls or into the wetlands. To truly experience everything Kakadu National Park has to offer, a four wheel drive and tent are essential.

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