Kakadu National Park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in Australia. Spanning nearly 20,000 square kilometres, this massive UNESCO World Heritage site is not only a sanctuary for diverse wildlife but also a living gallery of Aboriginal rock art dating back thousands of years. With its dramatic escarpments, lush wetlands, and cascading waterfalls, Kakadu offers you a chance to explore some of the Northern Territory’s most epic settings.
This guide highlights some of the best things to do in Kakadu National Park, whether you’re keen on a thrilling adventure or prefer a deeper look into the region’s history and culture. We’ve also added some practical tips on how to get there, what to bring, and safety precautions. As an added bonus, we’ve also included the top tours in Kakadu National Park so you can plan your next trip to the NT destination stress-free.
Want to know all about planning your trip to Kakadu? Scroll to the bottom of the post to see which site locals use to book hotels, where trusted travelers book tours, and how to find the best flight deals. Or Click Here to be taken there now.
Best Things To Do in Kakadu
Discover the Rock Art at Ubirr
Ubirr is one of Kakadu’s most iconic Aboriginal rock art sites, where you can see a variety of styles, including x-ray paintings that depict the area’s abundant bush food. The main gallery features art that represents one of the longest continuous records of any group of people in the world.
After exploring the galleries, hike to the top of Ubirr for panoramic views of the floodplains. It’s an excellent spot to watch the sunset. From the lookout, you can see across the Nadab floodplain toward Arnhem Land, where shifting light transforms the wetlands and escarpment into shades of gold and pink. The short climb is well worth the effort, especially in the late afternoon when the landscape feels vast, quiet and timeless.
For an in-depth look at Ubirr Rock and other top Kakadu sites, book the 4 Day Kakadu to Katherine Experience.
Cruise the Yellow Water Billabong
Experience the vibrant ecosystem of Kakadu on a Yellow Water Billabong cruise. This year-round destination is famous for its birdlife, with over 280 species, including the iconic jabiru.
You’ll also have the chance to encounter saltwater crocodiles, wallabies, and wild buffalo among the lily-covered waters. The best times to enjoy the cruise are at sunrise or sunset when the wildlife is most active.
Guided tours provide expert commentary on the region’s wetlands and their cultural significance to the local Bininj/Mungguy people. As you glide through the calm waterways, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate network of billabongs and floodplains that define this remarkable landscape.
Book the Kakadu Retreat + Yellow Water Cruise for a 2 day glamping experience.
Swim at Motor Car Falls
Escape the crowds at Motor Car Falls, a secluded waterfall surrounded by lush monsoon forest. This spot is particularly popular during the summer when other waterfalls in the park are less accessible.
The 7.5 km return hike is well worth it, leading to a refreshing plunge pool fed by a single waterfall. Early morning visits are recommended to make the most of the shade and peaceful setting.
Located in the Yurmikmik area, the trail winds through open woodland and rocky terrain before descending into the cool, shaded gorge. Along the way, you’ll pass seasonal creeks and native bushland that highlight the park’s diverse Top End landscapes.
For a visit to Motor Car Falls, book the Kakadu + Litchfield 4WD 3 Day camping trip to see some of the NT’s highlights.
Explore Nourlangie Rock (Burrungkuy)
Wander through ancient shelters at Nourlangie Rock, a site where Aboriginal people have sought refuge during the wet season for thousands of years.
This 1.5km circular walk takes you past significant rock art galleries, offering a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural connections between the people and the land.
Don’t miss the nearby Anbangbang Billabong for a stunning view of Nourlangie, especially during the dry season between May and November.
Want to see a birds-eye view of Nourlangie Rock? Book a 30-minute scenic helicopter tour.
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Go on a 2WD or 4WD Adventure
You can explore one of Kakadu’s lesser-known gems by 4WD to Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge). This remote location in the park’s southeast corner is ideal for those seeking solitude and adventure.
Access is limited by permit through Parks Australia and numbers are capped, helping preserve its untouched feel and fragile environment. The 4WD track can be rough and seasonal, so high-clearance vehicles and careful planning are essential, especially during the wet season.
The walk into the gorge rewards you with pristine waterholes and small waterfalls, perfect for a quiet swim. Surrounded by towering sandstone walls and monsoon forest pockets, it feels worlds away from the busier sites of Kakadu National Park.
Prefer a 2WD? We’ve got a full 2WD Kakadu itinerary so you can see all of the park’s top attractions.
Relax at Maguk (Barramundi Gorge)
Maguk, also known as Barramundi Gorge, is a hidden treasure in the southern part of Kakadu National Park. A short walk through monsoon rainforest leads to a series of crystal-clear plunge pools surrounded by towering cliffs. Access involves a 4WD track followed by a relatively easy 1 km walk, making it a rewarding stop for those willing to venture a little further off the main road.
Cool off with a swim under the waterfall, then hike to the top for more pools and spectacular views. Maguk’s bush campsite makes it easy to spend the night close to nature. Spending the evening here offers a peaceful experience under the stars, with the sounds of the bush replacing the crowds found at more popular sites.
You can see Maguk Falls on a 3 Day Camping Tour to Kakadu and Litchfield NP, or book a half-day Maguk Falls adventure.
Birdwatch at Mamukala Wetlands
The Mamukala wetlands, located 30 km from Jabiru, are a birdwatcher’s paradise. The easy walk to the observation platform provides a quiet spot to watch as a variety of birds, including magpie geese, kingfishers, and kites, feed and interact in their natural habitat.
The wetlands are especially dramatic during the late dry season (September to November) when large flocks gather to dig for water chestnuts.
This Wildlife and Wetlands Tour gives visitors the opportunity to see some of Kakadu’s most majestic wildlife.
Take a Scenic Flight Over the Waterfalls
For a breathtaking view of Kakadu’s diverse landscapes, take a scenic flight over the park’s major waterfalls, including Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. From the air, you’ll see vast floodplains, winding rivers and dramatic sandstone escarpments that are difficult to fully appreciate from the ground. It’s also one of the only ways to grasp the sheer scale of the park, which stretches across nearly 20,000 square kilometres of the Top End.
These towering cascades are at their most spectacular during the wet season, but even in the dry months, the views from above offer a unique perspective on the rugged beauty of Kakadu. Scenic flights are available year-round and provide the perfect bucket list experience or romantic excursion.
For captivating aerial views of Kakadu’s most impressive natural wonders, book the Kakadu in a Day tour.
Experience Gunlom Falls
One of the most iconic places to visit in Kakadu is Gunlom Falls. Famous for its crystal-clear plunge pool and infinity-style rock pools at the top of the escarpment, Gunlom delivers both adventure and postcard-worthy views.
The lower pool is perfect for a refreshing swim surrounded by towering cliffs, while the walk to the top rewards you with panoramic views across Kakadu’s vast floodplains.
After an extended closure, Gunlom Falls reopened in 2025 after a 6-year closure, making it one of the most exciting places to add back onto your Kakadu itinerary.
Learn about its reopening and tips for visiting in our guide.
Stop By the Visitor Centres
Start your Kakadu adventure with a visit to the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru or the Warradjan Cultural Centre in Cooinda. Both centres are thoughtfully designed to introduce visitors to the landscapes and living culture of Kakadu before heading out to explore.
These centres offer valuable insights into Kakadu’s flora, fauna, and Aboriginal culture through interactive displays, videos, and exhibits. The centres also provide information on ranger-led activities and are a great place to plan your visit and pick up maps, books, and local art. Friendly staff can also advise on seasonal road conditions and the best spots to visit based on the time of year.
The Kakadu Wildlife + Croc Cruise from Darwin stops at the Bowali Visitor Centre and includes a full-day Kakadu tour and Jumping Croc Cruise.
Kakadu’s Top Walking Trails
Kakadu National Park is a hiker’s paradise and is home to over 30 walking trails catering to all experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging trek, Kakadu’s trails offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty, ancient rock art sites, and picture-perfect escarpments. Below are some of the best hikes in Kakadu:
Anbangbang Billabong Walk
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 2.5 km loop
- Highlights: This easy walk offers picturesque views of the Anbangbang Billabong with Nourlangie Rock as a dramatic backdrop. It’s perfect for birdwatching.
Jim Jim Falls Track
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Distance: 2 km return
- Highlights: A more challenging hike, the Jim Jim Falls track takes you through rugged terrain to the base of the towering Jim Jim Falls. It requires some rock scrambling, but the reward is a plunge pool surrounded by stunning cliffs.
Book the Jim Jim Falls/Gorge 4WD Tour for a guided excursion.
Nourlangie Rock (Burrungkuy) Walk
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Distance: 1.5 km loop
- Highlights: This walk takes you through ancient Aboriginal rock art galleries and offers panoramic views from the lookouts.
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) Walk
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 2 km return
- Highlights: This walk leads you through the monsoon rainforest to the plunge pools at Maguk. It’s an ideal spot for a swim, with the option of hiking to the top of the falls with more pools.
Ubirr Rock Art Site Walk
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 1 km loop
- Highlights: Explore one of Kakadu’s most famous rock art sites, featuring a variety of Aboriginal art styles. The walk also leads to a lookout over the Nadab floodplain with stunning sunset views.
Gubara Pools Walk
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 6 km return
- Highlights: Popular in the wet season, the Gubara Pools walk takes you through diverse habitats, from savanna woodlands to monsoon forests, ending at a series of rock pools.
Where is Kakadu National Park?
Kakadu National Park is located in the Northern Territory of Australia, approximately 170 kilometres southeast of Darwin.
It’s easily accessible by road, with the drive from Darwin to Kakadu National Park taking around three hours via the Arnhem Highway.
The journey from Darwin to Kakadu National Park offers a scenic introduction to some of the NT’s most beautiful landscapes and it, itself, can be one of the best things to do in Kakadu.
How to Get to Kakadu National Park
Reaching Kakadu National Park is easier than many visitors expect. Located about three hours east of Darwin, the park is accessible by sealed roads during, making it a straightforward road trip from the Top End’s capital.
Self-Drive
Driving out from Darwin is one of the most popular ways to explore Kakadu. The Arnhem Highway provides direct access to the park, and having your own vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace. During the dry season (May to October), many major attractions are accessible in a standard vehicle, while a 4WD is recommended for more remote areas, particularly in the wet season.
If you’re looking to rent a vehicle, we recommend Budget or rentalcars.com.
Guided Day Tours
If you’re short on time or prefer a stress-free experience, guided tours from Darwin are an excellent option. Many tours include transport, park passes, lunch, and expert commentary, making it easy to see all the highlights without worrying about logistics. This is a great choice for first-time visitors who want local insights into Kakadu’s Aboriginal culture, wildlife and landscapes.
Check out our complete list of the best tours to Kakadu, including short 1-day trips to multi-day adventures.
Travel Information and FAQ
What is the best time to visit Kakadu?
The best time to visit Kakadu is during the dry season (May to October) when most of the park’s attractions are accessible. The wet season (November to April) brings heavy rains, making some areas impassable, but it’s also when the waterfalls are most photogenic.
Do I need a Park Pass?
All visitors need a park pass to enter Kakadu. Please note that this is different from the NT park pass and must be purchased from Parks Australia under the Australian Government.
The pass can be purchased online or at the following locations:
- Bowali Visitor Centre, Kakadu National Park, Kakadu Highway, Jabiru
- Cooinda Lodge, Kakadu Highway, Cooinda
- Corroboree Park Tavern, 3095 Arnhem Highway, Marrakai
- Humpty Doo Post Office, 340 Arnhem Hwy, Humpty Doo
- Katherine Visitor Centre, Stuart Highway and Lindsay Street, Katherine
What to Bring
Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and insect repellent. If you plan to hike or visit remote areas, a map and GPS are recommended.
Safety Tips
Be aware of crocodile safety in Kakadu. Stick to designated swimming areas, follow all signs and advice from park rangers, and never enter the water in unmarked areas.
Kakadu National Park is a true treasure of the Top End in the Northern Territory, celebrated for its breathtaking natural beauty, vast waterways, and deep cultural significance. From ancient escarpments to lush floodplains and iconic billabongs, this remarkable landscape invites you to slow down and experience one of Australia’s most extraordinary environments.
Whether you’re watching the sun set over ancient rock art or spotting crocodiles in the billabongs, the best things to do in Kakadu National Park offer a powerful opportunity to connect with the land, its waterways, and the rich heritage that has shaped this unforgettable part of the Top End.
We highly recommend you Kaka’DO’ during your time in the NT!
Have you been to Kakadu National Park?. Comment below if you’ve been or if you have any suggestions to our Kakadu 2WD itinerary!
You can always get more inspiration for other National Parks to visit by following @northerhq. or signup for our monthly newsletter here to get travel inspiration and more straight to your inbox.
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. AllClear and Cover More are our favourite travel insurance providers to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
