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.
Kakadu National Park Guide: Best Things to Do
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 between May and November.
Want to see a birds-eye view of Nourlangie Rock? Book a 30-minute scenic helicopter tour.
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.
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.
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.
For a visit to Motor Car Falls, book the Kakadu + Litchfield 4WD 3 Day camping trip to see some of the NT’s highlights.
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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. 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.
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. The walk into the gorge rewards you with pristine waterholes and small waterfalls, perfect for a quiet swim.
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. A short walk through monsoon rainforest leads to a series of crystal-clear plunge pools surrounded by towering cliffs. 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.
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.
Visit the Visitor Centres
Start your Kakadu adventure with a visit to the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru or the Warradjan Cultural Centre in Cooinda. 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.
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, 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. Whether you’re coming for a day trip or an extended stay, the journey from Darwin to Kakadu National Park offers a scenic introduction to some of the NT’s most beautiful landscapes.
Travel Information
- 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.
- Park Pass: All visitors need a park pass to enter Kakadu. The pass can be purchased online or at the Bowali Visitor Centre, and it helps fund the maintenance and preservation of the site.
- 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 treasure in the Northern Territory, beloved for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Whether you’re watching the sun set over ancient rock art or spotting crocodiles in the billabong, the best things to do in Kakadu National Park offer a chance to connect with the landscape and its rich heritage.
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!
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