Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Ryan Vand, Pexels
Kakadu National Park presents an expansive landscape where ancient Aboriginal culture and diverse natural wonders converge. One can explore dramatic escarpments, verdant wetlands teeming with wildlife, and majestic waterfalls, experiencing a profound connection to a land inhabited for over 65,000 years.
Opportunities to engage with fellow travellers often arise within the park's various accommodation options, which include lodges and campsites, some equipped with communal facilities like pools and bistros. Guided tours and shared activities, such as wildlife cruises, also naturally foster interaction among visitors.
Top 6 Things to do in Kakadu National Park
Exploring Kakadu National Park involves engaging with ancient Aboriginal culture through rock art, observing abundant wildlife on wetlands, and experiencing the dramatic landscapes of waterfalls and escarpments.
1. Yellow Water Billabong Cruise
Cruising on the Yellow Water Billabong provides an intimate encounter with Kakadu's diverse wildlife. This guided boat tour is renowned for exceptional birdwatching, with numerous species present, and frequent sightings of saltwater crocodiles. Experiencing the billabong at sunrise or sunset offers captivating light and increased animal activity.
Cost: Tour prices typically range from AUD $70 to AUD $105 per person. Self-guided access to the billabong for viewing is included with the Kakadu Park Pass (AUD $25-40 for adults, free for children under 16).
Transport: Yellow Water Billabong is located near Cooinda Lodge. It is accessible by 2WD vehicles. Tours often include transport from Cooinda Lodge to the boat ramp.
2. Explore Ubirr Rock Art and Sunset Lookout
Ubirr offers a unique opportunity to witness ancient Aboriginal rock art, with galleries showcasing paintings up to 20,000 years old. A walking path leads visitors through various art sites. The highlight for many is the short climb to the Nawurlandja Lookout, providing expansive panoramic views over the Nadab floodplain and Arnhem Land escarpment, particularly striking at sunset.
Cost: Access is included with the Kakadu Park Pass (AUD $25-40 for adults, free for children under 16). Ranger-guided talks are often available at no extra cost.
Transport: Ubirr is accessible by 2WD vehicles via a sealed road. It is approximately a 30-minute drive north of Jabiru.
3. Discover Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art and Lookouts
Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock) features impressive Aboriginal rock art within natural rock shelters, offering insights into the history and culture of the local people. A circular walk allows exploration of the art sites. Nearby, the Nawurlandja Lookout provides stunning views across the landscape, including Anbangbang Billabong and the distant escarpment, especially beautiful during sunset.
Cost: Access is included with the Kakadu Park Pass (AUD $25-40 for adults, free for children under 16). Ranger-guided talks are often available.
Transport: Burrungkuy is accessible by 2WD vehicles. It is approximately a 25-minute drive from the Bowali Visitor Centre.
4. Swim at Maguk (Barramundi Gorge)
Maguk, also known as Barramundi Gorge, is a serene natural swimming hole fed by a clear waterfall. A walk through a monsoonal rainforest leads to the plunge pool, offering a refreshing and picturesque spot for a swim. This area provides a tranquil experience away from some of the more frequented sites.
Cost: Access is included with the Kakadu Park Pass (AUD $25-40 for adults, free for children under 16).
Transport: Maguk requires a 4WD vehicle to access the car park, followed by a walk. Day tours that include Maguk may offer transport from main visitor hubs.
5. Take a Scenic Flight over Waterfalls
A scenic flight provides a unique perspective of Kakadu's vastness and its dramatic landscapes, particularly showcasing the majestic Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. During the wet season, when ground access to these falls is often restricted, a scenic flight becomes the primary way to witness their full power and beauty. It offers an unparalleled aerial view of the escarpments and floodplains.
Cost: Scenic flights typically start from around AUD $105 for a 30-minute flight, with prices varying for longer durations and specific routes.
Transport: Flights usually depart from Jabiru airport, which is accessible by 2WD vehicles.
6. Observe Crocodiles at Cahills Crossing
Cahills Crossing is a renowned location for observing saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat, especially during changing tides when they congregate. A dedicated viewing platform provides a safe vantage point for this wildlife spectacle.
Cost: Access is included with the Kakadu Park Pass (AUD $25-40 for adults, free for children under 16).
Transport: Cahills Crossing is accessible by 2WD vehicles to the viewing area. It is located in the East Alligator (Erre) region.
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