5 Unique Things To Experience In Kakadu National Park

Kakadu is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and unique flora and fauna.

To truly experience and appreciate the best of the Top End, ensure you visit Kakadu National Park.

You can explore on your own with a 4WD to maximise your time in the national park. Otherwise, there are plenty of tours available for a chance to see Kakadu in a day, three days or even four days!

Things to do in Kakadu

1. Ubirr rock art 

An unforgettable site to visit is the rock art at Ubirr, dating back at least 20,000 years, painted by the traditional owners of the land. Arrive before sunset to do the extra walk to Nadab Lookout for beautiful views.

2. Warradjan Aboriginal Culture Centre

Multiple Aboriginal clans wanted to come together and contribute to the centre, a chance to tell their stories. Through a range of displays and exhibits, you can learn about the culture, family, and land of the local Aboriginal people.

3. See Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls
   

Kakadu boasts remarkable waterfalls, including the most famous being Jim Jim Falls, standing at 200 metres high, and Twin Falls. During the dry season, enjoy a swim in the plunge pool at the base of Jim Jim Falls to cool off from the heat. While swimming isn’t permitted at Twin Falls, there is a plateau above the falls you can swim at. In the wet season, scenic flights are your best option as the waterfalls are inaccessible due to flooding.

4. Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin) Gorge

In the heart of Kakadu, Koolpin Gorge is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. You’ll need a 4WD and it’s well worth it to see the breathtaking lookouts and swim in the waterholes.

5. Cahills Crossing

Cahills Crossing is believed to be the deadliest crossing in Australia due to the fact of the large number of saltwater crocodiles here. It’s also dangerous due to the quick flow of the river. It’s safe to only cross Cahills Crossing at low tide with a high clearance 4WD with a snorkel.

Aside from how dangerous the crossing is, it also makes a great viewpoint to watch crocodiles.

For a chance to experience more of Kakadu, consider booking a day tour departing from Darwin! The tour includes stops at the Jumping Crocodile Cruise, Fogg Dam, Bowali Visitor Centre, Cahills Crossing, and Ubirr Rock.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.