Kakadu National Park What to see, how to visit & when to go

Kakadu National Park is one of the largest national parks in Australia and lies approximately 150km east of Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory along the Arnhem Highway.

There’s plenty to see and do in Kakadu National Park year round.

The dry season (May to October) offers the best conditions for road access, walking trails and exploring the park’s iconic attractions. During the wet season (November - April), Kakadu National Park transforms with powerful waterfalls, lush landscapes, fewer crowds and exceptional wildlife viewing, creating a spectacular setting for scenic flights and nature experiences.

Kakadu is accessible by car, 4WD, coach or guided tours from Darwin or Katherine. Sealed highways connect the park to Darwin year‑round but it is important to check road conditions as weather can impact conditions.

Most visitors spend 3 to 7 days exploring Kakadu National Park and its surrounding attractions. A 3-day stay covers the park’s iconic highlights, while 4 to 7 days allows for a more immersive experience of its landscapes, wildlife and rich cultural heritage.

A park pass is required to visit Kakadu National Park. Passes can be purchased online from Parks Australia with options of either a three-day or an annual pass.

Connection to Country is very much a part of the NT’s identity, where the breadth and depth of Aboriginal cultural experiences are like nowhere else.

There are many ways to learn about and connect with the diverse Aboriginal cultures with many opportunities to immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture in Kakadu.

Take a locally-guided multi-day tour from Darwin or book a day trip once you are at Kakadu. Bowali Visitor Centre near Jabiru is a good starting point for planning your Kakadu explorations. The park has been home to the Bininj/Mungguy people for more than 60,000 years and there are more than 5,000 documented Aboriginal art sites. Many are accessible to visitors and have interpretive signage.

Discover accessible travel experiences in Kakadu National Park, including accommodation, tours and transport options.

The Territory welcomes travellers of all abilities and aims to empower visitors with the necessary information to confidently plan your holiday. In the NT accessibility goes beyond physical infrastructure to encompass the compassionate and helpful nature of its locals.

You’ll find a variety of accessible accommodation, tours, and transport options tailored to different needs, including wheelchair access, hearing and vision support, and high-care requirements. You can refine your search by region and accessibility preferences. If a tour or experience isn’t listed, it’s worth contacting the operator directly, as many are happy to accommodate individual needs wherever possible.

• Book tours in advance during peak season.
• Always be crocwise when visiting all waterways around Kakadu and only swim in designated areas.
• Check the daily access report for the latest updates on seasonal road closures
• Weather can be extreme: plan accordingly. Carry water and sun protection.
• Respect cultural protocols and guidelines.