History of Kakadu National Park
Kakadu National Park is a mixture of cultural and natural-oriented diverse national parks located in the Northern Territory of Australia. Its history goes back to 65,000 years ago when the land was hereditarily owned by Aboriginal people.
As per some research, Aboriginal people are the real owners and protect this land from time to time, that’s why they have a very deep cultural and traditional connection to this land. Kakadu National Park is home to numerous collections of indigenous rock art sites and belongs to over 20,000 years old. These special rock arts are considered the vital record of the site’s history and cultural significance.
During the 19th century, When Europeans started settling in Australia and nearby parks, once they noticed the Kakadu nomadic peoples, declared this place as Kakadu. Kakadu Park was first introduced to the general public in April 1979. During that, Kakadu people are suggested for Gaagudju.
In 1979, Modern Kakadu National Park was established, Interestingly, Australia’s first site was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Better known for outstanding cultural and natural importance includes a diverse range of places, flora and fauna, natural landscapes, ecosystems, and geological formations in a total of 19,804 sq. ft. of areas. There is no doubt that Kakadu National Park is one of the biggest parks in Australia.
Suggested Read; Yellowstone National Park.
Top 10 Things to See and Do in the Kakadu National Park
1. Ubirr Rock
Surprisingly, Ubirr Rock is considered one of Kakadu’s famous Aboriginal rock art galleries. Extensive collections of century-old or ancient rock art, showcasing the cultural heritage and traditional stories of the Aboriginal people. 1 hour of a journey to the top via circular walking, which leads to a 250 m-long observation track point.
During your walking, the site offers incredible picture square views of the park, including floodplains, landscapes, and milky glow, especially during sunset.
2. Nourlangie Rock
Out of total rock formations, Nourlangie rock is the most elegant and core reason for Kakadu to be a part of the World Heritage Site. Nourlangie Rock also called Burungku Rock, contains outstanding global cultural values which belong to 20,000 years ago, especially its rock paintings. Just a short walk (around 1.5 km) invites you to explore a unique visual journey in a cultural museum, which shows us paintings, shelters, artifacts, and Aboriginal cultures.
3. Yellow Water Billabong cruise
A place where you want to explore unique flora and fauna in Kakadu National Park, Yellow water billabong is the perfect destination. Listed in the best-known landmark in Kakadu Park’s world heritage site. Either walking or through a yellow water cruise, you can see park wildlife, especially Crocodiles, Wild horses, Buffalo, and even more. Vast collections of birds, like Jacana, Egrets, Jabiru, Sea eagles, and Magpie geese. Fishing is a more common thing to enjoy by the many travelers here. An experienced guide will explain fish stories in most picturesque fish locations.
You can also read; Parkland Corporation Logo and Taglines.
4. Jim Jim Falls
Kakadu island witnessed a good number of falls, including Jim Jim Falls (a Name originally generated from the Aboriginal name- Water pandanus). Known for stunning waterfalls covered by green towering cliffs, recognizing its thundering waterfalls and astonishing cliffs. During summer, the entire fall is going to be dry, that time you can go hiking to explore incredible cliffs. Jim Jim Falls is located in the middle of the forest, where you can see the oldest species of vegetation and tallest trees, dating back over 400 million years.
5. Twin Falls
Twin Falls are the 2 major falls that jump from 150 m high into a deep water pool. The most breathtaking waterfall in Kakadu waterfall, showcasing the most ancient life secrets and aquatic life in crystal clear water. There are multiple things to do within Twin Falls, including a floating boardwalk, soaking up in the water during sunny, a boat cruise along the South Alligator River, Short hike. In the crystal-clear plunge pool enjoy the scenic beauty surrounding the falls. Never miss the Twin Falls plateau walk- a 6km walk between deep gorge and wilderness views.
Read about; Kangaroo Island Tour.
6. Maguk or Barramundi Gorge
Maguk is also called Barramundi Gorge, better known for its natural waterfall, and plunge pool and lesser known for tourist attractions. As an adventure seeker, never miss swimming in a plunge pool with rocky slopes. The natural waterfall offers a refreshing swimming experience amidst towering gorge walls along with incredible Anbinik trees. Located just 14 km from Kakadu highway, and nearest to the monsoon forest too. Perfect waterfalls are settled in the lap of nature, dedicated to swimming and mind-free relaxation atmosphere in this tranquil setting.
7. Warradjan Cultural Centre
Warradjan Cultural Centre was mainly developed for a deeper understanding of the Aboriginal culture and the Kakadu National Park’s biodiversity. Insight into the famous age-old stories, aboriginal culture, and histories from time to time. Exhibits both art and crafts, along with selling some of the books and cards belonging to ancient periods. It witnesses various exhibits, including traditional artifacts, interactive displays, interactive and educational experiences, and informative presentations including handmade and authentic.
8. Gunlom Falls
I insist you dip in the popular swimming spot Gunlom Fall. Most picturesque swimming spot with a stunning natural infinity pool overlooking the southern part of the Kakadu National Park. Also known as UDP Falls, descends from the 168-metre height of the Mary River. It required 15 minutes to climb to the top of the falls to see the series of swimming pools. Don’t miss to hike to the top to explore panoramic views and a pool and Mary River for swimmers.
9. Mamukala Wetlands
The Mamukala Wetlands is a place where you spot a variety of Australian species and creatures, ancient plant species, and colorful birds including migrates. We call it a haven for birdwatchers, particularly during tropical summer months when a lot of migratory bird species are visiting here. An observation platform offers you an excellent view of the wetlands and its inhabitants. Kingfisher, swamp hens, finches, cormorants, kites, willie wagtails, and magpie geese are the most common birds to explore, and sometimes you can see crocodiles in the bay of Mamukala.
10. Crocodile spotting
Kakadu has a population of more than 10,000 Crocodiles. Surprisingly, Crocodiles are classified into 2 types such as; Freshwater Crocodiles and Saltwater Crocodiles. Both have some physical and geographical changes. If you want to see these Crocodiles it is possible in cruise tour in the East Alligator River or Yellow Water Billabong, or you can choose high viewing platforms. As we know, the most perfect time to see Crocodiles is the dry season, because their bodies seek rising temperatures.
Best Time to Visit
It is so much of a versatile place for travelers to see and explore in Australia. Therefore, there is no specific time and season to visit, but whenever you visit some hidden things are waiting to do.
Dry Season – May to October;
It is the recommended and popular time to visit Kakadu National Park. Where you can explore some of the things like crocodile sightings in Mamukala Wetlands, Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, and Barramundi Gorge. It is important to book your ticket (accommodation and entrance fees) well in advance, due to busy seasons.
Tropical Summer – November to April;
Perfect time to see beautiful lush greeneries, flooding, storms, and blossoms with migratory birds. Places like Burruungkuy and Yellow Water Billabong are quite supportive in these months. No such great place to see these months, apart from thundering waterfalls, flooding in helicopters, or scenic flights.
Timings and Entrance Fees/ Kakadu Park Pass
In Kakadu National Park, visitors are eligible to get a Kakadu Park pass to enjoy the unlimited fun and entire park views. It includes;
| Age Group | Dry Season (May to October) | Tropical Summer (November to April) |
| Adults (Above the Age of 18 years) | $40.00 per pass | $25.00 per pass |
| Children (Aged Between 5-15 years) | $20.00 per pass | $12.50 per pass |
| Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) | $100.00 per pass | $65.00 per pass |
- Park Pass can be purchased online.
- Pass contains a total of 7 days of valid assurances.
- Pass price may vary from time to time and season to season.
- Most of the pass price value goes to the empowerment and development of parks, traditional communities, and Preserved heritage sites.
- Concession is available to visitors for both the season;
$30.00 per pass for Dry season and $19.00 per person for Tropical summer.
How to Get to Kakadu National Park
Either you can travel by Airplane or Driving. Look out these 2 options and see which is best suits your convenience.
- By Air;
Currently, there are no direct flights available to Kakadu. If you are a domestic traveler, come to the nearby airports of Darwin or Alice Springs. Take a long drive to Kakadu.
Suppose, you are an international traveler, book your ticket to the nearest International airport, then fly to Darwin or Alice Springs. Thereafter you can take a car drive from there.
- By Driving;
This is applicable only to domestic or nearby travelers. There are 3 main gateways to enter Kakadu Park by Road;
From Darwin- Total 4-hour journey; Darwin-Stuart Highway-Arnhem Highway.
From Katherine- Total 3-hour journey; Katherine-Stuart Highway-Kakadu Highway.
From Alice Springs- Total 15-hour journey; Alice Spring-Stuart Highway-Kakadu Park.
