Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Northern Territory, is one of Australia’s top attractions. This old land has stunning landscapes, waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art, wildlife and greenery. While Kakadu itself is an ultimate adventure destination, there are plenty of popular attractions nearby to make your holiday even more fun.
Whether you visit in the Dry season or wet season, you’ll find waterfalls, dreamy spots, deep plunge pools and waterfalls to explore. Let’s get into the best places to visit near Kakadu!
Litchfield National Park – A Waterfall Paradise
Distance: ~150 km (2-hour drive)
If you love swimming spots and rock formations, Litchfield National Park is a great day trip. With waterfalls, a bit of water fun and awesome views, this park is a perfect spot to experience the Australian bush.
Top Litchfield
- Wangi Falls – A great spot to take a swim.
- Florence Falls – A deep plunge pool surrounded by rainforest.
- Buley Rockholes – A natural swimming hole to cool off.
If you’re visiting in the wet season, check water levels before heading to certain areas.
Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) – Rugged Landscape & Waterfalls
Distance: ~250 km (3-hour drive)
Nitmiluk National Park is home to the famous Katherine Gorge, a must see for those who love wild adventures, boat trips and scenic views.
Things to Do in Nitmiluk
- Take a boat trip or canoe through the rugged landscape.
- Hike to rock art sites and see ancient rock art.
- Swim in the waterfalls at Edith Falls.
- Take a scenic flight over the views of the gorge.
This park has an awesome experience with cultural heritage and natural wonders
Arnhem Land – A Cultural Encounter with the Traditional Owners
Distance: Beside Kakadu
If you want a cultural experience like no other, Arnhem Land is the place to be. This old land is home to the Traditional Owners who offer cultural heritage experiences. For an immersive journey, consider Darwin to Kakadu tours, which provide a unique opportunity to explore the rich traditions and breathtaking landscapes of this ancient region.
Things to See in Arnhem Land
- Injalak Arts Centre – See rock art sites and buy Aboriginal rock art.
- Bawaka and Bremer Island – Lovely wetlands, stunning views and native wildlife.
- Fishing tours – Catch Barramundi in the water.
Note: Permission required to visit most of Arnhem Land.
Mary River Wetlands – A Wildlife Habitat with Aussie Wildlife
Distance: ~100 km (1.5 hours)
For a wildlife habitat experience the Mary River Wetlands is the place to go. It’s home to an abundance of wildlife, rock wallabies, Magpie Geese and Aussie wildlife.
Must Do at Mary River
- Take a boat trip at Corroboree Billabong to see saltwater crocodiles.
- Explore Mamukala Wetlands, one of Kakadu’s beautiful wetlands full of birds.
- Stay at a holiday park or a luxury lodge.
The wetlands are best during the wet season with full green landscapes.
Darwin – The Capital City & Gateway to Kakadu
Distance: ~150 km (2 hours)
Before or after your Kakadu adventure, visit Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory. It’s a beautiful town with hot spots, cultural heritage and amazing experiences.
Top Darwin
- Mindil Beach Sunset Market – A beautiful spot for food and sunset.
- Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory – Aboriginal rock art and rock formations.
- Crocosaurus Cove – Get up close with crocodiles.* Stokes Hill Wharf – Food
Darwin has:
- Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
- Anbinik Kakadu Resort
- Aurora Kakadu Lodge
Jim Jim Falls & Twin Falls – Best Waterfalls in Kakadu
Distance: Inside Kakadu National Park
No trip to Kakadu is complete without visiting Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. These are the most beautiful waterfalls in Kakadu National Park with great views and deep plunge pools.
- Jim Jim Falls – Can be seen from a 60 minute Scenic Flight with Kakadu Air.
- Twin Falls – Accessible by boat and a short walk.
In the wet season these falls are at their best.
Ubirr Rock & Nourlangie Rock – Rock Art & Scenic Flights
Distance: Inside Kakadu National Park
For rock art and scenic flights don’t miss Ubirr Rock and Nourlangie Rock.
Why?
- Climb Ubirr Rock for amazing views over the green landscape.
- Explore Nourlangie Rock to see ancient rock art and learn about Aboriginal culture.
Yellow Water Billabong – Must See in Kakadu
Distance: Inside Kakadu National Park
Yellow Water Billabong is one of Kakadu’s most popular attractions famous for its abundance of wildlife, native wildlife and waterfalls.
What to do
- Take a boat trip at sunrise or sunset for a experience of a lifetime.
- Spot rock wallabies, Magpie Geese and saltwater crocodiles.
- Stay at Kakadu Tourism lodges near the billabong.
Plan Your Kakadu Adventure
From Jim Jim Falls to Arnhem Land, Yellow Water, and Litchfield, these natural wonders will make your Darwin to Kakadu day trip epic. Whether you like scenic flights, deep plunge pools, cultural heritage or wild adventures the Northern Territory has got it all!
For the best wild adventures book with Wildlife Tours who offer amazing 1 day Kakadu tours from Darwin, Litchfield and Arnhem Land.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Kakadu National Park?
The Dry season (May to October) is the best time to visit Kakadu as the weather is cooler and most areas including Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls and Ubirr Rock are open. The wet season (November to April) is lush green, waterfalls and spectacular scenic flights.
Can I visit Kakadu and Litchfield National Park in the one trip?
Yes! Many people visit both parks as they complement each other well. Litchfield National Park is for swimming holes and waterfalls and Kakadu National Park is for cultural experiences, rock formations and wildlife.
Do I need a permit to visit Arnhem Land?
Yes, a permit is required to enter most of Arnhem Land as it is privately owned by the Traditional Owners. You can get a permit through the Northern Land Council or book a guided tour that includes access.
Are there crocodiles in Kakadu’s swimming holes?
Yes, saltwater crocodiles are in many waterways in Kakadu. But designated swimming holes like Gunlom Falls, Maguk and Motor Car Falls are generally safe during the Dry season when they are monitored. Always check with local authorities before swimming.
How do I get to Kakadu National Park?
You can drive from Darwin (150 km, 2 hour drive) or take a scenic flight with Kakadu Air. There are also guided Kakadu tours from Darwin which include transport and guided experiences.
