The Kakadu/Arnhemland region is home to some 20 national parks and reserves - some famous, and some hidden treasures. The World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is Australia’s largest national park. It is a place of rugged escarpments, lush wetlands and cascading waterfalls covering over 19,000 square kilometres. Spectacular landmarks include Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Maguk / Barramundie Gorge, Jarrangbarnmi / Koolpin Gorge and Gunlom / Waterfall Creek. The flora and fauna is diverse - pockets of monsoon rainforest, paperbark forests and wetlands are a haven for amazing wildlife including crocodiles, barramundi, and birdlife. Kakadu is also home to one of the largest concentrations of Aboriginal rock art in the world. Bordering Kakadu to the west is Arnhem Land made up of 91,000 square kilometres of unspoiled wilderness. This land harbours a rich and ancient Aboriginal culture and is home to many Aboriginal people, many of whom continue to practise the traditional way of life.
When to Visit Kakadu / Arnhem Land
Kakadu / Arnhem Land, being tropical and humid, has only minor temperature variations between summer and winter. Of greater significance is the Wet Season and the Dry Season. The Wet is between November and April with temperatures averaging 33-35° C during the day dropping to an average of 23-25° C overnight. From November to May, waterfalls are at their most spectacular and the lowlands are flooded, attracting millions of migratory birds. The Dry is between May and October with temperatures averaging 30-32° C during the day dropping to an average of 20-22° C overnight. The best time to visit is during the dry season.
Getting Around Kakadu / Arnhem Land
Darwin International Airport (DIA) is located approximately 13 klms from the Darwin central business district and is the main international and domestic gateway to the Northern Territory. Tourist buses and guided tours leave from Darwin daily to visit Kakadu, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park, and Arnhemland. Alternatively hire a rental car. Most of the popular attractions are reachable via sealed roads however some require a 4WD for access. Be watchful of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.