While the ‘Red Centre’ might still be Australia’s beating heart, it is Kakadu National Park where the Aussies go to cool off. With 20,000 sq. kms of dramatic vistas, Kakadu provides visitors with a golden opportunity to connect with the country and its unique culture through a wide range of activities.
You can walk a trail, pitch a tent, explore the indigenous rock art or even spot the giant crocodiles on a boat cruise. But, where to start? Good question.
Here is a list of top Kakadu activities you must add to your travel bucket list for 2019:
CRUISE THE ICONIC YELLOW WATER BILLABONG
Discover the true scale and splendor of Kakadu at Yellow Water, a serene billabong enriched with the generosity of native flora, fauna, and spectacular sunsets for postcard-perfect memories. Listed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO – Yellow water with its bird’s songs, is a must visit place on your next trip to Kakadu.
Glide over the tranquil waters on a sunrise cruise and watch the saltwater crocodiles slide noiselessly into the water, before plunging and disappearing completely.
Walk the trail to explore the lush green forests and freshwater mangroves that line the shore with beautiful pink and white water lilies. And when the waters retract, stroll the boardwalk over the floodplains to a viewing platform and unveil the unforgettable vista of a top-end Kakadu sunset.
TAKE A RELAXING DIP IN THE GLORIOUS GUNLOM INFINITY POOL
Cool off in the crystal clear waters of Gunlom natural pool located high above the sweeping vistas of Kakadu and feel as if you are swimming on the edge of the earth. Resembling a resort-style infinity pool, Gunlom is a magical combination of natural waterfall and tranquil plunge pool, surrounded by picnic spots shaded by tall gums.
Or if you are craving for something more sedate, take a walk to Murrill Billabong and enjoy a great session of bird watching as you become one with nature.
Pro Tip: Bring your lunch and double the delight of the grassed, shady picnic at the Gunlom Infinity Pool.
Get up close and personal with Gunlom Falls on our 5 day tour to Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Litchfield and Katherine.
ADMIRE THE WORLD’S MOST ANCIENT ROCK ART GALLERIES
Kakadu is home to a plethora of ancient rock-art galleries where you can enjoy some of the world’s most antique Aboriginal rock art. From the rock crevices cut by Dreamtime ancestors at Nourlangie Rock to the jaw-dropping paintings of the Rainbow serpent at Ubirr, these ancient galleries feel cut off from the world in terms of both time and distance.
While these galleries are accessible during the dry season from April to October, the art sites can be reached by following 1.5 kilometers long circular path from the car park. You’ll be guided by park rangers who will provide deeper insight into Aboriginal art and culture.
REJUVENATE YOURSELF AT JIM JIM AND TWIN FALLS
Your visit to Kakadu is incomplete without hiking towards this beautiful couple of waterfalls. While they are geographically close to each other, they’re actually very different.
Set in the red ochre of the Arnhem Land cliff, they say, ‘Jim Jim Falls are so nice that they named them twice’. Boasting a sheer 150 m drop, crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, Jim Jim offers one of the best swimming experiences in the country.
Twin Falls, on the other hand, is a gushing waterfall which isn’t for swimming as much as it is to sightsee. Showcasing a spectacular flow all year round, twin falls is accessed by a shuttle boat that caters to the marvelous sights of long-necked turtles, different fish species, or maybe a saltwater crocodile.
Experience Twin and Jim Jim Falls on our day tour departing from Jabiru.
CONCLUSION:
With its lush green wetlands, rugged escarpments and cascading waterfalls, Kakadu offers visitors a brand new world of sights, sounds and experiences. If you’re seeking a Top End tour experience amidst the vast, natural environments, then Kakadu is definitely guaranteed to bid you memories that will last a lifetime. We offer a huge selection of tours to Australia's Top End - click here to find out more.
Written by : Wayoutback on 26 October