Your guide to visiting Kakadu in tropical summer
Tropical summer in Kakadu National Park
Contrary to popular belief, the tropical summer season from November to April might just be the best time to visit Kakadu National Park. When the rains arrive, the land becomes lush and green, waterfalls and waterholes are at their most spectacular and the park is brimming with wildlife.
There’s also a misconception that it rains all the time during tropical summer. Unless there’s a monsoon, you’ll often only get a shower or two in the afternoon so there’s still plenty of time to explore.
Tropical summer also means less tourists, so you can enjoy taking in the beauty of Kakadu without the crowds of people.
Here’s our local tips on what to do and where to stay in Kakadu during tropical summer.
Experiences and things to do in Kakadu
Take a scenic flight over Kakadu
Seeing Kakadu from the air is one of the best ways to experience the park during tropical summer. Popular Jim Jim Falls is inaccessible by road during this season, so seeing this 200 metre waterfall from the air when water roars over the top is truly spectacular. You’ll also fly over the top of rainforest, stone country and other water holes such as Twin Falls.
Cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong
Discover the beauty of the wetlands onboard the Yellow Waters Cruise. Spot crocodiles and learn about the diversity of this river ecosystem. Tropical summer is also the best time to see birds and other wildlife. We recommend the dusk cruise which is one of the most magical times of day on the billabong.
Watch the sunset from Ubirr
Take a short walk to the top of Ubirr Rock for incredible views across the flood plains. Take some drinks, nibbles and a picnic blanket and settle in to watch the sunset (many locals will argue that wet season sunsets are in fact better than the dry). Also be sure to check out the rock art sites on the walk up.
Do the Yurmikmik walks
This series of interconnected walks are best done during tropical summer when the water holes are full with fresh water and ready for you to swim in. Traverse through monsoonal rainforests and stone country before cooling off in a creek or plunge pool. You can opt to do a shorted 30 minute walk (2km), or venture further to Yurmikmik Lookout, Motor Car Falls or Kurrundie Falls.
Photo credit: Andrew Bain
Where to stay in Kakadu
Cooinda Lodge
This village-style accomodation is set amongst the trees, right next to Yellow Water Billabong. Choose from Lodge Rooms for cabin-style accomodation, or one of the Outback Retreat rooms for a glamping experience.
Corroboree Houseboats
If you’re looking for a unique stay in Kakadu, cruise down the Mary River on your very own houseboat. Fully equipped with a kitchen, fridge, BBQ and bathroom, staying on a houseboat gives you the chance to really experience the beauty of this pristine river system.
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Sleep in the belly of a croc at the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. This iconic stay is located in the township of Jabiru and is the perfect base for exploring Kakadu. Enjoy air conditioned hotel rooms, a restaurant, bar and pool.
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