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Kakadu National Park – the name is derived from Gagudju, an Aboriginal floodplain language – occupies some 110,000 square kilometres of Australia‘s Northern Territory, an area half the size of Switzerland. It’s an incredibly diverse environment home to 68 mammals (nearly a fifth of Australia’s total), over 300 species of fish, more than 2,000 plants and over 10,000 species of insect. Over a third of Australia’s birds can be found in the park, and Kakadu’s wetlands are an important staging point for migration. Additionally Kakadu is home to several threatened or endangered species found nowhere else in the world, and it’s thought that there are other species unknown to science that live within the park, waiting to be discovered.
On top of that Kakadu is home to one of the highest concentrations of aboriginal rock art to be found anywhere in the world, set amid beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking scenery. It’s a unique environment that should be high up on anyone’s list of travel destinations, so here’s a short guide to five unmissable sights you’ll want to be sure to see.
1. Ubirr Rock
Found in Kakadu’s East Alligator Area, Ubirr is one of the two famous Aboriginal rock art galleries in Kakadu. A one kilometre circular walk will wake you through the galleries, and during the dry season you can listen to free talks and learn the significance of the art to the indigenous peoples. Don’t forget to take a climb to the top of the rock. It’s 250 metres, and fairly steep, but the views over the Nardab floodplains and Arnhem Land are truly spectacular. Sunset in particular is a perfect time to take in the view – the sun setting across the Park is a sight you won’t ever forget.
2. Gunlom
Gunlom waterfall is a sight on its own, and you can swim in the plunge pool, however there’s more to see than meets the eye. It’s a relatively challenging climb up to Gunlom’s first waterhole, but well worth the effort. A series of infinity pools provide an exquisite photo opportunity, then you can disturb the mirror like surface and take one of the most memorable swims ever.
3. Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre
This fascinating centre is designed in a circular shape, based on a Warradjan, or pig-nosed turtle. Packed with thoughtful displays providing a wealth of information about local aboriginal life in Kakadu, you’ll also hear some evocative storytelling recounting indigenous legends. There’s also a wonderful gift-shop packed with interesting art.
4. Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls
Both falls require effort to reach, guarded by bumpy tracks that will only accommodate four wheel drives, so they are best visited as part of a tour. Still, the reward is well worth the effort, particularly if you visit right after the wet season ends. If you wish to swim in the pools pay attention to the signs, as you should only enter the water once the crocodiles have been cleared!
5. Guluyambi Cruise
Take a trip along the East Alligator River with an Aboriginal guide. Offering insights into the local wildlife, as well as Aboriginal mythology, bush survival skills and the traditional way of life, the humour of the guides is an added extra. Just keep your hands inside the boat, there will be plenty of crocodiles about!
Now if that list’s not enough to tempt you, I don’t know what will! Try and make time for Kakadu, you won’t regret it.
