Can you do Kakadu in a day?

Kakadu National Park is a legendary dreamscape full of unique wildlife, cascading waterfalls, picturesque swimming holes and surreal rock formations.

A journey through Kakadu National Park is unlike any other trip in the world, with the sheer majesty of the landscape enough to inspire awe and wonder in any traveller.

From visiting the mystical Nourlangie Indigenous shelters to spotting crocs from the safety of a river cruise, to taking a refreshing dip in the Gunlom plunge pool or learning about local Indigenous history, Kakadu National Park is an action-packed adventure that you will surely never forget.

One thing to know about Kakadu is that it is absolutely gigantic, and this means a lot of its incredible sites are in far flung parts of the park. But you can still easily experience some of its top wonders in one action-packed, unforgettable day!

Let’s take a look at some of the awesome adventures you can have in one day at Kakadu National Park.

• View Indigenous art at the amazing Nourlangie shelters

  The Nourlangie region of Kakadu is as much a stunning rock formation as it is an incredible Indigenous rock art site. Take in the breathtaking views before heading into the shelters, where the local Bininj people painted thousands of years ago. Here, you can learn about the art and take your time to meander around the impressive landscape.

• Jump aboard a croc-spotting river cruise

  Because no visit to Kakadu is complete without spotting its most fearsome resident – the formidable saltwater crocodile! But you might not want to get too close on foot, and this is why there are awesome river cruises that allow you to spot the prehistoric beasts from the comfort of the deck! While the crocs are the cruise’s main attraction, you will also get the opportunity to learn more about the beautiful landscape and the other unique wildlife that inhabit it.

• Learn about Indigenous history

  Kakadu National Park is a sacred place to the Warradjan people. They are the native custodians of the land, and proudly educate visitors about their connection to the land and their customs. At the cultural centre, you can learn more about their artwork and how they lived off the land for thousands of years.

One day is truly magical!

One day in Kakadu National Park is more than enough to experience some of its top attractions, with croc-spotting, Indigenous heritage and unbelievable scenery making it a memorable day for all!

Related article: When is the best time to visit Kakadu National Park

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.