Kakadu National Park is a must-hit destination in the Northern Territory, but how do you get there?
It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to get to Kakadu National Park, but we thought it’d be useful to have all the information you need in one place!
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Fly
There are no flights that run to Kakadu; however, there are airports in Alice Springs and Darwin. Fly into either of these hubs and you can hire a car or jump on a tour to the park. Both airports have flights arriving and departing daily, so you’ll easily be able to book a flight for your preferred travel dates. If you’re visiting from outside of Australia, you will need to fly into a major city before flying to the Northern Territory.
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Hire a car
For those who enjoy exploring at their own pace, hiring a car is a great way to explore Kakadu. From Darwin, it is a leisurely three-hour drive to the park. Remembering that you can camp inside the park, this is a great option for those who want to spend a few days exploring.
Found yourself in Katherine? No worries! Hire a car and make your way to the park from here, the drive time is similar to that from Darwin.
Remember to do your research before hiring a car. Many rental companies have restrictions on where you can and can’t drive cars. It’s a good idea to hire a 4WD as you will explore more of the park but be sure to confirm you can drive off-road tracks and to ask about any extra insurance you may need if doing so.
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Join a tour
Driving on unfamiliar roads, hiring a car, sorting permits and researching camping rules can be exhausting so why not eliminate some of that effort by joining a tour!
Tours depart from Darwin daily and can cater to a variety of needs. Whether you’re after a long or short trip, swimming or hiking, cultural experiences or terrific views, there will be a tour that ticks your boxes.
Booking your trip through an operator has several benefits. Not only does it eliminate the often-expensive cost of hiring a 4WD and getting appropriate insurance, but it presents the safest way to explore Kakadu National Park. You’ll be with experienced guides who know their way around the park and you won’t need to stress about organizing park permits as this will be done for you.
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Public Transport
Because of the remote location of Kakadu National Park, there is no public transport available either within or to the park. This is the case for most of the Northern Territory. Unless you are staying only in Darwin or Alice Springs, you cannot use public transport to get around.
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The Red Centre Way
For those who want to see as much of the Northern Territory as they can while heading to Kakadu National Park, the seven-day drive from Alice Springs is perfect. You’ll stop off at some of the best places the Top End has on offer as you make your way to the beautiful park.
Ultimately, you will need to organise your travel through Kakadu National Park by either joining a tour or bringing a car. Whichever you decide you’ll never forget your trip to Kakadu.
Related article: Why Our Kakadu Tours Run May – October and November – April?
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.