Why Our Kakadu Tours Run May – October and November – April?

If you’ve been looking around our website for the perfect tour, you might have noticed that certain tours say they run May to October while others run November to April.

When you’re unfamiliar with the nuances of a new place you’re travelling to, these restrictions can seem arbitrary but there’s a good reason for this.

November to April

Tours that have restricted travel dates between November and April operate during the Top Ends tropical wet season.

Wet season tours have more flexible itineraries so that you can make the best out of your time in the Top End. These itineraries also take into account that some areas of the park are closed during the wet season. The wet season brings two significant dangers to people travelling through the park. Crocodiles and floods.

So, to ensure that you stay safe, some natural pools and falls are closed off. We make sure that all of our itineraries exclude the areas that are closed off to the public. This also means that you don’t get your hopes up to visit areas you may not be able to access.

May to October

May to October tours are running through the dry season in Kakadu.

The dry season sees more of the park open, however, it still doesn’t guarantee you’ll have access to the entire park. You’re more likely to be able to go swimming and visit falls during this time of year. It is, however, good to remember that if you’re travelling during a shoulder period you may still experience some of the wet season weather.

So when should I travel?

This is a common question we get, and it can be easy for people to immediately jump to a dry season trip. However, don’t rush your decision too much.

There are several benefits to travelling during both the wet and the dry season. The park comes alive during the wet season and life floods back into the regions with new plants and increased animal life. The park has fewer tourists travelling during this time of year and you’ll have the joy of witnessing the incredible tropical thunderstorms that dance across the horizon.

Don’t let us talk you out of the dry season either though! The dry season has lower average temperatures during the day and you’re able to access more sites. Swim your worries away in a natural infinity pool and get a massage from soft flowing waterfalls. Plus, there are fewer bugs at this time of the year, and that’s always a good thing!

Ultimately there is no right or wrong time to travel to Kakadu. The national park is spectacular all year round and you should travel during the time of year you think you’ll get the most out of your trip. If we had it our way, we’d visit during both seasons to see the park in its full glory!

No matter when you travel you can be sure you’ll have the most amazing time at Kakadu National Park.

Related article: What are the seasons of Kakadu?

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.