Explore the glorious wonders of the Great Ocean Road

Darwin To Kakadu Day Trip

Embark on a cultural exploration at the World Heritage Recognized Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory. Experience the Darwin to Kakadu Day Trip, showcasing some of the world’s most ancient and excellently conserved indigenous rock art.

 

DAYS1
DEPARTS07:30
RETURNS19:30
PRICE

$175-240 AUD + WETLANDS

$220-285 AUD + CROCS CRUISE

Highlights

  • Kakadu National Park, one of the four sites in Australia with World Heritage recognition, is celebrated for its unique natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and significant cultural heritage.
  • Discover the Ubirr floodplains and witness Aboriginal rock art that dates back more than 20,000 years.
  • Visit the renowned Cahills Crossing to watch saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat safely from a dedicated viewing area (*this is subject to seasonal conditions).
  • Explore the Bowali Visitor Centre to gain deeper insights into the Kakadu region and have the opportunity to admire and acquire local indigenous art and artefacts.
  • Embark on the Crocodile Cruise along the Adelaide River, where you can feel the thrill of watching these enormous crocodiles jump out of the water as our guides feed them (this is an optional addition) or
  • Stroll along the pathways and observation platforms at Fogg Dam Conservation Centre, immersing yourself in the lush wetlands, a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers.

*Please note that this itinerary may vary based on seasonal weather changes, park closures, and due to ceremonies conducted by traditional landowners. 

Route Description

Embark on day excursions from Darwin to the World Heritage-designated Kakadu, where the splendour of Australia’s largest on-land national park awaits you.

Leaving Darwin, our journey to Kakadu National Park traverses lush floodplains and diverse terrains. The park encompasses over 20,000 square meters of indigenous plant and animal life and hosts notable Aboriginal rock art locations.

Our initial destination is the Adelaide River. Here, you can participate in the thrilling Jumping Croc Cruises or visit the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre situated on the ancestral lands of the Limilngan-Wulna people, who actively steward and uphold the reserve. As one of the top sites for experiencing the unique fauna of the Top End, the centre serves as a sanctuary for various native bird species, turtles, water pythons, and saltwater crocodiles.

We stop at the Bowali Visitor Centre, offering an opportunity to delve into this exceptional area’s dynamic Aboriginal art, culture, history, and importance, with a pause for lunch (costs borne by passengers). Our itinerary includes a halt at the infamous Cahills Crossing, one of the nation’s most hazardous water bodies and the sole vehicular passageway connecting Kakadu National Park with Arnhem Land, ideal for crocodile spotting.

Subsequently, we reach the World Heritage Listed Ubirr site, where a guided tour unveils this sacred location, home to some of the oldest and most well-preserved rock art globally. 

  • Total driving distance: 620 km
  • Total walking distance: 2 km

Details​

Pricing Options

Kakadu day trip from Darwin:
AUD 240 Adult (13+ yo), AUD 175 *Child (6-12)

Day trips Darwin to Kakadu + Crocodile Cruise:
AUD 285 Adult (13+ yo), AUD 220 *Child (6-12)

*Child policy is six years old and over; this tour is unsuitable for children five years old and under.  

  • Kakadu National Park Entry Pass
  • Guided walking tour through Aboriginal rock art gallery
  • Accredited Outback driver and tour guide
  • Comfortable, air-conditioned mini-coach
  • Entry to World Heritage Listed Site
  • Native Australian wildlife
  • Comprehensive commentary along your tour
  • Inner-city pick-up/drop-off from selected Darwin locations
  • Refillable water bottle (at least 2L)
  • Comfortable shoes for hiking (closed-toe shoes with tread)
  • Insect repellent (tropical strength)
  • Cash for extra snacks and meals
  • Sun protection – sunscreen, hat & sunglasses
  • Comfortable clothing suitable for all weather conditions
  • Small day pack 5-7kg
  • Camera to capture your memories!
  • Binoculars for spotting wildlife 

Specials Or Fun Facts?

The weather conditions in the Top End can fluctuate rapidly and be quite intense at times. Temperatures can soar to over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and drop dramatically in the evening. Before your journey, we recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’re travelling and packing suitable clothing. In the case of rain or harsh weather, expect your tour to go ahead unless otherwise advised by the provider.
  • This itinerary is interchangeable and may vary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions, fluctuations, or park closures due to ceremonies or events held by traditional custodians.
  • Hiking included in this tour requires a moderate level of fitness.
  • Child fares apply to children between 6 to 12 years old. Due to the activities involved, this tour is unsuitable for children five years old and under.
  • This terrain is unsuitable for mobility-impaired travellers with wheelchairs, walkers, prams or strollers.
  • Due to limited storage space in our vehicles, baggage must be kept to a 1 x 5-7kg bag per person.
  • All tours MUST be re-confirmed with the tour operator within seven days of departure on 03 9393 1300.
  • Please notify the tour operator of any preexisting medical conditions before departure.
  • Private charter tours are available upon request. 
  • Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
  • We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
  • Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
  • Additional personal expenses

FAQ

A day trip from Darwin to Kakadu National Park includes visiting ancient rock art sites, exploring diverse landscapes like wetlands and savannah woodlands, and spotting wildlife, including crocodiles, wallabies, and various bird species. Key sites often visited are Nourlangie Rock, Ubirr Rock, Cahills Crossing, and Yellow Water Billabong.
The journey from Darwin to Kakadu typically takes about 3 hours by road. Most tours offer comfortable, air-conditioned bus transportation as part of the day trip package, ensuring a convenient and comfortable journey.
Activities on a Kakadu day trip can include guided walks to scenic spots, cultural experiences with Indigenous guides, wildlife cruises along rivers and billabongs, birdwatching, and viewing ancient rock art. Specific activities may vary based on the tour operator.
Essential items include water bottles, sun protection (hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen), comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, a camera, snacks, and a basic first aid kit. It’s also advisable to wear light, protective clothing suitable for hot and humid conditions.

The best time to visit Kakadu is during the dry season, from May to October. This period offers milder weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, those interested in seeing Kakadu’s waterfalls in full flow should consider visiting towards the end of the wet season, from February to April.

Scroll to Top