Explore the cultural wonder of a World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory by taking a journey onboard our Darwin to Kakadu Day Trip, Home to some of the oldest and best preserved indigenous rock art galleries in the world.
Highlights
- One of four Australian sites World Heritage Listed, Kakadu National Park is widely acclaimed for its extraordinary natural environment, wildlife and cultural value.
- Venture out into the Ubirr floodplains and view ancient Aboriginal rock paintings dating back over 20,000 years old.
- Stop in at the notorious *Cahills Crossing and observe saltwater crocodiles in the wild safely from the viewing platform (*seasonal conditions permitting).
- Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre and learn more about the Kakadu region with time to appreciate and purchase local indigenous arts and artefacts.
- Cruise along the Adelaide River onboard the Crocodile Cruise and experience the adrenaline rush as these massive beasts leap into the air as our guides feed them (optional extra).
- Take a walk along the boardwalk and observation decks at the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre and enjoy the diverse wetlands at this wildlife haven and bird-watcher’s utopia.
*For guests booking the Kakadu & Wetlands fare option, please note that entry to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve requires a NT Parks Day Pass, which is not included in the tour price. We recommend purchasing this pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
OPERATES
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Departs Daily (May-Oct) / Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat (Apr) / Mon, Thu, Sat (Nov-Mar)
Day trip Darwin to Kakadu National Park
Journey day trips Darwin to Kakadu with us as we venture out into the World Heritage-listed Kakadu and experience the magnificence of Australia’s largest terrestrial national park.
Departing Darwin, we travel towards Kakadu National Park through rich floodplains and varying landscapes. Spread out over 20,000 square metres; the park is abundant with native flora and fauna and home to significant Aboriginal rock art sites.
Our first stop is on the Adelaide River, where you can join the exhilarating Jumping Croc Cruises (optional) or pay a visit to the Fogg Dam Conservation Centre on the traditional lands of the Limilngan-Wulna people (who actively manage and maintain the reserve). One of the most incredible places to discover the unique wildlife of the Top End, the centre is a haven for numerous species of native birds, turtles, water pythons and saltwater crocodiles.
We drop into the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you can immerse yourself in this remarkable region’s vibrant Aboriginal art, culture, history and significance and take a break for lunch (at passengers’ own expense). We stop at the notorious Cahills Crossing, one of the country’s most dangerous bodies of water and the only road access point between Kakadu National Park and Arnhem Land, to look for crocodiles.
We then arrive at the World Heritage Listed site, Ubirr and take a guided walk through this sacred site containing some of the most ancient and best-preserved rock art in the world.
- Driving distance: 620 km
- Walking distance: 2km
*Due to traditional landowner ceremonies, this itinerary is interchangeable during seasonal weather fluctuations and during park closures.
Details
Pricing Options
Kakadu day trip from Darwin + Wetlands:
$235 AUD Adult (13+ yo), $210 AUD *Child (6-12)
Day trips Darwin to Kakadu + Crocodile Cruise:
$285 AUD Adult (13+ yo), $255 AUD *Child (6-12)
*Child policy is 6 years old and over; this tour is unsuitable for children 5 years old and under. This tour does not include Reserve Park entry fees.
Specials Or Fun Facts?
Weather
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. Prior to your journey, we recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’re travelling and pack suitable clothing. In the case of rain or harsh weather, expect that your tour will still go ahead, unless otherwise advised by the provider.
Where to meet
Our central meeting point for this tour will be The Leea Darwin Hotel – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City (formerly known as Travelodge Resort Darwin) – 64 Cavenagh St, Darwin City @ 7:30am. Guests are to be waiting outside the main gates on Cavenagh Street for collection.
- 7:25 – Mindil Beach Casino Resort – Casino Dr The Gardens Darwin
- 7:25 – Cullen Bay Resort – 26 Marina Boulevard Darwin
- 7:28 – Courtyard by Marriott Darwin – 81 Smith St Darwin City
- 7:30 – The Leea Darwin Hotel – 64 Cavenagh St Darwin City
- 7:34 – Hilton Darwin – 32 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 7:37 – H on Mitchell Hotel Apartment – 105 Mitchell St Darwin City
- 7:38 – DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade – 116 Esplanade Darwin City
- 7:40 – Mantra on the Esplanade Darwin – 88 Esplanade Darwin City
- 7:42 – Oaks Elan – 33 Woods Street Darwin City
- 7:45 – Ramada Suites Zen Quarter – 6 Carey Street Darwin City
- 7:48 – Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront – 7 Kitchener Dr Darwin City
- 7:55 – Discovery Parks – 11 Farrell Crescent, Winnellie (meeting point Bus Stop ID: 287 Stuart Hwy directly opposite Farrell Crescent)
- 8:00 – Darwin FreeSpirit Resort – 901 Stuart Hwy Deviney Rd Holtze
- 8:45 – Croc Cruise 2915 Arnhem Highway – Window of Wetlands Wak Wak
*Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.
Important Notes
- Guests who have booked the Kakadu & Wetlands fare option will need to pre-purchase an NT Parks Day Pass for entry to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, as this is not included in the tour price. We recommend purchasing the pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
- 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 nature of the activities involved, this tour is unsuitable for children 5 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 7 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.
Exclusions
- For guests booking the Kakadu & Wetlands fare option, please note that entry to Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve requires a NT Parks Day Pass, which is not included in the tour price. We recommend purchasing this pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary, water will be provided on tour, and an opportunity to support local businesses to purchase lunch long the way.
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance as a security measure in the event of an unexpected incident.
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers to the meeting point.
- Additional personal expenses.
What's Included?
- Kakadu National Park Pass entry only
- 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
What you need to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 2L)
- Comfortable shoes for hiking (closed toe shoes with tread)
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Cash for extra snack 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
FAQ
What can I expect on a 1 Day Darwin to Kakadu Day Trip?
Expect an adventurous day filled with natural beauty, including visits to waterfalls, wetlands, and unique geological formations. You will learn about Aboriginal culture, see ancient rock art, and possibly spot local wildlife.
How long is the day trip from Darwin to Kakadu National Park?
The trip typically lasts about 12-14 hours, including travel time. Kakadu National Park is approximately a 3-hour drive from Darwin.
What should I bring on my day trip?
It’s recommended to bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle, insect repellent, and your camera.
Is there a guide included in the trip?
Yes, all our trips include a knowledgeable accredited outback driver guide who can provide insights into the park’s history, culture, and natural environment.
Are children allowed on the trip?
Most tours welcome children, but age restrictions may apply for certain activities. Due to the length and nature of this tour, it is not suitable for children of 5 years and under.
What is the best time of year to visit Kakadu from Darwin?
The dry season, from May to October, is ideal as it offers pleasant weather and full access to all park areas, including waterfalls and billabongs.
How physically demanding is the trip?
A minimum to moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks. The walking distance is approximately 2km.
Can I swim in Kakadu National Park during the day trip?
Unfortunately, this tour itinerary does not allow for swimming. Kindly check out our other tour to Litchfield or Katherine Gorge, where there is an opportunity for swimming. However, always follow your guide’s advice regarding crocodile safety.
Will I get to see Aboriginal rock art?
Yes, visiting rock art sites like Ubirr or Nourlangie is a highlight of Kakadu trips, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the area.
