Question 1

Is Katherine Gorge in Kakadu?

Accepted Answer

No. Katherine Gorge is in Nitmiluk National Park, which borders Kakadu National Park to the south.

Question 2

Are the roads sealed in Kakadu? Do you need a 4wd to visit Kakadu?

Accepted Answer

The major roads through Kakadu National Park – the Kakadu Highway and the Arnhem Highway – are fully sealed, as are tracks to important sites including Ubirr Rock, Nourlangie Rock, and the Yellow Water Billabong.

Many less trafficked routes through the park are not sealed, open only to 4WD vehicles. We will travel in appropriate vehicles for the outback roads, so that you can get off the beaten track on our tour.

Question 3

Can you stay in Kakadu?

Accepted Answer

Yes. There are several options, ranging from camping to hotel stays. We will stay in a comfortable hotel in Jabiru.

Question 4

What is the climate in Kakadu National Park? When is the best time to visit Kakadu National Park?

Accepted Answer

Kakadu has a tropical climate, marked by defined wet and dry seasons. The Bininj/Mungguy people mark six distinct seasons:

Gudjewg, or monsoon season is the ‘true’ wet season. Lasting from December to March, gudjewg is defined by electrifying thunderstorms, heavy rain and flooding, and vivid green landscapes.
Banggerreng (‘knock ’em down storm season’) in April marks the point at which the rain ends and clear skies are seen, as the floodwater recedes into streams. The ‘knock ’em down storms’ refer to the violent, windy storms at the start of April, which flatten the spear grass of Kakadu’s lowlands.
Yegge is a cooler but still humid season, lasting from May to mid-June, in which early morning mists hang over the plains and waterholes.
Wurrgeng, from mid-June to mid-August, is the ‘cold weather time’, in which humidity is low and the floodplains dry out.
Gurrung, mid-August to mid-October, is hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 37 degrees.
Gunumeleng is the pre-Monsoon season, lasting from mid-October to mid-December. Humidity is high, with storms building in the mid-afternoon. This season is often referred to as the ‘build up’ in the Kimberley.

Our tours leave from July to September in order to avoid the worst of the humidity, and begin again in February, so that you can explore Kakadu in the lush wet season.

Question 5

What should I wear in Kakadu?

Accepted Answer

Lightweight, long layers are ideal for protecting you from the sun and mosquitos on your trip through Kakadu. Make sure to bring a broad-brimmed hat and sunscreen to further protect you from the sun. In wurrgeng (June-August) you’ll want warm layers for cooler nights.

Since we’ll be doing a lot of walking, you’ll want comfortable shoes. Take a look at our guide to selecting shoes and socks for walking tours, and our guide to women’s walking shoes.

Question 6

How many hours drive from Darwin to Kakadu? Can you drive to Kakadu from Darwin?

Accepted Answer

The journey from Darwin to Kakadu takes about three hours total, though our tour will stop to see sights along the way.

Question 7

What is there to see between Darwin and Kakadu?

Accepted Answer

On our way from Darwin to Kakadu we make day trips to the Territory Wildlife Park and the Fogg River Conservation Reserve; and on our way back we stop in at the historic town of Pine Creek and the stunning Litchfield National Park.

Question 8

How far is it from Kakadu to Katherine?

Accepted Answer

It is a one and a half hour drive from Kakadu National Park to Katherine along the Stuart Highway.

Question 9

Can you visit Kakadu in the wet season? Can you go to Kakadu and Litchfield national parks during the wet season?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both parks are open all year round. While the wet is less popular than the dry, you’ll find a different sort of beauty, as the park comes alive with flora, fauna, and gushing waterfalls.

Question 10

Is Darwin safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Darwin is a very safe city. The main danger to tourists is posed by saltwater crocodiles – make sure to ask locals before you swim, or keep to the popular swimming spots to avoid the dangerous ‘salties’.

Tours

Darwin and Kakadu small group tour

Northern Territory

Tours

Darwin and Kakadu small group tour

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