Kakadu ranked 14 on NY Times 52 Places to Go in 2026!
Australia’s Top End is officially on the world stage.
We’re thrilled to share that the Top End, home to Kakadu National Park, has been ranked #14 on The New York Times’ prestigious 52 Places to Go in 2026 — the first Australian destination to appear on the list.
For travellers seeking raw landscapes, deep cultural connection and unforgettable adventure, Kakadu’s inclusion comes as no surprise.
Gunlom Falls: Kakadu’s Crown Jewel
In its listing, The New York Times shines a spotlight on Gunlom Falls, describing it as Kakadu’s “crown jewel.” Famous for its dramatic escarpment setting, Gunlom’s upper plunge pool — perched high above the floodplains — delivers one of the most breathtaking infinity-pool views in Australia.
From the top, sweeping views stretch across Kakadu’s vast savanna, wetlands and sandstone country, offering a powerful reminder of the scale, beauty and ancient geology that define this World Heritage–listed landscape.
Why the World Is Looking to the Top End
Kakadu National Park is a place where nature and culture are inseparable. Home to the world’s oldest living culture, the park invites visitors to experience Country through rock art sites, wildlife-rich wetlands, waterfalls, and stories passed down for tens of thousands of years.
Whether cruising the iconic Yellow Water Billabong, exploring escarpments and waterfalls in the dry season, or witnessing the transformation of the land during the wet, Kakadu delivers experiences found nowhere else on Earth.
A Global Invitation
Being named among the world’s top destinations for 2026 is more than a ranking — it’s an invitation. An invitation to slow down, to listen, and to connect with one of the planet’s most extraordinary cultural and natural landscapes.
As global attention turns to the Top End, there’s never been a better time to discover Kakadu National Park — a place where ancient stories, dramatic scenery and unforgettable moments come together.
Plan Your Kakadu Adventure
From iconic wilderness stays to unforgettable tours on land, water and air, Kakadu offers experiences for every kind of traveller.
Find out where to stay, tours and experiences here: Plan your visit to Kakadu
