Top 10 Things To Do This Wet Season
Kakadu is a year-round paradise, but during the tropical summer, the park truly comes to life. This season, spanning from November to March, offers adventurers an opportunity to witness Kakadu at its most vibrant, with thundering waterfalls, lush wetlands, and extraordinary wildlife. Here are the top 10 experiences you shouldn't miss during the tropical summer.
1. Yellow Water Cruise
Explore Kakadu’s lush wetlands with a Yellow Water Cruise. Glide through the floodplains where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, including buffalo, kingfishers, and crocs. This serene yet thrilling cruise offers an unforgettable look at Kakadu’s rich biodiversity in its natural habitat, making it a must-do during the tropical summer.
2. Scenic Flight Over Jim Jim and Twin Falls
During the tropical summer, heavy rains fuel Kakadu’s iconic waterfalls, especially the colossal Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls. The best way to witness these powerful cascades is by taking a scenic flight. Soar above Kakadu’s diverse ecosystems, sandstone escarpments, and floodplains to get a bird’s-eye view of the park’s awe-inspiring landscapes.
3. Explore Aboriginal Rock Art at Ubirr and Burrungkuy
Kakadu is home to some of the world’s oldest and most significant rock art sites, with paintings that date back thousands of years. A visit to Ubirr and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) during the tropical summer allows you to explore these ancient galleries with fewer crowds, giving you space to connect with the rich history and culture.
4. Immerse in Aboriginal Culture at Warradjan Cultural Centre
At Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre, immerse yourself in Kakadu’s ancient culture with the museum exhibit and join a weaving workshop hosted by local Bininj artists and Traditional Owners. You’ll hear stories passed down through generations and gain insights into life in Kakadu, past and present. You can also purchase local art and crafts from the small retail store.
5. Go Off-Road on a 4WD Adventure Tour
For the adventurers, Kakadu’s tropical summer is the perfect time to join a 4WD adventure tour. Explore lesser-known parts of the park, visit secluded waterfalls and water holes, and see rock art that’s off the beaten track. These tours offer flexible itineraries, taking into account weather conditions and accessibility.
6. Discover Hidden Waterfalls
Tropical summer rains awaken Kakadu’s waterfalls. Apart from Jim Jim and Twin Falls — which are only accessible by scenic flight during these months, we encourage guests to discover the hidden waterfalls scattered throughout the park. Motor Car Falls and Boulder Creek Falls are both part of the Yurmikmik walks in the southern region of Kakadu. These spots are particularly mesmerising when in full-flow after the monsoon rains, and are surrounded by Kakadu’s lush green forests teeming with birdlife!
7. Join the Million Dollar Fish Competition
If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Kakadu is the place to be during the tropical summer. The Million Dollar Fish competition runs from October to March, offering the chance to reel in a prize-tagged barramundi worth a million dollars. With stunning fishing spots across the Northern Territory, including Kakadu, you could catch both an unforgettable experience and a massive prize.
8. Savour the Native Flavours of Kakadu
No visit to Kakadu is complete without indulging in the region’s unique bush tucker. At Mimi's Restaurant and Manjmukmuk Restaurant, you’ll have the chance to savour native ingredients that have been used by the local Bininj people for thousands of years. Enjoy dishes that highlight the rich flavours of Kakadu, such as barramundi, buffalo, and native fruits like Kakadu plum.
9. Witness Wildlife in Full Bloom
Kakadu’s tropical summer season brings with it a spectacle of life. With over 2,000 plant species, one-third of Australia’s bird species, and an array of other wildlife, the park is teeming with life. From watching buffalo wading through wetlands to spotting colourful birds, the tropical summer is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
10. Catch the Sunset at Ubirr or Nawurlandja
After a day of adventure, relax at a scenic lookout such as Ubirr or Nawurlandja. Many tours end with wine and cheese overlooking a serene, hidden billabong, where you can watch nature at its best—birds skimming the water, and the sun setting over the wetlands. It’s a magical way to end your Kakadu experience.
Kakadu’s tropical summer offers a truly immersive, adventurous, and enriching experience. Whether soaring above waterfalls, exploring ancient cultures, or marveling at wildlife, the park is at its most alive during this season.
