From Darwin to Kakadu in the Dry Season

It is nothing unusual to hear visitors to the Northern Territory say they were told not to visit during the wet season because “it’s too hot and it rains”. While that is true in some respects, Kakadu National Park can be spectacular during both the wet season and the dry season.

But with the dry season upon us (May – September), let’s take a look at where in Kakadu you can visit with cheap car hire from Darwin. What surprises many visitors are finding is that Kakadu really isn’t all that far from Darwin – it’s just 3 hours via the Arnhem and Sturt Highway. It is important to remember that you will need a park pass to enter Kakadu. You will need to purchase before you arrive in the park. Get them here.

via northernterritory.com

Barrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art Site
The Barrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site is an absolute must-see when travelling through Kakadu. Take a walk to the rock shelters and discover the World Heritage-listed rock art by the Bininj people. During the dry season, rangers lead guided walks where they explain the diverse habitats, wildlife and significant plants that you’ll find in Kakadu National Park.
When in Barrungkuy, keep your eyes peeled for the chestnut-quilled rock pigeon, and the bark – or black wallaroo. You won’t find these animals anywhere else on the planet.

Spirit of Kakadu Tour
The Spirit of Kakadu tour is a full day 4WD tour that allows you to visit places that are only accessible by 4WD. Locations may differ depending on weather, accessibility and road conditions, but may include Maguk, Motorcar Falls, Boulder Creek, Gubara Rock Pools and Ikoymarrwa Rock Pool. If time permits, and the tour is in the location, you may be able to climb to the top of Gunlom.
Due to the full day nature of this tour, it is recommended to stay nearby.

Yellow Water Fishing
Feel like catching a barra? Organise a cheap car hire in Darwin through Gecko Car Rentals, and you’ll be on your way! Yellow Water Fishing gives visitors the opportunity to catch a Yellow Water Barramundi. Fishing only with lures, your guide will show you how to cast, retrieve and even how to make your lure more attractive to the barra.

With only 4 people at a time, this three-hour fishing tour is well worth booking in advance whether you are a novice or experienced fisherman.

Scenic Flight

There really is nothing like seeing Kakadu National Park from the air, and Kakadu Air provides a range of scenic flights over the park. Experience the changing landscapes, ecosystems, wildlife, and wilderness on a 30 minute or 60-minute scenic flight. For something even more special book a sunset flight and watch the sky light up in orange and pink, while the sun sets over the park.
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One of the big benefits of seeing Kakadu National Park during the dry season is having greater access to areas, and having the chance to see wildlife you may not see during the wet season including wallabies, wallaroos, quolls, bandicoots, sugar gliders and more. The crocs also become more concentrated so you will have a greater chance of spotting one.

Kakadu National Park is an amazing destination during the dry season, so organise your cheap car hire and be on your way. ​