At almost 22,000 sq km, Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set in sacred Aboriginal land in the Northern Territory of Australia, it encompasses a variety of habitats, as well as some significant Aboriginal rock-art, and is one of the country's most popular attractions.
Things to do in Kakadu National Park
You will need a permit to enter the park, payable at the park gates. Permits are valid for 14 days and free for children under 16. Once in the park, visit one of the information centres. Park staff organise various activities including art-site talks, guided walks and evening slideshows. The Jabiru Travel Centre (00 61 8 8979 2548) organises four-wheel drive and boat-tours of Kakadu and neighbouring Arnhem Land. Scenic flights from Jabiru East and Cooinda and boat tours along the East Alligator River can be booked with Guluyambi(00 61 8 8979 2411).
How to get to Kakadu National Park
AIRPORT Darwin is the nearest international airport. It is a good idea to hire a four-wheel drive car from there.
AIRLINES FROM THE UK British Airways (0844 493 0 787; www.britishairways.com) flies from London to Darwin via Singapore. The national carrier is Qantas (020 8600 4300; www.qantas.com).
WHO TO GO WITH Austravel (0800 988 4676; www.austravel.com) organises three-day tours of Kakadu. It can also offer London-Darwin flights (via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur), and four-wheel drive car hire.