Kakadu, Jabiru, Ubirr
Perhaps the most compelling area of wilderness in the country, Kakadu National Park attracts visitors to the Northern Territory and even Australia, solely for the opportunity to experience this natural marvel for themselves. Kakadu's vast and wild expanses are unique in that they encompass an entire river catchment system which over time has carved a myriad of spectacular landscapes, rich in vegetation and wildlife. Lowlands of grassy shrublands, floodplains, and sparkling billabongs rise up to soaring craggy escarpments surrounded by stretches of monsoon rainforest, waterfalls, and strange looking rock outcrops. This stunning range of environments is home to an equally impressive array of mammals, reptiles, birds, and freshwater fish, although many species are shy or nocturnal and take a bit of spotting. You are guaranteed however to see a few huge saltwater crocodiles and thrashing silver barramundi by embarking on a cruise on either South Alligator River or Yellow Water Billabong. The cruises are also the best way to see Kakadu's abundant waterbirds in their beautiful wetland setting.
Apart from the magnificent scenery and prolific wildlife, the Aboriginal presence of over 50 000 years has left an unprecedented wealth of priceless rock-art and archaeological sites. So impressive is the sheer scale and scope of the sites, they've earned Kakadu the rare distinction of being one of only seventeen parks recognised internationally for it's cultural importance. Much of Kakadu is still owned the traditional people, who lease the land under a joint management agreement with the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service. About one third of all the park's rangers are of Aboriginal decent and many others are continually active in ensuring Kakadu's preservation.
Many visitors base explorations into Kakadu from either Darwin or Pine Creek. Their size and proximity to the park has seen the establishment of a large range of tour groups, each offering their own specialised trips which vary in their time and adventures afield. If you prefer get there yourself, Kakadu's main facilities and accommodation are all connected by paved roads, and during the Dry (April to October) a conventional vehicle will usually be suffice. Although the locals insist that it's the most beautiful time of the year, the Wet makes a big difference to travellers as it alters the landscape dramatically. Ironically, many of Kakadu's great sights which are more spectacular this time of year, are cut off when the park's lesser roads become impassable. It's certainly not insane to plan a trip during the Wet, just get in touch with one of the tour groups, some of which are based inside the park.
Jabiru is the largest township in Kakadu, originally built to house uranium miners from the nearby Ranger Uranium Mine. The mine was substantiated before the national park was proclaimed, and tours three times a day create an interesting diversion. The town itself has a full range of services including a shopping centre, 9 hole golf course, public swimming pool and the famous crocodile shaped Gagudju Crocodile Hotel.
Closer to Pine Creek just off the Kakadu Highway, Cooinda is another popular place to stay, particularly with those planning an early morning cruise on the wetlands of Yellow Water. The smaller settlement of Ubirr and Kakadu Holiday Village on the South Alligator River also offer several accommodation alternatives, as well as other basic facilities.
