Kakadu is one of Australia’s best national parks, covering almost 20,000 square kilometres.
Kakadu National Park is a three hour drive from Darwin, boasting Aboriginal rock art galleries, lush rainforests, and an abundance of wildlife. Each season offers something new to see, from wildlife to flourishing plants.
Six seasons might sound like a lot compared to the European concept of four seasons. However, over thousands of years, the Traditional Owners have identified six distinct seasons.
Join a tour of Kakadu and experience one of these seasons!
Kudjewk (monsoon)
Between December and March, Kakadu welcomes kudjewk, the monsoon season. This is the tropical summer you expect with thunderstorms, heavy rain, and often flooding. It’s a great season to explore Kakadu as the national park comes to life with plant and animal activity. Waterfalls are particularly impressive during this time as they are at their fullest.
Bangkerreng (‘knock ‘em down’ storm season)
In April, the storms start to settle down and the water streams become clearer. Plant life begins to fruit, and much of the wildlife is caring for their young. The term ‘knock ’em down storms’ comes from the powerful windy storms at the beginning of April that flatten the spear grass.
Yekke (cooler, still humid)
From May to mid June, the region starts to cool down a bit, but it remains humid. Check out the billabongs as they are covered with beautiful water lilies. This is also a great time for patch burning, which clears out old bushes and plants. This then encourages new growth and prevents large, uncontrolled fires later in the hotter months.
Wurrkeng (cold)
From mid June to mid August cold weather truly settles in. Humidity is low, with temperatures dropping to around 17 degrees Celsius overnight, but reaching about 30 degrees Celsius during the day. Patch burning continues during this season to support new growth.
Kurrung (hot dry)
From mid August to mid October, the weather starts to heat up again, but it remains dry. As thunderclouds slowly build, watch for the white-breasted wood swallows.
Kunumeleng (pre monsoon)
Kunumeleng is before the monsoon season, with increasing heat and humidity lasting a few months before any rain arrives. Locals are waiting for brewing thunderclouds that will release rain, showering over the land after months of dryness.
During the rainy seasons, parts of Kakadu are closed because of flooding. You can do a scenic flight and see the incredible waterfalls at their very best. Otherwise, Yellow Water and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) are open all year round!
