Man standing on the top of the rock in Ubirr, Kakadu National Park © Tourism NT/Daniel Tran9

Ubirr, Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Daniel Tran

Nature’s Way: 7-day road trip to Kakadu and Litchfield

Starting in Darwin, explore national parks rich in waterfalls, culture and downright incredible views.

Trip overview

7 days

car

The must-do experiences

Take in the epic floodplains of Kakadu
Cruise through the deep Nitmiluk Gorge
Sink into natural thermal springs

Day 1: Darwin to Kakadu National Park

2hrs 150km (93mi)

Hire a car in Darwin and follow the Arnhem Highway south-east towards Kakadu National Park. Home to rock art up to 20,000 years old and a 200m (656ft) waterfall, Kakadu is a treasure of both culture and nature.

Aerial view over a large waterfall cascading off a cliff amid lush green bushland. Jim Jim Falls, Kakadu National Park, NT © Jarrad Seng, all rights reserved

Guide to Kakadu National Park

Experience the magic of World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park on an outback adventure that defies expectation.

Read time • 4min

Day 2 : Kakadu National Park

Today is dedicated to the culture of Kakadu. Boardwalks will lead you to pieces of history etched into the rock walls.

Day 3 : Kakadu National Park

Today is another day in Kakadu, but it’s not just another day in Kakadu. It’s sure to be a memorable adventure as you explore the national park’s waterways, waterholes and waterfalls.

Day 4: Kakadu National Park to Katherine

1.5hrs 151km (94mi)

Bid farewell to Kakadu and head toward Katherine, a bustling township situated on the banks of the Katherine River.

Day 5: Elsey National Park

3hrs 240km (149mi)

The perfect day trip from Katherine, Elsey National Park is the setting for the acclaimed Australian novel We of the Never Never. It’s a hidden oasis of hot springs, heritage sites and ancient caves.

Day 6: Nitmiluk National Park

1hrs 56km (35mi)

Just 30 minutes from Katherine is Nitmiluk National Park. The main attraction here is Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, which can be explored by canoe, cruise or helicopter. Return to Katherine for the night.

Day 7: Katherine to Darwin via Litchfield

4hrs 317km (197mi)

On your way back to Darwin, take your time exploring Litchfield National Park. Its relatively small size makes it easy to move from one natural attraction to the next.

Mindil Beach at Sunset, Darwin, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Guide to Darwin

With everything from Asian food markets and crocodile encounters to open-air movies and sunset cruises, Darwin is as easy going as it is exciting.

Read time • 4min

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield road trip a good option for families?

Yes, the road trip from Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield is a great, adventure-filled choice for families.

The drives distances between national parks are manageable and provide an easy one-week loop from Darwin. Kids will love seeing the massive Magnetic Termite Mounds in Litchfield, spotting crocodiles on a safe, designated Yellow Water billabong cruise in Kakadu and swimming in the crocodile-free plunge pools at Litchfield's Wangi or Florence Falls. To ensure the best experiences, families should plan this trip during dry season (May to October) when swimming spots are safely open.

Where should I stay on the Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield road trip?

Start your trip with a stay in Darwin's city centre or along the waterfront, where you’ll have easy access to attractions and dining options. In Kakadu, you can choose from lodges, safari-style stays and campgrounds in the central hubs of Jabiru or Coodina. Litchfield is an easy day trip from Darwin, but it warrants a night or two on its own, so book just outside the park gates in the historic township of Batchelor.

What’s the best time of year to visit Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks?

The dry season (May to October) is the most popular time to visit, when roads, hiking trails and swimming holes are safely open.

In May, you'll enjoy the lush post-wet season waterfalls, but some trails and roads may still be closed. Near the end of dry season, in September and October, the temperatures and humidity are rising, but wildlife spotting is at its peak. No matter when you visit during the dry season, expect hot days and cool evenings.

Do I need a 4WD for the Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield road trip?

No, you do not strictly need a 4WD for a road trip from Darwin to Kakadu and Litchfield. You can explore most major sites with a 2WD, especially during the dry season. A 4WD is ideal if you’d like to venture further off the beaten track or visit more remote areas, such as Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls and Maguk.

Explore more nearby

Places to go

Guide to Darwin

Places to go

Guide to Kakadu National Park

A colourful sunset of purple and orange reflects across a calm resort pool, framed by silhouetted palm trees along the water at Darwin Skycity Pool at sunset, Darwin, Northern Territory. © Tourism NT, Dave Anderson

Trips and itineraries

3 days in Darwin