Darwin Wet Season Tours

A wet season shower over Kakadu

The wet season in Darwin & the Top End officially spans from November to April, offering a unique adventure for those ready to embrace the heat, humidity, and occasional rain. Known as "The Wet" to locals, this time of year showcases epic lightning storms, flourishing waterfalls, swelling river systems, and vibrant National Parks. 

There are various Wet Season Tour options depending on your interests and heat tolerance. Much of the wet season's rain is sporadic, often occurring in the late afternoon or at night, allowing for outdoor activities during much of the day.

Each month of the wet season brings something different and exciting to the Top End

November and December are often marked by the anticipation of good rainfall with mild results, followed by rejuvenating downpours in January, February, and March. By April, the rain starts to subside, heralding the return of the dry season in May.

While some tourist sites in National Parks like Kakadu close during the wet season, this time also offers exclusive opportunities, with some sites coming to life this time of year. Scenic flights over Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls in Kakadu are particularly spectacular, showcasing the waterfalls in all their glory. The Yurmikmik Walks in southern Kakadu are at their best in 'the wet', featuring hike and fantastic swimming opportunities at Boulder Creek and Motorcar Falls.

Swimming in Kakadu

For those visiting Kakadu at the right time, the Ubirr Combo Cruise becomes available when river levels rise. Instead of driving to Ubirr, you can take a boat over the swollen floodplains and through the paperbark forest.

Venture North, during the wet season, focuses on private, accommodated tours from Darwin for individuals, couples, and families. These private tours (known as Private Charters), last from 3 days to 1 week, are tailored to guests' interests and led by expert guides. The example itinerary below includes our wet season touring favourites: Litchfield, Katherine, and Kakadu National Park, with activities including hiking, swimming, cultural visits, cruises and scenic flights.

A 5 Day Private Wet Season Tour from Darwin

Day 1 (Litchfield)

At 7am your Venture North guide will collect you in a 4WD, travel south to Litchfield National Park. Today we'll embark on hikes and swims at Buley Rockhole, Florence Falls and Tolmer Falls as well as visiting the Magnetic Termite Mounds.

Overnight: Pine Creek Railway Resort (cabin)

Day 2 (Katherine)

Explore Pine Creek before travelling to to Katherine, en route stopping for a hike and a swim at Edith Falls. Visit the Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts & Culture Centre and then check in to our high-end accommodation next to Katherine Gorge.

Overnight: Cicada Lodge (lodge room)

Day 3 (Katherine & Kakadu)

Depart on a scenic cruise through Katherine before continuing on to Kakadu National Park. Swim and cool off at the little known site of Moline Rockhole before exploring the Yurmikmik region of Kakadu.

Overnight: Cooinda Lodge Kakadu (lodge room)

Day 4 (Kakadu)

Depart at dawn on a sunrise cruise on the picturesque Yellow Water Billabong. Next, it's a visit to the Warradjan Aboriginal Culture Centre. Finally today we'll travel to northern Kakadu to Cahill’s Crossing and Ubirr Rock, one of Kakadu's most impressive rock art sites.

Overnight: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (hotel room)

Day 5 (Kakadu)

Today we'll start early and watch the sun rise at Nawurlandja Lookout and then visit the nearby rock art sites at Nourlangie. Our last activity in Kakadu will be a spectacular 1hr scenic flight over the Park before driving back to Darwin.

Visiting Darwin in the wet season provides a unique and captivating experience of the Top End's natural beauty and adventures. For those interested in wet season tours, Venture North is ready to create a memorable journey. Should you have any questions about visiting Darwin at this time of year or would like us to put together a wet season tour please don't hesitate to call or email our office.