Kakadu for Kids

Kakadu: the perfect holiday spot for kids

Remember family holidays when you were a kid? Your parents would drag you along to boring museums, and you’d be stuck indoors with nothing to do but be annoyed by your little brother. We’ve all been there, and it's not fun. But what if we told you that we know a holiday destination that kids love? It’s a place where natural, outdoor adventure and cultural experiences can be found around every corner. It’s a place where the words "I'm bored" and "are we there yet?" are never uttered. When it comes to choosing a family holiday destination, look no further than Kakadu in the Northern Territory's Top End region – a holiday destination that offers everything kids want and more.

Nature

Animals are at the top of the list for any travelling tyke, and Kakadu serves up nature experiences that will be appreciated by all ages. Mamukala Wetlands, located near Kakadu National Park entrance, are a family favourite because they are home to thousands of native birds. Here, the kids can witness Jacanas gracefully skip across lily pads, watch Brolgas dance, and spot Spoonbills bustling about in the mud. If you can rouse the children early enough, take them on a sunrise cruise on one of Kakadu’s many rivers or billabongs: wildlife is most active during this time of the day, so the kids will have a great time spotting crocodiles, birds and turtles.

Tip: not all wildlife is welcome, so make sure you always have insect repellent on hand.

Outdoor adventure

Who needs computer games when there’s so much to explore – around 20,000 square kilometres to be specific. Whether it’s diving into natural rock pools, discovering waterfalls, clambering to the summit of an escarpment, or bush-bashing in a four-wheel-drive, Kakadu offers myriad opportunities for young adventurers to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the outdoors. The best part? The kids can expend some pent-up energy, which means an early bedtime and some kid-free time for mum and dad!

Tip: it can get pretty hot in Kakadu, so make sure you pack sunscreen, hats and plenty of drinking water for the kids.

Culture and history

Your kids will be enchanted by the ancient Dreamtime stories of Kakadu’s Indigenous people, and there’s no better way to learn more about this ancient culture than on a tour led by an Indigenous guide. Nourlangie Rock and Ubirr offer easily accessible natural Indigenous art galleries with plenty of interpretive signage that will help the kids brush up on their knowledge about the local culture, environment and geological history. There are also plenty of opportunities for the kids to take a hands-on approach to learning about the local Indigenous culture, from bush tucker tasting to weaving baskets or even trying their hand at spear throwing.

Tip: head to the Bowali Visitor’s Centre when you first arrive at Kakadu. The kids will have a ball learning about the Kakadu’s environment, Indigenous culture and history through the interactive displays.

When there’s so much for kids to see and do in Kakadu, there’s no need to go on another boring family holiday. Venture North offers small-group tours to Kakadu from Darwin. Plus, we can tailor an itinerary to suit your children’s ages and interests. Enquire or book with us