Litchfield vs Kakadu: Which one to pick?
They’re both incredible, but they suit very different trips!
Chris and Bec (@salt.and.charcoal)
Northern Territory, Australia
If you’re trying to choose, here’s a guide to help you quickly figure it out!
Both places are absolutely epic, but just know that this is one of the few topics where we don't agree on 😂
Chris would recommend Litchfield, while Bec would recommend Kakadu.
So you'll have to visit both and let us know who's right 😜
KAKADU is wilder and bigger (Bec's pick)
🔼 That's Jim Jim Falls 🔼
Home to truly iconic places: Jim Jim Falls , Igoymarrwa (Moline) rockhole , Gunlom / Waterfall Creek Falls , Motor Car Falls ...
Aboriginal rock art and cultural sites , like Ubirr or Burrungkuy (Nourlangie Rock)
See crocs at the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise or at the Cahills Crossing if it's in season
Feels more remote, like you're on an adventure
Not very 2WD-friendly, we recommend renting a 4WD for this one
Heaps of things to do so we'd recommend spending at least 3-4 days to explore properly (we spent 1 week)
Longer drive from Darwin (~2.5 hrs)
Best choice if you have more time to explore and a flexible schedule
But keep in mind locals call it "Kakadon't" for a reason 😅
Visiting it can be a bit frustrating, as roads often close due to flooding.
It's absolutely worth visiting, but it's key to keep your plans flexible and check the official Kakadu Access Report even on the day of.
💡 Here's all the info on Kakadu: Kakadu National Park - Everything you need to know
🚌 Full day tours to Kakadu: Tours to Kakadu from Darwin
LITCHFIELD is the easier choice (Chris' pick)
🔼That's Florence Falls 🔼
Epic waterfalls and swimming holes, like Florence Falls , Wangi Falls , Tjaetaba Falls ...
The Magnetic Termite Mounds are there
Main sights and campgrounds are 2WD-friendly, but there are some cool 4WD spots too
Has fewer things to do so it's easy to do in a full day, but we recommend spending 1-2 nights there
Closer to Darwin (~1-1.5hrs)
Best choice if you're short on time
Tends to have fewer closures throughout the year compared to Kakadu, which is a big pro if you're short on time!
💡 Here's all the info on Litchfield: Litchfield National Park
🚌 Full day tours to Litchfield: Tours to Litchfield from Darwin
Looking for things to do?
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.