Australia’s largest national park is more than meets the eye. From high above to the winding rivers below, there is a diversity of scenic options, all uniquely fascinating and memorable. Located roughly three hours drive from Darwin, you can be guaranteed to see the local crocs up close and personal, plus a plethora of wildlife and stunning landscapes which combine for the perfect adventure escape. Kakadu National Park is also ideal for a driving holiday, with plenty of camping grounds for the stream of locals and tourists that all visit with one thing in mind, to experience the hidden treasure Kakadu boasts worldwide. With almost twenty thousand kilometres of swamps and terrain, this is Australia at its rawest. There is also great respect here for the ancient aboriginal traditions and cultures that feature predominately in this area. The wet (October - April) and dry (May - September) seasons are so distinctive. In the dry the roads are all open so you can access nearly all the main attractions. There is not as much rain so the camping grounds are ideal. However, there are a lot of tourists during this time, and there is not as much water in the river systems.

Visit in the wet and there will be less tourists, lower prices and plenty of wildlife. Everywhere you look there is colour and scenery, and even if you have to put up with a storm or two, this will add to the adventure of your outback holiday. Just make sure you pack insect spray, and some of the minor roads could be closed.

The South Alligator River is at the heart of Kakadu, and is one of the most popular places to visit as the vast river is teeming with wildlife. At Cooinda, the Yellow Water Billabong Cruises are one of many you can embark on to experience the richness of the river system, and you are guaranteed to see a crocodile or two. The sunsets here are indescribable, with a viewing platform the favourite place to enjoy nature at its best.

Plant lovers will feel right at home too, with over a thousand species to choose from (if you had to count). The large water lilies are dotted on the banks of most rivers systems, and are quite spectacular with their common deep purple or pink flowers. Birdwatchers flock to this region, due to the fact that a third of Australia’s birds can be found here. You could spend a day awestruck at the abundance of wildlife that could be seen in one place alone. All levels of bushwalkers will be in for a treat, with plenty of trails taking you to some fantastic viewpoints. There are aboriginal art sites that take you on a journey through time, wetlands brimming with birdlife and reptiles, and gorges that lead you to gorgeous waterfalls and a place to rest. Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls are the most accessible, and worth the hike.

My journey into these amazing wetlands was simply breathtaking. I had an eye out for crocodiles for the first day, slightly nervous at the prospect of being face to face with a man eating reptile, but after a while the warning signs became a part of the scenery, and as long as we stayed on the right paths we could relax and enjoy the lush wonderland that can only be found in the top end of Australia.

Nights are hard to describe. There are the ever present noises from the many bats, dingos, possums or noctural creatures that roam the undergrowth. You do feel closer to nature than ever before as gaze at the canopy of stars above.

Whatever time you visit, plan to stay at least a few days to capture the sheer wonder of Kakadu. There is something for everyone here and there is no doubt, like me, you will be returning again for an experience of a lifetime.

Jenny Brewer