Kakadu National Park Tourism Statistics (2024)

Published 22 May 2025 · Updated 6 June 2025

How many people visit Kakadu National Park each year?

Kakadu National Park has attracted 160,000 to 200,000 visitors annually in recent years.

186,737 people visited the park in 2024, a 2.5% decrease YoY (Year-on-Year)
191,601 in 2023, a 13.5% increase YoY
195,693 in 2019 (highest peak recorded, pre-pandemic)
113,279 in 2020 – 42% drop YoY during the pandemic

Chart of annual visitors to Kakadu National Park — Annual visitors to Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park Annual Visitor Spending

Kakadu National Park generates around $4 million in tourism revenue from direct entry fees.

The park generated $4.1 million in the year ending June 2024.
$4.16 million in 2023, a 14% increase from 2022.
$3.66 million in 2022, a 26% decrease from 2021 ($4.96 million).
$3.86 million in 2019 (pre-pandemic) and $2.78 million in 2020 (during the pandemic), a 28% decrease from the previous year.

Chart of annual visitor spending at Kakadu National Park — Annual visitor spending at Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park visitor FAQs (2024)

How many people visited Kakadu National Park in 2024?

186,737 people visited Kakadu National Park in 2024 (year ending June).

How much did visitors spend at Kakadu National Park in 2024?

Visitor spending reached $4.1 million in the year ending June 2024, a decrease from 2023.

How many people visit Kakadu National Park per day?

On average, 500 visitors visit Kakadu National Park every day, however this varies based on the season.

How much does it cost to visit Kakadu National Park?

The current entry fee to Kakadu National Park (as of 2025) ranges from $25 to $40 per adult, depending on the season and duration of stay.

Free for children under 16 years old.
Discounts for Northern Territory residents.

When is the peak season in Kakadu National Park?

The peak season is during the dry season from May to September.

May – Early dry season, people start to visit before the crowds.
June – Start of peak season, cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.
July – Peak of dry season, best for waterfalls and Aboriginal rock art sites.
August – Same as July, warm weather and clear skies.
September – End of dry season, great wildlife viewing.

How popular is Kakadu National Park?

Kakadu NP is not among Australia’s most visited parks due to its relatively remote location. However, it is one of the country’s most recognized ones.

Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia (20,000 square kilometers). It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why do people visit Kakadu National Park?

Kakadu has an immense range of wildlife, Aboriginal culture and scenery to offer visitors. Top attractions include:

Jim Jim Falls & Twin Falls – best seen in the dry season.
Ubirr & Nourlangie Rock Art Sites – thousands of years of Aboriginal rock art.
Yellow Water Billabong – crocodiles and birdlife.
Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) – pristine waterfall and swimming hole.
Gunlom Falls – natural infinity pool with views.

Camping Options at Kakadu National Park

Camping is popular in Kakadu National Park. The most popular options include:

Caravan parks equipped with facilities
Bush camping – remote, unpowered sites
Lodge-style accommodation – higher-end options are available within the park.

Other Resources

Facts About Kakadu National Park

Home to over 2,000+ plant species and 280+ bird species.
Saltwater crocodiles live in rivers and wetlands.
Aboriginal heritage over 65,000 years old.
Six seasons (not four) based on Indigenous knowledge.

Things to do at Kakadu National ParkSee ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr and Nourlangie to view some of the world’s oldest and most important rock paintings telling stories of Dreamtime ancestors and traditional life.
Take a guided Yellow Water Billabong cruise to see wildlife like saltwater crocodiles, wild horses and birdlife especially at sunrise or sunset.
Hike to spots like Maguk, Gunlom Falls and the Barrack Sandstone Walk where you can see escarpment views, swim in clear plunge pools and walk through monsoon forests.
Join a cultural tour or visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to learn about the lives, traditions and spiritual beliefs of the Bininj/Mungguy people who have lived in Kakadu for over 65,000 years.
Explore the park in a 4WD, especially in the dry season when you can get to places like Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls.

Safety Tips While Visiting Kakadu National Park

Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Be watchful and wary of wildlife.
Avoid swimming in rivers due to crocodiles.
Stay on marked trails for your safety.
Check park conditions in advance as some sites may be closed, especially during the wet season.
Carry insect repellent.

Campervan hire in Australia

References

Parks Australia Annual Report · dcceew.gov.au