Kakadu National Park, Nature reserve in Northern Territory, Australia
Kakadu National Park is a nature reserve in the Northern Territory that encompasses wetlands, rivers and open woodland stretching from the Alligator River to sandstone escarpments in the east. Waterfalls like Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls plunge into deep gorges during the wet season, while wide plains dry out in the dry season and attract birds.
People have lived here for more than 65,000 years, as shown by rock paintings and tools found in caves. European explorers reached the region in the 19th century, but the area was not officially recognized and protected as a national park until 1979.
Rock paintings at Nourlangie and Ubirr show hunting scenes, spirit figures and animals created thousands of years ago. Local groups guide visitors to these sites and explain the meaning of the motifs and their connection to creation stories.
Visitors should come between May and October when roads and walking trails are dry and accessible. Crocodiles live in all waterways, so swimming is only allowed in designated spots.
Some paintings show animals that lived in the region thousands of years ago, such as the thylacine, which is now extinct. Saltwater crocodiles can grow over 16 feet (5 meters) long and inhabit rivers, lagoons and coastal sections throughout the park.
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