Kakadu (or don't?) 11.09.2012 to 14.09.2012

Along our travels we have heard the expression Kakadu or Kakadon't. Though we like to hear the opinions of fellow travellers, I remember my mum telling me before we began our travels that you should always listen politely to the views of others with where to go and where not to go, then.......................................just do what the bloody hell you want! And that is exactly how we viewed Kakadu. We didn't hold too many expectations for Kakadu, especially that we were seeing this infamous part of Australia towards the end of the dry season. We first journeyed to Ubirr, one of Kakadu's most famous rock art galleries. A moderately steep climb takes you to a rocky outlook with views across the floodplains, which may not have been so flooded when we where there, but still the view was magnificient. The aboriginal rock art was something that I have never seen to the extent that it presented itself here and it was very impressive.

The Caravan parks in Kakadu give you a resort like feel. With grassed sites, huge swimming pools and a place to enjoy an evening meal. A few days at Jabiru was very comfortable and with temperatures of 39, the pool a favorite place to chill out. After a few days we decided to do the Yellow Water early morning cruise where it is home to crocodiles, birds and wildlife. The billabong here floods to join other waterways in the wet season and attracts millions of birds. Paperbark forests, pandanus and freshwater mangroves line the banks and the water is dotted with beautiful pink and white lillies. We set off about 7.00am and there was a touch of fog on the water which created an eerie feel, but soon lifted and the birdlife we saw was really quite magical. Of course there were crocs sitting on the banks with big smiles on their faces and the water was as still, creating a serene and beautiful experience as our guide took us along the billabong. Our guides love of birds was evident and it was exciting to be part of this journey along with him. Words or pictures do not explain the experience of this tour, but some photos may put it in perspective.

setting off

sun rising above the fog

Magpie Geese amongst whistling ducks

heron and ibis

white bellied eagle

killer

how serene

gorgeous little kingfisher

Azure kingfisher

comb-crested jacana (can you see the three chicks?)

water lillies

So all in all we enjoyed Kakadu, knowing that we would come back here again, but perhaps just after the wet season next time to really enjoy what this magical place has to offer.