Kakadu entry fees cut after major dry season closures
Entry fees slashed by almost 40%
Parks Australia has reduced entry fees to Kakadu National Park by up to 37 per cent following the closure of several of the park’s most popular attractions during the peak dry season.
Director of National Parks Ricky Archer said the price reduction was designed to encourage more visitors to the World Heritage-listed park and provide support to the tourism industry after the unexpected closures.
The decision comes after access to Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls Gorge and Escarpment Walk, and Karnamarr Campground was suspended, sparking criticism from Northern Territory tourism operators. The attractions are among Kakadu’s best-known highlights and are particularly popular with four-wheel drive travellers during the dry season.
Northern Territory Tourism Minister Marie-Clare Boothby has criticised Parks Australia over the closures, arguing they will have a significant financial impact on local tourism businesses. She also backed operators who said they received little warning before the sites were shut.
Parks Australia said the decision followed consultations with Traditional Owners and detailed site inspections. According to the agency, Traditional Owners raised concerns about visitor safety while road improvement works are underway and requested the area remain closed until the projects are completed.
The discounted park passes are intended to help offset the disruption and encourage travellers to continue visiting Kakadu despite the temporary loss of some of its signature attractions.
The cost of seven-day park passes for from 1 July to 31 October 2026 will be:
• Adults (16 years and older): $25 (normally $40)
• Children: $12.50 (normally $20)
• Family (2 adults and 2 or more children): $65 (normally $100) • Concession: $19 (normally $30)
