As a general rule the more difficult the trek is the more impressive the scenery along the way. Some areas of this World Heritage Park are only accessible during the Dry and even these you'll need a 4WD. Bowali Visitors' Centre (08) 8938 1120 has information on all treks and tours as does the Kakadu website.

A 2km Dry Season trek through a monsoon forest and over boulders to a plunge pool, surrounded by 150m-high cliffs.

With its clear plunge pool and waterfall Gunlom Falls is a popular camping spot and at the top of the waterfall (a 2km steep trek) are great views over what's known as "stone country".

This country comes alive in the Wet Season, and the walks that criss-cross it range from easy — the 2km Boulder Creek walk — to challenging — The Jurrundie Creek walk (11km return).

Take water, sunscreen and a map, keep to the trails and NEVER swim: Kakadu's waterways.

Explore the upper reaches of this long snaking canyon by canoe, available for hire by the half-day or overnight at the Nitmiluk Visitors Centre. Less taxing are the regular boat cruises of the first two gorges, skippered by park rangers.

There are freshwater crocs in Nitmiluk Gorge but they are smaller and less aggressive than their saltwater cousins. While the occasional saltie does get in swimming here is a far safer option than in Kakadu.

Book a scenic flight for a birds' eye view over Kakadu (by light plane) or Nitmiluk (by helicopter) Bookings through Nitmiluk Tours or Bowali Visitors' Centre.

Although much of the Northern Territory's coast consists of uninspiring mudflats and mangroves, there are some glorious stretches of shoreline especially around the Gulf of Carpentaria. Self-sufficiency, experience and meticulous planning are prerequisites for all trips and, as always, keep an eye out for crocs. For a good weekend kayak trip from Darwin, head west across the harbour to Mandorah and explore the Cox Peninsula Coast. Canoe Northern Territory has more information.

Litchfield National Park is the preferred spot for many Darwinian day-trippers — it's closer to town than Kakadu and croc-patrolled. The park's stunning waterholes get very crowded in the Dry. Florence Falls and Wangi are easiest to get to and thus most popular for day bus-trips, while Surprise Creek, which is further out, tends to be quieter.
Tip: At Florence Falls, opt for the serene and shady bush walk, rather than the stairs, for the trek back to the car park, and cool off at the waterhole when you reach the top.