At almost 22,000 sq km, Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set in sacred Aboriginal land in the 'Top End' of Australia, it encompasses a variety of habitats, as well as some significant Aboriginal rock-art, and is one of the country's most popular attractions.

Kakadu National Park is divided into seven zones, each with its own hotels, motels, hostels and camping sites. You will be supplied with a booklet about the park including accommodation details when you buy your ticket.

You will need a permit to enter the park, payable at the park gates. Permits are valid for 14 days and free for children under 16. Once in the park, visit one of the information centres. Park staff organise various activities including art-site talks, guided walks and evening slideshows. The Jabiru Travel Centre (00 61 8 8979 2548) organises four-wheel drive and boat-tours of Kakadu and neighbouring Arnhem Land. Scenic flights from Jabiru East and Cooinda and boat tours along the East Alligator River can be booked through Kakadu Tours (00 61 8 8979 2411).

AIRPORT
Darwin is the nearest international airport. It is a good idea to hire a four-wheel drive car from there.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK
British Airways (0870 850 9850; www.britishairways.com) flies from London to Darwin via Singapore. The national carrier is Qantas (020 8846 0466; www.qantas.com).

WHO TO GO WITH
Austravel (020 7734 7755) organises three-day tours of Kakadu. It can also offer London-Darwin flights (via Singapore or Kuala Lumpur), and four-wheel drive car hire. Quest Worldwide (020 8547 3111) offers tailor-made holidays in Kakadu, including camping, accommodated or self-drive tours.

Here in the monsoon belt, there are two seasons: hot and wet or hot and dry. The best time to visit Kakadu is May to September.

CROCODILES
There are two species of crocodile in Australia. The native freshwater crocodiles are usually shy but can become aggressive if disturbed. Do not approach them. Estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles have attacked people in Kakadu. Read all the estuarine crocodile signs and obey the 'No swimming' warnings.

Contact the Kakadu National Park Bowali Visitor Centre on 00 61 8 8938 1100.

Always consult the Foreign Office before travelling.