Asia Trip - Day 19

Kakadu NP

This morning we left Darwin, headed south to Kakadu NP. Kakadu is on of Australia's most important parks. It is a UNESCO world heritage sight for both natural beauty and cultural importance. However, before we got to the park, we got on a crocodile viewing boat. We were in the Adelaide river in a small boat, so close to the water that you could stick your hand in the water - we were warned not to try that!

We saw a lot of crocs (all saltwater). Our guide, Brownie, would tie a pork chop on a string to the end of a pole and get the crocs to jump out of the water for it. They can really come along way out of the water. We also learned a bunch about croc anatomy, physiology and behaviour. Brownie would also throw smaller chunks of meat to the whistling kites (raptors). It always amazes me how good they are at catching.

We entered the park and drove about 3/4 of the way across to Jabira, the main town in the park. We had lunch and saw the visitor's center, where we found out that one of the places we wanted to go was closed for the wet season. So we went on a different hike up to a lookout point and on another loop to see aboriginal rock art. The views were spectacular, you could see all along the escarpment that seperates the park from Arnhem land. The art was also very interesting. They have a great representation of the lightning god. The walks were fun, but incredibly hot and humid, so we were ready for the pool when we arrived at Yellow Water.

The pool was pretty warm, but the beer was cold, so it all worked out. Now all we have to do is book our wildlife cruise for tomorrow and get some dinner.

During dinner a massive thunderstorm came through the hotel. We sat under the canopy and enjoye dour wine while watching the lightening storm.