Cahills Crossing Kakadu NT

It was very Smokey at Shady camp this morning due to the stillness of the night, so we were glad to be driving out. Before we left we had another quick look at the barrage and people fishing.

We drove back 54km to Arnhem Highway turning east to Kakadu National Park. We needed to buy a seperate permit to visit here $40adult/$30conc valid 7 days. 

The reasons the Park, which was established as recently as 1979, is so important has more to do with its culture and its remarkable fauna than its physical beauty.

We had breakfast at the picnic area where the park sign is.

Further on we had a look at the South Alligator River. It didn’t appear to be a very popular stop for either picnics or boats.

We had a look at the Mamakala Observation Point, which had a bird hide located only 100 metres from the car park.  From the shaded platform it was possible to observe the birdlife on the edge of the wetlands. There were wall charts to help us identify the bird species on the lake.The giant leaf Lillie’s were pretty impressive too.

Next came the infamous Cahills Crossing on the East Alligator River. 

Mark couldn’t help himself and as the water was low and safe he took Buster across a couple of times.

There are specially designed viewing platforms to also offer a safe and elevated perspective over a notorious causeway where dozens of estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) gather to hunt. These powerful predators — the largest reptiles on Earth — are drawn here by the tides, feeding on mullet and barramundi swept over the road that leads into Arnhem Land. Linked by a scenic rainforest walk, the site features three viewing platforms to  experience a breathtaking natural spectacle. Mark counted 17 crocs swimming around. 

We decided it was too hot to do any further exploration so we settled in at the nearby Merl campsite $15pp. With toilet and showers.