fees (adults only) are collected on site. one then: It looks as though it could easily spill into the river but it makes it over; as do several other vehicles crossing from the Kakadu side minutes later. If there are crocs on the crossing . Cahill $16.50 per person per night apply. There are two separate sections to view from from the same car park. Safaris, Personal Charters, upmarket Cahills Crossing is a famous car river crossing into Arnhem Land, it is also a great place to watch crocodiles safely from the viewing platform. An easy way to check if it's opens is to look at theKakadu Road Report for the most up to date information. is there a camp ground close to cahill's crossing, Google is your friend Merl campground, Ancient Ruins Points of Interest & Landmarks. It was previously known as Gurig National Possible storm Tue 17 Jan 25 32 Shower or two. Submitted: Tuesday, Mar 31, 2020 at 22:10, Your best option for mapping and navigation no matter where you go in Australia. so varied, in fact, that the park's longtime aboriginal inhabitants Full The best time of the day to visit is at high tides, where you can see the most action among the crocodiles. We had a picnic lunch on the viewing platform. Here, you can explore these ancient shelters, as well as marvel at amazing rock paintings from thousands of years ago, detailing life in Kakadu from a bygone era. I need to cross in June to see a relative at Oenpelli/ Gumbulumba. Source: Lauren French A man pictured fishing near two crocodiles at the crossing in 2018. Join our growing community of Australian Outback travellers. Five other tourists are there with cameras, even though high tide isnt for another 45 minutes or so. Safaris, Personal Charters, upmarket The Manngarre Walk is three interconnected loop walks from You should add all times to Darwin Harbour predictions. Cahills Crossing: Eerie - See 169 traveler reviews, 156 candid photos, and great deals for Kakadu National Park, Australia, at Tripadvisor. After two days exploring Kakadu, enjoying nature walks through ancient landscapes in the winter sunshine, we ended up here at the murky, croc-infested waters. Alligator River (Cahills Crossing) and the Park boundary check One halts as a crocodile lies directly in its way. Seasons - Gudjewg - Monsoon Season, Kakadu Nah, its just a log, says my companion, Peter, craning forward. 2023 Northern Territory Government of Australia, URL: https://nt.gov.au/marine/for-all-harbour-and-boat-users/tides/tidal-predictions-variations The crossing had much more people including locals fishing. mid-June to mid-August, is the 'cold weather' time; humidity This is where the Arnhem Highway crosses the East Alligator River into Arnhem Land. Kakadu National Park is 151 kilometres south-east of Darwin. Contact Dont worry, we hate spam too and keep your details safe. BE CROCWISE.. Lots of shade and cool trees to rest under. the RAMSAR Convention because of its significant wetlands. Suggested duration 1-2 hours Apparently many drivers have ended up failing to cross; instead their vehicles have been washed away in the croc-filled waters. camping, accommodated (ABC Radio Darwin: Jesse Thompson) are about six hours behind Darwin tides. A large scaly head emerges. Main Later we head for Mamukala Wetlands, an hours drive south-west. the recommended rates with professional and experienced service. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. The grade is easy and you should allow one hour for the longest What is the biggest national park in Australia? links. dry season. From Jabiru, the main settlement in World Heritage-listed Kakadu and home to the crocodile-shaped Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, its a half hour drive. #1. Click Map, Australian Tour Information - Mission Statement. Has anyone crossed the Cahills Crossing by bike? Individual identity crocodiles (well-known crocs who are revered by rangers and the community) will frequent the area during this time, but will travel up to 140 km away to the South Alligator River and beyond to maximise seasonal feeding opportunities that exist at these other locations. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Check the tide times before heading to Cahills Crossing by using online resources or ask staff at the Bowali Visitor Centre. If, for some reason, you were unable to see any crocs at Cahills Crossing (or you just want to see a lot more! with some dangerous bends. . Visiting Cahills Crossing is not for the faint of heart. Indeed, during the wet season, Cahills Crossing is closed completely. Usually accessible between April and October, depending on rainfall. Kakadu in April, is the season when the rain clouds have dispersed The NT tide predictions interactive map on the Australian Government'sBureau of Meteorology website allows you to choose a location and find: It will also give you information for the previous, current and following seven days for the area including: All information is supplied in good faith and is believed to be correct. Suggested duration 1-2 hours (East Alligator), Cahill Theres a viewing platform around the bend, he points. Tide Times are ACST (UTC +9.5hrs). Most people who call our office want to know the best time to cross Cahills Crossing and my answer is always; check the tides. The crossing may be 50km from the sea, but water levels are very tidal. *****Advice, videos, images and information Links Site camping, basic I can't understand the engineering: how such a small-width crossing build over rocks with so much water over the road can stand weight of a heavy truck. Several people have died in the waters of the notorious floodway. of the Australia 4 Wheel Drive Rentals group of sites. The East Alligator River is not one you want to wade across after bailing out of a stricken Rav 4. Cahills Crossing itself is a flooded causeway and Australia's most dangerous water crossing. Camping Area (check wet season access), Borderstore Check the tide times before heading to Cahills Crossing by using online resources or ask staff at the Bowali Visitor Centre. Cahills Crossing is a famous car river crossing into Arnhem Land, it is also a great place to watch crocodiles safely from the viewing platform. We keep your details safe and secure. KLEaner . Up to 40 crocodiles at a time can loiter around Cahills Crossing to feast on fish that are headed upstream with changing tides. The river still has a massive tidal influence at Cahills Crossing and this is the main reason people in their vehicles get stuck and into trouble. If there are crocs on the crossing when you need to cross they will generally move as you approach in your vehicle (if not a quick toot on the horn will do the trick). 50 crocodiles or more have been counted in the 400 m stretch of river between Cahills Crossing and the East Alligator River upstream boat ramp. Important: Though an increasing number of logs are moving closer to the crossing, the fisherfolk seem unperturbed. The river still has a massive tidal influence at Cahills Crossing and this is the main reason people in their vehicles get stuck and into trouble. Amateur fishermen, families including children and backpackers have been photographed standing in the water with crocodiles visibly nearby. Crossing and gives visitors a great vantage point to safely watch up to 40 crocodiles feeding during the Spring high-tides. Hop along the marvellous Macleay Valley Coast, Reaching new heights with Global Ballooning Australia, Laidback Lake Macquarie: a barefoot summer adventure, 12 of the best sushi restaurants in Australia. Another question we regularly get asked is what depth should I cross Cahills Crossing at? here for manual old fashion customized quote Take the worry out of trip planning with expert tips from Kakadu rangers. At high tide crocs will surf across the crossing to the other side as well to catch the fish as they cross from one sie to the other. of children under 12 (child seat guidelines) If not, then youre taking one hell of a risk. To apply for tidal predictions, contact the Australian GovernmentsBureau of Meteorology National Operations Centre Tidal Unit. Park, whether you arrive by road, air or sea. 20132023 Parks Australia (Commonwealth of Australia). Below are the monthly tidal predictions in graph format. in Darwin, Northern Terriotry Australia (Tel +61 (0) 8 7999 Its just a road that goes through the river. Was that a log floating? See 'My Profile' (below) for link to our Aussie travel blog, now in it's 5th year. They are an integral part of daily and cultural life. You don't need a 4WD to get there and the drive there is really nice too. Water levels are tidal so the water level will vary. The tide patterns don't generally line up with our travel plans forcing people to become inpatient and choose risky times to cross the croc infested river. 2) - need to cross at low tide (at the crossing). /*! If visiting Cahills Crossing is on your bucket list, youll need to drive 286 kilometres east of Darwin and 2.7 kilometres south of Ubirr Art Site. It's even better watching the crocs come over! Please note once the wet season rains set in the crossing becomes impassible and will close for the duration of the wet season. It is not unless you have a 4WD and are going to be driving across. Kakadu We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Finally, though, the reptile moves half a metre, allowing the car to pass. The NT tide predictions interactive map on the Australian Government's Bureau of Meteorology website allows you to choose a location and find: time and height of next high tide time and height of next low tide its current time zone We hope the above info helps - please send us a quickemail is you think there is some critical information we've missed and may help others. loop. This site is for the beneift of those researching for their This is nothing. Route area before you start any walk and also the rangers station The Border Store is now an art gallery, and only sells water. Careful it's the famous 'Drop Do you need to book in advance to visit Cahills Crossing? Before asking Is Cahills Crossing safe? you need to work out where it is. for up to 7 nights. the recipient will hold the NT Government free from all responsibility or liability and from all loss or damage incurred as a consequence of any error or omission. How low does the tide need to be to get across Cahills crossing without being silly? Arnhem Highway / Oenpelli Road Kakadu National Park, Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory 0822 Australia. The site has three viewing platforms and a picnic area linked by a rainforest walk. Three hours fly past, and we remain transfixed, as do the 30-odd other tourists surrounding us. Park nearby and view from the area above the crossing. The best time of the day to visit is at high tides, where you can see the most action among the crocodiles. All content copyright David Whitley. Along with varying tides, the water flow is strong enough to overturn vehicles . Youll also read how in 2017, a 47-year-old man disappeared after wading over the Crossing; his body was recovered downstream beside a 3.3 metre croc. Accross the road from borderstore is 97% of travelers recommend this experience. A fee of $232.10 applies per vehicle (Camping Fee $220 plus Possible storm Mon 16 Jan 25 32 Shower or two. These resources are a guide only, actual times may vary depending on seasonal conditions: Saltwater crocodiles have a high cultural significance. In the dry season (May-Oct) there is generally less freshwater pushing down the river from upstream catchments and therefore provides greater windows for crossing the causeway at a safe level. World leading crocodile expert Grahame Webb says that for every crocodile you can see, there are 10 you cant.Thanks for watching#Australia #Outback #Travel___________________________________________________________________CREDIT LINKS Rocketwa Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2J8ZQLOxkLZ4wsfViVCzXQ Rocketwa Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PIW5czdpwo Merv H youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdaoIH9Xqu_TBxG_ggr_rEQ Merv H Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIJAfVGF1D4 Jack's Wild Life Youtube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCer6S1gsg9x7VvugPI_gWYg Jack's Wild Life Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGkrTkqiBgw___________________________________________________________________ Wonder World Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wonderworld.ytc.10 Wonder World Twitter - https://twitter.com/WonderWorld_YTCFor business enquiries, content submission or copyright concerns or disputes, please contact me. which is in 1hr 44min 40s from now. (East Alligator) - At Borderstore there is also Cahill's Crossing is a great place to see crocodiles in their natural habitat in the wild, located a the crossing between Kakadu and Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory Australia. The roads are usually open in the dry season (May - September), Commercial accommodation facilities including hotel rooms, Cahills Crossing is a small road connecting Kakadu National Park to Arnhem Land. 7511). Check Cahills Crossing tides and water depths before attempting it, and watch out for crocodiles. No. Kakadu is the largest national park in Australia. It is named after the legendary buffalo hunter Paddy Cahill (18631923) who was one of the first European pioneers of the region. contained in this blog are offered for general educational and information Cahills Crossing from Kakadu National Park to the Arnhem Land is one of the most dangerous river crossings in Australia. These platforms directly overlook Cahills Crossing and provide visitors with a safe vantage point to view crocodiles in Kakadu. Standing on a sandy riverbank, gazing out at the muddy stretch of the East Alligator River called Cahills Crossing, I spot a floating shape. When the East Alligator River is experiencing high tides, it can get over six meters high. Usually accessible between April and October, depending on rainfall. Some tides may prevent you crossing the river the roads are dusty and corrugated with some dangerous bends. The best time of the day to visit is at high tides, where you can see the most action among the crocodiles. Too brave or audacious? Seasons - Gurrung - Hot Dry Weather - Gurrung, from mid-August Crossing -actually a stroll thru a track of about of the Arafura Sea and Van Diemen Gulf, and some of the neighbouring The best time to see them here is at high tide. 6m 4m 2m. Seasons - Banggereng - Knock 'em down storm Season, Kakadu 100% of the time they ended up being crocs. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging. Near the store you find Cahills Crossing picnic area with Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Come at high tide (check the www for times) bring a camera and enjoy the spectacle of dozens of salties churning up the water and chowing down on barra. Applications Much as I loved all my Kakadu experiences on this trip, its the crocs I find myself dreaming about in weeks to come. Today, the crossing offers the only road access point betweenArnhem Land andKakadu National Park. If a guided tour is more you style, check out this 3-day camping safari in Litchfield & Kakadu. permitted permits do not allow for stops between the East The Border Store sells food, fishing gear and souvenirs. Park and Cobourg Marine Park, and is located about 570 km Us Site The crossing should be easy to find. Example of a 4wd camper hire + country code After two days exploring Kakadu, enjoying nature walks through ancient landscapes in the winter sunshine, we ended up here at the murky, croc-infested waters. Disconcertingly, just below the platform, theres a wall coated with plastic flowers, Eagles flags and a metal cross dedicated to a man called Gregory. Possible storm Sat 14 Jan 25 33 Shower or two. Thinking of travelling to the Top End overland? Take provisions if staying for a while. How to Get There Seasons - Banggereng - Knock 'em down storm Season - Banggerreng, Goon-uk Bar-loo. Each year, dozens of cars are washed into the river attempting to drive on Cahill Crossing.Its an infamous feeding ground for saltwater crocodiles.Its a notorious for its croc infested waters and human misadventure. tide charts before setting out. How do I find the Cahills Crossing tide times? Looked like they were catching crocs with fishing rods. The large ones are at the front, in prime positions, the smaller ones further back. North be liable for any loss, injury or risk which is incurred as a direct or indirect result of the use of any of the following last fuel stop is at Jabiru caravans and motor bikes are not Frantic beeping from the driver makes no difference. Estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus), Kakadus fiercest predators and the worlds largest reptiles, gather in large numbers around this causeway to feed on mullet and barramundi as the tide pushes in and over the road that leads into Arnhem Land. which is in 7hr 17min 40s from now. Very interesting place to stop for a bit and watch the action . and clear skies prevail. km. Many of Kakadus scenic spots cant be reached without a four-wheel drive, so its doubly rewarding to be able to see something so unique you can get to on a sealed road. Some tides may prevent Its a 16.5km drive to Gunbalanya, the main settlement in the western Arnhem Land. Arrived just on high tide. Camping permits are required if staying overnight. Dont worry, we hate spam too and keep your details safe. reasons with little notice. Extra adult passengers - $11.00. Safe Travels :). They advise not to attempt it if the water depth is above 0.5m high, although some drivers attempt it when its deeper. 8999 4524. They often crawl up to pounce on schools of mullet and barramundi swept over the crossing. and tour specialist including camping and accommodated one Roads can be closed for ceremonial Tel +61 8 8979 2474 (services may be unavailable Nov - April). It usually closes in November or December and reopens around mid-April to early May. Cahills Crossing is a famous car river crossing into Arnhem Land - approximately a 3.5 hour drive east of Darwin in Kakadu National Park. So, now that you know one of the best spots to catch salties in action, here are some of the other unforgettable experiences you should not pass up in Kakadu National Park. Is it worth visiting the Cairns Botanic Gardens? Not only does this wonderful tour get you up and close (but not too close) to Kakadus apex predator, but it also allows you the opportunity to see some of the national parks other unique wildlife and vegetation in the glorious morning light. 4WD Camper, Tours, really nice folks serving. following links Youll receive our latest news, promotions, as well as helpful articles about traveling Australia. Children Wait another hour; youll see dozens of the mongrels, an elderly chap, fishing rod in hand, startles me by emerging from behind a bush. The must is the toilet across the road Saw one croc, which swam against the incoming tide and got close to the fishermen. Country http://www.kakadu-tours.com The tide patterns dont generally line up with our travel plansforcing people to become inpatient and choose risky times to cross the croc infested river. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Garig Gunak Barlu National Park is pronounced Gah-rig A comparison between the wet and dry season tidal crossing on the East Alligator River, known as Cahill's Crossing. You can see Cahills Crossing on a four day Kakadu tour from Darwin. Kakadu How can I visit Heart Island on the Great Barrier Reef? East Alligator River - Cahills Crossing Weather Forecast Australia NT Kakadu East Alligator River - Cahills Crossing Today 13 Jan 25 33 Shower or two. There is no golden rule for safe crossing times at Cahills, it may be safe to cross 6 hours either side of the low tide during some parts of the dry season and in the wet the crossing might even be totally closed. Two people . The Northern Territory Government respectfully acknowledges the First Nations people of this country and recognises their continuing connections to their lands, waters and communities. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Crossing the East Alligator River from Kakadu National Park into Arnhem Land is an experience few forget in a hurry. As a tour operator on theCobourg Peninsula it's a water crossing we do many times each week and have done so for the past 15 years. ranges to Kakadu National Park. We head round the bend and quickly spot the small fenced viewing platform. purposes to increase overall safety awareness. Obey all safety signs and comply with . Whether youre a budding four-wheel-driver or simply keen to see arguably Australias most fearsome predator, youre sure to enjoy this part of the East Alligator River regardless its that beautiful! Freycinet on Tasmanias east coast is a nature-lovers playground. We want you to have a fantastic holiday thats memorable for all the right reasons. We'd love to hear from you. This is an internationally important area Australian Kakadu National Park travel guide and information I know I need a LOW tide and the tides are approx 6 hrs behind Darwin times. Many photos and gasps later, its time to tear ourselves away to see a little more of Kakadus fascinating20,000 square kilometres, Five minutes drive away, we reach the acclaimed Ubirr rock formations, festooned with Indigenous art mostly painted more than 2000 years ago. the only National Park in the Northern Territory which contains Your best bet is to plan your trip at the peak of the low tide if the crossing is open then you will be rest assured you can cross in a suitable vehicle. We're here to help. We heard from fellow tourists that it's a must-see for those who enjoy a spot of croc-watching. Most people get into trouble by crossing the river when there is too much water pushing over the crossing (getting pushed off the crossing and into the rocks on the side). We keep your information safe and secure. day or extended tours and safaris from the group of Goholi camping, accommodated Tide Height. By now I can count about 42 crocs. Cream Magazine by Themebeez, best things to do in the Northern Territory, Australian national parks to visit in 2021, Flights from Manchester to Adelaide: Best prices & times, Sandy Cape, Fraser Island: Getting there & lighthouse walk, Orchid Beach, Fraser Island: Getting there & accommodation, Exmouth to Broome road trip: Distance, driving time & best stops.