Kakadu Driving Distances
Darwin, Litchfield and Katherine
If you are planning a self-drive trip through the Top End, understanding the driving distances between Darwin, Kakadu, Litchfield and Katherine can make itinerary planning much easier. Distances are often longer than visitors expect, and travel times may vary depending on road conditions, seasonal access and where you choose to stay.
If you are travelling in a rental car, make sure you understand what you are covered for. Many car rental companies do not insure for night driving in the Top End. This is one reason it can help to get local advice before you travel, especially when planning accommodation, cruises and tour pick-up points. If you would like help planning your route, use our Kakadu Itinerary Builder.
For daily updates on road conditions, please visit the Kakadu Road Report.
Read our Kakadu Travel Guide for more help with planning where to stay, what to see and which Kakadu tour may suit your itinerary.
Driving Distances from Darwin
- Darwin to Jabiru – 255 km (approx. 3 hrs)
- Darwin to Bark Hut Inn – 116 km (approx. 1 hr 20 mins)
- Darwin to Cooinda – 305 km (approx. 3.5 hrs)
- Darwin to Pine Creek – 226 km (approx. 2.5 hrs)
- Darwin to Litchfield – 115 km (approx. 1.5 hrs)
- Darwin to Katherine – 316 km (approx. 3.5 hrs)
Driving Distances from Jabiru
- Jabiru to Cooinda – 55 km (approx. 40 mins)
- Jabiru to Pine Creek – 214 km (approx. 2.5 hrs)
- Jabiru to Katherine – 303 km (approx. 3.5 hrs)
- Jabiru to Litchfield via Arnhem Highway – 302 km
- Jabiru to Litchfield via Kakadu Highway – 381 km
- Jabiru to Ubirr Rock Art Site and East Alligator River – approx. 46 km
- Jabiru to Nourlangie Rock – 22 km
- Jabiru to Jabiru Airport – 11 km
- Jabiru to Aurora South Alligator Resort – 44 km
- Jabiru to Bark Hut Inn – 138 km
Driving Distances from Pine Creek
- Pine Creek to Litchfield – 171 km (approx. 2 hrs)
- Pine Creek to Katherine – 91 km (approx. 1 hr)
Top End Driving Tips
- Avoid driving at night due to wildlife and livestock on Top End roads.
- Check seasonal road closures before travelling, especially during the wet season.
- Fuel stops inside Kakadu are limited, so plan ahead.
- Allow extra time for sightseeing, roadworks and photo stops.
Planning a broader Top End trip? You may also like to explore our Itinerary Builder to compare routes, tours and accommodation options.
