Bird Billabong

Bird Billabong Marrakai, located in the Mary River National Park, is a paradise for bird-lovers.

The billabong is a permanent freshwater swamp surrounded by paperbark forests, and is known to have the highest number of waterbirds in Australia, as well as some of the most beautiful and rare bird species.

Visitors can take a pleasant 2-kilometre stroll through scenic surrounds to reach the billabong. Once there, they can stand on the viewing platform at the water's edge and take in panoramic views over the billabong. A full loop walk of the billabong is an easy 4.5km, which should take around 2 hours. While at the billabong, visitors can bring their binoculars and camera to capture sightings of Magpie geese, ducks, Jabiru, herons, ibis and other waterbirds that are known to frequent the landlocked billabong. The billabong is also a popular breeding ground for many bird species, such as Radjah Shelduck. Birds can be enjoyed in each season, and the billabong changes vastly depending on the time of year. It's fully flooded in February/March, while it's parched and dry by October. The cooler months offer the perfect weather conditions for bird watching and enjoying outdoor activities. The billabong is accessible throughout the year.

Located in the Mary River National Park, Bird Billabong Marrakai is easily accessible by car. Visitors can drive along the Arnhem Highway between Darwin and Jabiru, crossing five of the Top End