From Guangzhou to the Top End: Kakadu Wows China Southern’s Inaugural Visitors

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu National Park has delivered a true outback adventure for a Chinese mega famil group arriving in Darwin on the inaugural China Southern Airlines flight from Guangzhou. Marking Darwin’s first direct air link to mainland China in years, the new three-times-weekly service opens an exciting chapter for Northern Territory tourism, connecting southern China directly with Australia’s iconic Top End.

For the visiting delegation of Chinese travel trade, media and airline representatives, the journey into Kakadu became their own unforgettable ‘Crocodile Dundee’ experience, showcasing the dramatic landscapes, ancient culture and unique wildlife that define one of Australia’s most significant national parks.

A Major New Air Link for Darwin and Kakadu

The launch of China Southern Airlines’ direct Guangzhou–Darwin service is expected to deliver around 52,000 seats annually between the two cities. The route also taps into China Southern’s extensive global network, allowing seamless connections from other Chinese and international destinations into the Northern Territory.

This new air link strengthens Darwin’s position as a gateway to Kakadu National Park, making the Top End more accessible than ever for the growing Chinese travel market.

A Mega Famil Immersed in the Top End

Kakadu National Park

Kakadu Tourism, working with Tourism NT, supported the hosting of a mega famil group comprising Chinese travel trade, media and China Southern Airlines delegates. Participants included representatives from GZL International, Zuzuche Guangdong, China Youth Travel Service, Guangzhou Newstar International Travel Service, Trip.com, Aconcept, Guangzhou Kings Tour, Guangzhou Swallow Holiday and Shenzhen CEPT.

The famil was escorted by Tourism NT, with ground transport provided by Down Under Safaris, ensuring a seamless journey through the heart of the Top End.

Crocodiles, Culture and Iconic Landscapes

The group’s Kakadu experience began in fitting fashion at the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel in Jabiru, famously shaped like a giant crocodile. Delegates dined at the hotel’s Manjmukmuk Restaurant and explored the Ochre Art Gallery, which showcases paintings and crafts created by local Bininj/Mungguy artists.

A scenic flight with Kakadu Air offered breathtaking aerial views over waterfalls and escarpments before landing at Cooinda, where the group stayed overnight at Cooinda Lodge. Here, delegates deepened their understanding of the region’s cultural heritage with a visit to the Warradjan Cultural Centre, an interactive space sharing more than 65,000 years of Aboriginal history and living culture.

Wildlife Encounters and Crocodile on the Menu

Kakadu National Park

A highlight of the famil was the Yellow Water Cruise, where delegates encountered Kakadu’s abundant wildlife, from diverse birdlife to saltwater crocodiles reaching up to five metres in length. The crocodile theme continued at Mimi’s Restaurant at Cooinda Lodge, where the group sampled local Northern Territory produce, including crocodile.

The journey concluded at Nourlangie, also known as Burrungkuy, one of Kakadu’s most recognisable locations from the Crocodile Dundee film. Here, centuries-old rock art and sweeping escarpment views offered a powerful finale to the visit.

Building Momentum for Inbound Tourism

Kakadu Tourism’s Director of Sales and Marketing, Sam Waldron, said the famil provided an impactful introduction to the region, despite the short timeframe.

She noted that China Southern Airlines is the sixth new direct service introduced to Darwin in the past year, creating strong momentum for inbound growth. With Kakadu’s close proximity to Darwin and its globally recognised attractions, the region is well positioned to significantly expand its international visitation over the coming years.

With 2026 marking the 40th anniversary of Crocodile Dundee, Kakadu’s global profile is set to rise again. Enhanced accessibility, upgraded accommodation at Cooinda and the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, and a growing range of touring options make the destination more appealing than ever for international travellers.

WEBSITE: www.kakadutourism.com
WEBSITE: www.tourismnt.com.au
AIRLINE: www.csair.com

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