Arakoon National Park

Arakoon National Park is a protected area in Australia.

Arakoon National Park at a Glance

Location
New South Wales & ACT, Australia, Australasia
Coordinates
-30.883470, 153.067230
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
April to October (dry season in the north). Year-round in southern parks.

Getting to Arakoon National Park

Nearest airport: South West Rocks Airport (YSWK), 6 km away.

Nearest international airport: Sydney (Kingsford Smith) Airport (SYD), 384 km away.

Wildlife in Arakoon National Park

Home to 79 recorded species including 32 waterbirds, 16 birds of prey, 11 tropical birds, 10 iconic birds, 3 small mammals, 3 reptiles.

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Arakoon National Park

14 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in New South Wales & ACT

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Australia

Travel advisory for Australia

Arakoon National Park FAQs

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Arakoon National Park, and how does the 'safari' experience differ from traditional African safaris?

Arakoon National Park offers a distinct Australian wildlife experience, focusing on native species like kangaroos, wallabies, various birdlife, and reptiles in their natural habitats. Unlike African safaris, you'll engage in bushwalking, birdwatching, and self-guided drives to spot animals, often enjoying tranquil encounters due to the park's low crowding.

When is the optimal time to visit Arakoon National Park for the best wildlife viewing and outdoor activities?

The cooler, drier months from May to October are generally ideal for visiting Arakoon National Park, offering pleasant temperatures for bushwalking and active wildlife. During this period, animals are often more active and visible, and the weather is comfortable for exploring the park's trails and scenic lookouts.

What specific health and safety precautions should I consider for a visit to Arakoon National Park, particularly regarding the reported malaria risk?

While the malaria risk in Arakoon National Park is moderate, it's crucial to take precautions like using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, especially at dawn and dusk, and consulting your doctor about antimalarial medication. Additionally, always carry sufficient water, protect yourself from the sun, and be aware of local wildlife, including snakes and spiders.

How accessible is Arakoon National Park, and what are the best ways to explore its diverse landscapes given its remarkably low crowding level?

Arakoon National Park is primarily explored via well-maintained walking trails and scenic drives, making it accessible for self-guided adventures. Its 1/5 crowding level ensures a peaceful and intimate experience, allowing visitors to truly immerse themselves in nature without large crowds.

What are the typical costs associated with visiting Arakoon National Park, and what accommodation options are available for travellers?

Visitors to Arakoon National Park can expect standard Australian national park entry fees, with additional costs for camping if staying within designated park campgrounds. For those preferring more amenities, a range of accommodation options, from motels to holiday rentals, are available in nearby towns, offering convenient access to the park.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.