The Book Besties Kakadu Reading Retreat

20th - 22nd of November 2026
What to Expect

Imagine a weekend where the only thing on your schedule is reading, exploring Kakadu and good conversation with like-minded book besties.

This November, Book Besties is heading to Kakadu for a two-night retreat designed for readers who want to slow down, connect and spend time with people who love books as much as they do.

Over the weekend we will share dinner, reading hours, have time to explore the special piece of the Northern Territory that is Kakadu and yap about books (DUH!).

❋ Intentional Structure

There will be a balance of time over the course of the weekend to read, explore and enjoy being surrounded by the community. 

❋ Limited Spots

We are keeping the first retreat limited and intimate so the experience is extra special.

❋Guest Authors

We will have some special author guests coming to speak on a panel and socialise with the group. 

❋ A Supportive Space

Our events (as always) prioritize comfort and respect so you can show up as you are and fully engage in the process.

A restorative weekend for readers.

Day One

Meet & Mingle

As everyone arrives, we take time to settle in and get comfortable before heading out on the Yellow Waters Cruise. 

3:00pm

Check-in at Cooinda Lodge and settle into your room. Your welcome gift will be waiting.

3:30pm

Welcome gathering and drinks. 

4:30pm

Yellow Water Cruise

7:00pm

Group Dinner

8:00pm

Wine and Reading

Day Two

Relax & Unwind

Day two is all about connection and exploring - however you want to experience that. 

8:30am

Breakfast

10:30am

Free reading time around the lodge or by the pool.

1:00pm

Creative workshop w bestie Sarze

3:00pm

Author panel with Northern Territory writers

7:00pm

Group dinner and guided discussions based on the retreat reading list

12pm

If you’re vibing meet for lunch at the cafe 

Day Three

Wrap Up

On our last day we will have a yummy breakfast, a creative workshop and then round out the weekend by heading to Warradjan Aborginal Cultural Centre to look and experience the local culture.  

8:30am

Breakfast

11:30am
9:00am

Creative Workshop #2 with bestie Sarze

11:00am

Check out

Warradjan Aboriginal Culture Centre

FAQ

  • • Two nights accommodation at Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu National Park in the glamping tents
    • Breakfast both mornings
    • Dinners each evening
    • A Yellow Water Billabong cruise
    • Author panel with Northern Territory writers
    • Guided book discussion based on the retreat read
    • Creative craft workshops
    • A curated Book Besties welcome bag in your room
    • A pre-retreat reading list and discussion prompts
    • A weekend of connection with the Book Besties community

  • Guests will need to arrange purchases during the retreat, alcoholic drinks, travel to and from Kakadu and any additional tours and/or activities that are not listed on our website.

  • Not at all. Lots of guests attend the retreat solo. If you’d like your own space, you can book a Private Room ticket. If you’re travelling with a friend and would like to share a room, you can book the Shared Room.

    Shared rooms must be booked with a friend as we don’t assign roommates.

  • We’ll share a recommended reading list before the retreat, including some we will discuss together during the weekend.

    You are welcome to read as much or as little as you like- the retreat is designed to be relaxing and welcoming for all readers.

  • Absolutely besties! Book Besties events are always designed to feel warm and inclusive, and many guests attend solo.

    The retreat will include relaxed group activities and plenty of opportunities to connect with other besties.

  • Guests will need to arrange their own travel to Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu National Park.

    Most guests travel by car from Darwin, which takes approx 3 hours.

    Closer to the retreat we will connect attendees so those interested can coordinate travel or carpool.

  • Yes. You can secure your spot with a $300 deposit, with the remaining balance split across several payments leading up to the retreat.

    Full payment must be completed 30 days prior to the retreat.

  • Due to the nature of retreat bookings, tickets are non-refundable.

    However, if you can no longer attend you are welcome to transfer your ticket to another guest.

    If the retreat is cancelled by Book Besties for any reason, all payments will be refunded in full.

  • Closer to the retreat weekend we will send attendees a suggested pack list.

  • The retreat will be limited to around 20-24 readers to keep the experience intimate and relaxed.

Book Your Stay

JOIN US BESTIE!