Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage site in the Northern Territory of Australia and is an extensive, beautiful landscape with so many experiences for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art, wildlife and monsoon forests, Kakadu is a must-see for anyone who loves the outdoors. This guide will take you through the best trails in Kakadu, including Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls, Ubirr Rock and more. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a solo adventure or a scenic flight over the park, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Jim Jim Falls Trail
Distance: 2 km (return)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Waterfalls, plunge pool, monsoon forest, late afternoon glow
Jim Jim Falls is one of the most famous landmarks in Kakadu National Park and is known for its stunning waterfalls and beautiful plunge pool. The trail to Jim Jim Falls is a rough adventure through monsoon vine forest and rugged stone country, where you’ll see Spangled drongos and Magpie Geese. The walk is short but can be challenging due to the rocky terrain and steep climbs. But it’s worth it.
Best to visit Jim Jim Falls in the dry season when the plunge pool is accessible and you can swim in cool, clear water. Late afternoon is the best time to visit as the golden light makes the falls look even more beautiful and creates a special atmosphere. The falls are most impressive after the wet season when the water is at its peak.
Key Highlights:
Late Afternoon Views: Soft, golden light for perfect photos and a peaceful atmosphere.
Plunge Pool: There is a deep plunge pool at the base of the falls where you can swim during the dry season.
Monsoon Forest: The trails for walking go through a lush monsoon forest, a calm, shaded oasis from the sun.
Twin Falls Gorge Trail
Distance: 6 km (return)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Scenic boat cruise, Indigenous rock art galleries, sandy beaches, remote gorges
Twin Falls is another beautiful waterfall in Kakadu National Park, accessed by a combination of walking and boat cruises. The journey to Twin Falls starts with a scenic cruise on a flat-bottomed boat, where you’ll drift through stunning gorges with towering sandstone cliffs. Many visitors combine this experience with a Darwin jumping crocodile tour for a full day of Top End adventure. After the boat ride, a moderate walk through monsoon rainforest and sandy beaches will take you to the falls.
Twin Falls is surrounded by some of the most important indigenous rock art galleries in the park and a deep connection to the living culture of the traditional owners. The area is full of Aboriginal culture and history, with rock art that tells ancient stories and spiritual beliefs. It is best to visit Twin Falls in the dry season when the water levels are lower, and you can pass and explore safely.
Key Highlights:
Scenic Boat Cruise: See the gorges and surrounding stone country from the boat.
Indigenous Rock Art Galleries: Look for the rock art along the trail.
Remote Gorges: Twin Falls is in a very remote part of the park, so you’ll feel like you have a place for yourself.
Ubirr Rock Art Site
1km (loop) Easy Aboriginal rock art, views, thousands of birds including Spangled drongos and Magpie Geese
Ubirr is one of the most famous rock art sites in Kakadu National Park and gives a great insight into the region’s Aboriginal history. The Ubirr Rock Art Site has a collection of rock art sites with traditional hunting scenes and spiritual stories. The walk around Ubirr is easy and suitable for families and all ages.
The highlight of Ubirr is the climb to the lookout, where you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the Nadab floodplain and Arnhem Land. Late afternoon is the best time to visit Ubirr as the sun sets over the floodplain and casts a warm glow over the landscape. Bird lovers will also enjoy the thousands of birds, including Spangled drongos and Magpie Geese that hang out near the lookout.
Key Highlights:
Aboriginal Rock Art: Ubirr’s rock art galleries are some of the most important in Australia.
Panoramic Views: 360-degree views of the Stone Country, floodplains and beyond.
BirdLife: The area is total of bird species, so it is a favourite among birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Nawurlandja Lookout Walk
1km (return) Easy Lookouts, Anbangbang Billabong, Nourlangie Rock, steep climb
For a short and sweet hike, the Nawurlandja Lookout Walk is the way to go. This easy walk has a steep climb to one of the best lookouts in Kakadu. From the top, you’ll have stunning views of Anbangbang Billabong, Nourlangie Rock and the Stone Country.
The lookout is a great spot to watch the late afternoon sun set over the landscape and cast a warm glow over the billabong and rock formations. This walk is also suitable for families as it’s short and easy but with big rewards in scenery and photo opportunities.
Key Highlights:
Lookouts: Some of the best views in the park, especially in the late afternoon.
Anbangbang Billabong: A peaceful and beautiful spot for photography and wildlife spotting.
Nourlangie Rock: The view from the lookout is terrific, especially in the soft light of the late afternoon.
Barrk Sandstone Walk
12 km (loop)
Hard
Challenging hike, remote gorges, panoramic views, wildlife
This is one of the most challenging trails in Kakadu, and it is for experienced hikers only. 12 km loop through stone country, monsoon rainforest and remote gorges. Steep climbs and rocky terrain.
You’ll see black cockatoos, emerald doves and many other bird species along the way. There are also great spots to rest and take in the views. This is for those who want to get away from the crowds and be immersed in the natural beauty of Kakadu.
Key Features:
Challenging Hike: For those who want a physical challenge and adventure.
Remote Gorges: Through some of the most remote and untouched gorges in Kakadu.
Panoramic Views: Multiple lookouts with views of Stone Country and beyond.
Yellow Water Billabong
Varies
Easy
Wildlife, birdlife, saltwater crocodile sightings, sunsets
Yellow Water Billabong is one of Kakadu’s most famous wetlands and is known for its high biodiversity and sunsets. The billabong is home to wildlife, saltwater crocodiles, Magpie Geese and many bird species. A wildlife cruise is a must-do activity to see them in their natural habitat.
Afternoon is the best time to visit Yellow Water Billabong as the sun sets and the water is bathed in golden light. The billabong is also a birdwatcher’s paradise with thousands of birds, including Spangled drongos and Magpie Geese, near the water’s edge.
Key Features:
Wildlife Cruise: See an abundance of wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles and birdlife.
Stunning Sunsets: Enjoy the sunsets from the comfort of a flat-bottomed boat.
Abundant Wildlife: A nature lover’s and photographer’s paradise.
Koolpin Gorge
Distance: 6km (return)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Remote gorges, natural pools, challenging walks, wildlife
Koolpin Gorge, also known as Jarrangbarnmi, is one of Kakadu’s best-kept secrets. If you’re willing to get off the beaten track, you can have a peaceful escape. The walk to Koolpin Gorge is moderate, going through rugged stone country and monsoon rainforest to a series of beautiful natural pools and waterfalls.
It’s a favourite spot for those who want solitude and to connect with nature, with crystal clear green pools and plenty of wildlife. The area also has ancient rock art sites, so there’s a cultural element to the experience. It would be best if you had a permit to visit Koolpin Gorge, so plan ahead.
Key Highlights:
Natural Pools: Green pools for swimming and relaxing.
Remote Gorges: Seclusion and untouched nature, perfect for solitude.
Wildlife: Black cockatoos, emerald doves and more.
Mirray Lookout Walk
Distance: 2km (return)
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Panoramic views, steep climb, ancient culture, famous spots
The Mirray Lookout Walk is a short but steep walk that gives you panoramic views over the Stone Country and beyond. It’s an excellent walk for those who want a quick but rewarding walk and a taste of the park’s scenery without the long walk.
The lookout is a great spot to watch the sunrise or sunset. The light really makes the landscape pop. The walk is also steeped in ancient culture with several rock art sites along the way.
Key Highlights:
Steep Climb: Steep but manageable climb, good workout and great view.
Panoramic Views: Great views of the Stone Country, perfect for photography.
Ancient Culture: Rock art sites along the way.
FAQ
When to visit Kakadu National Park?
Best time to visit is during the dry season May to October when most trails are open and weather is good for outdoor activities. Late afternoon is the best time, golden light is beautiful.
Can I swim in the natural pools and waterfalls in Kakadu?
Yes, you can swim in some areas of Kakadu, like the plunge pools at Jim Jim Falls and Koolpin Gorge. Always check the safety signs and be careful, especially during the wet season. Some swimming holes may require a good swimming ability due to strong currents.
Are there guided tours in Kakadu?
Yes, there are guided tours throughout Kakadu NP, including cultural immersion and wildlife cruises. Expert wildlife guides will give you insights into the park’s living culture, Aboriginal heritage and wildlife.
What should you bring for a hike in Kakadu?
Pack plenty of water, sun protection, good shoes and a first aid kit. Depending on the trail, you may also need a map, elevation chart, snacks and emergency communication equipment. Don’t forget your camera to capture the waterfalls, rock formations and views.
Are there campsites near the trails?
Yes, there are various options, from spacious safari style glamping tents to semi permanent campsites. Some trails are also accessible from Darwin with comfortable accommodation pick up services. If you want to get really remote Garnamarr Campground is a good option, it’s near Jim Jim Creek.
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