Kunumeleng Season in Kakadu: Storms, Renewal, and Adventure!

As the Kunumeleng season (November to December) unfolds across Kakadu, the land transforms. The air grows warm and heavy with anticipation as monsoon rains build on the horizon, awakening the bush with new life. It’s a spectacular time to explore — full of dramatic skies, flowing waterfalls, and vibrant wetlands teeming with wildlife.

Whether you’re planning a summer adventure or a festive escape, Kunumeleng offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and comfort.

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Top Things to Do in Kakadu this Kunumeleng Season

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🚤 Yellow Water Billabong Cruise

A must-do Kakadu experience — glide across the wetlands at sunrise or sunset and witness Ginga (saltwater crocodiles), magpie geese, and jacanas moving through the billabong. The storms brewing in the distance only add to the magic.

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🖐️ Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock Art Site

Explore thousands of years of culture through ancient rock art that tells the stories of creation and Country. Burrungkuy is open year-round and offers a fascinating window into Kakadu’s spiritual heart.

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🌅 Nawurlandja Lookout

One of the park’s most rewarding short climbs, Nawurlandja offers panoramic views over Anbangbang Billabong and Burrungkuy’s escarpment — a spectacular spot for sunset during the Kunumeleng season, when the light plays dramatically on storm clouds.

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💦 Waterfall Escapes – Motor Car Falls & Boulder Creek Falls

When the rains begin, these natural pools come to life. Swim, relax, and immerse yourself in the cool, clear waters surrounded by lush monsoon forest. Both waterfalls are part of the Yurmikmik walks, and can be done together in a day! Boulder Creek Falls is easily accessed by a short walk from the Yurmikmik carpark, while Motor Car Falls is a 7km return adventure for the more enthusiastic adventurers. 

Motor car falls   boulder creek falls 

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🏛️ Warradjan Cultural Centre

Step inside and learn about the traditions, language, and stories of the Bininj and Mungguy people. The centre is open year-round and is the perfect place to deepen your understanding of Kakadu’s living culture.

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👙 Freshwater Dips at Ikoymarrwa Rockhole (Lower Falls) & Top Pools

Lower Ikoymarrwa Falls (Moline Rockhole) is a shady, freshwater swimming spot just a short walk from the carpark—perfect for a refreshing dip during the early dry season (April to June) when the falls are still flowing. Meanwhile, Upper Ikoymarrwa Falls offers a hidden "infinity pool" experience with stunning views over the floodplains. While not signposted, it can be found via a small turnoff on the right-hand side of the road from Cooinda, just past the Mary River Ranger Station.

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Book a Day Trip from Darwin

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🎄 Christmas in Kakadu

If your visit coincides with Christmas, celebrate the day in style with a festive lunch at Cooinda Lodge — a relaxed, family-friendly feast surrounded by nature.

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Stay & Save – Kakadu Tourism Specials

Make the most of Kunumeleng with exclusive accommodation offers:

Book Cooinda   Book Croc Hotel


🧡 Territory Residents – Save 10% off your stay with promo code NTR.

👉 View all current specials

Sites Open Year-Round

• Yellow Water Billabong

• Burrungkuy (Nourlangie)

• Warradjan Cultural Centre

• Nawurlandja Lookout

• Motor Car Falls

• Boulder Creek Falls

• Bowali Track

• Kubara Pools Walk

• Mirray Lookout

Experience the Energy of Kunumeleng

Kunumeleng is Kakadu at its most alive — storms rolling across the plains, billabongs bursting with life, and ancient rock art glowing in the soft wet-season light. It’s the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with Country, and experience the pulse of nature’s renewal.

Plan your escape to Kakadu this Kunumeleng season — a journey that’s as refreshing as the first rain itself.

Book your stay today