Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
Where Is Gunlom Falls?
Gunlom is located in the southern stone country of Kakadu National Park, within Jawoyn country. It is only accessible with a high clearance 4WD and about:
- 1 hour 45 mins (130 km) drive from Cooinda Lodge
- 2 hours 15 mins drive from Jabiru
- 4 hours from drive Darwin
The last 40 km is on a gravel road that requires a 4WD. The drive itself is part of the journey—passing through escarpments, woodlands, and classic Top End scenery.
Guided 4WD day tours are also available from Cooinda Lodge, offering a comfortable option with transport, lunch, and local insights included. Always check road conditions before you go, especially during the Dry Season when access is open.
When to Visit Gunlom?
Gunlom is best visited during the Bininj Seasons: Yekke, Wurrkeng and Kurrung, or otherwise known as the Dry Season (May–October), when road access is open and conditions are ideal. This is when the water is at its clearest, temperatures are comfortable, and the weather is perfect for swimming, walking, and lingering poolside to take in the views.
The road to Gunlom, being within the floodplains, is generally closed from November to April, but it's a good idea to always check the Kakadu Parks Access Report for live updates on site openings.
Why is Gunlom so Popular?
Gunlom is one of Kakadu’s most iconic destinations, known for its delicious plunge pools, scenic walks, and jaw-dropping views. At the base, a refreshing swim awaits in an emerald-green billabong framed by shady gums and towering cliff faces.
Above, a short but steep 15–20 minute walk leads to Gunlom’s famous upper pools — natural infinity pools that spill over smooth rock ledges and look out across vast escarpment country. It’s a favourite spot for sunrise, sunset, and those unmistakable Kakadu postcard moments, and one of the most photographed places in the park for good reason.
Lower Pools (Base of Gunlom Falls)
Just a short walk from the car park, the lower pools form a broad, emerald‑green billabong fed by the 85‑metre cascade. Fringed by pandanus and paperbarks, this natural swimming hole is calm, easily accessible, and perfect for cooling off in the midday heat. Families appreciate the soft sandy edges and shaded picnic areas nearby, while the sheer cliff backdrop makes every swim feel dramatic yet safe during the dry‑season months (May–October).
Top Pools (Gunlom Plunge Pools Above the Falls)
A steep 15–20‑minute climb up the new stone‑stepped track leads to the famed upper rock pools—a series of clear, terraced “infinity” pools that spill gently over smooth sandstone. Here, visitors can soak in waist‑deep water while gazing across Kakadu’s vast stone country, woodlands, and winding waterways. The elevated perch makes these pools a favourite for sunrise and sunset, rewarding the effort with panoramic views, solitude, and some of the park’s most iconic photo opportunities.
Where to Stay Nearby
Cooinda Lodge Yellow Water Campground
Located closest to Gunlom Falls, Cooinda offers the most diverse range of accommodation in Kakadu—from shady camp sites and glamping tents to family-sized lodge rooms and luxury villas. Guests have access to two on-site restaurants, swimming pools, a retail store, Warradjan Cultural Centre, and fuel station—all set within a relaxed bushland setting.
Cooinda is also the gateway to adventure. It’s home to the world-renowned Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, and a hub for a variety of tours including guided fishing trips, 4WD adventures, cultural experiences, stargazing evenings, and more. Whether you're seeking comfort, connection to Country, or outback exploration, Cooinda is an ideal base for your Kakadu journey.
Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Shaped like a giant saltwater crocodile, this iconic hotel was built following the success of Crocodile Dundee and remains one of the most unique stays in Australia. Conveniently located in the township of Jabiru—Kakadu’s main service centre in the north—the Crocodile Hotel offers comfortable accommodation with air-conditioning, a refreshing swimming pool, on-site art gallery, bar, and an à la carte restaurant.
While it’s a little further from Gunlom Falls, staying in Jabiru provides easy access to essential services like a grocery store, Marrawuddi Arts & Culture, restaurants, a fuel station, and the Bowali Visitor Centre. It’s also the perfect base for exploring Kakadu’s northern highlights, including Ubirr and Burrungkuy rock art sites, Cahills Crossing, and scenic walking trails across Arnhem Land’s edge.
Both are great bases for exploring Kakadu and offer connections to guided tours, including 4WD adventures to Gunlom.
Know Before You Go
- 4WD required for the final 40 km access road.
- Check road conditions and trail openings at kakadu.gov.au/access or local visitor centres—tracks may close in the Wet Season for safety.
- Park Passes are required for all visitors and can be purchased online.
Book a Tour to Gunlom Falls:
Kakadu Adventure Tours
Available from June to September 2025
Kakadu Tourism will offer guided 4WD tours to Gunlom Falls and other seasonal highlights—perfect for those without their own 4x4. Sit back in air-conditioned comfort as our certified guides take you on a 6.5-hour adventure through Kakadu’s stunning landscapes, sharing stories and cultural insights along the way.
