Saturday, 4 July 2026

Gunlom Falls Reopens: Discover the Crocodile Dundee Magic in Kakadu National Park

Gunlom Falls
For travellers seeking one of Australia's most breathtaking natural destinations, there has never been a better time to visit Kakadu National Park. The seasonal reopening of the iconic Gunlom Falls marks the return of one of the Northern Territory's most celebrated attractions, inviting visitors to experience spectacular waterfalls, crystal-clear rock pools and the unforgettable landscape made famous in the classic film Crocodile Dundee.

As the beloved Australian movie celebrates its 40th anniversary, Gunlom Falls once again welcomes visitors eager to follow in the footsteps of Mick Dundee while exploring one of Australia's greatest World Heritage-listed destinations.

Gunlom Falls Returns After Seasonal Road Repairs

Following cyclone damage during the recent wet season, repairs to the access road have now been completed, allowing visitors to once again enjoy Kakadu National Park's most famous waterfall.

The reopening restores access to one of Australia's most photographed natural attractions, where towering cliffs, lush bushland and refreshing swimming holes create an unforgettable outback adventure.

Gunlom Falls is at its spectacular best during the dry season, when safe access allows visitors to experience both the emerald-coloured plunge pool below and the stunning natural infinity pools above.

Walk in the Footsteps of Crocodile Dundee

For film lovers, Gunlom Falls holds a special place in Australian cinema history.

Known as "Echo Lake" in the internationally acclaimed Crocodile Dundee, the falls provided the backdrop for one of the movie's most memorable scenes. Here, Mick Dundee, played by Paul Hogan, demonstrates his legendary bush skills by spearing barramundi, preparing traditional bush tucker and introducing visiting American journalist Sue Charlton to the Australian wilderness.

Four decades later, visitors can still experience the same remarkable scenery that captivated cinema audiences around the world and helped showcase Australia's rugged beauty to millions of international travellers.

The Famous Rock Pools Offer Incredible Views

Gunlom Falls
One of the highlights of visiting Gunlom Falls is the climb to its famous upper rock pools.

A recently completed walking track has made access easier, allowing visitors to reach the natural pools in approximately 15 to 20 minutes. While the climb is moderately steep, the reward is extraordinary.

The crystal-clear pools overlook the vast southern stone country of Kakadu National Park, offering panoramic views across ancient escarpments, woodlands, wetlands and river systems that stretch to the horizon.

Many visitors consider these rock pools among Australia's most beautiful natural swimming locations.

Explore Kakadu with Expert Guided Tours

Visitors wanting to experience Kakadu's hidden gems can join Kakadu Adventure Tours throughout the dry season.

Travelling in comfortable air-conditioned four-wheel-drive vehicles, guests enjoy guided excursions to Gunlom Falls and, when available, Maguk Falls. Each tour includes expert local guides, lunch and fascinating insights into the region's unique geology, wildlife and Aboriginal heritage.

For travellers seeking a more personalised experience, Kakadu Tourism has also introduced a new Toyota LandCruiser dedicated to exclusive private tours, providing flexible access to many of the park's iconic attractions.

Experience Authentic Aboriginal Culture

A visit to Kakadu is about far more than spectacular scenery.

Visitors now have the opportunity to participate in authentic weaving workshops and cultural experiences with Traditional Owners at the Warradjan Cultural Centre.

Members of the Murrumburr clan share stories, traditions and practical skills that have been passed down through countless generations, offering visitors a meaningful connection to one of the world's oldest continuing cultures.

These immersive experiences provide valuable insight into the deep cultural significance of Kakadu and the enduring relationship between its people and the land.

Stay in Comfort at Cooinda Lodge

Cooinda Lodge
After a day exploring waterfalls and ancient landscapes, Cooinda Lodge offers an ideal place to relax.

The Indigenous-owned accommodation has recently upgraded its popular Outback Retreat glamping tents, with all 20 tents now featuring private ensuite facilities and air-conditioned comfort beneath shady native trees.

Accommodation options also include luxury villas, hotel rooms, extensive caravan sites and camping facilities, making Cooinda Lodge suitable for every style of traveller.

Its central location provides an excellent base for exploring Kakadu National Park over several days.

Maguk Falls Set to Reopen Soon

Adventure seekers have even more to look forward to, with nearby Maguk Falls expected to reopen shortly following significant upgrades to its access road after cyclone damage.

The reopening will provide another exceptional swimming destination where visitors can enjoy pristine waterfalls surrounded by dramatic sandstone escarpments and untouched wilderness.

Together, Gunlom Falls and Maguk Falls offer two of Kakadu's most rewarding nature experiences.

Why Kakadu Should Be on Every Australian Travel Bucket List

Kakadu National Park is one of Australia's greatest natural treasures, combining breathtaking landscapes, remarkable biodiversity, ancient Aboriginal culture and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Whether visitors are swimming beneath seasonal waterfalls, exploring Aboriginal cultural sites, spotting wildlife on wetlands or retracing scenes from one of Australia's most iconic films, Kakadu delivers an experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.

With Gunlom Falls now reopened and new visitor experiences continuing to expand, 2026 is the perfect time to discover the timeless beauty of Australia's Top End.

Planning Your Visit to Gunlom Falls

Gunlom Falls
Gunlom Falls is located in the southern stone country region of Kakadu National Park, approximately one hour by four-wheel-drive from Cooinda and around four-and-a-half hours from Darwin.

The waterfall cascades approximately 85 metres into a large emerald-coloured billabong that is generally open for swimming from May through October, subject to seasonal conditions.

Visitors are encouraged to travel during the dry season for the best road access, comfortable weather and spectacular waterfall scenery.

Kakadu Tourism

Website: https://kakadutourism.com/
Kakadu Adventure Tours: https://kakaduadventuretours.com.au/
Cooinda Lodge Kakadu: https://all.accor.com/hotel/9638/index.en.shtml
Parks Australia – Kakadu National Park https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online The Holiday and Travel Magazine https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

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