Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park to reopen in May 2025
In just weeks, a stunning corner of Australia will reopen once again following a six year closure to tourists.
The majestic views and cool waters that once welcomed tourists far and wide to Gunlom Falls will officially reopen in May – after a six year closure to public access.
The famous site within Kakadu National Park was closed in 2019 after a sacred men’s site was disturbed during the construction of a new walkway.
The walkway was built too close to the sacred rock site, therefore exposing the area to the public. It was an act for which Parks Australia was later fined $200,000 and apologised
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek announced on Monday while in Jabiru that a new agreement between Kakadu traditional owners and the Commonwealth would see a new lease on the park.
As reported by the NT News, the Northern Land Council has negotiated an increased rent of $10.7 million per year with the Federal Government as part of a new lease agreement for Kakadu National Park.
The deal also includes 50 per cent of commercial revenue such as entry fees, permits, camping fees and licences.
Gunlom Falls is in Kakadu National Park’s southern ‘stone country’ region, an hour’s drive (4WD only) from Cooinda and four and a half hours drive from Darwin.
The falls have always been a drawcard for those venturing into the region. They were named in the 1960s as UDP Falls, after the Uranium Developing and Prospecting Company, which was searching for rich uranium deposits. It was then known as Waterfall Creek Falls before becoming Gunlom Falls.
The falls that cascade down from the 85m high cliffs are seasonal, being at their best immediately after the wet season - making May a perfect time to reopen.
Underneath the falls is a large emerald-coloured billabong that is available for swimming from May to October, depending on conditions.
The new track to the rockpools that will open in May sits at the top of the falls. The track is steep and takes about 15-20 minutes, but will be well worth the journey.
A series of swimming pools and spectacular views across the south of Kakadu National Park to stone country await, with Northern Land Council Chair Matthew Ryan expecting the reopening to be popular and increase tourism across the Northern Territory.
In a statement, Kakadu Tourism Chair, Lauren Ganley, said the reopening of Gunlom Falls represented an important new era in Kakadu’s tourism future.
“There is no destination in Australia more culturally unique than Kakadu, and so it is essential that we respect the heritage and culture of Traditional Owners in the way the Park is presented to visitors,” said Ms Ganley.
“The reopening of Gunlom Falls is part of a wider program to upgrade infrastructure to allow visitors to better appreciate Kakadu’s natural wonders. Another major attraction – Twin Falls – will reopen next dry season after infrastructure upgrades and there are plans for significant investment throughout the Park to re-establish it as one of the world’s leading national parks.”
Ms Ganley said the reopening announcement came during a big week for the Top End, with Qantas bringing back direct flights between Darwin and Singapore — opening up the Northern Territory to visitors from Europe and beyond.
“The timing of the reopening announcement is significant,” she said.
“Increased direct international flights from other Asian ports will also enable greater tourism connectivity.
“It is an exciting future for the region, and in anticipation of strong inbound growth Cooinda Lodge is completing an upgrade of its popular Outback Retreat glamping tents, adding ensuite facilities initially to 10 of the 20 stylish, airconditioned tents.
“We are hoping that the Gunlom reopening will happen in time for one of Kakadu’s most popular events, A Taste of Kakadu from 23 – 25 May. It would deliver the ultimate Kakadu experience for visitors.”
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