Ubirr is one of Kakadu National Park’s two most famous Aboriginal rock art galleries.
The galleries can be viewed by following an easy 1km circular walking track.
Climb the moderately steep 250m track to a rocky outlook with views across the floodplains. Time your visit for a spectacular and unforgettable tropical sunset from the top. There are three main sites of rock art to experience at Ubirr.
The walk to Ubirr takes about an hour and is 1km via a circular walking track from the car park. The climb to the lookout takes a further 30 minutes. During the tropical summer months access is restricted – check with the Bowali Visitor Centre for the latest information.
An entry fee is required to enter Kakadu National Park. Save time on your holiday and purchase your Kakadu park pass online before you leave home.
Travellers’ stories
How do I get to Ubirr?
Ubirr is about 40 minutes drive from Jabiru, and 3.5 hours’ drive from Darwin. The road is sealed, however it can become inaccessible between December and April due to heavy rain. When the road is flooded you can take a tour that includes a boat ride through this section, check the status of the road with the Bowali Visitor Centre or the Kakadu Road Report. If you don’t wish to drive, there are a number of tours from Darwin which include a visit to Ubirr.
When is the best time to visit Ubirr?
No matter what time of year you visit Kakadu National Park, there’s something for everyone. The best chance of road access to Ubirr is from May to October. During the wet season (November to April) the road to Ubirr is often closed due to flooding, however you can still access the area by boat. Check out the Kakadu Road Report for daily updates.
Can Ubirr be done as a day trip?
Ubirr can be done as a day trip from Darwin, but it is highly recommended to stay overnight in Kakadu National Park. There are several accommodation options in the nearby town of Jabiru, which is less than an hour’s drive away (41 km). Alternatively, you can sleep in comfort at Cooinda Lodge, which is less than 90 minutes’ drive (92 km) from Ubirr.
Do I need any passes or permits to visit Ubirr?
You’ll require a Kakadu National Park Pass – a permit which gives you access to the region along with guided walks and information. The permit can be purchased online or in person at selected locations.
How do I get around Ubirr?
Ubirr is easily walkable, with the hour long walk from the carpark only requiring a moderate fitness level. The climb to the lookout takes an additional 30 minutes and a bit more energy, but is well worth the effort with sweeping views of the surrounding floodplains.
How far is Ubirr from the nearest main town?
The Ubirr Rock Art sites are just under an hour’s drive north from Jabiru in Kakadu National Park. From Darwin, Ubirr is 3.5 hours’ drive. The township of Katherine is approximately 4 hours’ drive.
What are the major attractions at Ubirr?
Ubirr is famous for its sweeping views across the floodplains, which are best experienced at sunset. Ubirr is also home to the two most well-known Aboriginal rock artworks in all of Kakadu National Park. You can learn about the Aboriginal history of the region and come face to face with artworks of the Rainbow Serpent and the Namarrgarn Sisters.
What should I bring with me to Ubirr?
The walk from the carpark around the art sites at Ubirr takes approximately one hour, so bring walking shoes and comfortable clothes, along with sunscreen, insect repellent, first aid kit, hat, camera and plenty of water.
Where should I go next from Ubirr?
Ubirr is just one small part of the fantastic Kakadu National Park. From camping and exploring, to 4WD adventures and fishing safaris, there’s plenty more to do in Kakadu National Park, some favourites include Nourlangie Rock, Yellow Water Billabong and Maguk Waterfall. Also, don’t forget to check out neighbouring Arnhem Land.
