Kakadu in the pre monsoon season (Gunumeleng)
A visit to Kakadu during Gunumeleng (pre-monsoon season) offers plenty of sights and sounds rarely experienced during the drier months of the year. The floodplains are full, waterfalls are flowing, native vegetation is vibrant, and dramatic storms and sunsets are common at this time of year.
Listed below are some of the highlights of Kakadu at this time of year.
Art sites
Ubirr - East Alligator region - 2WD accessible
This 1km circuit winds past several fascinating Aboriginal rock art sites. A moderately steep, 250m climb takes you to the top of a rocky lookout that offers superb views over the Nadab floodplain. This is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset or to watch tropical thunderheads roll across the sky.
Burrungui (Nourlangie Rock) - Nourlangie region - 2WD accessible
A series of ancient Aboriginal shelters and outstanding art sites are featured along this 1.5km circuit.
In some sections after heavy rain, water trickles down over the rockface, glistening on native ferns and moss. A moderately steep climb up to Gunwardewarde Lookout presents a panorama view out over the woodlands and across to part of Kakadu's escarpment known as Lightning Dreaming.
Nangaluwurr - Nourlangie region - 2WD with care
This pleasant 3.4km return walk is best done in the morning when the rock art and cliffs are in the shade. This slightly lesser known gallery is a great place to quietly contemplate Kakadu's cultural heritage. Take care on the short section of unsealed road leading to this site.
Wildlife
Mamukala - South Alligator region - 2WD accessible
This site is particularly dramatic at this time of year as a multitude of bird species congregate here. A covered observation platform overlooking this wetland allows you to view the wildlife in comfort, even if it's pouring with rain. A mural on the wall of the observatory illustrates seasonal changes that occur through the year.
Anbangbang - Nourlangie region - 2WD accessible
This picturesque billabong sits in an open area of woodland, in the foreground of the impressive Nourlangie Rock escarpment. Its gently sloping banks and abundant plant life make it a popular watering hole for native wildlife, presenting some great photo opportunities for visitors. Take some lunch along and make use of the picnic tables nearby.
Walking tracks
Yurmikmik Walks - Mary River region - 4WD only
This series of interconnected walking tracks are some of Kakadu's best wet season walks. Ranging from 2 - 5km one way, these easy to moderate day walks to Boulder Creek, Motorcar Falls and Kurrundie Falls are best done during the Wet if you want to see waterfalls in full flow.
Gubara Rock Pools walk - Nourlangie region - 4WD only
This easy to moderate 6km return walk offers visitors the chance to experience several habitats in a relatively short distance. This pleasant sandy track passes through woodlands and stretches of wildflowers, before following huge sandstone cliffs into shady monsoon forest where you'll discover a series of rock pools are nestled. If you set out in the morning it's a great place to avoid the heat of the day.
Nawurlandja - Nourlangie region - 2WD accessible
A 600m climb up a moderately steep, rocky slope offers views over Anbangbang Billabong, across woodlands to the Kakadu escarpment. It is a pleasant spot to observe Nourlangie Rock reflecting shades of red and orange at sunset.
Visitor centres
Bowali Visitor Centre - Jabiru region - 2WD accessible
This centre contains a wealth of information about Kakadu's natural heritage including plants, animals, history and park management practices. It is also a vital stop for the latest updates on road conditions, wet season access and information about things to see and do.
Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre - Yellow Water region - 2WD accessible
This centre, developed by the park's traditional owners, provides detailed information about Aboriginal culture in Kakadu. It covers a wide array of subjects including family, food, history, hunting, art and stories.
Boat cruises
Boat cruises on Yellow Water wetlands, the East Alligator River and Djarradjin Billabong each offer a unique insight into the flora, fauna and cultural significance of Kakadu's waterways.
Scenic flights
Scenic flights available from Jabiru and Cooinda provide spectacular views of the extent of Kakadu's wetlands and aerial views of Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls in full flow.
Boating
For boating enthusiasts, boat ramps are located at the East Alligator and South Alligator rivers. Please check tide times and local weather conditions before setting out.
As with any tropical environment, heavy rain and flooding can make some areas of Kakadu inaccessible during the wet season. Visitors should always check daily road conditions via Bowali Visitor Centre on 08 8938 1120 or email kakadunationalpark@environment.gov.au. You can also see our suggested wet season itineraries here >>
