Why Is Gunlom Falls Closed in Kakadu?

Gunlom Falls in the southern part of Kakadu National Park was a popular waterfall and swimming hole that used to get thousands of visitors every year. Famous for its natural infinity pool at the top overlooking the escarpment, Gunlom Falls was a highlight for those looking for iconic views and a cool dip. But in recent years, a section of the site has been closed to the public and visitors and tour operators are wondering why. This isn’t just about access – it’s about deep cultural, environmental and legal issues with the traditional owners of the land.

Gunlom Falls Closure

The upper walking track at Gunlom Falls, which leads to the infinity pool and lookout, has been closed since 2019. While the lower plunge pool and campground are open, the upper area has been closed due to an unresolved cultural dispute.

The Jawoyn traditional owners requested the closure after alleging that Parks Australia damaged a sacred site during track upgrade works near the walking path. This has led to ongoing legal and cultural negotiations, and Gunlom Falls is now in the national spotlight as a site where environmental management and Indigenous rights collide.

Visitors on 2 day Kakadu tour itineraries can still visit the lower plunge pool, but the upper pool is still closed, impacting tourism routes and highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity in protected areas.

Reasons Behind It

The closure of Gunlom Falls was supported by the Jawoyn Traditional Owner,s who have cultural obligations and significance to the area. Their concerns reflect broader issues about how infrastructure is built in national parks with active Aboriginal land rights.

Many 4 day Kakadu tours used to include the upper pool as a stop on the Gunlom Falls circuit – it was a highlight not just for the swimming but for the cultural learning.

Gunlom Falls Cultural Significance

To the Jawoyn people, Gunlom is not just a beautiful spot; it’s a sacred site connected to Dreamtime stories, sickness country, and ceremony sites still active today. The pool above the falls—famous for its stunning views—is near a rock art site, considered to be spiritual.

As Heath Whiley, Kakadu Tourism Chair, said, these are key visitor sites but must be managed with respect and in line with Aboriginal land rights and cultural significance. For many, these are more than just rocks—they are teachings passed down through Buwurr times.

By protecting these areas, Kakadu National Park tours are not just about environmental management but preserving Aboriginal people’s living culture.

Legal and Indigenous Rights

The closure is part of a broader national conversation around Aboriginal people’s rights, particularly around cultural obligations and recognition of Aboriginal land and sacred spaces. The Northern Land Council has supported the Jawoyn Traditional Owners, saying sacred sites laws must be upheld regardless of whether a breach is committed by a body corporate, a body politic, or a government agency.

The frequency of rare or sophisticated words is low, with most vocabulary being common and easily understood.

Steps to Reconciliation and Reopening

The way forward is joint management bodies, including the Kakadu National Park board of management, the Jawoyn Association, and Parks Australia, all of whom must engage in location in consultation with the Traditional Owners. Options include rerouting the marked tracks, assessing crocodile trapping, and improving crocodile safety warnings in nearby swimming areas like Waterfall Creek Falls and Twin Falls.

Most importantly, any future works must follow a preliminary site assessment protocol in close consultation with the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority and local custodians. Reconciliation is not just procedural—it’s relational, and it starts with listening. Some operators offer 5 day Kakadu from Darwin with culturally safe sites.

What to Know Before You Go

• Upper Gunlom Closed: Access to the top lookout and infinity pool is not permitted due to cultural and legal reasons.
• Lower Areas Open: The beach, pool and picnic grounds are still open for a relaxed day.
• Check Official Sites: Refer to Kakadu National Park or Parks Australia’s website for up-to-date info & stats.
• Respect the Signs: Follow signage, don’t trespass and heed crocodile warnings and trap installations.
• Alternative Tours: Consider joining 4 day Kakadu tours from Darvin that visit Jim Jim Falls or Twin Falls.

Nearby Places to Visit

If you’re planning a trip and Gunlom’s top level is closed, Kakadu has other options:

• Jim Jim Falls – A massive, seasonal waterfall into a deep pool surrounded by cliffs.
• Twin Falls – Gorge views with seasonal boat access and shaded swimming spots.
• Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) – An immersive experience with a swim under a waterfall in the rainforest.
• Yellow Water Billabong – Perfect for early morning wildlife cruises and sunset tours with birdwatching.

All these places are included in Kakadu National Park tours, including the popular 2 day Kakadu tours, with leading operators like Wayoutback Tours.

Conclusion

Gunlom Falls closure shows us the challenges—and opportunities—of managing iconic tourist attractions on Aboriginal land. This court case is about more than infrastructure—it’s about constitutional issues, cultural heritage, and how Australia can respect its Traditional Owners while remaining a global destination for natural wonders.

The message to the government, tour operators and visitors is simple: tourism should never come at the cost of sacred site damage. Instead, we must build a path to a brighter future that respects heritage and enriches the visitor experience.

FAQ

Why is Gunlom Falls closed to tourists?

The upper walking track is closed due to alleged sacred site damage during construction, which has led to a major legal battle with Traditional Owners.

Can I still swim at Gunlom Falls?

Yes, the lower pool and beach are open for a relaxed experience, but the upper pools are closed.

What’s the legal status of the closure?

A historic decision was made where crown immunity was upheld, so Parks Australia can’t be prosecuted. But negotiations are ongoing.

What other waterfalls can I visit in Kakadu?

Visit Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls and Maguk—all have swimming, stunning views and marked tracks for safe walking.

Will the upper area of Gunlom reopen?

Reopening depends on the Jawoyn Traditional Owners and government bodies reaching an agreement. Infrastructure changes and cultural commitments are required.