Gunlom Falls 4WD Tour in Kakadu: Swim the top pools

Climb to the top pools and swim in clear water surrounded by rock walls

A full-day 4WD tour of Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park with a live English-speaking guide, pickup from Jabiru or Cooinda, and access to both the top pools and the lower plunge pool. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes a homemade picnic lunch and fresh fruit. You'll climb 370 steps to reach the top pools, then descend 100 steps to swim. Children from age 1 are welcome, though the climb and the physical demands suit travelers with at least moderate fitness. You must purchase your own Kakadu Park Pass (AUD 40 per person) before the tour.

Step-by-step itinerary

Full-day 4WD tour to Gunlom Falls

• Pickup from Jabiru or Cooinda
• Drive to Gunlom Falls by 4WD
• Climb 370 steps to Infinity Pool
• Swim in the top pools
• Descend 100 steps to lower plunge pool
• Swim in the lower plunge pool
• Enjoy picnic lunch at scenic grassy area
• Return to pickup location

The experience

You start early (pickup is at 7:00 am or 7:40 am from either Jabiru or Cooinda), and spend the full day exploring Gunlom Falls with a guide who knows the park. The main event is the climb: 370 steps take you to the top of the falls, where the views open across Kakadu's plateau country. From there you descend 100 steps to reach the pools themselves, where the water sits clear and cold between rock walls. The lower plunge pool is deeper and better for swimming if the top pools feel too shallow or cold.

Lunch happens at a grassy area with views, and the operator provides a homemade picnic with fresh fruit for snacks, so you're not hunting for food in the middle of the day. The 370-step climb is the physical centerpiece (it's steep and exposed in places), but the pools at the top make it the reason people book this tour. You'll have time to swim and rest before the descent and the drive back.

The tour runs year-round and suits small groups and families. The operator takes up to 18 people per departure. Children from age 1 can join, though anyone with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or cardiovascular concerns should check with a doctor first. One thing to arrange before you book: Kakadu National Park Pass costs AUD 40 per person and you buy it yourself online.

What’s included

• Full-day 4WD tour with a live English-speaking guide.
• pickup from Jabiru or Cooinda at 7:00 am or 7:40 am.
• guided access to the top pools and lower plunge pool.
• homemade picnic lunch and fresh fruit snacks.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 15 Jun 2027

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Infant (1 to 2 years)

GroupUp to 22 · max 6 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 5 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Paid on siteAU$ 40

Prices and times updated 22 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Never Never Safari Tours

Is this one for you?Groups of up to 18 people travel together, so this suits families and small groups who want a full day out with a guide rather than exploring on their own. The early start and the 370-step climb mean it's built for travelers with moderate fitness who are ready for a physical day in exchange for the pools at the top.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years); Infant (1 to 2 years).

How hard is the climb to the top pools at Gunlom Falls?

The climb is 370 steps up a steep path to reach the top pools, then 100 steps down to the water itself. It requires at least moderate fitness and takes most people 45 minutes to an hour. The path is exposed in places and there's no shade, so it's more demanding than a casual walk, but the pools at the top are the main reason for the tour.

Can I swim at Gunlom Falls on this tour?

Yes, both the top pools and the lower plunge pool are swimmable. The lower plunge pool is deeper and warmer, making it better for swimming if the top pools feel too cold or shallow. You'll have time to swim and rest at the top before heading back down.

What's included in the picnic lunch?

The tour includes a homemade picnic lunch and fresh fruit for snacks, served at a scenic grassy area during the day. You don't need to bring or buy your own food.

What time does the tour start and where do I get picked up?

Pickup is at 7:00 am or 7:40 am from either Jabiru or Cooinda, depending on which location suits you. The full tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Do I need to buy a Kakadu Park Pass separately?

Yes, you must purchase your own Kakadu National Park Pass before the tour online. The pass costs AUD 40 per person and is not included in the tour price.