Kakadu - Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls: 4-day itinerary

Explore two of Kakadu’s most spectacular waterfalls - Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls - on this unforgettable off-road 4WD adventure less than two hours from Darwin.

Overview

• Route: Jabiru - Twin Falls - Jim Jim Falls - Jabiru
• Distance: 210km
• Duration: 4 days
• Difficulty: Medium (suitable for travellers with 4WD and creek crossing experience)
• Best Time: June/July – September
• Permits: Kakadu National Park Pass is required

Introduction

Kakadu National Park, on the traditional lands of the Bininj and Mungguy people, is a place of deep spiritual significance and extraordinary natural beauty. Home to abundant wildlife, ancient waterways, and two of the Northern Territory’s most iconic waterfalls, Twin Falls and Jim Jim Falls, this park offers a truly unique 4WD adventure.

The dramatic Arnhem Land escarpment, shaped over billions of years, forms the backdrop for these spectacular waterfalls: Jim Jim plunging 200 metres into a deep pool, and Twin Falls splitting into two streams that cascade into a sandy oasis. Both falls are accessible only by 4WD during the Dry season, ensuring guaranteed bragging rights for those who make the journey deep into Kakadu’s natural treasures.

Jabiru to Karnamarr (also known as Garnamarr) Campground

• Visit Bowali Visitor Centre
• Admire the views from Mirray Lookout (2km return – moderate to difficult)
• Camp at Karnamarr Campground

Begin your adventure at the Bowali Visitor Centre in Jabiru, where you can gather the latest information on road conditions and explore engaging exhibits about Kakadu’s landscapes and culture.

Before heading off-road, take a short hike to Mirray Lookout for panoramic views of the park’s northern reaches. The drive to Karnamarr Campground (approx. 60 km) is an exciting introduction to this iconic 4WD road trip, with sandy tracks and several creek crossings. Karnamarr Campground offers well-maintained facilities, including showers, toilets, and drinking water, set amidst the wilderness. Settle in for three nights of bush camping under the stars, with the campground as your base for exploring both waterfalls.

Karnamarr to Jim Jim Falls

• Walk through monsoon forest
• View Sandstone cliffs
• Admire spectacular Jim Jim Falls

Wake to the sounds of Kakadu’s extraordinary birdlife and set out for Jim Jim Falls, about 10 km further along Jim Jim Falls Road. The walk to the falls (approx. 2 km return – difficult, involves scrambling over large boulders) takes you through lush monsoon forest and over ancient boulders, ending at a vast rock pool beneath the towering cliffs.

Early in the Dry season, the falls are a powerful torrent; later, they become a tranquil cascade tumbling down the imposing escarpment. After your Jim Jim Falls adventure, return to camp for a relaxing afternoon or take the Budjmi Lookout walk (1km return – moderate) for sweeping views and a glimpse of 1,800-million-year-old granite among the sandstone.

Karnamarr to Twin Falls Gorge

• Forge through a deep water crossing
• Take a hike on the Twin Falls plateau walk (6km return – difficult)
• Admire Twin Falls Gorge

Today’s journey (18 km from camp) includes the most challenging creek crossing - Jim Jim Creek - where a high-clearance 4WD with snorkel is essential. After crossing the creek, you can experience the falls from the Twin Falls plateau walk. This challenging walk takes you on a steep ascent through rugged Stone Country up onto the plateau and then on to the lookout above Twin Falls. Return to camp for another tranquil night camping under the stars.

Karnamarr to Jabiru

• Explore further Kakadu sites or return to Darwin

Pack up camp and retrace your route along Jim Jim Falls Road to Kakadu Highway, where you have two choices.

Turn right to return to Jabiru and explore the eastern sections of Kakadu National Park, including Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), a significant cultural site, Cahills Crossing (a top spot for safe croc spotting) and Ubirr. This is also the shortest route to return to Darwin.

Alternatively, turn left to explore the southern region, including Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre and Yellow Waters Billabong cruises, along with popular campgrounds at Gungurul, Maguk and Gunlom.

Safety & preparation

• High-clearance 4WD vehicle with snorkel is recommended
• Be aware of creek crossings and prepare accordingly
• Inform someone of your travel plans
• Check current road conditions at Bowali Visitor Centre or through the Access report
• Saltwater crocodiles inhabit NT waterways: always be croc-wise
• Jim Jim Falls Road is open during Dry season only

Frequently asked questions