East Alligator region
Quick links
In the shadow of the magnificent Arnhem Land escarpment, discover rainforest, stone country, rock art, extensive floodplains and the beautiful East Alligator River.
The East Alligator area features some of the best rock art in the park at the Ubirr Rock Art site, and has several bushwalks to explore. Climb up to the lookout at Ubirr to see spectacular views over the Nardab floodplain, particularly at sunset. Access to Ubirr is affected by the wet season, so check the road report. Take a cruise on the East Alligator during the dry season or on Magela Creek during the wet season with Guluyambi River Cruises. See the Guluyambi River cruise video
Services: The Border Store sells food, fishing gear and souvenirs and takes bookings for commercial tours. Tel: (08) 8979 2474
East Alligator map - click to enlarge
Main attractions
Ubirr (Oo-beerr)
Road access depends on the depth of Magela Creek. Check the daily road report for the latest conditions. A 1 km circuit winds past several fascinating Aboriginal rock art sites. A moderately steep, 250m climb takes you to the top of a rocky lookout offering superb views over the Nadab floodplain. This is the perfect place to enjoy the sunset or to watch tropical thunderheads roll across the sky. When Magela Creek becomes impassable by road due to flooding, Ubirr is only accessible via the Guluyambi boat tour. Find out more about Ubirr's rock art
During the dry season, rangers provide informative talks about Aboriginal art and culture several times a day.
See a virtual tour of Ubirr on the Kakadu National Park Ramsar site
East Alligator River
The Guluyambi boat cruise operates during the dry season and on Magela Creek during the wet season. Guides explain aspects of local Aboriginal culture while you travel slowly along the waterways. Boat ramps are located upstream and downstream of Cahills Crossing. See the Guluyambi River cruise video >>
Bardedjilidji walk
Check wet season access. Starts at a small carpark 500 m from the upstream boat ramp and features a 2.5 km walk through layered sandstone outliers. One of Kakadu's most interesting short walks. Allow two hours.
Bardedjilidji art site walk park note (PDF - 893 KB)
Manngarre rainforest walk
Dry season only. Three circular walks, from 0.6 km to 1.5 km, through monsoon rainforest beside the East Alligator River. Allow one hour for the 1.5 km walk.
Cahills Crossing Viewing Platform
Access depends on the depth of Magela Creek. Check the daily road report for the latest conditions. Enjoy views of the East Alligator River in fast flow from a viewing platform and nearby picnic tables.
Sandstone and river bushwalk
Dry season only. Starts off the Bardedjilidji walk and features a 6.5 km marked circular walk which takes you past Catfish Creek, floodplains, billabongs, sandstone outliers and the East Alligator River. Allow four hours.
