Kakadu National Park hot spots open for the dry season

With parts of Kakadu National Park opening again for the dry season, the ranger-guided activities have kicked off this week with over 30 activities taking place throughout the week across a number of locations.
Among the places now open are Jim Jim Billabong, 2 Mile Hole, Old Jim Jim Road, Manngarre rainforest walk and Yellow Water Car Park, Boat Ramp and Boardwalk. A 4.5 tonne vehicle weight limit applies.
Meanwhile, Rangers are currently finalising mandatory crocodile surveys at Jarrangbarnmi (Koolpin Gorge) and it is hoped this area will open this week.
Garnamarr campground opened at 4pm Friday, 16 June, and visitors can stay here for a night or two and start your Jim Jim adventure from the campground that is named after the red-tailed black cockatoo. Access to the Jim Jim Falls area is by 4WD high clearance only.
There is also good news for nature lovers and birdwatchers who love a quiet camp spot a bit closer to Jabiru with Sandy Billabong is now open for the season. Access is by 4WD only.
This bush camping area by the billabong has basic facilities (composting toilets) and fire places, camping fees apply.
Jarrangbarnmi (pictured) in the upper South Alligator River valley is a stunning place that has it all, including spectacular rocky cliffs, cascades and deep waterholes, diverse and rare flora and fauna, and high cultural significance. Parts of Jarrangbarnmi lie within ‘Sickness Country’ (Buladjang country). Bula, a powerful spirit, formed this landscape and then went to live underground. Jawoyn (local Aboriginal people) are very respectful when visiting this gorge.
They ask visitors to also respect these important sites while visiting Buladjang country. Jarrangbarnmi is a culturally sensitive area and visitor numbers are strictly limited. Access is by permit only.
If you’re staying an extra day, the Barrk Marlam walk to the top of the falls may be for you. This longer day walk is not for the faint-hearted, sturdy footwear, sun protection and plenty of drinking water are a must. Get an early start and tackle this walk during the cooler hours of the day, take a picnic lunch and allow a minimum 6 hours.
Please note that the Jim Jim day use area, including Budjmi Lookout walk and Twin Falls remain closed. Crocodile surveys are underway and site maintenance work will commence shortly.
The ranger-guided activities program can be downloaded at https://parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu/pub/kakadu-whats-on.pdf or contact Bowali Visitor Centre for more information on 08 8938 1120.
Keep an eye on the Road Report as well