Ubirr

Introducing Ubirr

Ubirr , located in the eastern part of Kakadu National Park , is one of the two most famous Aboriginal rock art galleries in the park. From the Ubirr car park, there is an easy 1km circular trail that leads to the natural rock art gallery.

There are three main locations for viewing rock art at Ubirr. In the main gallery , you can see many representative animals hunted by the indigenous people. The animals were painted to honor them, thank them for their sacrifice, and to pray for future successes or to point out worthy prey.

It is famous for its fascinating Aboriginal rock art. Many well-preserved murals left by primitive people are carved on the numerous rock walls. Some of these murals can be traced back to 40,000 years ago, but most of them are from more than 2,000 years ago. In order to find more food sources, the Aboriginal people in the past rested or spent the night in this natural shelter to avoid wind, rain and wild beasts. Even when the temperature in Australia is as high as 40 degrees, as long as there is a place shaded by stones, it is still cool and pleasant.

Climate and best time to travel

Kakadu National Park is wettest from January to March and hottest from July to October , so try to avoid these two periods. The dry season from April to October has pleasant weather and roads are generally open.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

There are three main places to view rock art in Ubirr:

Main Gallery : Focuses on many representative animals hunted by the Aboriginal people. The Aboriginal people painted animal portraits on the rocks to show their respect. There are a large number of well-preserved sand kangaroos, possums, turtles and fish, as well as the fascinating Tasmanian tiger.

Rainbow Serpent Gallery : Ubirr's most sacred site, traditionally restricted to women only, but accessible to all visitors.

Namagan Sisters : The spectacular Rainbow Serpent , as well as Aboriginal hunting and sacrificial scenes, daily utensils, animals and plants, etc.

Recommended play time: 2-3 hours

Tickets

Entrance fee is included in your Kakadu National Park ticket

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Ubirr

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ubirr is an important cultural site located in Kakadu National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. The site is renowned for its Aboriginal rock art, which dates back thousands of years. Ubirr is significant both culturally and historically, as it provides insight into the lives of the region's indigenous people. The rock art at Ubirr reflects stories, traditions, and spiritual beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Ubirr is located in the eastern part of Kakadu National Park, about 40 km from Jabiru. It can be accessed by car, as there is no public transport to the site. From Jabiru, take the Kakadu Highway and then follow the signs to Ubirr. The site is a popular stop on the park’s main loop, and it's accessible by sealed roads.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Ubirr is open year-round, with no specific opening or closing hours. However, the best time to visit is during the dry season (May to October), as the weather is cooler and the site is more accessible. Sunset at Ubirr is particularly popular, as it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wetlands and escarpments.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no specific entrance fee for Ubirr itself, but entry to Kakadu National Park requires a park pass. A 7-day pass for an adult is approximately AUD $40, and it can be purchased online or at park entry points. The pass allows access to all sites within Kakadu National Park, including Ubirr.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not necessary to book tickets for Ubirr in advance, but it's advisable to purchase the Kakadu National Park pass online ahead of time for convenience. Booking a guided tour in advance is recommended if you wish to learn more about the Aboriginal rock art.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Ubirr typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on how long you spend exploring the rock art galleries, walking the trails, and enjoying the views from the lookout. The area is quite manageable in a half-day trip.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main rock art galleries at Ubirr, featuring ancient artwork depicting animals, spiritual beings, and mythological stories.
• The Ubirr lookout, which provides sweeping views of the Nadab floodplain and the surrounding Arnhem Land escarpment.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at Ubirr and are typically offered in English. These tours provide in-depth knowledge about the rock art, the history of the site, and its significance to the Aboriginal people. Audio guides are not commonly available at Ubirr, but some tours may offer audio devices.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The Ubirr lookout offers panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands and is the best spot for sunset photography.
• The rock art galleries themselves are excellent photography spots, although photography of the art may be restricted to preserve its cultural significance.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the rock art galleries, where you can take a guided tour or explore the site on your own. Afterward, hike up to the Ubirr lookout to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. Finish your visit by walking the nearby trails for a closer look at the natural beauty of the region.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at Ubirr. However, sunset at Ubirr is highly recommended, as the views from the lookout are spectacular at this time of day. Special cultural tours may be available during certain times of the year, focusing on Aboriginal heritage.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Ubirr can get crowded during peak tourist season, especially at sunset. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon on weekdays. The park is generally less crowded during the wet season (November to April), but accessibility can be limited due to weather conditions.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• There are public toilets available at the Ubirr site.
• Rest areas and picnic spots are provided, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• There are no food outlets or shops at Ubirr, so it's recommended to bring your own supplies, including water and snacks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Ubirr is accessible for elderly visitors and children, although some of the rock art galleries may require a short walk on uneven terrain. The lookout can be accessed by a short, well-maintained trail, but visitors with mobility impairments may need assistance, as some sections of the trail are steeper.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for any optional services, but Kakadu National Park accepts credit cards and mobile payments for park passes and tours. It is recommended to bring cash for small purchases in the nearby towns.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes at Ubirr. However, there are dining options in Jabiru, including cafes and local restaurants offering a range of meals.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Jabiru, where several restaurants cater to different dietary preferences. Halal food options may be available at specific establishments in the area.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Accommodation in Jabiru includes options like the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and Kakadu Lodge.
• Camping is available in Kakadu National Park, with several campsites near Ubirr.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Other significant attractions within Kakadu National Park include Nourlangie Rock, Gunlom Falls, and the Yellow Water Billabong.
• The Mamukala Wetlands and the Bowali Visitor Centre are also nearby, providing additional opportunities for birdwatching and exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops at Ubirr itself, but you can find a range of Aboriginal arts and crafts in Jabiru and at the Bowali Visitor Centre, including paintings, sculptures, and traditional items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

The best way to continue your trip after visiting Ubirr is by car. Kakadu National Park is accessible by road, and a 4WD vehicle is recommended for exploring some of the park’s more remote areas. From Ubirr, you can visit other parts of Kakadu or head back to Darwin.