Nourlangie Burrungkuy
Explore ancient Aboriginal rock art and witness breathtaking escarpment views at Nourlangie (Burrungkuy), a sacred cultural site in Kakadu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for art & sunset
Nourlangie Burrungkuy
Best Time
Golden hour for art & sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient Aboriginal rock art and witness breathtaking escarpment views at Nourlangie (Burrungkuy), a sacred cultural site in Kakadu.
"A must-visit for its incredible rock art and stunning sunset views from Nawurlandja Lookout."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Nawurlandja Lookout is the prime spot for sunset views over the escarpment.
🚶♀️ Do the Nanguluwurr Walk
This walk at Nourlangie is highly recommended, especially early morning for a spiritual experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Rock Art Galleries
Nourlangie Rock Shelters
Wander through shelters adorned with millennia-old Aboriginal rock paintings depicting Dreamtime stories and ancient life.
Nawurlandja Lookout Views
Near Nourlangie
Climb to this lookout for breathtaking panoramic views of the Arnhem Land escarpment, especially magical at sunset.
Anbangbang Rock Shelter
Burrungkuy region
Experience a peaceful walk and connect with deep culture through stunning rock art and views of Burrungkuy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Rock Art
Respect the Sacred Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Nawurlandja Lookout is the prime spot for sunset views over the escarpment.
🚶♀️ Do the Nanguluwurr Walk
This walk at Nourlangie is highly recommended, especially early morning for a spiritual experience.
📚 Read the Signage
Gain context for the rock art and cultural significance before you start your walk.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kakadu can be hot; carry plenty of water, especially during walks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Nawurlandja Lookout is the prime spot for sunset views over the escarpment.
🚶♀️ Do the Nanguluwurr Walk
This walk at Nourlangie is highly recommended, especially early morning for a spiritual experience.
📚 Read the Signage
Gain context for the rock art and cultural significance before you start your walk.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Kakadu can be hot; carry plenty of water, especially during walks.
🦘 Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for local fauna during your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nourlangie for its stunning ancient rock art and the breathtaking views from Nawurlandja Lookout, especially at sunset. The site is well-maintained, with helpful rangers and clear signage enhancing the cultural experience. Some find the final ascent to the lookout a bit steep, but most agree the effort is well worth it for the picturesque scenery and historical insights.
"Be sure to read the signage before starting the walk, it gives a bit of context to your hike!
Nice walk that takes about 1.5 hours if you go up to the lookout (worth it) and take your time looking at the rock art.
The shelter and how the rock is positioned was the most impressive thing we saw here. 😊"
Alessa Young
"Great location, picturesque views everywhere you look, great facilities available toilet block shade shelter lots of carparks, the area seems like it is well maintained and looked after. When the rangers were there, they were super helpful and were up for a chat about the area!"
Sam Croft
"This is a easy walk along a series of rock art shelters, and lookout at the end.
The path is made, except for about 150 metres before the lookout."
Adie Klein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nourlangie is located in Kakadu National Park, about a 3-hour drive from Darwin. You'll need to drive south on the Arnhem Highway. The turn-off to Nourlangie is well-signposted. Consider a rental car for flexibility.
Public transport directly to Nourlangie is limited. Most visitors opt for a rental car or join a guided tour from Darwin or Jabiru, which often includes stops at key Kakadu sites.
The Arnhem Highway is generally sealed and well-maintained, but can be wet and slippery during the wet season. Always check road conditions before you travel.
Yes, there are ample parking facilities available at Nourlangie, including shaded areas. This makes it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
While it's a long day, it's possible to visit Nourlangie as a day trip from Darwin. However, an overnight stay in Jabiru or nearby allows for a more relaxed experience and to catch sunset/sunrise.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Kakadu National Park requires a park pass for entry. These can be purchased online in advance or at park entry points. The pass covers access to all areas, including Nourlangie.
Nourlangie is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, specific facilities like ranger stations or guided walks may have set times. It's best to check the Kakadu National Park website for the most current information.
During the dry season, National Park Rangers often lead guided walks and talks at the rock art site, offering invaluable cultural insights. Check with the park for schedules.
Nourlangie is generally accessible year-round, but some walking tracks might be closed during the peak of the wet season due to weather conditions. The dry season (May to October) is typically the best time to visit.
No, once you have your Kakadu National Park pass, there are no additional charges to visit the rock art sites like Nourlangie.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is to take your time walking through the rock art shelters and up to Nawurlandja Lookout. Reading the interpretive signage enhances the experience.
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the rock art shelters and walk up to Nawurlandja Lookout, especially if you want to take photos and read the information.
Most of the paths are made and easy, with a short, slightly steeper section (about 100-150 meters) leading to the lookout. It's generally considered an easy to moderate walk.
You can see ancient Aboriginal rock paintings depicting figures like Namarrgon (the Lightning Man), animals, and scenes from Dreamtime stories, some dating back over 20,000 years.
Yes, Nourlangie is well-maintained with toilet blocks, shade shelters, and plenty of parking, making it a comfortable visit.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers the best light for photographing the rock art and the landscape. The golden hour creates a magical atmosphere, especially at Nawurlandja Lookout for sunset.
Tripods are generally allowed in national parks, but it's always good practice to check specific park regulations. Be mindful of other visitors and the sensitive nature of the site.
Nawurlandja Lookout for panoramic views, the Anbangbang Rock Shelter for its scale and art, and the various rock shelters showcasing detailed paintings are all highly photogenic.
Yes, you can take photos of the rock art, but avoid using flash as it can damage the ancient pigments over time. Respect the cultural significance of the artwork.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes from Nawurlandja Lookout. A standard zoom lens is versatile for the rock art. Consider a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as facilities are limited. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon) to keep kids comfortable. The short, manageable walks mean little legs won't get too tired, and the visual appeal of the art can hold their attention.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For hikers, the walk up to Nawurlandja Lookout offers a moderate challenge with a spectacular payoff. The Barrk walk, if open, is another excellent option for those seeking a more extensive hike within the Nourlangie region. Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry sufficient water.
📸 Photographers
Photography tips: Aim for the golden hours for the most dramatic light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for the expansive views and macro lenses for intricate details in the rock art. Be mindful of the light conditions within the rock shelters, which can be quite dim.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Cultural Significance of Nourlangie
Visitors are encouraged to read the interpretive signage provided throughout the site. This signage offers crucial context, explaining the meaning behind the paintings and the cultural protocols associated with visiting such a sacred place. Understanding these stories enhances the visitor experience, transforming a walk through rock shelters into a profound journey into Australia's ancient past. It's a privilege to witness this art, and respecting its cultural importance is paramount.
Beyond the art, the landscape itself holds deep meaning. The imposing escarpment and the surrounding billabongs are integral to the Bininj cosmology. The views from Nawurlandja Lookout, in particular, offer a glimpse into the vastness and beauty of this country, a perspective that has been cherished and understood by its traditional custodians for millennia.
Experiencing Sunset at Nawurlandja Lookout
Redditors often highlight sunset as the prime time to visit Nawurlandja, emphasizing the spiritual and awe-inspiring nature of the experience. The soft light during this time not only enhances the visual spectacle but also creates a more atmospheric setting for reflection. It's a chance to connect with the vastness of the Australian outback and witness nature's artistry firsthand.
To make the most of your sunset experience, arrive at the lookout with ample time to spare. This allows you to find a comfortable spot, soak in the changing light, and capture stunning photographs. Remember to bring water and perhaps a light jacket as temperatures can drop after sunset. The journey to the lookout involves a short, manageable climb, making it accessible for most visitors.
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