Trail summary
Hike overview
Immerse yourself in the rich flora and fauna of Kakadu National Park with the Bubba Wetlands Walk. This 4-kilometre loop trail, suitable for walkers of moderate fitness (Grade 2), is a rewarding exploration of the park's wetlands.
The walk typically takes around 2 hours to complete and is best undertaken during the dry season (August to November). Be sure to check the daily Kakadu access report for road conditions before setting off, as the trail is only accessible during this drier period.
The starting point for the Bubba Wetlands Walk is Djarradjin (Muirella Park) campground, situated in the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) region. The trail meanders through diverse wetland habitats, showcasing the unique beauty of Kakadu. Keep an eye out for the stark white trunks of ghost gums, the graceful silhouettes of slender white egrets, and the ever-present silhouette of Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock in the distance. The wetlands themselves are a haven for birdlife, while the fringing paperbarks and freshwater mangroves add another layer of visual interest.
This walk is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the traditional uses of the paperbark tree by the Bininj people. The thick bark of this tree provided them with a versatile material for everything from bedding and bandages to cooking utensils and even rafts.
If you're looking for a pleasant way to spend a few hours in the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) region and appreciate the natural wonders of Kakadu, the Bubba Wetlands Walk is a perfect addition to your itinerary.
Map and GPX file
Looks like I don’t have a GPX file for this trail yet. If you have one you’d be willing to share, please email it to me so we can help other hikers have a safer, easier time out there. I’ll double-check each file to make sure it aligns with official tracks and topo maps before adding it to this hike. Thanks so much for helping build an even better hiking resource.
Getting there
Reaching the Bubba Wetlands Walk is straightforward. Located within the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) region of Kakadu National Park, the trailhead is situated near the Djarradjin (Muirella Park) carpark. Travellers coming from Jabiru township can travel south along the Kakadu Highway for around 38 kilometres. Keep an eye out for signs directing you towards Nourlangie Rock and follow this road for 2 kilometres. The carpark for Djarradjin (Muirella Park) will be clearly marked along this route. Once parked, the starting point for the Bubba Wetlands Walk can be easily found within the park itself.
Photo gallery
Main image: Parks Australia
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Track grade
Grade 2 (Easy) -Â A Gentle Introduction to Inclines: Grade 2 on the AWTGS represents easy walking tracks that offer a slightly more challenging experience compared to Grade 1. Similar to Grade 1, no prior bushwalking experience is required. The track surface is typically hardened or compacted and may have gentle hill sections or occasional steps. The total distance of a Grade 2 walk is typically no greater than 10 kilometers. These walks are still suitable for families with a bit more experience or those seeking a gentle introduction to some inclines.
About the region
Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is a World Heritage listing renowned for both its cultural and natural values. See breathtaking horizons from the top of a Kakadu escarpment. Cruise on the stunning Yellow Water Billabong to spot crocodiles and wildlife in their natural habitat, including millions of migratory birds who in part call the park's wetlands home.
Not only is Kakadu spectacular, but you can feel yourself come alive among the lush rainforests, rocky gorges, serene swimming pools and the oldest Aboriginal rock art in the world. With more than 5,000 Aboriginal rock art sites in the park, the Bininj/Mungguy people have called Kakadu home for some 65,000 years. Here they'll teach you about their ancient culture and the regions' dramatic seasons.
Connect with the oldest living culture on earth. The rugged and remote beauty of Kakadu has stories to share that will take your breath away and touch your heart. In Australia's biggest national park you'll find ancient landscapes with thundering waterfalls, lush rainforests, wandering wetlands, exotic wildlife and ancient rock art.
Kakadu offers unrivalled walks to immerse you in nature, satisfy your appetite for adventure, or nurture your curiosity. Only three hours' drive from Darwin, Kakadu National Park has been waiting for you.
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Adventure with Confidence: Register Your Trip Plans
Before you hit the trail, take a moment to fill out our trip intentions form. It’s a simple way to share important details about your hike with family or friends. If things don’t go as planned and you’re not back on time, they can easily notify emergency services, helping to ensure a quick response and reducing worry. Enjoy your outdoor adventure knowing that you’ve taken a smart step for your safety.
Gear to consider
What you carry in your pack depends on factors like weather, terrain, time of year, the type of adventure, and your personal preferences. Unsure what gear to bring? My free planning, food, and packing checklists offer a great starting point, covering essentials for day hikes, overnight trips, and multi-day adventures. Use them as a guide to customise your kit to suit your needs, always prioritising safety above all else.
Explore safe
Plan ahead and hike safely! Always carry enough water and pack clothing layers to adapt to changing conditions. Bring essential safety gear, including a torch, a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), and a reliable communication device. Check official government sources for trail updates, temporary closures, and access requirements. Before heading out, review local weather and bushfire advice, including warnings and planned burns. Most importantly, let someone know your plans before you go. Being prepared ensures a safer and more enjoyable hike! Stay Safe, Explore More, and Always #ExploreSafe
Acknowledgement of Country
Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.