Your Nourlangie rock art tour is calling

See the oldest and most important rock art in Kakadu

An ancient wonder showcasing Indigenous life

The Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site lies approximately 36 km south of Jabiru in the heart of Kakadu National Park. This intriguing and important Indigenous site is key to Kakadu’s status as a World Heritage-listed site with outstanding cultural values. Showcasing Aboriginal life and beliefs over the last 20,000 years, Nourlangie is a must-see site when visiting Kakadu National Park. Visitors can take a 1.5km walk through the site to see Nourlangie’s treasured rock art including creation stories featuring Namondjok and Namarrgon, the impressive Lightning Man. Further on awaits a fascinating depiction of European sailing ships and detailed x-ray artwork. Considered one of oldest and best examples of Aboriginal rock art, a visit to Nourlangie provides a remarkable insight into this ancient culture that will stir the soul.

Visit Nourlangie rock art with Fun Over Fifty

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Explore ancient rock art and epic Kakadu views

On arrival at Nourlangie, you’ll find several sites along the relatively easy 1.5km walk, plus further tracks with steps that lead to lookouts and additional art sites. During your visit to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) be sure not to miss Kuwarddewardde Lookout with spectacular views of the sandstone cliffs and expansive savanna woodlands of Kakadu and the Arnhem Land escarpment.

If possible, arrive at the site either first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. A late afternoon visit will reward you with a visual treat as the sunset exposes the ever-changing rich oranges, ochres, and browns of the Nourlangie rock face.

See the oldest and most important rock art in Kakadu

Don't miss this renowned collection

Take some time to visit Anbangbang Shelter with its outstanding array of rock art including Namarrgon, the Lightning Man. This shelter is where Aboriginal people lived during the volatile wet season; harvesting plants, and hunting for goanna, birds, fish, and more. Keep an eye out for grinding holes in the large flat rocks of the shelter floor used to prepare food and ochres for painting. Beyond these two sites, you’ll find further fascinating rock art that together paints a picture of the unique traditions of Nourlangie’s Indigenous people and their ever-changing life in this sacred place.

Keen to see Nourlangie’s famous rock art paintings on your next visit to Kakadu? Fun Over Fifty's Kakadu tours can take you to see this renowned collection of Indigenous rock art.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time of year to visit Nourlangie?

Nourlangie can be visited year-round, though during the dry season, ranger-guided tours offer an insight into the history and geology of the area, explaining how Indigenous people used Anbangbang Shelter and detailing the connection the traditional owners have with the land.

How long should you expect to spend at Nourlangie?

A trip to see the Nourlangie rock art requires half a day to fully appreciate the site, rock art, other artifacts, and stunning vistas of Kakadu’s unique landscape.

How do you get to Nourlangie?

Nourlangie is located within Kakadu National Park, and is about a three-hour drive from Darwin. It is easily accessed via a sealed road from the Arnhem Highway, Once you arrive at the Nourlangie region, you'll find a designated parking area. From there, you can take a relatively short walk to the Nourlangie rock art site.

Is the road to Nourlangie sealed?

Yes, the road to Nourlangie Rock is sealed, making it easily accessible by car. The turn-off to Nourlangie Rock is located along the Kakadu Highway, approximately 37 kilometres (23 miles) from the town of Jabiru. It is a short 12-kilometre (7.5-mile) drive from the highway to the Nourlangie car park. The sealed road ensures a smooth and comfortable journey, allowing visitors to explore this significant cultural site without difficulty.

How old is the art at Nourlangie Rock?

The rock art at Nourlangie Rock dates back thousands of years, with some paintings estimated to be up to 20,000 years old. These ancient artworks continuously record Aboriginal life and spiritual beliefs over millennia. The layers of art reflect the changing environment, social structures, and cultural practices of the Bininj/Mungguy people. The oldest pieces depict extinct animals and early human activities, while more recent paintings illustrate contact with European settlers and the impact of modern influences on Aboriginal culture.

What is the significance of Nourlangie Rock?

Nourlangie Rock, also known as Burrungkuy, holds great cultural and historical significance for the Aboriginal people of the Kakadu region. It is a sacred site with a rich collection of ancient rock art showcasing the spiritual and cultural stories of the local Bininj/Mungguy people. 

The rock art depicts various aspects of Aboriginal life, including hunting scenes, ancestral beings, and ceremonial practices. Nourlangie Rock serves as an open-air gallery, offering insight into the traditions, beliefs, and history of the region’s Indigenous inhabitants. Additionally, the site provides breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing its cultural and natural importance.

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