Ubirr
Situated in the East Alligator region of Kakadu National Park is Ubirr, an intriguing group of rock outcrops famous for its breathtaking views and Aboriginal rock art shelters dating back tens of thousands of years. Known as Garranga’rreli by her Gagudju name, the ancient artworks illustrate stories of creation, law, animals and traditional foods.
Things To Know About Ubirr
Ubirr is a truly ancient marvel as the rock art has continually been painted and re-painted for over 40,000 years. The best way to access Ubirr’s famous rock art galleries is by taking the scenic walk to the top of the rocky track which will also reward you with stunning panoramic views over the lush green floodplains.
Ubirr Rock Art Galleries
The rock art caves have two major galleries for viewing – the Main Gallery and the Rainbow Serpent Gallery. The Main Gallery provides incredible insight into the life of the local Indigenous community’s experiences and is the more photographed of the two. Here you’ll find the world-famous “X-Ray art”, showing white, colonial men dominating their people and depictions of Mimi spirits, considered fairy-like spirits from Arnham Land folklore.
The Rainbow Serpent Gallery is considered Ubirr’s most sacred site, as according to dreamtime stories, the Rainbow Serpent passed through here during her path to the top of Australia. Traditionally, this site allows only women visitors, however this rule is not enforced for non-indigenous guests.
Ubirr’s Local Wildlife
Around 2,000 years ago, the local Aboriginal communities camped in rock shelters nearby, turning the stone into a vibrant canvas. With the surrounding East Alligator River, the Nadab floodplain, the woodlands, and stone country, the area was rich in wildlife for food and ideal for living. Today you’ll find Wilkins’ rock wallabies jumping around the walking track and blue-winged kookaburras calling out over the lookout.
AAT Kings Tours That Visit Ubirr
Outback Adventure – 15 Day Guided Holiday
For those with the desire to discover the central gateway of Australia, there is no better way than on our Outback Adventure 15 Day Guided Holiday.
Beginning in Adelaide, South Australia, this section of the journey is ideal for lovers of incredible food, wine, and a splendorous natural environment. First off you will experience the eating options of the Adelaide Central Market with your own expert guide, and then on to tasting the world-class wines in Clare Valley. See more of the Australian outback by exploring Wilpena Pound and discovering the opals at Coober Pedy.
From here you will travel to the iconic Red Centre and spend three days awe-struck by the beauty of Uluru. Along this stretch there are many day trips in the Alice Springs surrounds, including famous locations like the West MacDonnell Ranges and Kings Canyon.
In the final section of your Guided Holiday you will experience the top end of the Northern Territory where you’ll enjoy the natural wonders of the Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park as well as the beautiful surrounds of Darwin like Ubirr.
View the full itinerary for the Outback Adventure 15 Day Guided Holiday.
Outback Tracks: Outback Adventure & Ghan Rail Journey – 19 Day Guided Holiday
Travelling from the bottom of Adelaide, South Australia to the top of the Northern Territory in Darwin, this Guided Holiday will explore every nook and cranny along the central gateway of Australia, including the iconic rock art galleries of Ubirr in Kakadu National Park. It follows the same destinations as the Outback Adventure but with the addition of the Ghan Rail Journey from Darwin to Adelaide where it all began.
This Guided Holiday is for those that like to travel in style. Along the rail journey you will enjoy the outback scenery from a Gold Service cabin, indulge in the all-inclusive local food and beverages, and even explore some less-travelled areas of the outback with off-train excursions.
When you’re not travelling by rail you will stay in some quality accommodation options and travel in a luxury coach with your own experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide.
View the full itinerary for the Outback Tracks - 19 Day Guided Holiday.
Kakadu & East Alligator River – 2 Day Short Break
This Short Break is perfect for those that are looking to immerse themselves in the sacred sites of the Kakadu and East Alligator Regions.
On Day One you will visit the wetland regions of the famous Kakadu National Park, the pearl of the area, teaming with wildlife and beautiful scenery. Join your local guide on an award-winning cruise down the Yellow Water Billabong, a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you will come face to face with some of Australia’s most spectacular wildlife.
On Day Two, depart from Darwin and discover the World Heritage area of Ubirr. Here you’ll see the Aboriginal rock art galleries, depicting some of the most culturally significant sites, such as the Rainbow Serpent Dreaming story. Afterwards you will enjoy the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the East Alligator River, accompanied by an Aboriginal guide with insights into the local peoples’ cultural and local mythology.
View the full itinerary for the Outback Adventure 15 Day Guided Holiday.
Discover more from our range of tours that visit Ubirr below.
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