The Beauty of Maguk

Maguk, located in the Kakadu National Park, was formally known as Barramundi Gorge.

Today, it can be found in the Mary River area to the south of the national park. It’s situated around an hour’s drive from Cooinda and is made up of an ancient gorge in the Stone Country. To get there, it is a 14 km four-wheel drive trip followed by a further 1km walk. Once there, you’ll be greeted by a beautiful natural plunge pool that languishes at the bottom of the steep gorge walls.

Walking to Barramundi Gorge

The 1km walk to Maguk exposes you to some of the most breath-taking scenery in the region. To begin with, the forest starts to open gradually out into a sandy, rocky landscape. The track weaves its way back and forth across the creek you emerge into. Finally, it’s time for some stepping-stones to get across the small layer of water.

In certain areas, the creek opens out into a small, natural pool, perfect for taking a refreshing dip in. The further along the creek you go, the more difficult the walk starts to get – you might have to clamber over a rock or two. But, the further you climb, the more beautiful the scenery that greets you.

The beauty of Maguk is that it’s one of the only falls in Kakadu National Park that doesn’t dry immediately when the rain stops. Sure, it starts to slow down towards the end of the dry season, but it continues to flow regardless of the weather.

For a unique natural experience, you can swim your way across the refreshing pool and stand under the waterfall. There was, at one point, a tunnel that marked a walk to the top of the falls, but this has since been closed for re-vegetation.

The Maguk Bush Camping Area

Close to the falls, you’ll find the Maguk bush camping area. Here, once you’ve indulged in the beauty of Maguk and its surrounding scenery, you can relax with the barbecue facilities. Enjoy the picturesque picnic area, and kick back and soak up the stunning surrounds.

Maguk lies deep in the heart of Kakadu National Park, promises its visitors a unique natural experience. It brings together ancient gorges, pretty vegetation, and a selection of relaxing facilities for you to enjoy as you spend some time in this magical part of Australia.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.