Jim Jim Falls Road Status and Hire Car Access
Jim Jim Falls and the Twin Falls area are closed for 2026, including Karnamarr campground. Check Kakadu park access before later travel; when the falls reopen, the normal approach needs 4WD and a rental agreement that permits the track.
Updated
Key facts
- 2026 Jim Jim Falls
- Closed for 2026
- 2026 Twin Falls
- Falls, gorge and escarpment walk closed for 2026
- Karnamarr campground
- Closed for 2026
- Usual vehicle rule
- Jim Jim Falls access is 4WD only
- Access updates
- The Kakadu Access Report gives daily updates on key visitor sites
- Road works
- Around 20 km of Jim Jim Falls Road is being upgraded in two sections
Is Jim Jim Falls open in 2026?
Jim Jim Falls, Twin Falls gorge, the escarpment walk and Karnamarr campground are closed for 2026. Check Kakadu visitor-site access before setting out.
When will Jim Jim Falls Road reopen?
Road and infrastructure upgrade works are expected to be completed by December 2026, and the area is due to reopen ahead of the 2027 dry season. That is a plan, not a confirmed opening date. Check the live Kakadu Access Report before booking a 4WD or setting out.
Can you reach Jim Jim Falls without 4WD?
When the falls are open, access is by 4WD only, and you should check your car rental conditions before driving there. Old Jim Jim Road is also 4WD only, for light vehicles up to 4.5 tonne maximum GVM.
What does a hire car booking need to allow?
Once the falls reopen, confirm that the exact vehicle and your rental agreement permit the unsealed 4WD route. While the area is closed, consider other Kakadu sites instead, and check the access report immediately before travel.
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Prices are shown in Australian dollars. Check the pickup point and what the agreement allows on the roads in this guide before you book.
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Questions people ask
Is Jim Jim Falls open now?
The falls and Twin Falls area are closed for 2026; check the Kakadu Access Report for later dates.
When does Jim Jim Falls open?
The area is due to reopen ahead of the 2027 dry season after the upgrade works, but no opening date is confirmed. Check the live Access Report.
Is Jim Jim Falls Road 2WD accessible?
No. Access to the falls is by 4WD only when the area is open.
Can I take a rental car to Jim Jim Falls?
Only when the site is open and the rental agreement allows the 4WD access track.