With a height of 268 meters (879 feet), Wallaman Falls is the tallest free-falling waterfall in Australia. You’ll find this impressive waterfall in the heart of Girringun National Park, which is part of the world’s oldest rainforest, the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. Every minute, around 200,000 liters (52,834 gallons) of water cascade down at a speed of about 260 kilometers per hour (162 miles per hour). Only when you stand at the base of the waterfall do you truly see, feel, and hear the power of this natural phenomenon. Since Wallaman Falls is quite remote, it is rarely crowded, and you’re likely to have this impressive spot all to yourself or with very few others. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes because getting to the waterfall requires a short but nice hike. Check out our tips for the hike to Wallaman Falls below!
How to Get to the Starting Point of Wallaman Falls?
Wallaman Falls is tucked away in the pristine jungle, far from the hustle and bustle of civilization. From the main A1 road, a winding 50-kilometer (31-mile) road leads through the mountains, eventually bringing you to this massive waterfall. The drive itself is incredibly scenic, so you’ll likely already be enjoying the views. There’s no public transportation to the waterfall, so having your own transport is essential. At the hike’s starting point, there’s a large parking lot where you can park for free, and there are public restrooms. Next to the parking lot, there’s a viewpoint offering a spectacular view of Wallaman Falls.
Camping at Wallaman Falls: If you’re traveling through Australia in a camper, you can camp at the Wallaman Falls camping area, located near the starting point of the hike.
What is the Hike to Wallaman Falls Like?
The hike to the waterfall is called the Djyinda Walk, which takes you through the rainforest to the base of the falls. The entire hike is 3.2 kilometers (2 miles) long (round trip). It’s not the distance that makes the hike challenging, but the elevation gain. You descend 238 meters (781 feet) and then climb back up the same route. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. How long it takes depends on your fitness level and how many breaks you take, but expect it to take about 2 hours in total. Along the way, you won’t see much of Wallaman Falls until the very end of the trail when the waterfall comes into view.
Tip: There are large rocks and boulders near the waterfall. These can be quite slippery due to the mist and moss, so be careful not to slip.
What Should You Bring on the Hike to Wallaman Falls?
Since the hike is quite strenuous, it’s important to bring plenty of water. Make sure to bring at least 1 liter (34 ounces) of water per person. It’s also helpful to wear sturdy shoes and bring a bottle of insect repellent. And don’t forget to wear your swimwear under your clothes if you plan to take a dip in the waterfall’s pool.
Swimming at Wallaman Falls: You can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall, but stay away from the waterfall itself, as the immense force of the water is dangerous.
What is the Best Time to Visit Wallaman Falls?
Wallaman Falls can be visited year-round. Even in the dry season (May to November), there’s plenty of water, making it well worth a visit. In the wet season (December to April), the waterfall is even more impressive and full of water.
Tip: Don’t plan the hike too early in the morning, as the waterfall will be in the shadow.
Where Can You Visit Wallaman Falls From?
To visit Wallaman Falls, you’ll need your own transportation. The area within a 50-kilometer (31-mile) radius of the waterfall is all jungle. The nearest village is Ingham, which is about 50 kilometers (31 miles) away from Wallaman Falls. If you want to stay nearby for a night, this is the place to go. You don’t need to stay in Ingham itself, as it’s not particularly special. For a small price, you can stay at Tropixx Motel. It’s a somewhat unwelcoming motel, but it has everything you need for a comfortable stay. If you have a larger budget, Vista Hinchinbrook is an excellent choice. This hotel is located not in Ingham, but 18 kilometers (11 miles) north of it. The location of this B&B is incredible; it’s situated in the rainforest and offers stunning views due to its elevated position. Some rooms offer spectacular views, and there’s a viewing deck where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Tip: You can also visit Wallaman Falls on your route between Mission Beach and Magnetic Island if you plan to visit these destinations. Just make sure to leave early. We didn’t choose this route ourselves because we skipped Magnetic Island, and Airlie Beach was too far to reach in one day after visiting the waterfall.
 Tropixx Motel |
 Vista Hinchinbrook |
