This is the highest single-drop waterfall in Australia, with a vertical drop of about 268 meters. The scale of it is extremely impressive. Wallaman Falls is located in Girringun National Park and is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. The area is not only known for the waterfall itself but also for its rich rainforest ecosystem. It is home to rare wildlife, including endangered species such as the Southern Cassowary. Trip details: * Around 5 hours of driving round trip * Around 3 hours of hiking up and down * Around 1 hour spent at the falls It is very much worth the effort, especially as a stop when driving between the Whitsundays and Cairns. The waterfall is 268 meters high, making it the tallest in Australia. It is about a 50-minute drive from the town of Ingham, and there is a lookout at the end of the road near the parking area. There is also a hiking track down to the base, around 4 km, but after the halfway point it becomes rough dirt track and quite challenging in sections. Important notes: No mobile reception throughout the area, and the access road is winding and rough. This waterfall is often discovered by travellers driving between Cairns and Townsville. Near Ingham, there are signs pointing towards Wallaman Falls, about 30+ km from town. You can either drive directly to the lookout or take the hiking trail. It is one of the most worthwhile natural attractions in Queensland.
Wallaman Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Wallaman Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Wallaman Falls famous?
Wallaman Falls is Australia's highest permanent single-drop waterfall at 268 metres, making it a major natural attraction. It holds cultural significance to the Warrgamaygan Aboriginal people and is part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area.
Can you swim at Wallaman Falls?
No — swimming is not permitted at the base of Wallaman Falls due to safety and access restrictions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Wallaman Falls?
Dogs are not permitted in Queensland national parks, including Girringun National Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Wallaman Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — no entry fee or permit required for Girringun National Park (Wallaman Falls section). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Wallaman Falls?
Free parking is available at the Wallaman Falls lookout car park, with space for around 20 vehicles. The lookout is immediately accessible from the car park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Wallaman Falls?
The main lookout is roadside (no hike required). The Djyinda walking track to the base is approximately 2 km one-way (4 km return), extremely steep descent. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Wallaman Falls hike difficulty
Lookout: Roadside (no hike). Base track (Djyinda): Hard — very steep descent with over 900 steps, significant elevation loss/gain, requires high fitness. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Wallaman Falls?
Wet season (December–March) for maximum flow and dramatic volume, though road access may be limited during heavy rain. Dry season (May–September) offers reliable access and lower water volume. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Wallaman Falls
For the lookout: walk a few metres from the car park to the viewing platform. For the base track (Djyinda): from the campground, descend the steep track with numerous steps through rainforest to Stony Creek at the base. The return climb is strenuous. Swimming is not permitted at the base.
Wallaman Falls official website
Attractions near Wallaman Falls
- •Blencoe Falls — another waterfall in Girringun National Park with swimming opportunities
- •Lumholtz National Park — rainforest hiking and birdwatching nearby
- •Ingham — gateway town with supplies and Herbert River attractions
- •Tyto Wetlands — bird sanctuary and walking trails near Ingham
- •Jourama Falls — swimming holes and cascades in Paluma Range National Park
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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