The Kangaroo Point Cliffs are one of the most distinctive features of inner Brisbane, a wall of orange rock about twenty metres high that rises straight from the riverbank across from the city centre. They are a famous climbing and abseiling spot, and the guided session turns them into an activity anyone can try. With an instructor in charge, you are fitted with a harness and helmet, given a briefing on knots and belaying, and set onto routes suited to your level, so no previous climbing is needed. The session is rated 4.9 stars from about fifty reviews on the booking page, which is a very strong score for an adventure activity, and reviews highlight friendly, patient instructors. What makes it special is the setting. Between attempts, you can look over the river at the skyline, with the Story Bridge to one side and the cliff-top parkland above you, and the cliffs themselves are floodlit at night, so an evening session has a particular atmosphere. It is a half-day activity that fits comfortably between breakfast and lunch.
Beginners are the target audience. The guides choose routes and rope setups that give you a safe, supported experience, and they will coach you on footwork and hand holds so that progress comes quickly. Most people find the first climb harder than it looks, since it uses your forearms and legs in new ways, but the instructor sets the pace and you can rest on the rope whenever you need to. Check the booking page for age, height and fitness requirements and for the exact session length.
Wear flexible clothing that you can stretch in, such as shorts or leggings and a T-shirt, with closed shoes for the approach, and tie back long hair. Bring water, sun protection and a snack, because the cliff face can be hot in the afternoon. Chalk and shoes are usually supplied or available to hire, and will confirm what is included. Avoid wearing rings or dangling jewellery, which can catch on the harness or rock.
Who it suits
Teenagers and adults who like physical challenge, couples looking for something different and groups of friends who want a shared adventure. It is also a good alternative to the Story Bridge climb for those who prefer to do the effort themselves instead of walking up a set path.
Combine it with a paddle on the river or a stroll along the cliff-top path and a coffee at Kangaroo Point afterwards. If you want a dramatic backdrop for photos, the late afternoon is lovely, but expect warm rock in summer, so start early on hot days.
What to expect
The experience
A guided climbing session on the Kangaroo Point Cliffs with harness, helmet, briefing and instruction, on routes suited to your level.
Best time
Morning on hot days, or a late session for the light and, if offered, the floodlit cliffs.
How long
Check the booking page for the session length; allow about half a day.
Tips
Wear flexible clothing and closed shoes, bring water and sun protection, remove jewellery and check age and fitness rules before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a hands-on adventure with a city backdrop and no previous climbing experience.
- Families
- Best for teenagers and older children; check the minimum age and height rules on the booking page.
- Couples
- A shared challenge that suits couples who enjoy a physical activity.
- Pair with
- A river kayak, the Story Bridge and a cliff-top coffee at Kangaroo Point.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
Do I need climbing experience?+
No. The guides provide a briefing, a harness and a helmet, and choose routes that suit your level.
How high are the Kangaroo Point Cliffs?+
They rise about twenty metres from the riverbank opposite the CBD.
How is the session rated?+
The booking page shows 4.9 stars from about fifty reviews.
What should I wear?+
Flexible clothing, closed shoes for the approach and sun protection. Remove jewellery.
Are the cliffs lit at night?+
Yes, the cliffs are floodlit after dark, so evening sessions have a special atmosphere.
