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Hike the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, a stunning 6 km loop offering panoramic views of the canyon and surrounding desert landscape. Explore the Garden of Eden, a beautiful rock hole with lush vegetation, and take the easier Kings Creek Walk for a closer view of the canyon floor. Both hikes offer unique perspectives of the ancient geology and native flora.
Watarrka National Park , located in the southern Northern Territory, is about 440 kilometers from Alice Springs. The park surrounds Kings Canyon , which features 300- meter-high sandstone walls, hiking trails, lush forests, and permanent waterholes.
The canyon's steep red rock walls rise from dense palm, fern and eucalyptus jungles, protecting the jungle from the desert and providing a warm haven for local animals. For 20,000 years, the park has been home to the Lurigan people. Walking through the park is the best way to observe the animals, plants and rock formations.
Try the tree-lined Kings Creek Walk , which follows the valley's landmarks for a kilometre , weaving through dense ferns and eucalyptus trees to a platform with views of the towering canyon walls above.
The best time to travel is from the end of April to the beginning of October , when the weather is relatively pleasant. Get up early to watch the magnificent sunrise.
Valley of the Kings
Nestled at the western end of the George Gill Ranges , approximately halfway between Alice Springs and Uluru, this ancient canyon, formed by towering red rock walls and rising above dense palm forests, is a sanctuary for over 600 species of native plants and animals, many of which are unique to the area.
Recommended play time: about 1 day
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All day
Watarrka National Park is home to Kings Canyon, one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks. The park is rich in Aboriginal history and is a significant cultural site for the Luritja and Perentie people. It features dramatic sandstone cliffs and a diverse range of ecosystems, making it a vital location for both indigenous culture and biodiversity.
Watarrka National Park is located in the Northern Territory, approximately 323 km (200 miles) southwest of Alice Springs. It is accessible by car via the Lasseter Highway and Luritja Road. There is no public transport to the park, so renting a car or joining a guided tour is recommended.
Watarrka National Park is open year-round. The best times to visit are during the cooler months from April to October to avoid the extreme heat of summer. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for exploring to take advantage of the cooler temperatures and the beautiful light.
There is an entrance fee of AUD 25 per person for a 3-day pass to Watarrka National Park. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate or online through the park’s official website.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for park entry, but it is advisable to book guided tours or accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons (April to October).
A visit to Watarrka National Park can take anywhere from half a day to a full day depending on the trails you choose. The Kings Canyon Rim Walk takes about 3-4 hours, while the Kings Creek Walk is a shorter, 1-hour hike.
The must-see highlights are the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, the Garden of Eden, and the Lost City rock formations. The Rim Walk provides breathtaking views of the canyon, while the Garden of Eden offers a serene environment with a small waterhole.
Guided tours are available and provide insightful commentary on the area's geology, flora, fauna, and indigenous significance. Tours are generally conducted in English, but arrangements for other languages can be made upon request.
The best photography spots include the lookout points along the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates dramatic shadows over the canyon’s cliffs. The Garden of Eden also offers great photo opportunities with its lush vegetation and waterhole.
The recommended route is to start with the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which offers the best views and takes about 3-4 hours. For a shorter, more leisurely option, you can take the Kings Creek Walk, which provides a closer look at the canyon floor.
There are no night visits or light shows at Watarrka National Park. However, stargazing is a popular activity due to the clear desert skies, and some tour operators offer night sky tours that include the park as part of the itinerary.
The park can get busy during peak season (April to October). The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning on weekdays, especially outside of school holiday periods.
The park has basic facilities, including rest areas, toilets, and picnic areas. There are no food or water sales inside the park, so it is recommended to bring your own food, water, and supplies for your visit.
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is a challenging hike and may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the Kings Creek Walk is an easier trail, suitable for families and those with limited mobility.
Cards and mobile payments are accepted at the park entrance and in nearby accommodations. It is advisable to carry cash for any small purchases at remote areas or when visiting local shops.
Nearby restaurants include the Kings Canyon Resort, which offers dining options, and there are cafés at the Watarrka National Park visitor center and nearby accommodations.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at the Kings Canyon Resort and other local restaurants. Halal food options may be more limited, but it’s advisable to check menus in advance.
Accommodations near Watarrka National Park include the Kings Canyon Resort and nearby campgrounds. There are also a few luxury lodges in the area offering various levels of comfort.
Other nearby attractions include Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which is about a 3.5-hour drive from Watarrka. You can also visit the Finke Gorge National Park and Palm Valley.
There are souvenir shops at the Kings Canyon Resort and the visitor center, selling local Aboriginal art, jewelry, and other handcrafted items such as boomerangs and didgeridoos.
After visiting, you can continue your journey by car, as there are no public transport options available. Renting a car is the best way to explore the region further, including trips to Uluru or Alice Springs.
