Karu Karu/Devil's Marbles Reserve

Introducing Karu Karu/Devil's Marbles Reserve

Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve is located in the central inland area of ​​the Northern Territory, about 1,080 kilometers from Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory.

The Devil's Marbles are a group of granite boulders about 4 meters high and 13 to 33 meters wide, formed through millions of years of weathering. Covering an area of ​​approximately 1,802 hectares, the Devil's Marbles are stacked on top of each other to form piles of various sizes. Due to years of weathering, most of the boulders are round. In local Tu ethnic legend, they are called " rainbow giant eggs . "

Balanced at precarious angles, seemingly defying gravity, the boulders lie scattered across a wide, shallow valley 95 kilometres south of Tennant Creek. The Devil's Marbles are a sacred site known as Karu Karu in the language of the local Aboriginal people, the Warumungu.

Karu Karu / Devil's Marbles Reserve offers beautiful bush camping with fireplaces, perfect for enjoying the sunset. If you prefer not to camp, the nearest settlement is the small town of Wauchope , 30 kilometres away .

Climate and best time to travel

The dry season generally runs from the end of April to the beginning of October . The climate is relatively pleasant and is the best time to travel.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: more than 3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Karu Karu/Devil's Marbles Reserve

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Karu Karu/Devil's Marbles Reserve is a sacred site for the local Warumungu, Warlpiri, and Kaytetye Aboriginal peoples. The distinctive granite boulders are thought to have been formed millions of years ago by erosion. The name "Devil’s Marbles" was given by early European settlers, but the Indigenous people refer to the site as Karu Karu, which holds cultural and spiritual significance.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Devil's Marbles Reserve is located approximately 400 km north of Alice Springs along the Stuart Highway in the Northern Territory. It is accessible by car, with plenty of parking available. There is no public transport directly to the site, so driving or joining a guided tour is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The reserve is open 24 hours a day, but the best times to visit are during the cooler months, from April to October, to avoid extreme heat. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography and to experience the rocks in the soft, golden light.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee for visiting Karu Karu/Devil’s Marbles Reserve, as it is a public area. However, some tour operators charge for guided visits to the site. Tickets for guided tours can be booked either online or onsite through various local operators.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets for a guided tour is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (April to October). You can book tours online in advance, or on the day of your visit depending on availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Devil's Marbles Reserve typically takes 1-2 hours to explore the boulders, take photos, and enjoy the walking trails. If you're interested in a guided tour or stargazing, you may wish to spend more time at the site.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlights are the large, rounded boulders scattered across the reserve, with some being stacked high, creating a dramatic landscape. There are also several smaller rock formations, and the area has a walking trail that guides visitors to the best vantage points for photos and views of the surrounding desert.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and are offered by various local tour operators. These tours often include information about the geological formation of the rocks and their cultural significance to the local Aboriginal communities.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best spots for photography are at sunrise and sunset, when the soft light illuminates the rocks. The walking trail provides several elevated viewpoints where you can capture panoramic photos of the rocks with the surrounding desert landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and take the walking trail, which will guide you through the main rock formations. Be sure to stop at the viewing platforms for great photo opportunities. Consider timing your visit to coincide with either sunrise or sunset for the best lighting.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no light shows or special tours, the site is an excellent location for stargazing, as it is far from city lights. Some tour operators offer night-time visits for stargazing, where visitors can enjoy the clear desert skies.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can get busy during peak tourist seasons, especially around sunrise and sunset. To avoid crowds, consider visiting in the early morning or late afternoon, or during the off-peak months (November to March).

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities available at the reserve, including public toilets, picnic tables, and some rest areas. There are no shops or food outlets within the reserve, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water. There is a small information shelter where you can find maps and educational material about the site.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is accessible to elderly and children, with well-maintained paths for walking. However, some of the rock formations may require some light scrambling, which may not be suitable for those with limited mobility. The main viewing areas are accessible for most visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is not required as there is no entrance fee. However, for guided tours and souvenirs, card payments are accepted. Mobile payments may be accepted depending on the tour provider or nearby businesses.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes directly inside the reserve. The nearest dining options are located in the nearby town of Tennant Creek, where you can find various cafes, pubs, and restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options are available in Tennant Creek, where you can find a variety of local eateries catering to different dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several accommodation options in Tennant Creek, including motels, hotels, and campsites. Some visitors also choose to camp near the reserve or stay at local bush campsites.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station, the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, and the Stockman's Hall of Fame. You can also visit the nearby Battery Hill Mining Centre to learn about the history of gold mining in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops at the reserve, but Tennant Creek has local shops selling Aboriginal art, didgeridoos, boomerangs, and other handcrafted items as souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the reserve, you can continue your trip by car. Tennant Creek has car rental services, and buses also run between Tennant Creek and other parts of the Northern Territory. The Stuart Highway is the main route for further travel.