The federal government recently added Watarrka National Park in the Northern Territory to Australia’s National Heritage List in recognition of its national significance, and it's a fantastic location to add to your 2025 travel bucket list.
This national park is located approximately 300km west of Alice Springs (Mparntwe) and is home to the iconic Kings Canyon — a fantastic array of high sandstone walls and breathtaking views of the Australian outback. And if it looks familiar, you might have spotted it in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. It’s a destination that should be on every Red Centre bucket list, with plenty of natural beauty, hiking trails, 4WD tracks and outdoor adventures to enjoy.
Watarrka was recognised for its beautiful and ancient landscapes, and also as the traditional lands of the Anangu ngurraritja people who have shared a deep connection to country for tens of thousands of years.
So, where to go first on your Watarrka National Park adventure?
Kings Canyon Rim Walk: a 6km trail with panoramic views over the cliffs and desert landscape. Don’t miss the Garden of Eden oasis and sacred water hole along the way. If you’re after a shorter walk, try the 2.6km Kings Creek Walk.
Outback accommodation: There are some great places to stay, including Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon and Kings Creek station.
Light Towers art installation: Located at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon, this outback art installation was created by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro (who created the acclaimed Field of Light installation at Uluru) and features 69 glowing, two-metre towers that shift in harmony with a soundscape by Orlando Gough. The best time to see the installation is at sunrise or sunset from Lurijta Lookout before getting closer to enjoy the full experience.
Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience: Learn more about the area's rich cultural heritage with this unique tour which showcases the importance of Watarrka and the living traditions of the Luritja and Pertame (Southern Arrernte) people, including bush medicine, dot painting, jewellery-making, weapon crafting, cultural sites and information on native plant species and birds.
To find out more about this newly recognised national park, click here.
Please note, you will need a NT Parks Pass to enter Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park, which can be organised here.
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