3 things to do in Watarrka National Park

The Watarrka National Park is located in the Red Centre, just southwest of Alice Springs.

Watarrka National Park is a magical geographic area decorated with rugged ranges, gorges, and a range of flora and fauna. The national park stretches over 1,000 km and has lots of stunning scenery to explore.
Here are three exciting things to see and do at Watarrka National Park.

1. Visit Kings Canyon

Kings Canyon is one of the most iconic places in the Red Centre. It is a gorgeous destination with lots of spectacular scenery and hikes. One of the most popular hikes here is the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. The walk takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete, as the walking circuit stretches in a 6 km loop. You will have to plan at least half a day to complete the walk and enjoy the scenery.

The Rim Walk will take you past some of the best sites in Kings Canyon. After ascending roughly 500 steps to begin the walk, you will have reached the top of the canyon cliffs. Here you will be able to take in the stunning scenery before continuing.

One of the popular landmarks in Kings Canyon is the Lost City, which was named because it resembles an ancient city. As you continue, you will come across the Garden of Eden. You can choose to descend the stairs and view the sacred watering hole up close, or you can take in the views from the cliff tops.

2. Spot Australian wildlife

You will spot a range of lush flora as you roam around Watarrka National Park. There are also plenty of animals that may be more difficult to spot but are likely to see at least a few critters. The national park is home to a couple of species of frogs, lizards, and birds. You may be surprised to learn that there is a breed of dingo that lives in the desert, though they typically avoid people.

If you are an avid wildlife spotter, keep an eye out for some of these unique creatures that live in Watarrka National Park.

3. Embark on the Kings Creek Walk

The Kings Creek Walk is not nearly as strenuous as the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. This hike is just under 3 km long and offers a view of the canyon from below. You can follow the trail between the towering canyon walls, viewing the cliffs from below. You will be entirely surrounded by the soaring cliffs and the lush plants living along the canyon floor.

If you are keen on visiting Watarrka National Park, you can drive there on your own or join a tour. Many of our tours visit Kings Canyon, which is located in the heart of this national park. Spend three days exploring Uluru, Kings Canyon, and everything in between on this camping tour. Or, enjoy four days exploring the Red Centre on this tour.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.