Exploring the Garden of Eden in Kings Canyon

Kings Canyon sits in the heart of Australia’s famed Red Centre close to the iconic landmark Uluru. Here, vast sandstone landscapes mingle with ancient rock formations and gorges to create a surreal scene like nowhere else in the country.

As part of the Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon is an important conservation area and home to more than 600 native species of plant and animals – many of which are completely unique to the area between Alice Springs and Uluru.

The Kings Canyon is renowned for its jutting sandstone walls, which have been created over millions of years. The national park itself is home to the Luritja Aboriginal people, who have resided in the region for over 20,000 years. Watarrka is an Indigenous word meaning umbrella bush, the plant is common within the area.

The Garden of Eden

Because of its location in the Red Centre and its surrounding plethora of ancient, rocky scenery, the Garden of Eden is a prominent part of Kings Canyon. This permanent waterhole brings abundant life to the area; the lush greenery of which casts a stark contrast against the orange rock formations.

To get to the top of Kings Canyon and begin your journey to the Garden of Eden, you have to climb 500 steps. Once at the peak, you join a 6km long circuit that passes through arid “bee-hive” rock formations that languish around the top of the canyon. From there, it’s down into the hidden Garden of Eden to explore everything it has to offer.

You’ll leave behind the heat of the domes and descend into a shady oasis leading to this lush watering hole. The traditional owners of the area consider this an important men’s sacred place where their Dreaming stories can be shared in private. As this is a sacred site, you are not permitted to enter the water. This is also of benefit to the local species who rely on the calm waters for survival.

Lost City

While in the Garden of Eden, you can discover an incredible selection of plant life and unusual rock formations. The Lost City rock formations are easily identifiable and create a stunning background.

From the Canyon’s base you can begin the Kings Creek Walk, which takes you pas lush ferns and eucalyptus plants. It will lead you to a platform where you can marvel at the stunning views over the surrounding scenery.

If you’re not one for hiking, you can explore Kings Canyon from the back of a camel on a safari. Or, enjoy the surroundings from Kings Creek Station, a real working cattle station located in the heart of the outback.

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.