Video Player is loading.

Current Time 0:00

Duration 0:15

Loaded: 0%

Stream Type LIVE

Remaining Time 0:15

Guide to Kings Canyon

Aboriginal name: Watarrka

Welcome
Aboriginal
Getting to Kings Canyon
When to visit

Feel inspired by the soaring sandstone walls of Kings Canyon in Australia's Red Centre.

The Northern Territory's Watarrka National Park, home to Kings Canyon, covers 710sq km (274sq mi) and has been home to the Luritja and Arrente peoples for more than 20,000 years. Learn about their thriving culture, be marvelled by clifftop hikes and see it all from above on a scenic flight.

The palm-fringed waterholes, towering sandstone cliffs and rugged red floors of Kings Canyon/Watarrka are the traditional lands of the Arrernte and Luritja Peoples, who hold a sacred and spiritual connection with this region.

Embark on a guided walk alongside Traditional Custodians to experience the Aboriginal history and significance of this gorgeous place.

Traditional name: Watarrka
Indigenous Peoples: Arrernte and Luritja peoples

Kings Canyon is located just over a three-hour drive from Ayers Rock Airport or a 5.5-hour drive from Alice Springs.

Car hire is available from both Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) and Alice Springs Airport (ASP)
While major roads into Kings Canyon are sealed, alternative routes require a four-wheel drive vehicle

Guided day tours of Kings Canyon are also available. Tours depart from both Uluru and Alice Springs.

Similar to other destinations in the Red Centre, Kings Canyon experiences high heat during the warmer months. The cooler months are a great time to visit, as daytime temperatures are lower and more pleasant for hiking, but note that temperatures drop considerable when the sun goes down. If you visit during summer (December to February), it’s important to wear sun protection and a netted hat to deter flies.

High season: Cooler months between April and September
Low season: Hotter months between October and February

Top things to do in Kings Canyon

Kings Canyon Rim Walk, Kings Canyon, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Drive the Red Centre Way

One of the best ways to take in the abundant beauty of the outback? By four wheels. The Red Centre Way road trip passes through the epic landscapes of Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and of course, Kings Canyon. Get your Red Centre Way itinerary.

Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Tour, Watarrka, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Learn about the local culture

The traditional custodians of Watarrka National Park (home to Kings Canyon) have used the land to nourish and heal themselves for generations. On a tour with Karrke, you’ll taste bush tucker, learn about nature’s medicines and much more. Learn more.

Kings Canyon Rim Walk, Kings Canyon, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Tourism Australia

Put on your hiking boots

The rugged peaks and gorges of Kings Canyon make it an exciting place to hike. The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is one of the area’s most stunning hikes, offering spectacular views over the red rock landscape. Learn more about the Kings Canyon Rim Walk.

Kings Creek Station, Kings Canyon, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia

Stay on an outback station

Originally used as a cattle and camel property, Kings Creek Station now offers a range of accommodation options set amongst desert oaks and red earth. Choose between camping, glamping or bush tents. Explore more of Kings Creek Station.

Helicopter tour over Kings Canyon, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Shaun Jeffers

Take a thrilling scenic flight

For a view like none other, you’ll need to board a scenic flight. Hop aboard a helicopter from Kings Canyon Resort and enjoy uninterrupted views of sandstone domes, deep gorges and dramatic cliffs. Find out more about scenic flights.

Under A Desert Moon Kings Canyon Resort, Kings Canyon, Northern Territory © Tourism NT/Matt Glastonbury

Dine under the stars

Book a dinner at Under the Desert Moon to enjoy canapés as the sun goes down and a seasonal five-course dinner by flickering firelight. The canopy of stars only makes the experience even more special. Find out more.