Kings Canyon is in the middle of Watarrka National Park. Near Alice Springs, the canyon has big landscapes, rough ranges and views of the canyon walls and surrounding country. Whether you’re driving along Luritja Road or using Kings Canyon Resort as your base to explore the area, this place has everything you need to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
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Accommodation Options
- Kings Canyon Resort: The Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon has commercial accommodations, cabins, rooms with private balconies and safari-style cabins—uninterrupted views of the landscape and rock cliffs so you can relax after a days exploring.
- Camping and Safari-Style Cabins: For the more adventurous, the campground at Kings Creek Station has overnight camping options and powered and non-powered sites. Safari-style cabins are a great way to experience the outback with modern amenities.
- Holiday Parks: Kings Creek Station also has holiday parks for those who want more flexibility. Twin-share accommodation or private camping tents, the station has it all for an outback adventure.
Eat Options
Foodies will find plenty to eat in the middle of Kings Canyon.
- Kings Canyon Bar & Grill: In the Kings Canyon Resort this restaurant allows you to eat and drink while taking in the views of the canyon: traditional Australian outback food and a soundscape by Bruce Munro to enhance the experience.
- Outback BBQ Grill: For a more casual option, the Outback BBQ Grill is where you can grab a meal in an outdoor setting and watch the sunset over the canyon.
Tours and Info
To get the most out of your time at Kings Canyon, there are several facilities that offer educational and guided experiences in the region’s Aboriginal culture, cultural heritage and native wildlife.
- Kings Canyon Rim Walk: One of the best things to do at Kings Canyon, this 6km walk takes you along the canyon walls with 360-degree views of the landscape. The steep climb is great for photography, especially with the layers of sandstone and the native plants along the way.
- Kings Creek Walk: A shorter walk gives you a view of the creek environments within the canyon. This easy walk allows you to see native wildlife and explore the rock holes that make the canyon so unique.
- Kings Canyon Tours: You can also visit the traditional lands of the local Indigenous people through sound installations and viewing sessions and get a deeper understanding of the area’s cultural significance.
Outdoor Activities
If you want to go off the beaten track, Kings Canyon has plenty of outdoor activities.
- Four-Wheel Drive Tours: For a more adventurous experience, take a four-wheel drive tour along the Mereenie Loop. This unsealed road takes you through the rough ranges, and you can see wildlife in its natural environment.
- Helicopter Rides: For a birds eye view of the scenery helicopter rides are available, you can see Kings Canyon and surrounding areas like Uluru and kata tjuta. This is the best way to see how big and beautiful this natural wonder is.
Health and Safety
Kings Canyon is in the outback, so there are some safety issues to be aware of, especially during the hot summer days.
- Drinking Water: Water refill stations are available at Kings Canyon Resort, but please make sure you bring plenty of water, especially when walking the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Lots of water is essential when exploring the area as it can get very hot, especially in summer.
- Safety Standards: Kings Canyon has strict safety standards, and we ask you to follow the safety guidelines when walking on the trails. Emergency contacts and first aid facilities are available at the resort in case of an emergency. Wildlife hazards should be aware of as there are reptiles and animals in the area.
- Petrol Station: There is a petrol station near Mereenie Loop Pass so if you are driving to Kings Canyon you can fill up before you get here.
Other Facilities
Kings Canyon has other facilities to make your stay as easy as possible.
- Laundry: If you are staying for a few days or traversing the Australian outback for weeks, laundry services are available at Kings Canyon Resort so you can get your clothes washed during your stay.
- Public Toilets and Showers: Public toilets and showers are clean and well-maintained at the resort and campgrounds so everyone can be comfortable.
- Bitumen Roads: Main roads to Kings Canyon, Larapinta Drive and Mereenie Loop are bitumen and 4WD and standard vehicle friendly. Bitumen roads make it easy to get to the canyon and see the views along the way.
FAQ
What are the best walks at Kings Canyon?
Kings Canyon Rim Walk is the 360-degree view. Kings Creek Walk is the easier option.
When should I visit Kings Canyon?
Cooler months, April to October are best to visit Kings Canyon, temperatures are more moderate.
Are there helicopter tours?
Yes, helicopter tours of the canyon and surrounding area.
Can I camp?
Yes, camping options are overnight camping and safari-style cabins at Kings Canyon Resort and Kings Creek Station.
What facilities are there for visitors?
Kings Canyon has dining options, accommodation, laundry and petrol for long-distance travellers.
