The Best National Parks to Visit in Africa, Asia and Oceania
Rounding out a three-part post featuring the best National Parks in the world, comes the unique outdoor scenery from the continents of Africa, Asia and Oceania.
To get a full perspective on all of the best National Parks in the world, read my previous posts on The Americas and Europe here.
The best national parks in the world – Africa, Asia and Oceania
National Parks in Africa
Etosha National Park, Namibia
Etosha National Park is a massive wildlife reserve located in northern Namibia. Spanning 8,600 square miles, this national park is home to a wide variety of both common and exotic animals including four of the “big five” African safari animals – elephants, rhinos, lions, and leopards. But what really makes Etosha one of the best national parks in the world is the fact that you don’t need to pay a ton of money to join a safari.
In fact, a self-drive safari in Etosha National Park is the highlight of most people’s visit to Namibia. Driving your own vehicle means you can visit at your leisure, stopping whenever you spot an animal and taking as much or as little time as you want. Be aware, however, that wild animals roam the park freely so you can only exit your vehicle in designated picnic areas and campgrounds.
It’s not exactly easy to get to Etosha National Park (or really anywhere in Namibia) There are 4 park entrances and the southernmost gate is ~260 miles from Windhoek. We’d recommend that you rent a 4×4 vehicle in Namibia because while most of the roads in Etosha are in good condition, that’s not the case everywhere in the country. Plus you may encounter large puddles or muddy areas if it’s been raining.
The cost to enter Etosha is 80 NAD (~$5.50 USD) per person per 24 hour period and 10 NAD (~$0.65 USD) per car.
Contributed by Nick from the Wandering Wheatleys
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Riding a badass, open safari vehicle to encounter some of the most incredible wildlife you can ever imagine is a one-in-a-million experience you can have at Kruger National Park, South Africa’s first national park. One of the largest game reserves in the African continent, expect an astonishing and diverse array of wildlife here. If you are lucky, you can come across what they popularly referred to as the big five – elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino, and leopard. The incredible wildlife spotting here makes Kruger one of the best National Parks in the world.
It is recommended to spend at least one full day to make the most of your Kruger National Park safari drive. An easy way to get around the park is to join a safari tour from one of the several operators available. This is also a good way to better discover the wildlife as a knowledgeable guide accompanies you. But if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also opt for a self-drive. Getting to Kruger National Park, you can rent a car and drive from Johannesburg for around 4-5 hours.
Visitors also need to pay a conservation fee ($27 USD/person for foreign visitors).
Contributed by Arianne from Travel Habeat
Skeleton Coast National Park, Namibia
The Skeleton Coast National Park in Namibia is one of the country’s hidden gems. The country is filled with national parks, as Namibia has so many stunning areas to preserve. The Skeleton Coast is definitely one of them with its high sand dunes, deserted beaches, an enormous seal colony and mysterious shipwrecks. Not many tourists will travel to this unique coastal area, but we definitely recommend you to!
The Skeleton Coast is located in the northwest of Namibia, north of the town of Swakopmund. The most northern point you can visit is around Torra and Terrace Bay where you can find a state-owned campsite and other accommodation, but beware that they aren’t opened throughout the whole year.
It makes an amazing road trip to drive from the northern point all the way down to Swakopmund. You could do this in a day, including many stops at the beautiful beaches and other highlights. You might want to skip a swim though, as the water is usually very cold.
Highlights along the Skeleton Coasts are the shipwrecks on the beaches. Some of them are already half-decayed, others fully gone or difficult to find. So do your research in advance to know where to find them. The Zeila stranded only in 2008, so you’ll probably still be able to see this one.
Cape Cross is located just outside the National Park, not far from the south gate. It has the largest seal colony in Africa, which is an amazing sight. The smell and noise are impressive as well.
Contributed by Maartje from The Orange Backpack
Table Mountain National Park, South Africa
There are so many amazing national parks scattered around the world and Table Mountain National Park in South Africa is one of them. Table Mountain is the iconic symbol of Cape Town and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Some popular spots that this national park contains are Table Mountain, Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Penguin Colony, Silvermine, Signal Hill, and Lion’s Head.
It’s also one of eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa and one of the best national parks in the world. The views from the top of Table Mountain are absolutely stunning, especially during sunset. You’ll see the city of Cape Town in its entirety when at the top of Table Mountain. You can explore Table Mountain in one of two ways. You can hike or take the cable car up to the mountain.
There are a number of hikes around Table Mountain that vary in difficulty so make sure you do your research so you know what you’re in for. The cable car rotates and provides you with a 360-degree view of the city as you make your way to the top. A return ticket is $25 USD during the morning hours and $20 during the afternoon hours.
If you want to access Table Mountain via foot, you don’t have to pay an entrance fee. Also, you can’t pay a flat fee to enter the various areas of the park. For example, if you want to visit the Cape of Good Hope and Boulders Beach, those both require separate entrance fees.
Contributed by Disha from Disha Discovers
Virunga National Park, Democratic Republic of Congo
The magnificent Virunga National Park in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is where you’ll find the best wildlife experience in Africa. Virunga is the oldest national park in Africa as well as the most biodiverse and there’s no doubt it is amongst the best national parks in the world.
What makes Virunga so special? Well it is home to the last remaining mountain gorillas on earth! If that is not enough, you can climb to the top of Mount Nyiragongo, an active volcano within the world’s largest lava lake on the summit. Still not enough? If you’re lucky you can see rare wildlife such as forest elephants, okapi or chimpanzees.
Mountain gorilla trekking in Virunga is a once in a lifetime experience, and Virunga is not only the cheapest place to do that, but also the best if you’re looking for a unique and intimate wildlife experience.
To go gorilla trekking in the DRC you must arrange a gorilla permit ($400) from the national park in advance, and you’ll be accompanied by a few trained guides. All activities inside the park are conducted by Virunga, so its best to book directly with them.
The best way to reach Virunga National Park is to fly into Kigali in neighbouring Rwanda. Virunga National Park sits right on the border with Rwanda and can be reached from Kigali in about 3-4 hours.
Virunga’s conservation projects and involvement with local communities have resulted in an increase in gorilla numbers. Not only will you have a bucket list experience, but your visit supports and contributes to a great cause.
Contributed by De Wet and Jin from Museum of Wander
National Parks in Asia
Bardiya National Park, Nepal
Bardiya National Park in Nepal lies in one of the most remote corners of the country and therefore gets few visitors. However, it is one of the best places in Nepal to see South Asia’s big 3 in the wild. This includes the rhinoceros , the elephant and the elusive tiger. And with a lot of luck you might also see garial crocodiles and the very rare gangetic river dolphin. The unique wildlife makes this one of the best National Parks in the world.
Contrary to what you might think, Nepal is a great destination for going on a safari. The country is much more than mountains alone. In the southern plains you will find thick and lush jungles with abundant wildlife. In Bardiya you can go deep into the forests on a jungle hike or on a jeep safari. You can even go wild water rafting on the Karnali river that runs through the park.
Because of the river there is a variety of landscapes in Bardiya. From forests, to rocky river shores and savanna like plains. Just outside the park you will find the farmlands that belong to the traditional villages of the indigenous Tharu population. They are also worth exploring to see rural life in southern Nepal.
It’s a long 20 hour journey by bus from Kathmandu to Thakurdwara with a change in the transport hub city of Nepalgunj. You can also decide to fly to Nepalgunj and continue by bus to Thakurdwara. In the town of Thakurdwara are several accommodation options from basic eco lodges to fancy jungle resorts.
Contributed by Ellis from Backpack Adventures
Deosai National Park, Pakistan
Located about an hour’s drive from the city of Skardu in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, Deosai National Park is one of the most remarkable nature reserves in the country and one of the best national parks in the world. The Deosai Plains are known as the world’s second-highest alpine plateau ranging between 3000 to 5000 meters altitude, thanks to which the region is blessed with a unique landscape and ecosystem. The national park was first established in order to protect the Himalayan Brown Bear and other endangered animal and plant species and is currently on UNESCO’s tentative list of world heritage.
The best time to visit Deosai National Park is generally said to be summer, when one can enjoy green meadows at agreeable temperatures. But the region is also very beautiful in October, when the plains adopt a golden tone, and in winter, when Deosai turns into a white wonderland. Enjoy driving your car through the endless people-free plains and marvel at the clear water of the local rivers and Sheosar Lake. However, keep in mind that temperatures drop very rapidly after sunset.
Deosai National Park is accessible from Skardu via a steep and scary mountain pass. Buses are unable to drive up the narrow road so it’s necessary to transfer to a jeep, car, or van. The entrance fee to Deosai National Park is about 1000 rs. for foreigners and very minimal for locals.
Contributed by Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl
Gunung Leuser National Park, Indonesia
If you’re visiting Sumatra, the Gunung Leuser (translating to Mount Leuser) National Park should be at the top of your to-do list. Covering more than 5 million hectares, this sprawling green paradise is teeming with life – from giant ants and vivid green snakes to impressively enormous hornbills and, of course, the megafauna. Sumatra orangutans are the most famous species in the park, but this space is also home to Sumatran tigers, rhinos, and elephants, making this one of the world’s best national parks for wildlife.
The Leuser Ecosystem stretches from North Sumatra up into the Aceh province, and the most famous entry point to explore the park is the tourist area of Bukit Lawang, although there are many off the beaten villages offering multi-day treks to discover the wonders of the jungle. It’s pretty easy to reach; fly into Medan and choose your transport (local bus or private car) to get to your idyllic village of choice. The nearest is Bukit Lawang at around three hours’ drive.
There are issues with some guides feeding orangutans, so make sure you go for a proven ethical company who keep their distance from all the animals and do not feed them. It may be tempting to get close, but doing so puts their lives at risks, and these critically endangered apes have enough threats to deal with! You’ll need a permit (150,000 IDR) to enter the park, which your guide will sort, but you’ll need to pay your jungle guide on top of that.
Other than the incredible wildlife on offer, there’s the world’s largest flower to seek out, and an abundance of pristine waterfalls and rivers to tube down. It really is a true jungle paradise.
Contributed by Carly from We Are Sumatra
Hallasan National Park, South Korea
Located on Jeju Island, Mount Hallasan is the highest peak in South Korea. This dormant volcano is in the heart of Hallasan National Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see the autumn leaves in the country. You will enjoy a scenic view of different species of plants, hillsides of flowers, jagged mountains, and razor-sharp cliffs, and if you are lucky, you might spot a deer!
Mount Hallasan stands 1950 MASL which is easy to moderate to hike depending on the trail that you will choose. Hiking in this well-maintained densely wooded national park is free of charge and open all year round but camping is not allowed. There are 4 hiking courses in the Hallasan National Park but only the Gwaneumsa Trail and the Seongpanak Trail can take you to the summit.
If you will be hiking using the Gwaneumsa Trail which is a steep but scenic hiking course, you can ride a bus from Jeju City to Sancheondan then ride a taxi to the jump-off point. If you will start your hike using the Seongpanak Trail which is the gentlest hiking course to the summit, you can ride a bus up to the jump-off point and then start exploring one of the world’s best national parks.
Contributed by Mike & Katie from The Hollapinos
Huanglong National Park, China
The Chinese word Huanglong translates to “Yellow Dragon”, referencing to the shape of the travertine ponds you can find in Huanglong National Park. From high above, this UNESCO world heritage site almost looks like a golden dragon sneaking down the mountain valley.
If you get close up, you will discover hundreds of pools in various shades of colour, often with creative names like “Beauty-competing pond” or “Welcoming guests ponds”. The water is so clear that you can easily see the bottom of the pools and you can spend hours walking through this park, taking in the stunning scenery.
When arriving at the national park, you will find clearly marked boardwalks that take you around the travertine pools. The easiest way to visit is to take the cable car to the top of the mountain and then walk down on those boardwalks. Plan to spend at least half a day here, though ideally, you will have a full day for your visit exploring one of the best national parks in the world.
Besides the stunning travertine ponds, Huanglong National Park features hot springs, waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. And it is home to many endangered animals like the giant panda and rare monkey species.
You can find Huanglong National Park in Northwestern Sichuan. The easiest way to get here is either by plane or by bus from Chengdu. You can also arrive from the northwest and visit this park as part of a tour along China’s Silk Road.
Contributed by Daniel and Ilona from Top Travel Sights
Keoladeo Ghana National Park, India
The Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is an underdog when it comest to the best national parks in the world. Notwithstanding that it has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO; it is not very popular even in India. In hindsight, that works wonderfully for a space like this. Fewer excited tourists, in motorized or battery-operated vehicles, augur well for the inhabitants of this place.
Officially called Keoladeo Ghana National Park, this sanctuary is located in Bharatpur, in the state of Rajasthan, India. Spread over 29 sq km, it is home to about 230 varieties of birds and many animals and reptiles such as the python. In fact, professional photographers camp here for days for a glimpse of the rather shy and reticent python. Given the moderate weather of the plains, this park is a favourite roosting and breeding site in India for the bird Siberian crane. A variety of ducks, parrots and parakeets and birds of prey such as peregrine falcon, spotted eagle, crested serpent eagle are found here. You can also spot animals like the cheetal, the deer and maybe a giant lizard camouflaged as a root of an old tree.
There are bicycles, motorized rickshaws and horse carriage options for touring the park and one is not allowed to bring in personal vehicle. You may also hire a cycle rickshaw and the rickshaw driver would be happy to double as your guide. Like an experienced ornithologist, he would help you spot a variety of animals and birds that you may have missed otherwise.
Bharatpur is 4 hours drive from Delhi. The nearest city and airport is Agra, an hour’s drive away. You can also take the train and drop at Bharatpur Railway Station. Many government, as well as private accommodation, is available at Bharatpur. You can visit the park throughout the year, but the optimum period for sighting migratory birds is October to March. There is a moderate ticket for entering the park. Inside transport and guided tours are charged extra.
Contributed by Sundeep and Bedabrata from Delhi Fun Dos
Komodo National Park, Indonesia
Komodo National Park, located in the Flores area of Indonesia, is one of the coolest places to visit. As a UNESCO recognized site, the main attraction of this national park is to see the Komodo dragons, the carnivorous lizard. Check out the huge Komodo dragons on Komodo and/or Rinca Islands. It’s fascinating to observe the Komodo dragons roam around in their natural habitats and see their long bodies as they can be 3 meters/10 feet long.
Other fun attractions to visit in the national park include hiking up Padar Island to view the photogenic views of the waters, relaxing on a pink beach, and snorkeling or scuba diving to check out marine life.
While exploring Komodo National Park in one day is doable, it’s recommended to spend a few days here to explore. To get to the national park, take a slow boat or a speedboat from Labuan Bajo, the closest main island. It takes a few hours to get to the islands.
The entry cost varies depending on the day of the week and will include other fees such as hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation. The starting cost is 150,000 IDR ($10.60 USD) for weekdays and 250,000 IDR ($17.70) for weekends.
Contributed by Jackie and Justin from Life of Doing
Prielbrusye National Park, Russia
Prielbrusye National Park is situated in the Caucasus mountain region, south-west of Russia. The park boasts some of the highest mountain peaks in the region. The scenery inside the park is truly impressive: snowy peaks, emerald meadows, green valleys, turquoise lakes, crystal-clear rivers, deep ravines, mineral springs, and beautiful waterfalls.
Mount Elbrus is the most famous landmark of the Prielbrusye National Park and one of the main reasons thousands of people come here every year. Elbrus (5642 m) is the highest mountain peak in Europe and one of the seven summits. Climbing Elbrus is on the bucket list of many mountaineers and adventure seekers. The challenging climb is not for everybody, but there are many easier hiking trails that are suitable for travelers of any age and fitness level. Hiking, climbing, and camping are the most popular summer activities in the park. In winter tourists come here for skiing and snowboarding. There are many ski runs with lifts including several trails on the slopes of Mount Elbrus.
The summer months (June to September) are the best time for hiking in Prielbrusye. The winter months (December to March) are great for skiing and snowboarding. The admission fee to the park is US$10 and it is paid once and valid for all hiking and climbing trails inside the park. The best way of getting to Elbrus is to fly from Moscow to Nalchik, the nearest airport, and from there take a local bus or a taxi to Cheget, Terskol or Azau, three small towns located in the heart of the National Park.
Contributed by Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads
National Parks in Oceania
Blue Mountains National Park, Australia
Located just 80km west of Sydney, the Blue Mountains National Park is a UNESCO Heritage site and one of the best national parks in the world. Covering over 267,954-hectares (662,130-acre) the park is home to more than 140km of walking trails as well as mountain bike tracks and fantastic abseiling and canyoning opportunities.
The most visited National Park in NSW there are more than 80 official tracks that range from short easy walks that most people can manage to challenging multi-day hikes for thrill-seekers.
Key sites in the park include the Three Sisters rock formation at Katoomba, Wentworth Falls, and breath-taking lookouts over the Grose Valley at Govetts Leap and the Jamison Valley at Sublime Point.
Popular for both weekend getaways and day trips from Sydney, the park is easily reached by public transport with trains stations in several of the villages that line the mountain ridge. Wentworth Falls, Leura, Katoomba and Blackheath are the best stops for reaching walking trails. The drive from Sydney, mostly on motorway, takes a little over an hour, depending on traffic.
There are no entry fees to visit the park however if you wish to stay in one of the campgrounds there is a small charge.
Contributed by Paula from Sydney Expert
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
One of the most beautiful places in New Zealand is the famous Milford Sound, which is located in Fiordland National Park. With towering cliff-faces, endless waterfalls, snow-covered mountain peaks, the ocean, and unique wildlife, Milford Sound (and Fiordland National Park) is one of those must-visit destinations in New Zealand. Milford Sound offers travelers the chance to explore this stunning fiord on foot, in a boat, or even in a kayak.
To get to Milford Sound you’ll have to drive on Milford Road which winds its way through Fiordland National Park. The views are spectacular everywhere you look and there are lots of attractions to stop at along the way. Be sure not to miss Mirror Lakes, the Chasm, and Pop’s Lookout! Points of interest are signposted so you don’t miss them.
While Milford Sound is definitely worth checking out, there is more to Fiordland National Park than just Milford. In fact, in Fiordland National Park there are lots of other attractions including world-class hikes. The Milford Track and Routeburn Track are two of New Zealand’s Great Walks and they are both located in Fiordland National Park. Both are typically hiked over a few days, however from the road to Milford, you can actually hike sections of the Routeburn Track on a day hike.
There is so much to explore in Fiordland National Park. The mountains, waterfalls, fiord, and lush vegetation make it one of the most diverse and best national parks in the world!
Contributed by Bailey from My Queenstown Diary
Kakadu National Park, Australia
Australia’s Top End is by far the country’s best kept secret. Kakadu National Park is full of Australian aboriginal history and culture, with picturesque swimming holes it really is an experience like no other in Australia and one of the best national parks in the world. However visiting this area of Australia is no easy feat and will require some organisation and planning and to visit the best places, a 4WD and roughing it camping for a bit is very much recommended.
Gunlom Falls is located in Kakadu National Park and is one of the best water holes to experience. The falls can be viewed from an easy walk out to the bottom of the falls, known as the Gunlom Billabong. Gunlom Billabong was made famous in the movie Crocodile Dundee. To fully experience Gunlom Falls you’ll need to hike the track to the Gunlom Plunge Pool, an intense climb on a dirt track with some rock climbing involved at the end. Oh so worth it though. Gunlom is only one of very many water holes available for swimming, drop in to Mary River Hotel and chat to locals about opening times if you are early in the dry season or late in the dry season as many including Jim Jim and Gunlom can close with little notice.
The best and safest way to view crocodiles is by doing the Yellow Water Cruise located near Cooinda Lodge and Campgrounds. There are various cruise per day and it will take you out onto the East Adelaide River where crocs sightings are plentiful. You’ll view them in their own habitat and not jumping for food which they become reliant on. The tour guides a very knowledgable about the local flora and fauna and will spots wildlife particularly birds and crocodiles and point them out for you. A sunset tour is highly recommend as those Top End sunsets are spectacular.
Contributed by Sally from Our 3 Kids vs the World
Mt Cook National Park, New Zealand
Mt Cook National Park is home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Aoraki Mt Cook. The beautiful mountain range of the Southern Alps provides a wondrous playground to hikers, mountaineers and explorers but is also home to some incredible short walks for the everyday traveller.
Mt Cook National Park does not cost anything to visit, so is accessible to all, but you do really need a vehicle to really explore the area (unless you are on a tour). It is just over 3 hours from Queenstown and 4 hours south of Christchurch.
The whole area is really about getting out in nature. Some amazing Mt Cook walks include: the three hour Hooker Valley Lake Track with incredible swing bridges and Mt Cook Views, the Tasman Glacier Viewpoint, less than an hour return with a great view of the glacier and Tasman Lake and the Sealy Tarns Track where you hike over 2000 steps to beautiful views of the National Park.
If hiking isn’t your thing then why not take a scenic flight or helicopter tour. You can have a picnic on a glacier or even heliski the Tasman Glacier for those who are super adventurous. You can also take a kayak tour or jetboat right up to icebergs in the Tasman Lake which are great family excursions.
Contributed by Jennifer Parkes from Backyard Travel Family: Active Family Travel Specialists in New Zealand
Royal National Park, Australia
The Royal National Park is around an hour’s drive south of Sydney and features spectacular coastal views, hikes, waterfalls and whale watching. In actual fact, it is the second-oldest designated National Park in the entire world. It’s a perfect Sydney day trip.
Entry to the park by car will cost $12. This will enable you to park in any of the designated parking areas to explore the different sites and you can pay your entry fee at any of the ticket booths stationed at the different park entrances.
One of the most spectacular sights in the Royal National Park is the beautiful oasis of Wattamolla which features a waterfall and a gentle lagoon where the bush meets the sea. Its perfect for kayaking, swimming and hiking with the cliffside walk around Wattamolla being an excellent spot to see humpback whales frolicking off the coast during migration season.
Contributed by Emma from Emma Jane Explores
Springbrook National Park, Australia
There are a few reasons why I believe Springbrook National Park is one of the world’s best national parks. Firstly, it is easy to get to so you will spend more time exploring the park than being stuck in your car. It only takes 1.5hrs to drive to Springbrook National Park from Brisbane and less than one hour from the Gold Coast. Parking and restroom facilities are available for free in the park so it’s easy to organise but you’ll still need to bring water and snacks with you.
Secondly, anyone can enjoy the stunning Gondwana Rainforest listed on the UNESCO World Heritage. There are a few short and easy walks to splendid lookouts, longer circuits around stunning waterfalls as well as full-day challenging hikes to please more experienced walkers.
One of my favourite short hikes in Springbrook National Park is Natural Bridge. It is short and easy to follow and leads to a very charming and special waterfall in a cave. At night, Natural Bridge cave looks magical with glow worms lighting up the ceiling, and you can even spot bioluminescent mushrooms on the path leading down there. It’s mesmerizing.
Contributed by Eloise from My Favourite Escapes
Twelve Apostles Marine National Park, Australia
The 19,000 acre Twelve Apostles Marine National Park stretches along the south-west coast of Victoria, a coastline followed by one of the best road trips in Australia, the Great Ocean Road.
Seven kilometres from Port Campbell are the limestone stacks from whence the marine park gets its name. Only eight of the apostles still stand today, the remaining four reclaimed by the sea due to the buffeting winds and waves against the coast. The apostles are not the only unique rock formations to be seen however. It’s not too hard to spend a day stopping to look at every lookout along this beautiful stretch of coastline as you pass through one of the best national parks in the world.
Beneath the water is a wonderland of habitat that includes sponge gardens of colour, kelp forests and reefs and the limestone reefs full of diverse life. Penguins and whales can also be seen along the coast.
Tours run from Melbourne if hopeful visitors don’t have access to a car, and it is no cost to stop along the road and admire the view, though specific activities in the park may incur costs. If you are heading to the apostles you are best to arrive early to beat the tour buses, and conditions are better for photos in the morning.
Contributed by Holly from Globe Blogging
West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, Australia
Located in Central Australia, West MacDonnell National Park is a desert landscape with dramatic mountain ranges, deep gorges, and refreshing waterholes. It is a highly significant place for the indigenous Arrernte people. Their rock art dating back thousands of years can be seen in several locations.
There are many campgrounds and hikes that let you immerse yourself in the ancient rock formations and explore the desert wildlife and vegetation. Amongst the most popular sites are Ormiston and Redbank Gorge, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Standley Chasm.
For serious hikers, the 250km long Larapinta Trail takes you the length of the park. There are dozens of much shorter hikes that let you take in the red earth and towering orange cliff faces. They are a glorious site at sunrise and sunset.
From Alice Springs it is only 20 minutes to the start of the park. ‘Alice’ is 1500 km from the nearest Australian capital city so flying in and hiring a car is a popular option. Avoid visiting in the Australian summer, temperatures can reach over 45 degrees Celsius (110 F).
There is no cost to enter the park but camping fees apply and start from around AUD$5 per night. If you travel more widely there are permits required for some sites and outback roads. The park covers a large area so give yourself a week to see everything it has to offer. It is a captivating landscape you’re sure to fall in love with in one of the best national parks in the world.
Contributed by Natalie from Curious Campers
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