With more travel restrictions being lifted over the weekend, Parks Australia has now announced that as of Friday 19th June, the iconic National Parks of Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta will reopen to visitors.
Although some areas will remain closed for the time being, the staged reopening of both parks will provide plenty of access to visitors wanting to explore the many recreation and natural areas of these beloved parts of the country.
Kakadu National Park
Those wanting to visit Kakadu National Park may do so only during the day, between 8am to 5pm. Most boat ramps will be open, as well as Mamukala Wetlands, Mangarre Rainforest, Bardedjilidji, Gungural, the Yurmikmik area and the Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) region.
Visitors, however, will not be allowed to camp overnight during stage one of the reopening phase, although accommodation options will be open at Jabiru, Cooinda and Mary River, all with their own COVID-19 plans in place.
“Currently, we are continuing to make some urgent infrastructure repairs across the park, including at the Bowali Visitor Centre which will remain closed for several weeks, district ranger stations and staff housing,” said Director of National Parks, Dr James Findlay. “These are a priority in supporting increased visitation.”
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Those wanting to visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, home to two of the country’s most renowned sites, will find plenty of walking tracks and sunrise/sunset viewing areas have been reopened.
Visitors will also be able to walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, hike around the base of Uluru, and explore Kata Tjuta’s many views. And while the cultural centre and associated businesses will remain closed for now, there is still plenty of information for those looking to explore the park through walking, wildlife watching, photography and other activities.
Any organised groups and tours will remain shut for the time being.
Image: Kakadu National Park / Tourism NT, Jewels Lynch.
