Lasciati stupire dall'antico paesaggio della Rainbow Valley, giustamente chiamata: scogliere di arenaria e scogliere con bande di roccia colorata a vista.
Queste scogliere autoportanti fanno parte della James Range e sono uno dei soggetti preferiti dei fotografi che catturano le loro varie forme e colori all'alba o al tramonto quando vengono evidenziate le bande rock simili a arcobaleno.
La Riserva è ricca di testimonianze dell'occupazione aborigena con incisioni rupestri o petroglifi e dipinti, nonché mole e schegge di utensili in pietra, soprattutto intorno alle colline e ai crinali.
Le bande rocciose colorate nelle scogliere di arenaria erano causate dall'acqua.
Il ferro rosso dell'arenaria si dissolse e venne trascinato in superficie durante la stagione secca.Questa copertura rosso scuro è dura e si altera lentamente, mentre l'arenaria bianca più morbida sottostante si erode rapidamente in sabbia sciolta.Gli agenti atmosferici e l'erosione sono anche responsabili della forma della valle, dove i blocchi di arenaria sono stati erosi in pareti rocciose e torri squadrate.
Il campeggio è consentito nelle due aree designate.Si applicano tariffe per il campeggio e i campeggi devono essere prenotati online prima del tuo arrivo.
Travellers’ stories
- Map
- FAQs
Can Rainbow Valley be done as a day trip?
Rainbow Valley is perfect for a day trip from Alice Springs. Take camping gear to enjoy the unrivalled beauty of sunrise and sunset. Camping under the stars in the Red Centre is an experience you won’t soon forget.
[/faqDo I need any passes or permits to visit Rainbow Valley?
No, permits are not required to enter the Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve.
[/faqHow do I get around Rainbow Valley?
There are a number of walking tracks that take you past the remarkable sandstone formations, but be sure to stay on the tracks. Climbing on the rocks is prohibited.
[/faqHow do I get to Rainbow Valley?
Rainbow Valley is accessible by car (4WDs recommended), and is 2 hours’ drive south from Alice Springs. Take the turn-off on the Stuart Highway, about 75km from Alice. Rainbow Valley is a further 22km along an unsealed road. There are also tour options where the driving is done for you.
[/faqHow far is Rainbow Valley from Alice Springs?
Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve is around two hours drive south of Alice Springs (105km), with one quarter of that distance on unsealed road. 4WDs are recommended due to the corrugated road, but not essential.
[/faqWhat are the major attractions at Rainbow Valley?
Rainbow Valley’s famous rocky outcrop is something to behold, particularly at dawn or dusk. Be sure to walk the track around the clay pan. ‘Mushroom Rock’ is a unique sandstone formation nearby.
[/faqWhat should I bring with me to Rainbow Valley?
Be sure to bring all the usual Territory essentials: water, fuel, food and sunscreen. Sun-safe clothes and comfortable walking shoes are essential.
[/faqWhen is the best time to visit Rainbow Valley?
The best time to visit is during the cooler months of May to October, but you’re likely to experience blue skies all year round. The time of day you visit can make all the difference: sunrise and sunset are simply unforgettable. If you’re going for the sunrise or sunset, we recommend you camp overnight.
[/faqWhere should I go next from Rainbow Valley?
Take time to explore the West MacDonnell Ranges and Watarrka National Park, which boasts the unforgettable Kings Canyon. Further to the west explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.