Located 110km east of Alice Springs in the East MacDonnell Ranges, the historic town of Arltunga was officially Central Australia’s first town and once supported up to 3,000 people.
Arltunga was born out of a gold rush in 1887, when alluvial gold was discovered in a dry creek bed. Fortune seekers had to travel 600km from the Oodnadatta railhead, often on foot, to seek their fortune in a harsh environment. At the time, Alice Springs consisted of just the Overland Telegraph Station, and was little more than an outpost that had expanded as it became the supply base of Arltunga. Mining activity continued in the area for 30 years.
Today you can relive the heyday of Arltunga at the Historical Reserve, where the remains of mines, old miner’s camps and stone buildings (some of which have been restored), are preserved for the public to explore.
Drivers are advised the road to Arltunga includes 33km of gravel road. The fossicking area is located outside the reserve, however you can pan for gold in the visitor centre’s courtyard display.
The Visitor Centre provides visitors with a detailed understanding of the Reserve’s past.
Pass information
If you’re a visitor to the NT, you need an NT Parks Visitor Pass to visit most national parks and reserves. The pass allows you to visit all parks and reserves managed by the NT Government within your valid dates.
|
Pass type
|
1-day pass | 3-day pass | 2-week pass | 1-month pass | Annual pass |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult 18 years and over | $10 | $20 | $30 | $45 | $60 |
| Child 5 to 17 years | $5 | $10 | $15 | $22 | $30 |
| Family 2 adults and 4 children | $25 | $50 | $75 | $110 | $150 |
| Concession Holders of Australian Government issued Seniors Card, Pensioner Concession Card or DVA Card. | $8 | $16 | $24 | $36 | $48 |
NT residents don't need a visitor pass but may be asked to show proof of residency, such as a valid NT driver licence.
Buy your pass online or find out more about passes & permits in the NT.
Opening times
Open daily, 24 hours.
Entry cost
- Indicative Prices tickets from $10.00 to $60.00
Park entry fees - NT Parks Visitor Pass applies (NT residents exempt). - Child tickets from $5.00 to $30.00
Park entry fees - NT Parks Visitor Pass applies (NT residents exempt).
Facilities
- Barbeque
- Carpark
- Coach parking
- Interpretive centre
- Lookouts
- Picnic area
- Public toilet
Activities
- Walks
Holiday deals
Take advantage of these travel deals to help your holiday dollars go further in the NT. See all deals & offers
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