Tnorala/Gosse Bluff Conservation Reserve

Overview

Tnorala/Gosse Bluff Conservation Reserve is a significant Aboriginal cultural site and a stunning natural wonder. It features a massive, crater-like formation created by a meteorite impact over 142 million years ago.

This site is of great importance to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people, who consider it a sacred place. It's also a remarkable example of a meteorite impact crater.

Cultural Site Hiking Trail Scenic Viewpoint

Location

Address

Uncleared Road, Northern Territory 0872, Australia

Neighborhood: East MacDonnell Ranges

Coordinates

-19.123000, 134.234000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday Open 24 hours

tuesday Open 24 hours

wednesday Open 24 hours

thursday Open 24 hours

friday Open 24 hours

saturday Open 24 hours

sunday Open 24 hours

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-August

Best Time of Day

Early morning

cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day with hike

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm to hot

• wildflowers
• greenery

summer

hot and humid

• stargazing
• long daylight hours

autumn

mild to cool

• clear skies
• cooler temperatures

winter

cool and dry

• cool mornings
• clear skies

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Respect cultural sites
Stay on marked paths
Carry plenty of water

What to Bring

essential

water hat sunscreen

seasonal

rain jacket warm layers

not allowed

drones pets

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to high (for hikes)

• hot temperatures
• remote location
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: nearest medical help is 100km away

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Australian Dollar (AUD)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $0

guided tour $50

food $15

Dress Code

casual, modest, comfortable hiking shoes, sun protection, sturdy hiking shoes, inappropriate clothing for cultural sites

Booking Tips

• Not usually required, but recommended for guided tours
• official NT Government tourism website
• varies by tour operator
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

NT Parks and Wildlife

Size: 20 MB

Features: Park information, Maps, Wildlife guides

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: none, site is remote

Charging Stations: none, bring portable chargers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Alice Springs Airport (ASP)

Distance: 220 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

rental car

varies 2.5 hours

tour bus

$100-150 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 220 km

rental car

varies 2.5 hours

tour bus

$100-150 3 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Deep cultural significance, stunning natural beauty

Historical Significance: Ancient meteorite impact site, sacred to Aboriginal people

Insider Tips

Best light for photography is early morning
Bring your own food and plenty of water
Guided tours offer deep cultural insights

Local Recommendations

• Try bush tucker (traditional Aboriginal food)
• Learn about Aboriginal culture from local guides

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Ngalekenhe-arrekenhe

where_is Weye

how_much Kngwarreye

beautiful Mwerre

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Aboriginal languages

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Viewpoint overlooking the crater

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide angle for the full view

Result: Spectacular landscape shot

#OutbackAustralia #GosseBluff #AboriginalCulture

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas sacred sites as marked

flash photography not needed, often prohibited

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without special permit

tripod policy allowed at viewpoints

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Ormiston Gorge

Distance: 50km

Walking: n/a

Type: National Park

Finke Gorge National Park

Distance: 150km