Karlu Karlu

Discover ancient granite boulders that seem to have dropped from the wide blue skies of the Barkly Tablelands, 95km south of Tennant Creek.

Wander around Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles where you’ll find boulders that are precariously balanced and defying gravity, scattered across a wide, shallow valley.

The Devils Marbles are a sacred site known as Karlu Karlu in the language of the traditional owners the Warumungu people. Formed over millions of years, they continue to crack and erode making for a unique view each time you visit.

Take your time to explore the region’s most famous landmark. Follow the walkways and learn via the information boards how the granite formations have withstood the eroding forces of wind and rain, unlike the surrounding sandstone. The fascinating geological marvel can be explored through a short self-guided walking trail with informative signage.

The Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve offers a scenic bush camping area with fireplaces. Stay the night to ensure you’re there at sunset, the most dramatic time to experience the area. Camping fees apply and campsites must be booked online before you arrive.

Frequently asked questions

Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) is one hour south of Tennant Creek by car (96km). There are companies that run tours over multiple days from Alice Springs or Darwin that include a visit to Karlu Karlu.
Karlu Karlu is a perfect day trip from Tennant Creek.
The closest town to Karlu Karlu is Tennant Creek, which is one hour north (96km), while Alice Springs is 4½ hours south (403km).
Once there, the best way to see Karlu Karlu is by foot. There are no official walks, so take one or more of the informal self-guided tracks. Remember that the local Aboriginal community ask you to refrain from climbing on the boulders.
Entry into Karlu Karlu requires an NT Parks Pass. This is a separate pass to the Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta park passes. If you wish to camp at the campground, you must book online and pay a fee to camp. It is recommended that you do this before you go, as you won't be able to pay at the site.
The closest town is Tennant Creek, which is one hour north (96km), while Alice Springs is 4½ hours south (403km).
Tourists and travellers to Karlu Karlu are frequently surprised by just how many different rock formations there are. Make sure you have enough time to explore the whole area.
Bring plenty of drinking water, a hat, sun-safe clothing and sunscreen. There’s free wi-fi access at the site, so bring a camera and share your photos online.
The climate around Karlu Karlu boasts blue skies for most of the year, so you can explore the region at any time, regardless of the season. Be sure to pack plenty of water if visiting in summer.
Heading south from Karlu Karlu gives you the perfect opportunity to check out the Red Centre, including Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and the West MacDonnell Ranges. If your appetite for ancient rock formations is strong, don’t miss Kunjarra (The Pebbles), which are less than an hour south of Karlu Karlu.