Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve

About 145 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs, the Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve offers an otherworldly encounter with one of the world's most accessible meteorite impact sites. Twelve craters pockmark the red desert floor, formed some 4700 years ago when a meteorite broke apart before slamming into the earth. It's a stark, silent place that feels both ancient and immediate – a must for anyone fascinated by geology, astronomy or the sheer force of nature.

Highlights & What to See

• The craters: Walk the short, self-guided trail that loops past the largest crater (180 metres across and 15 metres deep) and several smaller ones. Interpretive signs explain the impact event and the scientific discoveries made here.
• Meteorite fragments: The reserve is a protected area – you cannot remove any fragments – but small pieces are occasionally visible on the ground. The main collection is housed at the Museum of Central Australia in Alice Springs.
• Desert landscape: The surrounding spinifex and red sand dunes are classic Central Australia. Keep an eye out for dingoes, kangaroos and birdlife such as the zebra finch.
• Aboriginal significance: The site holds deep cultural meaning for the Arrernte people, who have oral traditions recounting a fiery star that fell from the sky. Respect the area as a sacred place.

Suggested Time to Spend

You can experience the reserve in 1–2 hours, which is enough to walk the crater rim trail and soak up the atmosphere. It's a popular stop on a day trip from Alice Springs (allow 3–4 hours round-trip driving plus time at the site). If you're self-driving from Alice to Uluru, it makes an excellent mid-morning break – just be sure to leave early to avoid the heat.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – 145 km north-east; base yourself here for supplies and to visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Desert Park.
• Kings Canyon – about 200 km west; combine with a drive to Watarrka National Park for the dramatic rim walk.
• Uluru (Ayers Rock) – 350 km south-west; continue your outback journey to the iconic monolith and Kata Tjuta.
• West MacDonnell Ranges – en route from Alice Springs; stop at Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge.

Please check official sources for current details.