Murujuga National Park

Murujuga National Park, on the remote Burrup Peninsula of Western Australia, is a place where ancient human expression meets a starkly beautiful, rust-red landscape. The park protects one of the world's most extraordinary collections of rock art – with over one million petroglyphs etched into the iron-rich boulders – alongside a coastline of turquoise waters and rocky headlands. For travellers who appreciate deep time and raw natural beauty, this is an unforgettable stop on a journey through the Pilbara.

Highlights & What to See

• Rock Art Galleries: Walk among boulders covered in petroglyphs of kangaroos, turtles, and human figures, some dating back over 40,000 years. The free Ngajarli (Deep Gorge) boardwalk offers an accessible introduction.
• Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation guided tours: Join a local Ngarluma-Yindjibarndi guide to hear the stories behind the art and learn about living culture.
• Hearson Cove: A calm swimming spot with picnic tables, perfect for a midday break. At low tide, the natural rock pools reveal tiny marine life.
• Burrup Peninsula Lookouts: Drive to the top for sweeping views over the Dampier Archipelago – especially stunning at sunset.
• King Bay: A quiet beach for a stroll, with views of the distant islands and the occasional sea eagle.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least half a day to explore the main boardwalk and a couple of lookouts, plus time for a swim. If you have a full day, add a guided tour and a picnic lunch. The park is compact enough to combine with a morning visit to the nearby town of Dampier or a sunset cruise in the archipelago.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dampier: The historic port town just 10 km away, with a small museum and the famous 'Red Dog' statue.
• Karratha: The regional hub (40 km), with supermarkets, accommodation, and the Karratha Visitor Centre.
• Millstream-Chichester National Park: A lush oasis of permanent pools and palm groves, about 2.5 hours south – great for camping and swimming.
• Cossack: A ghost town turned heritage precinct, with restored buildings and a hauntingly beautiful setting at the mouth of the Harding River.
• Dampier Archipelago: Take a boat tour to explore uninhabited islands, snorkel over coral reefs, or spot turtles and dugongs.

Please check official sources for current details.