Mesmerising Pink Lakes You Must Visit

Their shocking shades of watermelon and fleeting fairy floss hues keep us forever enchanted by these natural wonders.

Australia’s pink lakes are some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on Earth, drawing photographers, adventurers and nature lovers alike. And why are they pink? Often, it’s a winning combination of algae known as Dunaliella salina or Halobacterium bacteria that produces the red pigments and lovely oh-so-salty environments.

If you want to up your chances of seeing these lakes at the rosiest of pinks, the best time to visit most of them is in the warmer months when it is more likely that these pink-loving microorganisms will grow.

Ready to pack your camera and go? Here is our guide to the pink lakes of Australia.

1. Lake Hillier, Middle Island, WA

When is it pink? Constantly! With its crazy combination of a watermelon pink lake against the teal blue of the Southern Ocean, Lake Hillier in Western Australia is Australia’s most famous lake.

an aerial view of the pink Lake Hillier and the blue sea — Take in the striking contrast of the pink lake and blue sea. (Image: True North)

How can I visit? Lake Hillier is a delicate gal, with a very particular ecosystem and a protected status. As such you can’t swim here.

However, you can take an aerial tour or a private charter by air, which is best for being able to see that striking contrast of the pink lake and blue sea. Alternatively, boat tours are available.

the stunning Lake Hillier as seen from above — You can take an aerial tour or a private charter by air. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Other information: The Recherche Archipelago Nature Reserve is protected and remote. Planning is needed to get here!

an aerial view of Lake Hillier, Middle Island, WA — Lake Hillier is a protected saline lake in Western Australia. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Hutt Lagoon, Coral Coast, WA

When is it pink? Hutt Lagoon shades shift depending on the time of year, water levels, salinity, and weather conditions. For the most intense of pinks, aim for the warmer months.

an aerial view of the pink lake at Hutt Lagoon — Hutt Lagoon is situated along the Coral Coast Highway. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

How can I visit? The Hutt Lagoon is up on the Coral Coast near Geraldton.

You can visit it by scenic flight or on a guided visit as part of a tour. You can swim here, but the extra salty water can be uncomfortable.

different shades of pink at Hutt Lagoon — The shades shift depending on the time of year. (Image: Tourism Western Australia / SailorJay)

Other information: Unlike some other lakes, the best time to visit Hutt Lagoon is during the dry season and when the sun is high (no hat no play, people).

the pink marine salt lake at Hutt Lagoon — The marine salt lake gets its incredible pink colour from carotenoid-producing algae. (Image: Tourism Western Australia / SailorJay)

3. Lake MacDonnell, Eyre Peninsula, SA

When is it pink? The best time to see this is from spring to early autumn on particularly sunny days. Possibly South Australia’s most famous pink lake is renowned for its trippy aesthetics – namely that you can drive on a road where one side is bright blue-green and the other is bright pink!

driving through Lake MacDonnell — Embark on a spectacular coastal road trip across Lake MacDonnell. (Image: Tom Cunningham)

How can I visit? Lake MacDonnell is on the remote Eyre Peninsula. However, if you are making a spectacular coastal road trip already, it is located off the Eyre Highway. Once you reach it, there are designated viewing spots.

driving on the road between bright blue-green and bright pink waters — Drive between bright blue-green and bright pink waters. (Image: Jaxon Foale)

Other information: Conserve Lake MacDonnell’s natural beauty. Don’t walk on the lake and disturb the salt crust.

a 4wd driving on the road along Lake MacDonnell — Just off the Eyre Highway, you’ll reach the stunning Lake MacDonnell. (Image: Riley M Williams)

4. Lake Gairdner, Lake Gairdner National Park, SA

When is it pink? Lake Gairdner has an incredibly flat and vast nature that makes for a gorgeously strange outlook. During hot, dry periods when the water evaporates, the lake’s salt crust becomes pinkish due to concentrated salinity and minerals. It’s most vibrant after dry weather conditions and at sunsets and sunrises, it can turn a periwinkle pink.

a person silhouetted against the sunset landscape at Lake Gairdner, SA — Lake Gairdner is absolutely stunning at sunset. (Image: Tom Cowey)

How can I visit? Located within Lake Gairdner National Park, it’s accessible by four-wheel drive. It’s ideal for adventurous travellers who want to explore the vast salt flats. The lake’s best views are during sunrise and sunset when the colours are most intense. You can’t swim in the lake, but it’s a great spot for photography or nature walks.

people exploring Lake Gairdner National Park, SA — Lake Gairdner is Australia’s third-largest salt lake.

Other information: Lake Gairdner is often used for land-speed racing events, so check the calendar if you’re planning a visit. Be prepared for harsh conditions, as it’s located in the outback with little shade or facilities nearby.

the walking track at Lake Gairdner, SA — Lake Gairdner is a great spot for photography or nature walks. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

5. Pink Lakes, Murray Sunset National Park, Vic

When is it pink? The lakes, including Lake Crosbie, Lake Kenyon and Lake Becking, are at their pinkest during late summer and early autumn when the water levels drop and the salinity increases. However, the pink hue can vary throughout the year depending on conditions.

salt crystals at Murray River Salt Lake — Murray River Salt produces crystals under the pastel water.

How can I visit? Murray Sunset National Park is accessible by car, and there are several walking tracks around the pink lakes. The pink lakes can be reached via well-maintained dirt roads, but it’s recommended to check conditions before visiting.

Other information: The best time for photography is during sunrise and sunset when the colours of the lakes and surrounding landscape are most dramatic. Keep in mind, there are no shops or facilities nearby, so come prepared with plenty of water and supplies.

the Murray River Salt Lake in Mildura — Murray River Salt is the country’s only naturally pink salt.

6. Lake Ballard, Goldfields-Esperance, WA

When is it pink? Lake Ballard’s pink hue is most visible during dry periods when the water evaporates, leaving behind a high concentration of salt and minerals. It can take on a subtle pinkish tint depending on the season and water levels.

an aerial view of Lake Ballard, Goldfields-Esperance, WA — See stunning sculptures scattered across the salt flats. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @apertunity_)

How can I visit? Lake Ballard is located in the remote Goldfields-Esperance area, about 180 kilometres from Kalgoorlie. It’s accessible by 4WD and visitors can walk across the lakebed when it’s dry. The lake is also home to the iconic ‘Inside Australia’ art installation by Antony Gormley, featuring 51 sculptures scattered across the salt flats.

Other information: There are no facilities nearby, so be sure to bring your own water, food and supplies. The remote location means you’ll likely have the lake to yourself, providing a unique outback experience.

the Lake Ballard as seen from above — The remote location of Lake Ballard makes for a unique outback experience. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @apertunity_)

7. Carrarang Salt Lakes, Shark Bay, WA

When is it pink? The Carrarang Salt Lakes exhibit their pink hues during dry periods when water evaporates, leaving behind highly saline water and salt crusts that turn pink.

How can I visit? Located on Carrarang Station, these salt lakes are accessible by 4WD and offer a unique opportunity to experience WA’s rugged outback beauty. Visitors can explore the salt lakes on foot and take in the vast, barren landscape.

Other information: The area is remote, so ensure you’re well-prepared with water, food, and supplies. The best time for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the sun casts long shadows, highlighting the lakes’ pink hues.

pink and blue-hued Carrarang Salt Lakes, Shark Bay, WA — Take in the vast, barren landscape of Carrarang Salt Lakes. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @aeroture_au)

8. Cranbrook Lakes Loop, Great Southern, WA

When is it pink? The lakes in the Cranbrook Lakes Loop tend to show their pink hues during the warmer months when water levels drop, exposing the pinkish salt crusts.

How can I visit? The Cranbrook Lakes Loop is a popular route for those exploring the Great Southern region of Western Australia. The lakes are easily accessible by car, and there are walking trails around the area, making it a scenic and tranquil spot for visitors.

Other information: This region is also known for its wildflower displays in spring, so consider timing your visit to see both the pink lakes and the stunning wildflowers in bloom.

the Pink Lake in Cranbrook — Cranbrook Lakes Loop tend to show their pink hues during the warmer months. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

9. Lake Tyrrell, Mallee, Vic

When is it pink? Most of the year, Lake Tyrrell’s salt flats are a solid blue-grey. during late summer and autumn when the water has mostly evaporated, it can transform into a raspberry-coloured wonderland, drawing photographers to it like no tomorrow.

How can I visit? Lake Tyrrell is located near the town of Sea Lake in Victoria’s Mallee region. It’s accessible by car, and there are several walking tracks and viewing platforms around the lake. The best time for photography is at sunrise or sunset when the colours are most vivid.

Other information: Lake Tyrrell is Victoria’s largest salt lake and offers incredible opportunities for stargazing due to the lack of light pollution. Be sure to pack water and supplies, as the area can be remote with few amenities nearby.

Lake Tyrrell in Victoria — Lake Tyrrell is Victoria’s largest salt lake.

10. Lake Hart, Woomera, SA

When is it pink? This outback lake is covered in a white salt crust, which can develop a pinkish hue if the rainfall and salinity are just right. The lake is not always pink, but when conditions are right, the colours can be stunning.

How can I visit? Lake Hart is easily accessible by car and is located along the Stuart Highway, making it a popular stop for road trippers in South Australia. There is a rest area nearby where visitors can stop, walk around the lake and take photos. You can also see it from the Journey Beyond train, the Indian Pacific.

Other information: Lake Hart is part of the Woomera Prohibited Area, a military zone, so make sure to stay within the designated visitor areas. The surrounding landscape is vast and barren, offering spectacular views. Swimming isn’t permitted due to the high salt content.

the Indian Pacific crossing Lake Hart, Woomera, SA — See Lake Hart from the Journey Beyond train, the Indian Pacific. (Image: Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions)

11. Pithara Salt Lakes, the Wheatbelt, WA

When is it pink? The Pithara Salt Lakes exhibit a pink hue during the drier months when water levels drop and the saline content increases, causing the lakebed to take on a rosy tint.

How can I visit? The Pithara Salt Lakes are located near the town of Pithara in the Wheatbelt region. The lakes are accessible by car, and visitors can explore the surrounding area by foot to experience the salt flats up close.

Other information: Pithara is a quiet rural location, so you’ll likely have the area to yourself. Be sure to bring all the supplies you’ll need, as there are limited facilities nearby.

an aerial view of Pithara Salt Lakes, the Wheatbelt, WA — Pithara Salt Lakes take on a rosy tint when the saline content increases. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @christianfletcher_gallery)

12. Pink Lakes, Wadjemup/Rottnest Island, WA

When is it pink? Some of the salt lakes on Rottnest Island can turn pink. The pink lakes on Rottnest Island are typically most vibrant during the warmer months, when evaporation increases salinity. The colour can vary throughout the year but tends to be more intense in summer and early autumn.

How can I visit? Rottnest Island is a short ferry ride from Perth, and the pink lakes are easily accessible by bike or walking once on the island. You can explore the area at your own pace, but swimming is not permitted in the lakes.

the scenic landscape of Rottnest Island as seen from above — The pink lakes are easily accessible by bike or walking on Rottnest Island. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Other information: Rottnest Island is renowned for its wildlife, including the adorable quokkas, so you can combine a visit to the pink lakes with wildlife spotting.

the pink lake at Rottnest Island — The pink lakes on Rottnest Island are more vibrant during the warmer months. (Image: Tourism Australia)

13. Lake Bumbunga, Clare Valley, SA

When is it pink? Fun to say and even more fun to visit: Bumbunga is best seen late spring to early autumn. The saltier it is, the more intense the colours. Rainfall can dull this.

How can I visit? How can I visit? Lake Bumbunga is a hop and a skip from Adelaide, in the wine country of Clare Valley, taking only 1.5 hours to get there. There are designated viewing platforms when you arrive.

an aerial view of Lake Bumbunga, Clare Valley, SA — The saltier it is, the more intense the colours. (Image: Olivia Reynolds)

Other information: Sunrise and sunset are the best times to take photos.

yellowish hues at Lake Bumbunga — Bumbunga is best seen in late spring to early autumn. (Image: Isaac Forman)

14. Lake Warden, Goldfields-Esperance, WA

When is it pink? Lake Warden’s pink hue is more prominent during the warmer months when water levels drop, increasing the lake’s salinity. The colour can fluctuate throughout the year but tends to be most vibrant in summer.

How can I visit? Lake Warden is part of the Lake Warden Wetlands, located near Esperance. The lake is easily accessible by car, and there are walking trails around the area. The lake’s unique colours are particularly striking from elevated viewpoints.

Other information: Lake Warden is an important bird habitat, so keep an eye out for various species while visiting. The wetlands are part of a protected nature reserve, so swimming isn’t allowed. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light enhances the lake’s colours and wildlife activity.

a helicopter flying above Lake Warden, Goldfields-Esperance, WA — Fly above the lush greenery surrounding Lake Warden. (Image: Tourism Australia)

15. Pink Lake Dimboola, Wimmera, Vic

When is it pink? Pink Lake in Dimboola is most vibrant during late summer and autumn, when the water evaporates, concentrating the lake’s salinity and turning the water pink.

How can I visit? Pink Lake is located just outside the town of Dimboola, in Victoria’s Wimmera region. There are walking tracks around the lake where you can enjoy the views of its pink waters.

the Pink Lake in Dimboola — Just outside the town of Dimboola, the lake turns pink when the water evaporates.

Other information: The lake is part of a larger salt pan system, so be sure to explore the surrounding landscape as well.

16. Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, SA

When is it pink? As the largest lake and one of the largest salt flats in the world, a visit to the remote wonder of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is always worth it. Particularly special times to be here are the rare occasions it floods, attracting swarms of migratory birds and wildlife. It is in these wetter periods that you may see shades of pink.

an aerial view of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, SA — Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is one of the largest salt flats in the world. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

How can I visit? Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is extremely remote in northern SA. You will need a 4WD when you get closer as the road there is rough and unsealed. Alternatively, scenic flights depart from the surrounding region or you can take a guided tour.

Other information: Let us say one more time: that Kati Thanda is very remote. Prepare with plenty of water, food and any other vital provisions.

a scenic flight above Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, SA — A visit to the remote wonder of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre is always worth it. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

17. Lake Gregory, Kimberley, WA

When is it pink? Lake Gregory can display a pinkish hue during the dry season when water levels drop, increasing the lake’s salinity and exposing the pink salt crust.

How can I visit? Lake Gregory is located in the Kimberley region and is accessible by 4WD. The area is remote, but you can explore the salt flats and surrounding bushland on foot for spectacular views.

Other information: The region is rich in Aboriginal culture and history, so consider a guided tour to learn more about the significance of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. Be well-prepared for the remote conditions, as facilities are limited.

an aerial view of Lake Gregory, near Halls Creek — The stunning Lake Gregory is located in the Kimberley region. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @aeroture_au)

18. The Pink Lake, Goldfields-Esperance, WA

When is it pink? Pink Lake near Esperance once had a distinct pink hue but no longer consistently displays the colour due to environmental changes and reduced salinity. However, there are currently trials to try and restore its pink past.

How can I visit? Pink Lake is just outside the town of Esperance and easily accessible by car. While it no longer displays its famous pink colour regularly, the surrounding area is still worth exploring, with many nearby beaches and natural attractions.

Other information: Pink Lake’s transformation has sparked conservation efforts to try and restore its iconic hue. When visiting Esperance, consider exploring nearby natural attractions like Twilight Beach and Cape Le Grand National Park.

the view of The Pink Lake in Esperance — Pink Lake near Esperance once had a distinct pink hue. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

19. Lake Magic, Hyden, WA

When is it pink? Lake Magic’s pinkish hue is more noticeable during the hot, dry months when water levels drop and the salinity increases. The intensity of the pink can vary, with the colour becoming more pronounced in summer.

the luminous yellow water at Lake Magic as seen from above — Lake Magic changes from eerie whites to luminous yellows. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

How can I visit? Lake Magic is located near the town of Hyden, just a short drive from the famous Wave Rock.

Other information: Although the lake has a high salt content, you can swim in its clear, buoyant waters. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the striking contrast of the pink water against the surrounding landscape.

an aerial view of Lake Magic, Hyden, WA — Lake Magic’s pinkish hue is more noticeable in summer. (Image: Tourism Western Australia and @apertunity_)

20. Westgate Park Lake, Melbourne, Vic

When is it pink? This Port Melbourne lake is more likely to be pink during warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when it is dry and sunny.

How can I visit? Westgate Park Lake is incredibly close to a large urban population unlike other pink lakes in Australia and is only six kilometres from Melbourne. Due to limited parking, the best way to get here is by bus. You can also walk or cycle here.

Other information: If you want to make an afternoon of it, there are basic facilities here, like picnic areas, viewing platforms and walking paths.

Westgate Park pink lake in Port Melbourne — Westgate Park is more likely to be pink during warmer months. (Image: Parks Victoria)

21. Quairading Pink Lake, the Wheatbelt, WA

When is it pink? The colour fluctuates, depending on the time of year and the salinity levels. On hot days, the algae that turn it pink are more likely to be active.

driving through Quairading Pink Lake, the Wheatbelt, WA — Quairading Pink Lake is just a 2.5-hour drive from Perth. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

How can I visit? The lake is a 2.5-hour drive from Perth, making it relatively accessible compared to Australia’s other pink lakes. Once you’re there you can DIY your experience by heading to a viewing point, or you can take a local tour for a more in-depth background.

an aerial view of a car driving on the road along Quairading Pink Lake — Quairading Pink Lake is an enchanting sight to see. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Other information: While the lake can turn to vivid hues, this isn’t always the case and depends on conditions.

With their surreal beauty and vibrant hues, Australia’s pink lakes offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a photographer, nature enthusiast or just in search of something spectacular, these lakes are waiting to enchant you.

the Quairading Pink Lake, the Wheatbelt, WA as seen from above — The lake can turn to vivid hues depending on the conditions. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film — See *Kangaroo*, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre — Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move — Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs — Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs — Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs — Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs — Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs — Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs — Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.

Australia’s mesmerising pink lakes: 21 dreamy spots you must visit!