Mungo National Park

Mungo National Park is located in the southwest region of New South Wales, Australia, within the Willandra Lakes World Heritage Area. It lies approximately 110 kilometers northeast of the town of Mildura and 145 kilometers northwest of Balranald. The park is renowned for its rich Aboriginal heritage and dramatic landscapes. The park was established in 1979 and is historically significant due to the discovery of ancient human remains, including "Mungo Man" and "Mungo Lady," which date back over 40,000 years. These discoveries provided crucial insight into early human history in Australia and are considered some of the oldest human remains found outside of Africa. Parking facilities at Mungo National Park include designated areas at the Visitor Centre and several key spots along the Mungo Loop Track, a self-guided driving tour. There are no entry fees, but visitors are required to pay for vehicle entry permits, which help maintain the park’s infrastructure and conservation efforts. The park supports a range of native wildlife, including red kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles. Visitors may also encounter mallee fowl, a rare and endangered species native to the region. The park’s flora includes saltbush, bluebush, and hardy eucalyptus trees adapted to the arid environment. The landscape features expansive sand dunes, ancient lake beds, and the remarkable Walls of China—a series of striking, wind-sculpted formations. Mungo National Park’s most notable landmark is the ancient Willandra Lakes, a system of now-dry lakes that shaped the landscape. The park is remote, and there is no public transportation available, so visitors must drive. However, local tour operators from Mildura and Balranald offer guided trips, providing an accessible way for tourists to experience the park's unique features.