South Australia · Attraction
Wilpena Pound (Ikara)
Ancient natural amphitheatre
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
Wilpena Pound, known to the Adnyamathanha people as Ikara, is a vast natural basin of folded quartzite ridges rising above the central Flinders Ranges. Covering around 80 square kilometres, the Pound is the centrepiece of Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and one of South Australia's most photographed landscapes. Walking trails lead to the rim and beyond, revealing Aboriginal heritage, wildlife and sweeping red-rock views in every direction.
Wilpena Pound was formed by ancient geological upheaval over 500 million years ago, and its encircling walls rise to Saint Mary Peak at 1171 metres, the highest point in the Flinders Ranges. The Adnyamathanha, whose name means people of the rocky ranges, hold deep spiritual connections to this country, and guided tours with Aboriginal interpreters bring these stories to life.
The park offers more than 20 walking trails ranging from gentle creek-bed strolls to demanding summit hikes. The Wangara Lookout walk and the challenging Saint Mary Peak trail are perennial favourites. Wildlife is abundant: yellow-footed rock-wallabies, emus, wedge-tailed eagles and euros are regularly spotted.
The Wilpena Pound Resort sits just outside the natural basin and provides accommodation, a visitor centre and a cafe. A national parks vehicle pass is required for entry to the park, and camping is available at several designated sites across the park.
Where to stay
Holiday parks near Wilpena Pound (Ikara).
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Scenic views
Lookouts near Wilpena Pound (Ikara).
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