11 safari lodges
    Victoria & Western NSW Riverlands, Australia
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Murray-Sunset National Park

    Victoria's second-largest national park, known for its vast mallee country, salt lakes, and stunning pink lakes. It's a remote outback experience where visitors can see kangaroos, emus, and a variety of mallee birds, particularly around dawn and dusk.

    Best timeApril to October (dry season in the north). Year-round in southern parks.
    Species
    18
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    11
    Area
    665,400 km²
    Recommended stay
    4-5 days
    Est.
    1991

    Murray-Sunset National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The Australian Big 5

    2 of 5 found in Murray-Sunset National Park

    Kangaroo
    Koala
    Platypus
    Wombat
    Echidna

    Recent sightings at Murray-Sunset National Park

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    18 species recorded in Murray-Sunset National Park

    Book Safari Experiences in Murray-Sunset National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Murray-Sunset National Park

    Australia offers a safari experience unlike any other, with unique marsupials and ancient landscapes. For the quintessential outback adventure, we recommend visiting Uluru and the Red Centre between...

    January

    Now
    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions across much of the country, with frequent tropical downpours in the north. Southern regions are generally milder but can experience heatwaves.

    It's a great time for birding, especially in the wetlands of Kakadu, as many species are actively breeding. Young kangaroos and wallabies are often seen venturing out.

    We love exploring the lush, green landscapes of Kakadu National Park during this time, despite the heat, as the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

    Kakadu National Park
    Litchfield National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    February

    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Similar to January, with high temperatures and humidity, particularly in the tropical north. Coastal areas can be affected by cyclones.

    The wet season fuels abundant life; look for crocodile activity in the northern waterways and enjoy the vibrant birdlife. Young marsupials are becoming more independent.

    We recommend visiting the Kimberley region for its dramatic waterfalls and the chance to see the landscape in its full, verdant glory, but be prepared for potential road closures.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Daintree Rainforest

    March

    low

    Late Summer / Early Autumn

    Temperatures begin to moderate in the north as the wet season starts to recede. Southern Australia experiences pleasant, warm weather.

    The receding waters create excellent opportunities for spotting saltwater crocodiles basking. Bird migration is still strong in many areas.

    We find March to be an ideal month for exploring Kangaroo Island, as the weather is comfortable and the wildlife is active without the peak summer crowds.

    Kangaroo Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Great Ocean Road

    April

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn brings mild and sunny days to most of Australia. The tropical north experiences its dry season, with lower humidity and less rain.

    This is prime time for whale watching along the east coast. The cooler weather makes wildlife spotting easier across the continent.

    We absolutely adore the Australian Alps in April for their stunning autumn colours and the chance to see wombats and kangaroos in crisp, clear air.

    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road
    Australian Alps National Parks

    May

    moderate

    Autumn

    Pleasant, mild weather prevails across much of the country. The north is firmly in its dry season, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

    The dry season in the north is excellent for observing wildlife concentrated around water sources. Southern Australia is good for whale watching and land-based mammals.

    We recommend heading to Uluru and the Red Centre in May; the daytime temperatures are perfect for exploring and the desert blooms after the last rains.

    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road

    June

    moderate

    Winter

    Winter brings cooler temperatures, especially in the south where frost and even snow are common in higher elevations. The north remains mild and dry.

    Whale migration is at its peak along the western and southern coasts. The dry season in the north makes wildlife viewing in national parks like Kakadu very accessible.

    We love the accessibility of Kakadu and Arnhem Land in June; the dry season means all roads are open and the wildlife is easily spotted around waterholes.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Great Ocean Road

    July

    high

    Winter

    Coldest month in the south, with potential for snow in the mountains. Northern Australia enjoys its dry season with cool nights and warm, sunny days.

    The dry season in the north is ideal for spotting crocodiles and other reptiles. Southern coasts continue to see significant whale activity.

    We find July to be the ultimate month for exploring the vast wilderness of the Kimberley, as the weather is perfect and the landscapes are breathtaking.

    The Kimberley
    Kakadu National Park
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    August

    high

    Winter / Early Spring

    Still cool in the south, but warming up. The north is transitioning from its dry to its build-up season, with increasing humidity.

    The end of the whale migration season. Birdlife is abundant, and many marsupials are active in the cooler mornings and evenings.

    We recommend visiting Tasmania in August for its unique wildlife and dramatic winter landscapes; it's a ruggedly beautiful experience.

    Tasmania National Parks
    The Kimberley
    Kangaroo Island

    September

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring brings warmer temperatures across the country. The north experiences its 'build-up' season, which can be hot and humid with occasional storms.

    The build-up in the north often means increased crocodile activity. Southern Australia sees the start of kangaroo joey season and wildflowers.

    We love the wildflowers of Western Australia in September; the landscapes are carpeted in colour and the weather is superb for exploring.

    Karijini National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    October

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures are rising, especially in the north where the build-up season continues. Southern Australia enjoys pleasant spring weather.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as many species are nesting. Young animals are common, and marine life is active.

    We recommend the Eyre Peninsula in October for incredible marine wildlife encounters, including swimming with sea lions and seeing great white sharks.

    Eyre Peninsula
    Karijini National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    November

    moderate

    Late Spring / Early Summer

    Hot and humid conditions return to the tropical north, signalling the start of the wet season. Southern Australia experiences warm to hot summer weather.

    The wet season begins in the north, bringing dramatic storms and lush vegetation. Southern Australia is excellent for spotting koalas and kangaroos.

    We find November to be a great time to visit Fraser Island; the weather is warm enough for swimming and the island is less crowded than in peak summer.

    Fraser Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Kangaroo Island

    December

    peak

    Summer / Wet Season

    Hot and humid across most of Australia, with the tropical north experiencing its wet season and potential for heavy rainfall and cyclones.

    The wet season in the north creates a vibrant, green landscape and boosts wildlife activity, especially in the wetlands. Young animals are abundant.

    We love the energy of the Australian summer, and while the north can be challenging, the southern coasts offer fantastic opportunities for spotting marine life and enjoying warmer weather.

    Daintree Rainforest
    Great Ocean Road
    Kangaroo Island

    January

    Now
    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions across much of the country, with frequent tropical downpours in the north. Southern regions are generally milder but can experience heatwaves.

    It's a great time for birding, especially in the wetlands of Kakadu, as many species are actively breeding. Young kangaroos and wallabies are often seen venturing out.

    We love exploring the lush, green landscapes of Kakadu National Park during this time, despite the heat, as the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

    Kakadu National Park
    Litchfield National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    February

    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Similar to January, with high temperatures and humidity, particularly in the tropical north. Coastal areas can be affected by cyclones.

    The wet season fuels abundant life; look for crocodile activity in the northern waterways and enjoy the vibrant birdlife. Young marsupials are becoming more independent.

    We recommend visiting the Kimberley region for its dramatic waterfalls and the chance to see the landscape in its full, verdant glory, but be prepared for potential road closures.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Daintree Rainforest

    March

    low

    Late Summer / Early Autumn

    Temperatures begin to moderate in the north as the wet season starts to recede. Southern Australia experiences pleasant, warm weather.

    The receding waters create excellent opportunities for spotting saltwater crocodiles basking. Bird migration is still strong in many areas.

    We find March to be an ideal month for exploring Kangaroo Island, as the weather is comfortable and the wildlife is active without the peak summer crowds.

    Kangaroo Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Great Ocean Road

    April

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn brings mild and sunny days to most of Australia. The tropical north experiences its dry season, with lower humidity and less rain.

    This is prime time for whale watching along the east coast. The cooler weather makes wildlife spotting easier across the continent.

    We absolutely adore the Australian Alps in April for their stunning autumn colours and the chance to see wombats and kangaroos in crisp, clear air.

    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road
    Australian Alps National Parks

    May

    moderate

    Autumn

    Pleasant, mild weather prevails across much of the country. The north is firmly in its dry season, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

    The dry season in the north is excellent for observing wildlife concentrated around water sources. Southern Australia is good for whale watching and land-based mammals.

    We recommend heading to Uluru and the Red Centre in May; the daytime temperatures are perfect for exploring and the desert blooms after the last rains.

    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road

    June

    moderate

    Winter

    Winter brings cooler temperatures, especially in the south where frost and even snow are common in higher elevations. The north remains mild and dry.

    Whale migration is at its peak along the western and southern coasts. The dry season in the north makes wildlife viewing in national parks like Kakadu very accessible.

    We love the accessibility of Kakadu and Arnhem Land in June; the dry season means all roads are open and the wildlife is easily spotted around waterholes.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Great Ocean Road

    July

    high

    Winter

    Coldest month in the south, with potential for snow in the mountains. Northern Australia enjoys its dry season with cool nights and warm, sunny days.

    The dry season in the north is ideal for spotting crocodiles and other reptiles. Southern coasts continue to see significant whale activity.

    We find July to be the ultimate month for exploring the vast wilderness of the Kimberley, as the weather is perfect and the landscapes are breathtaking.

    The Kimberley
    Kakadu National Park
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    August

    high

    Winter / Early Spring

    Still cool in the south, but warming up. The north is transitioning from its dry to its build-up season, with increasing humidity.

    The end of the whale migration season. Birdlife is abundant, and many marsupials are active in the cooler mornings and evenings.

    We recommend visiting Tasmania in August for its unique wildlife and dramatic winter landscapes; it's a ruggedly beautiful experience.

    Tasmania National Parks
    The Kimberley
    Kangaroo Island

    September

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring brings warmer temperatures across the country. The north experiences its 'build-up' season, which can be hot and humid with occasional storms.

    The build-up in the north often means increased crocodile activity. Southern Australia sees the start of kangaroo joey season and wildflowers.

    We love the wildflowers of Western Australia in September; the landscapes are carpeted in colour and the weather is superb for exploring.

    Karijini National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    October

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures are rising, especially in the north where the build-up season continues. Southern Australia enjoys pleasant spring weather.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as many species are nesting. Young animals are common, and marine life is active.

    We recommend the Eyre Peninsula in October for incredible marine wildlife encounters, including swimming with sea lions and seeing great white sharks.

    Eyre Peninsula
    Karijini National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    November

    moderate

    Late Spring / Early Summer

    Hot and humid conditions return to the tropical north, signalling the start of the wet season. Southern Australia experiences warm to hot summer weather.

    The wet season begins in the north, bringing dramatic storms and lush vegetation. Southern Australia is excellent for spotting koalas and kangaroos.

    We find November to be a great time to visit Fraser Island; the weather is warm enough for swimming and the island is less crowded than in peak summer.

    Fraser Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Kangaroo Island

    December

    peak

    Summer / Wet Season

    Hot and humid across most of Australia, with the tropical north experiencing its wet season and potential for heavy rainfall and cyclones.

    The wet season in the north creates a vibrant, green landscape and boosts wildlife activity, especially in the wetlands. Young animals are abundant.

    We love the energy of the Australian summer, and while the north can be challenging, the southern coasts offer fantastic opportunities for spotting marine life and enjoying warmer weather.

    Daintree Rainforest
    Great Ocean Road
    Kangaroo Island

    January

    Now
    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions across much of the country, with frequent tropical downpours in the north. Southern regions are generally milder but can experience heatwaves.

    It's a great time for birding, especially in the wetlands of Kakadu, as many species are actively breeding. Young kangaroos and wallabies are often seen venturing out.

    We love exploring the lush, green landscapes of Kakadu National Park during this time, despite the heat, as the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

    Kakadu National Park
    Litchfield National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    February

    low

    Summer / Wet Season

    Similar to January, with high temperatures and humidity, particularly in the tropical north. Coastal areas can be affected by cyclones.

    The wet season fuels abundant life; look for crocodile activity in the northern waterways and enjoy the vibrant birdlife. Young marsupials are becoming more independent.

    We recommend visiting the Kimberley region for its dramatic waterfalls and the chance to see the landscape in its full, verdant glory, but be prepared for potential road closures.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Daintree Rainforest

    March

    low

    Late Summer / Early Autumn

    Temperatures begin to moderate in the north as the wet season starts to recede. Southern Australia experiences pleasant, warm weather.

    The receding waters create excellent opportunities for spotting saltwater crocodiles basking. Bird migration is still strong in many areas.

    We find March to be an ideal month for exploring Kangaroo Island, as the weather is comfortable and the wildlife is active without the peak summer crowds.

    Kangaroo Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Great Ocean Road

    April

    moderate

    Autumn

    Autumn brings mild and sunny days to most of Australia. The tropical north experiences its dry season, with lower humidity and less rain.

    This is prime time for whale watching along the east coast. The cooler weather makes wildlife spotting easier across the continent.

    We absolutely adore the Australian Alps in April for their stunning autumn colours and the chance to see wombats and kangaroos in crisp, clear air.

    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road
    Australian Alps National Parks

    May

    moderate

    Autumn

    Pleasant, mild weather prevails across much of the country. The north is firmly in its dry season, offering clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

    The dry season in the north is excellent for observing wildlife concentrated around water sources. Southern Australia is good for whale watching and land-based mammals.

    We recommend heading to Uluru and the Red Centre in May; the daytime temperatures are perfect for exploring and the desert blooms after the last rains.

    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Great Ocean Road

    June

    moderate

    Winter

    Winter brings cooler temperatures, especially in the south where frost and even snow are common in higher elevations. The north remains mild and dry.

    Whale migration is at its peak along the western and southern coasts. The dry season in the north makes wildlife viewing in national parks like Kakadu very accessible.

    We love the accessibility of Kakadu and Arnhem Land in June; the dry season means all roads are open and the wildlife is easily spotted around waterholes.

    Kakadu National Park
    The Kimberley
    Great Ocean Road

    July

    high

    Winter

    Coldest month in the south, with potential for snow in the mountains. Northern Australia enjoys its dry season with cool nights and warm, sunny days.

    The dry season in the north is ideal for spotting crocodiles and other reptiles. Southern coasts continue to see significant whale activity.

    We find July to be the ultimate month for exploring the vast wilderness of the Kimberley, as the weather is perfect and the landscapes are breathtaking.

    The Kimberley
    Kakadu National Park
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    August

    high

    Winter / Early Spring

    Still cool in the south, but warming up. The north is transitioning from its dry to its build-up season, with increasing humidity.

    The end of the whale migration season. Birdlife is abundant, and many marsupials are active in the cooler mornings and evenings.

    We recommend visiting Tasmania in August for its unique wildlife and dramatic winter landscapes; it's a ruggedly beautiful experience.

    Tasmania National Parks
    The Kimberley
    Kangaroo Island

    September

    moderate

    Spring

    Spring brings warmer temperatures across the country. The north experiences its 'build-up' season, which can be hot and humid with occasional storms.

    The build-up in the north often means increased crocodile activity. Southern Australia sees the start of kangaroo joey season and wildflowers.

    We love the wildflowers of Western Australia in September; the landscapes are carpeted in colour and the weather is superb for exploring.

    Karijini National Park
    Kangaroo Island
    Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

    October

    moderate

    Spring

    Temperatures are rising, especially in the north where the build-up season continues. Southern Australia enjoys pleasant spring weather.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching as many species are nesting. Young animals are common, and marine life is active.

    We recommend the Eyre Peninsula in October for incredible marine wildlife encounters, including swimming with sea lions and seeing great white sharks.

    Eyre Peninsula
    Karijini National Park
    Daintree Rainforest

    November

    moderate

    Late Spring / Early Summer

    Hot and humid conditions return to the tropical north, signalling the start of the wet season. Southern Australia experiences warm to hot summer weather.

    The wet season begins in the north, bringing dramatic storms and lush vegetation. Southern Australia is excellent for spotting koalas and kangaroos.

    We find November to be a great time to visit Fraser Island; the weather is warm enough for swimming and the island is less crowded than in peak summer.

    Fraser Island
    Kakadu National Park
    Kangaroo Island

    December

    peak

    Summer / Wet Season

    Hot and humid across most of Australia, with the tropical north experiencing its wet season and potential for heavy rainfall and cyclones.

    The wet season in the north creates a vibrant, green landscape and boosts wildlife activity, especially in the wetlands. Young animals are abundant.

    We love the energy of the Australian summer, and while the north can be challenging, the southern coasts offer fantastic opportunities for spotting marine life and enjoying warmer weather.

    Daintree Rainforest
    Great Ocean Road
    Kangaroo Island
    Planning & reference

    What makes Murray-Sunset truly special for us is its profound sense of isolation and the otherworldly beauty of its pink lakes at dawn or dusk. We find the silence here incredibly restorative, broken only by the rustle of the Mallee and the calls of birds, offering a unique Australian wilderness experience far from the crowds.

    Gate Times

    Murray-Sunset National Park is generally accessible 24 hours a day, year-round, allowing us to enjoy those sensational sunrises and sunsets. However, we strongly advise checking the Parks Victoria website for current road conditions, especially after heavy rain, as some tracks can become impassable. Camping requires pre-booking through Parks Victoria, which we always recommend doing well in advance, particularly during peak seasons like school holidays.

    Tipping

    Unlike many safari destinations, tipping guides or park rangers in Murray-Sunset National Park is not a customary practice. We recommend expressing your appreciation through genuine thanks and positive feedback to Parks Victoria if you've had a particularly helpful interaction. Your respect for the park and its staff is the best form of gratuity.

    Dress Code

    We recommend dressing in layers, as the Mallee desert climate can swing dramatically from scorching days to surprisingly cool nights, even in summer. Lightweight, breathable fabrics in neutral colours are ideal for daytime, offering sun protection without attracting heat. For evenings, a warm fleece or jacket is essential. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are a must for exploring the tracks and saltbush plains. Don't forget a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses; the sun here is intense.

    Photography

    The vast, open landscapes and the vibrant pink lakes of Murray-Sunset offer incredible photographic opportunities. We love capturing the dramatic light during the golden hours-sunrise and sunset here are truly sensational, painting the sky in fiery hues over the salt pans. For wildlife, a telephoto lens is invaluable for capturing kangaroos, emus, and the diverse birdlife without disturbance. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for the expansive vistas. Drone use is generally restricted in national parks without a specific permit, so we always advise checking with Parks Victoria beforehand to avoid disappointment.

    Etiquette

    When exploring Murray-Sunset, we adhere to a 'leave no trace' philosophy. Always stay on marked tracks to protect the fragile Mallee environment and for your own safety. Wildlife should be observed from a respectful distance; never approach or feed animals. Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially at campsites, to preserve the tranquility for others and avoid disturbing nocturnal creatures. Campfires are only permitted in designated areas and subject to fire restrictions, which we always check diligently.

    What to Bring

    Plenty of drinking water (at least 5 litres per person per day)
    High-SPF sunscreen
    Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
    Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes
    Layered clothing for varying temperatures
    First-aid kit
    Detailed map and compass or GPS device
    Binoculars for wildlife spotting
    Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
    Non-perishable food supplies
    Full tank of fuel (services are scarce)
    Rubbish bags to carry out all waste

    Temperature

    25.39°C

    78°F · Range: 18.58–32.22°C

    Rainfall

    16.5 mm

    Dry season · 3.8 rainy days

    Humidity

    42.6%

    Sunshine

    12.2 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    6.2 m/s

    22.3 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Murray-Sunset National Park Reviews