Mungo National Park / Walls of China

About

Mungo National Park protects a remarkable dry lake system in far western NSW, containing the longest continuous record of Aboriginal occupation anywhere in the world — over 50,000 years. The Walls of China is a 33 km crescent-shaped lunette (dune wall) formed by wind erosion of ancient lake sediments. In 1974, the remains of Mungo Man (42,000 years old) and Mungo Lady (26,000 years old) were discovered here, rewriting human prehistory.

History & Significance

Mungo National Park protects one of the world's most significant archaeological sites, with continuous evidence of Aboriginal occupation spanning over 50,000 years. In 1974, the remains of Mungo Man (42,000 years old) and Mungo Lady (26,000 years old) were discovered here, fundamentally changing understanding of human prehistory and early migration. The park's geological formations, including the striking 33 km Walls of China lunette, record ancient lake systems and megafauna from the Pleistocene era. The site is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural and scientific value.

Getting There

Visitor Tips

• •Book a ranger-guided Walls of China tour for the full cultural and geological context. Stay overnight for spectacular stargazing — the Milky Way is extraordinary here.

Cultural Significance

Mungo National Park protects one of the world's most significant archaeological sites, with continuous evidence of Aboriginal occupation spanning over 50,000 years. In 1974, the remains of Mungo Man (42,000 years old) and Mungo Lady (26,000 years old) were discovered here, fundamentally changing understanding of human prehistory and early migration. The park's geological formations, including the striking 33 km Walls of China lunette, record ancient lake systems and megafauna from the Pleistocene era. The site is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding cultural and scientific value.