School programs provide opportunities for students to connect with desert flora and fauna and Aboriginal culture, build their understandings, and be empowered to take action to help save wildlife.
The Desert Park offers guided and self-guided tour programs for local, remote and interstate students in the areas of science, flora and fauna, geography and history - all specific to Central Australia.
All school groups must be pre-booked using the school booking form .
Self-guided
If you would prefer to explore the Desert Park independently and teach your students about wildlife, conservation and culture head to what’s on to plan your visit. It is recommended to arrive 30 minutes prior to a schedule presentation. Priority is given to the general public. Public presentations are limited to 40 to 60 people per presentation with exception of the Nature Theatre with seating for 230.
Download the Self-guided information flyer PDF (210.9 KB)
National Science Week 2024 ‘Species Survival’ program
Life can be fragile in the harsh conditions of the Central Australian Desert. Adaption, conservation and education can help to secure the survival of our unique plant and animal species. NT schools are invited to book a specialised presentation and activities. Bookings are essential.
Cultural Walk
What is it we humans need to survive?
Meet a guide on arrival to begin your discovery. Be involved in interactive activities that share knowledge on belonging to and looking after the land, its plants and animals and each other. Walk from Desert Rivers to Sand Country learning about how to find water in the desert and different tracks and tools used by desert Aboriginal people. In the park’s Nocturnal House learn about hunting and sign language before continuing the journey to the Nature Theatre to be enthralled by birds of prey and other predators of the desert. An Aboriginal guide is not guaranteed, however the Desert Park will endeavour to meet the request.
Inclusions:
- Two and a half hour exclusive guided tour.
- Exploration of Aboriginal culture, plants and animals.
- Guided tour of Nocturnal House.
- Nature Theatre - free flying bird presentation.
Departure: Seven days a week departing at 8am, 9.45am, 1.30pm or 3.15pm (winter).
Capacity: minimum of 15 and maximum 75 people.
Download the Cultural Walk information flyer PDF (574.8 KB)
Nocturnal Tour
Step inside the Mulga Walk enclosure for an evening of adventure and discovery. Spotlight endangered and extinct animals no longer found in Central Australian deserts including mala and bilby in the foothills of the MacDonnell Ranges. Students will learn about endangered species of the desert and how they can make a difference.
Inclusions:
- One hour spotlighting tour in the Mulga Walk habitat, an exclusive area not available to the public during the day.
- A chance to see rare and endangered animals.
- Includes head torch for every person.
Helpful hints:
- Cameras are welcome but no flash photography please.
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, bring water, insect repellent (optional) and warm clothes in winter.
- Groups should arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure times.
Departure: 7.30pm to 8.30pm.
Capacity: minimum of 20 and maximum 40 people.
Download the Nocturnal Tour information flyer PDF (149.9 KB)