It is easy to imagine the small claypan as a natural bowl, trapping and holding scarce rains and making this a favourite site for longer stays by early nomads. For a while after rain, there would be ample water, game animals and time. Time to patiently peck into the soft sandstone a record of their important beliefs. It is not known exactly how old the petroglyphs are. Arrernte custodians are happy for people to visit the site but ask that they don't climb over the rocks, touch or interfere with the petroglyphs in any way.
Any interference can attract heavy fines.
The Arrente custodians ask that non Arrente Aboriginal women do not enter this site. Access Ewaninga Rock Carvings Conservation Reserve is 39 kilometres south of Alice Springs. The road is generally suitable for conventional 2WD vehicles, however it can become impassable after rain. When to visit The Reserve is generally accessible all year round. The petroglyphs are best photographed in early morning and late afternoon, when shadow effects make the shallow engravings more obvious.