Discover Sydney’s blooming spectacular
Each year, the Muogamarra, on the Hawkesbury River near Cowan, transforms with a stunning display of colour when many of its glorious collection of over 900 species of native plants come into bloom.
Magnificent wildflowers such as waratahs, majestic angophoras, old-man banksias, pink boronias and delicate native orchids are set against a backdrop of spectacular views of the lower Hawksbury River.
During this time the Nature Reserve is open to the public for just a few weeks to protect its unique historic and Aboriginal heritage and fragile ecosystem.
The only way for visitors to experience what is arguably Sydney's best wildflower display is with a pre-booked tour.
The Muogamarra Discovery season is extremely popular and just as the blooms are fleeting so too are tickets with each year booking out quickly.
NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is encouraging nature-lovers to get in early and book a tour of the popular nature reserve to ensure they do not miss out on glimpsing this unique place with friends or family.
John Duncan Tipper established Muogamarra as a private sanctuary in 1934 and public access has always been limited to subscription visits and special wildflower days to protect the vulnerable ecosystem.
The nature reserve is also home to 14 native animal species including the swamp wallaby, brush tail possum and echidnas, while birdwatchers may glimpse a soaring wedge-tail eagle or the endangered glossy black-cockatoo.
Walking tracks around the nature reserve offer stunning views of the Hawkesbury River and Berowra Creek, as well as expansive views of Bar, Milson and Spectacle islands.
In 1969, management of the area was transferred to the newly established NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service where the reserve became known as Muogamarra Nature Reserve.
The Muogamarra Discovery Season has been staffed by the dedicated and knowledgeable Chase Alive Volunteers since 1989.
Pre booked tours are only between 9 August and 15 September with tickets ranging from $15 to $55 for adults. Children, concession and family pricing is also available. Find out more on the NSW national parks Muogamarra open season 2025 webpage.
Quotes attributable to Greg Kirby National Parks and Wildlife Service Area Manager
"Every year Muogamarra Nature Reserve is open to the public for a short time and those who have experienced this unique area will be able to tell you just how special it is.
"For 90 years, workers, volunteers and stakeholders have ensured Muogamarra is a one-of-a-kind reserve, offering experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. "I would like to thank each and every one of them for their hard work and dedication to this beautiful reserve."