On a full-day tour from Alice Springs, you can explore West MacDonnell Ridge. An experienced guide will take you to attractions like Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge, Ochre Pits, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek, and Glen Helen. As you navigate through rugged canyons, you can enjoy the region’s natural beauty and capture photos of the Australian outback. Along the way, you can discover hidden waterholes and historic sites, swim, and hike.
Tour Information
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Day 1
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Price $ 120 -175 AUD
- DEPARTS 7:00
- RETURNS 17:30
Highlights
- The West MacDonnell National Park, known as Tjoritja by the indigenous custodians, is worth exploring.
- Visit Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye’, and marvel at the 80m high gorge. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, one of Central Australia’s most significant and stunning swimming spots.
- You can visit the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and observe the coloured ochre clay still used in traditional ceremonies.
- Visitors can relax and rejuvenate at Ormiston Gorge, known as ‘Kwartatuma, ‘ surrounded by massive walls.
- Native wildlife, including the black-footed rock wallaby, can be spotted in the Simpsons Gap region, also known as ‘Rungutjirpa’.
What you can actually see!
Itinerary
We start our journey from Alice Springs and head towards Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye’, a narrow gorge within the West MacDonnell ranges. We explore the area, looking for native wildlife and appreciating the rugged natural beauty. Then, we continue west towards Ellery Creek Bighole, or ‘Udepata’, where we can swim and cool off, surrounded by the steep red cliffs and sandy banks. Our next stop is Ormiston Gorge, where we admire the impressive red walls formed by geological forces. Finally, we visit Simpsons Gap, a permanent waterhole and sacred site where indigenous dream time trails and stories intersect. After a full day of exploring these iconic natural destinations, we return leisurely to Alice Springs, dropping you off at your accommodation for the evening.
Meals: LunchDriving
Distance: 310 km Walking
Distance: Approximately 3km / 4km
Details
What's Included?
- Entry fees to Standley Chasm
- Morning tea & lunch
- Australian native wildlife sightings
- Guided bushwalking tours
- Accredited outback driver-guide
- Travel in air-conditioned mini-coach
- Comprehensive commentary on the tour
- Pickup/ drop-off from selected inner-city Alice Springs points
Aditional Information
What items are necessary to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 2 Litres)
- Beach towels, swimwear & toiletries
- Clothing suitable for all weather (extreme conditions inc, wind, rain, heat, cold, day/night)
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Sun protection – wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Sturdy & comfortable shoes for hiking (tread closed toe)
- Small day pack 5-7kg
- Cash for extra snacks and meals
- Camera to capture the memories
Exclusions
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
Pickup Time & Location
- 7:00 am – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
- 7:00 am – Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Haven Backpacker Resort – 3 Larapinta Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Mercure Alice Springs Resort -34 Stott Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Quest Alice Springs – 10 South Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Swagmans Rest Apartments The – 67 Gap Rd Alice Springs
Weather
The weather conditions in the Northern Territory can fluctuate rapidly and be quite intense at times. Temperatures can soar to over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and drop dramatically in the evening. Before your journey, we recommend checking the average temperatures for the time of year you’re travelling and packing suitable clothing. In the case of rain or harsh weather, expect your tour to go ahead unless otherwise advised by the provider.
Important Notes
- This itinerary is interchangeable and may vary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions and fluctuations or park closures due to ceremonies or events held by traditional custodians.
- Hiking included in this tour requires a moderate level of fitness.
- Child fares apply to children between 6 to 12 years old. Due to the activities involved, this tour is unsuitable for children five years old and under.
- This terrain is unsuitable for mobility-impaired travellers with wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
- Due to limited storage space in our vehicles, baggage must be kept to a 1 x 5-7kg bag per person.
- All tours MUST be re-confirmed with the tour operator within seven days of departure on 03 9393 1300.
- Before departure, please notify the tour operator of any preexisting medical conditions.
- Private charter tours are available upon request.
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FAQs
What is the ideal time to visit Alice Springs?
- The ideal time to visit Alice Springs is during the cooler months of April to September when the temperature is pleasant, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
How do I get to Alice Springs
- Alice Springs is well connected by air, rail, and road to all major Australian cities, ensuring easy accessibility regardless of where you’re coming from.
Are there guided tours available in Alice Springs?
- Yes, many experienced guides in Alice Springs offer various tours, ranging from sightseeing trips to immersive cultural experiences.
Is Alice Springs safe for tourists?
- Yes, Alice Springs is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions like any destination. Keep your belongings secure and maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Can I buy Aboriginal art in Alice Springs?
- Absolutely! Alice Springs has numerous Aboriginal art galleries where you can purchase authentic pieces. These works serve as beautiful souvenirs and support the local artists and their communities.