Alice Springs to Ross River Resort: A Self-Guided Outback Drive
Active
2h - 3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Are you looking for a way to explore the Outback without joining a tour group? Join this self-guided driving tour with Clive Gregory, an expert guide in Central Australia, and enjoy the Outback at your own pace.
Journey from Alice Springs to Ross River Resort, exploring the majestic East MacDonnell Ranges. Unveil Aboriginal creation stories, Arltunga's gold rush, and local legends shaping the rugged landscape. Highlights include Jesse Gap, Corroboree Rock, and insights into Alec Ross's wartime experiences.
Clive Gregory, an accredited guide, shares Central Australia's rich history, geology, biodiversity, and local culture, ensuring an engaging experience for all.
Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too.
Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.
Available options
Alice Springs to Ross River Resort: A Self-Guided Outback Drive
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English
VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your journey at the Araluen Cultural Precinct, immersing yourself in the rich Aboriginal culture as you embark on a driving tour through Australia's captivating outback.
2
Cruise beside the Todd River, tracing its course and discovering the natural beauty that lines its banks while hearing tales of local legends and aboriginal creation stories.
3
Explore Emily Gap, a site adorned with stunning rock art depicting the caterpillars featured in the Aboriginal creation story, offering a glimpse into the ancient cultural narratives of the region.
4
Explore Jessie Gap, where brilliant photo opportunities abound, capturing the mesmerizing landscapes shaped by the great creation battle between giant stink bugs and caterpillars.
5
Drive in the shadow of the East MacDonnell Ranges, marveling at their wild beauty and discovering the geological wonders that characterize this iconic Australian outback.
6
Explore Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve, a sacred site filled with amazing geology, where the ancient landscape and cultural significance come together.
7
Stand in awe of Corroboree Rock, a sacred Aboriginal meeting place, and witness the geological marvels that make this site a unique blend of cultural and natural heritage.
8
Discover Trephina Gorge Nature Park, a site rich in natural beauty and history, providing opportunities for short hiking trails and a deeper connection to the Outback landscape.
9
Explore Trephina Gorge, immersing yourself in the rugged beauty and tranquil surroundings of this nature park, where the ancient landscapes tell stories of the region's geological evolution.
10
Journey alongside Ross River, learning about its mysterious black horses known as 'the Three Amigos,' and discovering the natural wonders that add to the allure of the Outback.
11
Experience the Ross River Resort, fondly called the 'Oasis in the Desert,' and discover its unique charm, including the restaurant of Outback proportions, as your adventurous driving tour draws to an end.
What's not included
Tickets or entrance fees to any optional stops en route
Smartphone and headphones
Transportation
Food and drink
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The Araluen Cultural Centre is about 3km (1.8 miles) out of Alice Springs heading west along Larapinta Drive. It is on the left hand side as you head out of town. Turn left into the main car park, find a suitable space to start your tour, park up and press play.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it.
About Alice Springs
Alice Springs is the gateway to Australia's iconic Red Centre, offering a unique blend of Indigenous culture, stunning natural landscapes, and adventurous activities. It's a place where the ancient traditions of the Arrernte people meet the rugged beauty of the Outback, providing an authentic Australian experience.
Top Attractions
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Uluru is a massive sandstone monolith sacred to the Indigenous Anangu people. It's one of Australia's most iconic natural landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Nature/Historical/Cultural
1-2 days
AUD 25 (park entry fee)
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
Kata Tjuta is a group of 36 domed rock formations located near Uluru. It's another significant site for the Anangu people and offers stunning landscapes and hiking trails.
Nature/Cultural
Half to full day
Included in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park entry fee
West MacDonnell Ranges
The West MacDonnell Ranges offer stunning landscapes, gorges, and waterholes. It's a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and camping.
Nature/Adventure
Half to full day
Free (some camping sites may have fees)
Alice Springs Desert Park
The Alice Springs Desert Park is a conservation park showcasing the unique flora and fauna of the Central Australian deserts. It features native wildlife, bird shows, and cultural performances.
Nature/Cultural
2-3 hours
AUD 37 (adult), AUD 17 (child)
Anzac Hill
Anzac Hill is a prominent landmark in Alice Springs offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding desert. It's a memorial to the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) and features a war memorial.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Alice Springs Reptile Centre
The Alice Springs Reptile Centre is a small but fascinating facility showcasing the diverse reptile species of the Australian Outback. It offers educational talks and hands-on experiences.
Nature/Education
1-2 hours
AUD 20 (adult), AUD 10 (child)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kangaroo
Kangaroo is a lean, protein-rich meat with a gamey flavor, often grilled or barbecued. It's a popular dish in Alice Springs and a must-try for adventurous eaters.
Main course
High in protein, low in fat, gluten-free
Bush Tucker
Bush Tucker refers to the traditional foods of Indigenous Australians, including native fruits, vegetables, and meats. In Alice Springs, you can try dishes made with wattleseed, quandong, and bush tomatoes.
Appetizer/Snack
Varies by dish, often gluten-free and vegetarian options available
Outback Steak
Alice Springs is known for its high-quality beef, often sourced from local cattle stations. Outback steak is a popular dish, typically served with a side of vegetables or a salad.
Main course
High in protein, gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Camping
4WD tours
Mountain biking
Rock climbing
Swimming
Picnicking
Wine tasting
Best Time to Visit
April to September (winter and spring)
This is the most comfortable time to visit, with warm days and cool nights. It's the peak tourist season due to the pleasant weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-28°C
59-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, Arrernte (Indigenous language)
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Australian Dollar (AUD)
Time Zone
ACST (Australian Central Standard Time, UTC+9:30) during standard time, and ACDT (Australian Central Daylight Time, UTC+10:30) during daylight saving time (first Sunday in October to first Sunday in April)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Alice Springs is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, it's important to be aware of the unique challenges and risks associated with traveling in the Outback, such as extreme weather, remote locations, and wildlife.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be wary of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Alice Springs Airport • 14 km from city center
By train
Alice Springs Railway Station
By bus
Alice Springs Bus Depot
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is the primary form of public transport in Alice Springs, with regular services connecting major attractions, hotels, and residential areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: DiDi, Taxi Apps
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Alice Springs Town Centre
East Side
West Side
Day trips
Larapinta Trail
Varies (day hikes and overnight options available) • Half day to multi-day
The Larapinta Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail stretching 223 km through the West MacDonnell Ranges. It offers stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a range of hiking options for all skill levels.
Ormiston Gorge
120 km from Alice Springs • Half to full day
Ormiston Gorge is a stunning gorge located in the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering a range of outdoor activities and scenic views. It's a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and camping.
Standley Chasm
50 km from Alice Springs • Half day
Standley Chasm is a narrow gorge located in the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering a unique and scenic hiking experience. It's a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the Outback.
Festivals
Alice Springs Beer Can Regatta • September (usually the second weekend)
Alice Springs Camel Cup • July (usually the first weekend)
Alice Springs Desert Festival • August (usually the last weekend)
Pro tips
- Visit Uluru and Kata Tjuta at sunrise or sunset for the best views and cooler temperatures
- Carry plenty of water and sun protection when exploring the Outback, as dehydration and sunburn are serious risks
- Join a guided tour or cultural experience to learn about the local Indigenous culture and history
- Try local Outback cuisine, such as kangaroo, bush tucker, and Outback steak
- Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges for stunning landscapes, gorges, and waterholes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
