East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group
Active
5h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The East MacDonnell Ranges half-day tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the panoramic landscapes of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
View spectacular outback scenery and take photos as we travel along through magnificent Outback Country, stopping at the many historical locations.
The East MacDonnell Ranges are popular as Central Australia’s most famous outback landscapes – gaps, gorges, bush walks, Aboriginal art, and unique geological formations.
Available options
East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group
Pickup included
What's included
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Snacks
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your first visit of the day is at the local iconic landmark of Anzac Hill, where you will be able to take in panoramic views over the town of Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell ranges.
2
Your next visit will be Emily and Jessie Gaps. Yeperenye / Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Parks are the first noticeable features of the East MacDonnell Ranges as you drive 16 kilometres out of Alice Springs.
The two small gaps in the Heavitree Range are important spiritual sites to the Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal people. Many places in the surrounding landscape are associated with the same caterpillar Dreamtime story and form a 'Dreaming Trail'.
Emily Gap is a significant sacred site where the caterpillar beings of Mparntwe (Alice Springs) originated. These caterpillars formed Emily Gap, and many of the topographic features around Alice Springs radiated out to the edge of the Simpson Desert. At Emily Gap, you can see a large rock painting depicting the caterpillar dreaming.
3
Your next visit will be Corroboree Rock. It’s one of many sites in the MacDonnell Ranges that are of great importance to the Eastern Arrernte people.
Please take a short walk with our guide around the rock base to survey the area and have a closer look at the ancient sedimentary, fine-grained rock. At the base, you can see dark grey and light grey streaky blobs of dolostone rock. A ring of low ground surrounding it makes it look like an obelisk.
The real significance of the rocky outcrop to the Eastern Arrernte people is not well known. Corroboree Rock was probably not a corroboree site due to the lack of water in the area but was probably used as an important storage site for ceremonial objects.
The rock is an outcrop of dolomite from the Bitter Springs Formation originally laid down in salty lakes 800 million years ago.
4
Your next visit will be Trephina Gorge, Nature Park. Discover the rugged landscapes, wildlife, Aboriginal and pastoral histories of the East MacDonnell Ranges at Trephina Gorge Nature Park.
Located 85 kilometres east of Alice Springs, the park is a handy distance for a day or a longer trip and is notable for its short walks, views, and natural beauty.
Trephina Gorge has wide views across a sandy creek bed and can be explored via a network of short walking tracks. It’s one of two gorges that intersect the East MacDonnell Ranges.
As well as a good place for a cool dip, waterholes in this area attract abundant animals and birds.
The largest Ghost Gum in Central Australia is set in the park, alone on a saltbush flat. The area is significant to the Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal people and contains sites part of the Wallaby dreaming trail. Once a part of the Garden Station, the park has strong historical links with the early settlement of Central Australia.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
