Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Half-Day Tour
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Ranges half-day tour is an excellent opportunity to explore the panoramic landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges. View spectacular outback scenery and take photos as we travel through magnificent Outback Country, stopping at the many historical locations. Tour attractions include airport pickup, Anzac Hill, John Flynn's Grave Historical Reserve, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Honeymoon Gap, and return to the Alice Springs Airport or drop you at your hotel.
We provide Alice Springs and its surroundings sightseeing tour services in the Northern Territory. Our tour operations concentrate on a maximum of eleven travelers. It is not only just sightseeing tours, but also you get to know about Alice Springs. Our tour operators know the local geology, history, climate, flora, and fauna of the McDonnell Ranges and Alice Springs. This is convenience way to explore West MacDonnell ranges starting from Alice Springs airport.
Available options
Alice Springs Airport to West MacDonnell Half-Day Tour
What's included
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Light snacks included
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Temple Bar Gap/ Honeymoon Gap is a small gap south of Larapinta Drive opposite Simpsons Gap, 14km west of Alice Springs. The gap is of great significance to the Arrernte people, the traditional owners of the land. Temple Bar Gap fell out of favour following the site becoming the honeymoon location for Robert (Bob) and Victoria (Vicky) Darken who married at the Alice Springs Methodist Church on 25 June 1942. Bob Darken was given a week's leave from the army and the couple planned to camp for a week at the gap and borrowed a car and a tent. The couple had repeated issues with the car and it rained for most of the week so, concerned for their safety, friends decided to visit them regularly; they said they were "going to see the honeymooners" or "going to honeymoon gap".
It was not until 1981 that the name of the pass was officially changed to Honeymoon Gap and, in 2004, the NT Place Names Committee agreed that, the name of the gap should remain Temple Bar Gap.
2
Stop 2
Simpson Gap features the towering cliffs of Simpsons Range, a permanent waterhole and opportunities to spot resident wildlife, ancient Red River Gums with a taste of Central Australia. Simpsons Gap is a significant site to the local Arrernte Aboriginal people and was the mythological home of giant goanna ancestors.
We will take you on a short, easy walk alongside a picturesque dry creek bed that leads to a dramatic gap in the MacDonnell Ranges and a waterhole rich in native wildlife, flora, and geology. Sometimes, you may even spot you might see Black-footed Rock-wallabies along the walking track into the rocky slopes gap. After your bush walk, your guide will invite you to complimentary bush Tea and Coffee at Simpsons Gap.
3
Stop 3
The next stop on your exploration of the West MacDonnell is a picturesque walk at Standley Chasm. After Mrs Ida Standley, who in 1914 became the first school teacher in Alice Springs, this place was named Standley Chasm. Walking access to the dramatic 80m sheer rock-face of the chasm is along a well-maintained trail (1.2km/15mins each way), following the natural creek bed with seating & interpretative signage. Angkerle Atwatye, “the Gap of Water”, is a striking geological formation with significant botanical, bird-watching & wildlife photography appeal.
4
Your next stopping will be at Flynn’s Grave Memorial, the resting place of Reverend Flynn, the founder of Royal Flying Doctor Service. We make short stopping to relax and enjoy the changing colours of the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges and get some photos.
5
Stop 5
Our first visit of the day is at Anzac Hill, where you will be able to take in panoramic views over the town of Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell ranges. You may be able to capture one photo to cover the entire town. Anzac Hill is a memorial dedicated to those who served in Australia’s defense forces during all international wars.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The remaining hours is included for travel time.
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
