West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip from Alice Springs
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the magnificent grandeur of the West MacDonnell Ranges on this fascinating one day tour.
Marvel at towering fiery red walls set aglow by the desert sun as you drive along the ranges.
We tour through these amazing ranges all day and stop at beautiful gorges and waterholes, where we can enjoy a refreshing swim in the warmer months.
Don’t forget your camera! Every moment of this memorable one day tour is worth capturing.
You’ll visit:
Simpsons Gap
Standley Chasm
Ochre Pits
Ormiston Gorge
Ellery Creek Bighole
Flynn Memorial
Optional swim at Ellery Creek Bighole (summer only)
All activities are considered very safe for all age groups. They do not require a high level of fitness or agility.
Please note an NT Parks Pass is required, please purchase prior to tour.
Available options
2021-2022
Pickup included
What's included
Lunch
Morning Tea
Entry fee to Standley Chasm
Experienced, friendly tour guide
Accommodation pick-up and drop-off
Air-conditioned transport
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
After pickup at your Alice Springs hotel, set off with your guide and small group into West MacDonnell Ranges National Park to begin your exploration of the area’s many natural attractions. Throughout the day, your knowledgeable guide shares informative commentary about the natural and cultural history to the region.
2
Stop 2
Start with a scenic walk at Simpsons Gap, one of the most renowned gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Follow a riverbed to a natural rock amphitheater while looking for endangered black-footed rock wallabies that hop among the boulders.
3
Stop 3
Then admire the tall rock walls of Standley Chasm as you stroll through trees that line the tracks including acacias, cycads, ghost gums and cypress pines. Have morning tea at Standley Chasm before heading to your next destination, the Ochre Pits.
4
A short path leads to rock walls that are covered with white, yellow and red layers of ochre. Be sure to bring your camera to snap photos of the shifting hues. Considered a sacred site for the local Arrernte peoples, the ochre pits provided material traditionally used for ceremonies and trading.
5
Stop 5
Further down the road, stop for a picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, which contains a semi-permanent waterhole. Look for waterbirds such as the Pacific heron and white-faced heron, both common visitors to the waterhole.
6
Continue to Ellery Creek Big Hole, a significant geological site and one of central Australia's most pristine waterholes and cool off with a swim.
7
Your guide returns you to your Alice Springs hotel to end the tour.
What's not included
Gratuities
Effective to all travel on 1st of April 2025, NT Park Pass is no longer included.
Please pre-purchase the NT Park Pass & bring it with you on the day of the tour
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
143 reviews
5★
107
4★
23
3★
8
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.8
219 reviews
5★
189
4★
17
3★
8
2★
2
1★
3
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please wear strong, non-slip walking shoes
Please bring hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water bottle and swimwear during the summer months
Please bring NT Parks Pass (digital copy accepted)
Important notes
Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund
Hotel pickups commence prior to this 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
Instant confirmation
