Overview
Begin your Central Australian adventure in Alice Springs, headquarters of the Outback and only a few hours’ flying time from Australian capital cities.
Nestled between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, ‘Alice’ is famous for its beautiful desert landscapes, colourful outback characters, opportunities for adventure and a strong Aboriginal culture. Watch the sunrise from a hot-air balloon, meet Aboriginal artists in one of the town’s excellent art galleries, join a four-wheel-drive and camping tour or hike through the nearby ranges.
Explore the desert landscapes on a camel or mountain bike. You can even swim in an outback waterhole. Drop in to the Royal Flying Doctor Service, which supports an area of more than 7 million square kilometres. Learn about Alice Springs’ plants, animals and landscapes at the Alice Springs Desert Park or the Reptile Centre. Head just out of town to cuddle a baby kangaroo at the Kangaroo Sanctuary.
Climate
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Summer
Dec—Feb40°C Avg. High35°C Avg. Low -
Winter
Jun—Aug25°C Avg. High20°C Avg. Low
Places to go
Aileron
It’s the home of the striking giant figure of the ‘Anmatjere Man’ – a sculpture by Mark Egan that stands at 17m high and weighs a massive 8 tonnes! The Anmatjere man overlooks Aileron and the surrounding region and is visible from the highway – as is Aileron’s version of the “Hollywood” sign, which makes for a great holiday photo.
While you’re there, in the Aileron Roadhouse you’ll also see a collection of original Albert Namatjira watercolour paintings – one of the most famous Aboriginal Artists from the Northern Territory. Aileron also offers meals, accommodation and fuel, and is located close to Ryan Well Historical Reserve. The accommodation ranges from powered and unpowered campsites to backpacker dormitories, and self-contained motel rooms. Aileron Roadhouse is 132km north of Alice Springs and 370km south of Tennant Creek.
Tips
- Before embarking on your journey to Aileron, check road conditions along the Stuart Highway, especially during the wet season when some roads may be impassable due to flooding or other hazards.
- Aileron Bush Club is a unique cultural attraction located in the town. Explore the Aboriginal art gallery showcasing works by local artists, learn about the culture and history, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of the outback.
Hermannsburg
The Aboriginal settlement of Hermannsburg is famous as the home of artist Albert Namatjira. It’s also a National Trust-listed historic precinct. The historic settlement is an easy 130km drive from Alice Springs. Explore the buildings of the restored historic town and see work by local artists.
Wander around the National Trust-listed Hermannsburg Historic Precinct – a series of historic German-style whitewashed buildings that were constructed when the mission was established. The historic precinct is shaded by river red gums and old date palms. Among the low, stone buildings are a church, a school and various houses and outbuildings. The buildings have been restored to their original 19th-century condition and now house the Kata Anga Tea Rooms, a museum and the Namatjira Gallery, which displays original paintings by the artist and works by the acclaimed Hermannsburg Potters.
Tips
- Hermannsburg is situated approximately 125 kilometers southwest of Alice Springs. The most common way to reach Hermannsburg is by car, either through self-driving or joining a guided tour from Alice Springs. Ensure you have enough petrol and supplies for the journey, as services may be limited along the way.
Rainbow Valley
An easy day trip from Alice Springs, Rainbow Valley’s coloured rocks light up in the early morning and late afternoon, offering spectacular viewing. Rainbow Valley is renowned for its sandstone bluffs and cliffs with bands of different coloured rock. An easy day trip from Alice Springs, it’s at its most spectacular in the early morning light or late afternoon sun when it changes from ochre red to orange and purple, or after heavy rainfall, when the whole scene is reflected in the claypans.
Tips
- Consider visiting to Rainbow Valley during the cooler months (May to September) when temperatures are more moderate for outdoor activities. Avoid visiting during the peak of the wet season (December to February) when heavy rainfall may limit access to certain areas.
Tjoritja
Tjoritja West MacDonnell National Park stretches for 161km west of Alice Springs. Explore and appreciate the scenic beauty and history of the area on foot, swim in a waterhole, or pitch a tent for a longer stay. Take a dip in the cold waters of one the park’s permanent waterholes. The larger water holes include Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Redbank Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge.
There are numerous marked walking tracks ranging from leisurely to adventurous. The 223km Larapinta Trail stretches through the park and offers extended and overnight bushwalks for fit, experienced and well prepared walkers. The park encompasses an ancient landscape sculpted over time by climatic elements. It’s also a refuge for rare and threatened plants as well as wildlife, including the uncommon bird species such as the Peregrine Falcon.
Tips
- Tjoritja is located west of Alice Springs, accessible via Larapinta Drive. Consider renting a car for flexibility in exploring the area at your own pace. Alternatively, guided tours are available from Alice Springs, providing transportation and expert guides.
Northern Alice Region
Stunning landscapes, remote communities, and a unique pioneering history create a diverse and exhilarating destination to explore. A thriving, spirited outback centre, Alice Springs is as famous for the personality of its locals and contemporary and traditional art as the natural wonders, including the stunning Larapinta Trail and the MacDonnell Ranges, which surround it.
Tips
- The Northern Alice Region is home to stunning natural attractions, including the East MacDonnell Ranges, Trephina Gorge, and N’Dhala Gorge. Take the time to explore these breathtaking sites, go bushwalking, swimming, or simply admire the landscapes.
Tanami Desert
The Tanami Desert, one of the most isolated and arid areas on earth, wasn’t truly explored until well into the twentieth century. The Tanami Track with sandy plains connects Alice Springs to the Kimberley Region. Points of interest along the Tanami Track include Tilmouth Well Station, offering accommodation and fuel in a true outback setting, and Birds Australia’s 650,000 acre Newhaven Sanctuary.
Those planning to drive the Tanami Track should only do so in a reliable four-wheel drive vehicle with spare tyres, and be sure to take spare fuel. The road surface is usually quite good but services on the Tanami are very limited with fuel available only at Tilmouth Well. The Rabbit Flat Roadhouse is now closed. Temperatures in the Tanami Desert can get very hot with daytime temperatures averaging 38°C. Ensure you carry plenty of water with some to spare for emergencies.
Tips
- The Tanami Desert can experience extreme temperatures, especially during summer months. Plan your activities accordingly and avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
Finke Gorge National Park
Discover the ancient landscapes of Finke Gorge National Park, an important wilderness reserve that protects one of the oldest rivers in the world. Remote Finke Gorge National Park is home to ancient landscapes and Aboriginal cultural sites. Accessible only by four-wheel drive, it’s a handy 140km day trip from Alice Springs, or a great place to break your four-wheel drive trip to Uluru.
Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park on foot via the network of trails. Climb the sandstone staircase to Kalarranga Lookout for a magnificent panorama of the remarkable sculptured sandstone hills that encircle part of the old bed of Palm Creek. The Mpaara Walk introduces the mythology of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal culture. Walk in a clockwise direction to follow the Mpaara dreaming story and take in the beautiful views of the surrounding sandstone formations on the way.
Tips
- Make sure you have any necessary permits for camping or hiking in the park. Check with the Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Service for permit requirements.
- Consider joining a guided tour led by experienced local guides. They can offer valuable insights into the park’s history, geology, and wildlife while ensuring your safety.
East MacDonnell
Like its westerly twin, the East MacDonnell Ranges stretch 150km east of Alice Springs and hide some of Central Australia’s most famous outback landscapes – gaps, gorges, bush walks, Aboriginal art and amazing geological formations. Join a tour or drive yourself east from Alice Springs to uncover the jewels of the ‘East Macs’.
The road is sealed for the first 75km (to Trephina Gorge), so you can pack a picnic and take a day trip to see some of the East’s attractions in a normal car. Some excellent attractions lie beyond that point if you have a four-wheel-drive vehicle. If you have time, take a swag or a tent to camp in some of the Centre’s most scenic spots. Facilities vary from established campgrounds with gas barbecues, picnic tables, toilets and water to basic but beautiful bush camping with no facilities. You can also stay at Ross River Resort, 80km east of Alice Springs, which has camping sites and ensuite cabins, or choose from a variety of accommodation options at Hale River Homestead.
Tips
- Map out your route and prioritise the sites you want to visit. Highlights include Trephina Gorge, Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park, Arltunga Historical Reserve, and Ruby Gap Nature Park.
- Some attractions, such as Ruby Gap Nature Park, require permits for entry. Make sure to obtain any necessary permits in advance and pay any entry fees.
Simpson Desert
The Simpson Desert is a vast expanse of rolling dunes, seemingly endless horizons and deep red sand. See the brilliant wildflowers, rare pine trees and unique wildlife that thrives in the harsh desert environment. This vast desert covers the southeast corner of the Northern Territory, and extends over the South Australia and Queensland borders. Many attractions located on its fringes can be accessed on a day trip from Alice Springs. A four-wheel drive vehicle is required to navigate the sandy terrain. If you don’t have a vehicle or the confidence to head off-road, there are organised tours into the Simpson Desert from Alice Springs.
Tips
- The best time to visit the Simpson Desert is during the cooler months, typically from May to September, to avoid extreme temperatures.
- Obtain any necessary permits for travelling through the Simpson Desert, including camping permits if you plan to stay overnight.
Tips & Suggestions
- Alice Springs has a desert climate with hot days and cool nights. Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly. Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and light weight clothing are essential, along with a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
- Explore iconic landmarks such as the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, and Alice Springs Reptile Centre.
