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Alice Springs Desert Park: A Living Desert Experience

Explore the heart of Australia's desert: native animals, ancient culture, and stunning landscapes await at Alice Springs Desert Park.

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Discover the heart of the Australian desert at the Alice Springs Desert Park, a unique attraction showcasing the native plants, animals, and Aboriginal culture of Central Australia. Explore diverse desert habitats, encounter rare wildlife, and learn about the ancient stories of the Arrernte people, all within a stunning natural setting just minutes from Alice Springs.

A brief summary to Alice Springs Desert Park

Local tips

  • Arrive early to experience all the daily activities and shows, including the popular Birds of Prey show.
  • Allow at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the park's diverse habitats and exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the free audio guide, available in multiple languages, for a self-guided tour.
  • Visit the Nocturnal House during the day to see rare and endangered desert animals that are usually active at night.
  • Check the daily schedule for Aboriginal cultural presentations to learn about the traditions and stories of the Arrernte people.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Alice Springs town center, head west on Larapinta Drive for approximately 6km. The Alice Springs Desert Park entrance will be on your left. Free parking is available for cars and coaches.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus route 400 from the Alice Springs Bus Interchange to Albrecht Drive. From there, it is a 20-25 minute walk to the Alice Springs Desert Park. Public bus services are free.

  • Walking

    Follow the shared walking and cycle path that starts at Blain Street, off Larapinta Drive. The path is approximately 2.8km long and leads directly to the Desert Park entrance.

Unlock the Best of Alice Springs Desert Park

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Discover more about Alice Springs Desert Park

The Alice Springs Desert Park offers an immersive journey into the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of the Australian desert. Located just 7km west of Alice Springs, the park spans 1,300 hectares and features three distinct desert habitats: Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland. Explore the Desert Rivers habitat, showcasing the vibrant life around Central Australia's waterholes, where you can spot fish, frogs, and various bird species. Wander through the Sand Country, discovering animals adapted to the arid environment and learning about the plants used by Aboriginal people for food and medicine. The Woodland habitat features ghost gums and coolabah trees, home to unique creatures like the western bowerbird and black-footed rock wallaby. Don't miss the Nocturnal House, home to Central Australian reptiles, invertebrates, birds, and mammals active at night, including the bilby and ghost bat. The Nature Theatre offers captivating presentations with free-flying birds of prey. Learn about Aboriginal survival techniques and the stories of the Arrernte people through guided activities and cultural presentations. The park is an environmental education facility and participates in research and breeding programs to conserve desert flora and fauna.

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