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West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip from Alice Springs

4.8 (331)
Hugh, AU
4.8 (331)
Hugh, AU
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Embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the breathtaking West MacDonnell Ranges on this captivating day trip from Alice Springs. Prepare to be mesmerized by the fiery red walls that glow under the desert sun as you explore this magnificent landscape. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the gorges and waterholes, where you can even indulge in a refreshing swim during the warmer months. Don't forget your camera, as every moment of this unforgettable adventure is worth capturing. This tour takes you to iconic spots like Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge, and Ellery Creek Bighole. Suitable for all age groups, this experience requires no exceptional fitness or agility. Join in and let the West MacDonnell Ranges leave you in awe.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • Admission Included
  • 10 hours
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Marvel at towering fiery red walls
  • Stop at beautiful gorges and waterholes
  • Enjoy a refreshing swim in Ellery Creek Bighole
  • Capture every memorable moment with your camera
  • Learn about the natural and cultural history of the region
  • Lunch
  • Morning tea
  • Entry fee to standley chasm
  • Experienced, friendly tour guide
  • Accommodation pick-up and drop-off
  • Air-conditioned transport
  • Gratuities

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More about this experience

Introduction

Imagine embarking on an adventure through the captivating landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges. This one-day tour offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the outback's fiery red walls, illuminated by the desert sun. Throughout your journey, you'll have the chance to explore breathtaking gorges, admire ancient rock formations, and even take a refreshing swim in inviting waterholes. With every turn, be prepared to capture unforgettable moments with your camera as this experience promises to be truly extraordinary.

What to expect?

This tour promises an incredible day filled with natural wonders and awe-inspiring landscapes. You will embark on a journey through West MacDonnell National Park, guided by a knowledgeable expert who will give you insights into the region's rich cultural and natural history. The itinerary includes a visit to iconic sites such as Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Mt Sonder lookout, where you can marvel at the towering sandstone walls and breathtaking views of Central Australia. You will also have the opportunity to witness the fascinating ochre pits, a sacred site for the local Arrernte peoples. Additionally, a refreshing swim awaits you at the pristine waterholes of Ellery Creek Big Hole.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for adventurers of all ages who seek to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Whether you are a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, this experience is suited to all. The activities involved do not require a high level of fitness or agility, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. Prepare to be inspired and captivated by the wonders of the Australian outback.

Why book this?

Embarking on this tour is an opportunity to explore one of Australia's most renowned landscapes with the guidance of experienced locals. The West MacDonnell Ranges showcase nature's breathtaking beauty, from towering cliffs to picturesque waterholes. Each stop on the itinerary offers a unique experience, giving you a comprehensive glimpse into the wonders of the area. With knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating insights, this journey becomes even more enriching. You'll come away with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Good to know

It's important to note that this tour runs for approximately 600 minutes, ensuring you have ample time to soak in the stunning surroundings. Throughout the day, you'll be provided with morning tea and a picnic lunch, ensuring you stay energized for the adventure ahead. The activities and destinations featured are considered safe and suitable for all age groups. It's recommended to bring a camera to capture the captivating moments, as the breathtaking beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges deserves to be preserved.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced this tour are in awe of the beauty they encountered. They recount the captivating views at each stop, from the majestic cliffs of Standley Chasm to the serenity of Ellery Creek Big Hole. The knowledgeable guides are praised for their engaging commentary, enhancing the overall experience. Visitors appreciate the inclusivity of the tour, as it caters to people of all fitness levels and ages. Overall, reviewers express absolute satisfaction and a desire to relive this incredible journey through the West MacDonnell Ranges.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

MacDonnell Ranges

After pickup at your Alice Springs hotel, set off with your guide and small group into West MacDonnell 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.

Admission Included

Simpsons Gap

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.

Standley Chasm Angkerle

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.

Ochre Pits

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.

Ormiston Gorge

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.

Mount Sonder

Next, head to Mt Sonder lookout and admire the spectacular landscape including a towering sandstone wall and views of Mt Sonder, one of the highest points in Central Australia.

Ellery Creek Big Hole

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.

Emu Run Experience - Day Tours

Your guide returns you to your Alice Springs hotel to end the tour.

Reviews

(331)

4.8 (331)

V2154ZVjayd

An excellent day covering the highlights of the West MacDonnell ranges- Stanley Chasm, Simpsons Gap, Ormiston George amongst others. Some nice walks and nothing felt rushed in a need to get to the other sites. A brilliant guide in Bluey. He's a master storyteller, an absolute fountain of knowledge - whether it's history, the geology, the flora, the people. Your own personal wikipedia for the area.

Brenda_H

It was a bit of a long trip up to the oversight of the gorge but worth it!! Our guide Ann was an amazing guide!!!

philip_h

Only negative was the guide spoke of past events as if they were proven facts instead of debatable theories. His world view is very different to a lot of thinking people. Apart from that it was excellent

W8322AVmaggies

If you want to see many locations in one day from Alice then this is a trip for you. We got to see so many places. We were guided however the tour guide could have been more clearer with their explanations. Even so, the trip was generally good and the food provided was sufficient.

Sara_G

It was a lovely day from start to finish and Scottie was a wonderful guy -- very relaxed and flexible. The highlight for us was swimming in Ellery Creek Big Hole towards the end of the day. We were lucky to have a great group of people on this tour and we all got along very well. Loved Stanley Chasm. The only thing that could be improved is the food. Our morning tea was very blah, with only instant coffee and bland biscuits. And our lunch wraps were okay, but nothing to write home about.

AnnFran_13

My husband and I did this fabulous tour today. It goes to all the classic spots in the West MacDonnell ranges- Stanley Chasm, Simpsons Gap, Ormiston George and quite a few others. There's plenty of time to do all the walks and take photos at the stops and the opportunity to swim at two water holes. A very good morning tea and lunch is provided and all entrances are part of the tour so no putting your hand in your pocket for payment. We were lucky enough to have Jono as our driver/tour guide. The information he provided was delivered with enthusiasm and was very thorough. We all had a great day!!

joycevR8748YH

Scotty our guide was extremely informative and friendly. He was flexible and understanding towards those who were much older and took a longer time with the walk/hike and assisted where he could. It was a fun day, I would highly recommend this

annebI1967FU

Excellent tour of the West McDonnell Ranges with the marvellous Jono as driver, tour guide & lunch host. Small group tour with lots of interesting information provided during the trip. Bring your water bottles (refills provided) for hydration & fly nets in case of flies. Really beautiful stops along the way.

Seaside02788786924

Great trip, very knowledgeable Guide Jono. We learnt a lot about Alice Springs, fauna and flora. I would do this trip again.

Bruce_W

An amazing experience, and a wonderful way to experience central Australia. Our driver Bluey was very knowledgeable and provided an interesting background to each place we visited and the area as a whole. Highly recommended.
Collected by Evendo & our supplier partners
2024-06-30 06:49