Experience a bushwalking trek adventure along sections of the Larapinta Trail in Central Australia, where you can explore the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Euro Ridge, Mount Sonder, Ormiston Gorge, and Ellery Creek.
| DAYS | 5 Day / 4 Night |
| DEPARTS | 6:00 |
| RETURNS | 17:00 |
| PRICE | $2,980 Adult / Child – Twin Share Safari Tent $3,180 Adults 18+ – Private Single Safari Tent |
Highlights
- The Larapinta Trail in the Red Centre is recognized as one of Australia’s premier wilderness trails.
- Experience the stunning landscapes of West MacDonnell National Park (Tjoritja) in Arrernte country.
- Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ancient landscape from Euro Ridge (Section 1) and Counts Point Lookout (Section 8, 1140 m altitude).
- Visitors can enjoy swimming in the stunning waterholes of the West MacDonnell ranges, including Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek.
- Experience our private campsite on traditional land, featuring permanent safari tents or the option of sleeping in an Aussie Swag and witnessing the vibrant colours of the night desert transform into an unforgettable million-star accommodation.
- Experience the flavours of ethically sourced, organic bush foods from the Central Desert while gathered around the campfire.
- Discover ravines and escarpments, where intriguing life forms will captivate the curious mind.
- Visitors can enjoy watching the sunrise and taking in the breathtaking 360-degree view from Mount Sonder, one of the highest mountains in the territory.
The Red Centre offers a diverse landscape, culture, and weather conditions, which may require changes and flexibility in the itinerary. Our expert guides will ensure that everyone has a fantastic adventure.
Inclusions
- 4 Nights’ Private and remote campsite on traditional land complete with safari tents with twin bedding (bush setting including portable toilets and pop-up showers, excluding electricity)
- All camping equipment, such as linen, pillows, blankets, sleeping bags and essential swag
- Includes: 4 breakfasts, five lunches, five dinners, trek snacks
- Fresh drinking water, hot and cold drinks, excluding alcoholic beverages
- (BYO alcohol and cold storage will be provided; let your guide know at the meet and greet)
- Guided bushwalking (~14km, grade 2-6)
- Air-conditioned 4WD off-road mini-coach travel
- Courtesy hotel pickup/drop-off in Alice Springs
- Walking Trail Fee 5 Days, traditional owners and camping fees
Professionally trained & accredited outback driver-guide & onboard host
Extensive remote first aid kit, satellite phone & Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
What you can actually see!
Itinerary
Arrive and meet and greet for the pre tour welcome.
Upon arrival at the airport, you are responsible for arranging transportation to your Alice Springs accommodation. At 4.30 pm, we will gather at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden to introduce you to your fellow group members and discuss the itinerary with your guide. Following the meeting, you may return to your accommodation in Alice Springs and rest early in preparation for the upcoming journey.
If you arrive early in the day, you can explore the busy centre of the Red Centre before heading into the desolate outback. Visit the top art galleries in Central Australia to see Aboriginal artworks. It is also an excellent opportunity to make sure you have all the necessary items for your Larapinta Trail.
Day 1 - Section 1: Alice Springs - Wallaby Gap
We start early and leave suburbia behind for the wilderness of the West MacDonnell Ranges. These ranges are known for their natural wonders and traditional culture, making them the best in Australia. Our first walk is a 14km leg stretch starting from the outskirts of Alice Springs. We’ll see beautiful views, especially at Euro Ridge. We walk casually, enjoying the region and reflecting on the upcoming four days. Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at Wallaby Gap and take us to our remote camping location in MacDonnell Ranges National Park. If we have time, we’ll visit a natural waterhole for a refreshing swim. We’ll rest in a region critical to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Before dinner, we’ll have a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter, which showcases bush foods from the Central Desert Region and beyond.
Meals provided are lunch and dinner. Accommodation is at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Options include Safari Tents or Bush Swags. The driving distance is approximately 146km. The hiking distance for Section 1 is 14 km. The grading for this section is Grade 4, which means it is moderate to difficult.
Day 2 - Section 8: Serpentine Gorge - Serpentine Chalet Dam
Today, we will be exploring the western half of the Larapinta Trail, specifically a 13.4km section recommended for experienced hikers with a good fitness level. This portion of the trail offers breathtaking views of the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil, the highest point in the Northern Territory. If time allows, we may have the opportunity to visit one of the beautiful natural waterholes for a refreshing swim after a long day of hiking.
Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, safari tents, or bush swags. The driving distance is approximately 94km. The hiking distance for Section 8 is 13.4km, with a grade of 4, which is moderate to difficult.
Day 3 - Section 10: Ormiston Gorge - Glen Helen Gorge
Today, we will explore the low-lying regions near Ormiston Gorge. As we move higher, we will reach the remote areas of the Finke River. This region holds great significance in traditional folklore. We will see essential sites like ‘Yapulpa’, part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If we have time, we can take a refreshing swim in one of the beautiful natural waterholes. At night, we will relax at our permanent campsite and witness the stunning colours of the night desert under a sky filled with millions of stars.
The trip includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation is provided at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Guests can choose between staying in safari tents or using bush swags. The driving distance is approximately 27km. The hiking distance for Section 10 is 11km, with a moderate grade level.
Day 4 - Section 12: Climbing Sonder Mountain
We start our trek to the peak of Mount Sonder very early in the morning, around 3 am. It’s an 8km climb, but the view at the top is worth it. The sunrise and the 360° view are genuinely unique. Afterwards, we’ll have a cooked Aussie breakfast at camp. In the afternoon, you can relax at camp or visit Ormiston Gorge. Enjoy the beautiful Milky Way view at night at our remote campsite.
Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, safari tents, or bush swags. The driving distance is approximately 64km. The hiking distance for Section 12 is 16km, with a grading of 5, indicating it is difficult.
Day 5 - Section 9/10: Walk from Ormiston Pound to Alice Springs
The Ormiston Pound Walk on the Larapinta Trail is highly regarded by many. It offers stunning views of the Chewing Range and Mount Giles and is a location that inspired Albert Namatjira. The entry into the Gorge is awe-inspiring. After a final picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack up and break camp for the last time and begin our journey back to normality.
Tonight, after taking a shower, make your way to one of Alice’s Outback Restaurants (your guide will confirm the time and location), where you can reflect on the past five days and have a conversation over a drink.
Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation is not provided. The driving distance is approximately 156km. The hiking distance is 16km for Section 9/10, with a grade 3 difficulty level considered moderate.
Details
Exclusions
- Any meals not indicated within the itinerary, excluding alcohol (BYO) storage provided. For those with special dietaries, we recommend you bring snacks as options are limited in the outback.
- Alice Springs Hotel on Day 5 of the itinerary
- Day 5: Transfer to the farewell dinner; please make your way
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point
- Travel insurance is highly recommended
- Personal expenses
Options
Aditional Information
What to bring
- 3-5L refillable water bladder for hiking
- Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Swimwear, beach towels & toiletries (wet wipes)
- Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (tread closed-toe shoes for walking & climbing)
- All-weather lightweight, quick-dry clothing (extreme conditions inc wind, heat, cold, day/night)
- Thermal layers for extreme cold during the night, dusk and dawn
- 15-20kg soft bag & approx. 5-8 kg small day pack
- Head torch with spare batteries (essential for the Mt Sonder hike and around camp at night)
- Additional snacks such as energy bars or similar (we provide dry fruit and nuts, fresh fruit, some muesli bars, lollies and some cakes)
- Reusable zip lock bag for snacks (we try to protect our beautiful environment wherever possible; please think sustainable!)
- Tropical strength insect repellent
- Mosquito or fly net (summer months)
- Money for snacks and meals
- Bring your sleeping bag & pillow (optional – if staying in a swag)
- Recharge power bank (no access to power to charge phone or cameras at camp)
- Camera
*please get in touch with us for a comprehensive packing list
Tour Pickup Location
Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside the front of Doubletree by Hilton 82 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs, at 6:00 am.
- 6:00 – A Good Rest BandB – 51 Dixon Rd Alice Springs NT
- 6:00 – Alice in the Territory – 46 Stephens Rd Mount Johns
- 6:00 – Alice Springs Tourist Park – 70 Larapinta Dr Araluen NT
- 6:00 – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
- 6:00 – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 6:00 – Desert Palms Alice Springs – 74 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 6:00 – DoubleTree Hilton Alice Springs -82 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 6:15 – Alice Lodge Backpackers – 4 Mueller St East Side NT
- 6:15 – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
- 6:15 – Alices Secret Travellers Inn – 6 Khalick St East Side NT
- 6:15 – Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace
- 6:15 – Desert Rosa Inn – 15 Railway Tce Alice Springs NT
- 6:15 – The Diplomat Motel – 20 Gregory Terrace, Alice Springs
- 6:15 – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
- 6:25 – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs
Please arrive 5-10 minutes before your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.
Introducing the Larapinta Trail Trek
The Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges offers visitors a chance to experience the Australian outback’s rugged beauty. With ample time for relaxation and exploration, this popular wilderness walk covers up to 14 km of graded trail daily. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the ancient environment and uncover its magic and mysteries.
Central Australia is known for its surprising and diverse landscape, including the tallest peaks in the Northern Territory, ancient rock formations, stunning waterholes, and unique flora and fauna. Visitors can have a truly immersive wilderness experience and enjoy the peaceful tranquillity of the area.
FAQ
What level of fitness is required for the Larapinta Trail?
What should I pack for the Larapinta Trail trek?
How long does it take to complete the Larapinta Trail?
Are there guided tours available for the Larapinta Trail?
Yes, there are numerous tour companies offering guided treks along the Larapinta Trail. These tours often include meals, camping equipment, transport, and experienced guides. It’s important to select a reputable company with qualified guides familiar with the trail and its challenges.