Macdonnell Ranges Adventure From Alice Springs | Adventure Tours
Departure Times
Pricing Options
Explore the East and West Macdonnell Ranges during this incredible introduction to the Red Centre!
- 2 day adventure that starts and ends in Alice Springs
- Travel with a knowledgeable local guide and a sturdy 4WD vehicle
- Experience epic walking trails, swimming holes, and landmarks
- Flexible itinerary filled with outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes
- Swag camping and delicious meals included
Join the Macdonnell Ranges Adventure From Alice Springs to further explore the natural beauty, cultural sites, and untouched wilderness of the Red Centre! This 3-day camping adventure departs from Alice Springs and whisks travellers through the magnificent Outback scenery. Spend one day in the East Macdonnell Ranges and one day in the West so you can appreciate the land, wildlife, and indigenous significance of each breathtaking location.
Highlights
- Explore both the East and West Macdonnell Ranges
- See Eastern highlights like Emily Gap, Jesse Gap and Trephina Gorge
- Join guided indigenous walks and visit sacred cultural sites
- Visit Ormiston Gorge, Redbank Gorge, and Ellery Creek Big Hole
- Meals included throughout the tour
- Expert local guide to lead the way
- Wilderness hikes and waterhole swims
- Sleep in swags for an authentic Australian camping experience
- Tour starts and ends in Alice Springs
- Immerse yourself in the Red Centre’s pristine beauty
Sample Itinerary
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Day 1 - Depart Alice Springs
The tour departs from Alice Springs at 4:45pm, giving you the whole day to enjoy this iconic destination in the Red Centre. Once you meet your fellow travellers and tour guide, load up into the 4WD bus and set off into the Outback! Have dinner at your first campsite and relax under the vast starry sky.
Day 2 - East Macdonnell Ranges
Today you’ll explore the East ...
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Day 1 - Depart Alice Springs
The tour departs from Alice Springs at 4:45pm, giving you the whole day to enjoy this iconic destination in the Red Centre. Once you meet your fellow travellers and tour guide, load up into the 4WD bus and set off into the Outback! Have dinner at your first campsite and relax under the vast starry sky.
Day 2 - East Macdonnell Ranges
Today you’ll explore the East Macdonnell Ranges, home of the Arrernte people. The Traditional Owners of the Land will share their stories, take you on a guided walk to Emily Gap, and reveal fascinating ancient rock paintings.
Next on the agenda are Jesse Gap and Trephina Gorge, where you can join another guided walk full of unique natural wonders and wildlife. After lunch at the historic Ross River Homestead, you’ll drive over to the West MacDonnell Ranges to set up camp for the night.
Day 3 - West Macdonnell Ranges
Now it’s time to soak in the sights of the West MacDonnell Ranges! Today your guide will take you to highlights of this breathtaking area, including the canyon walls and glorious waterhole of Ormiston Gorge. You’ll also check out Redbank Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole before returning to Alice Springs in the evening.
Accommodation
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For the ultimate Outback camping experience, you’ll be sleeping in swags under the stars.
A swag is like a sleeping bag combined with a 1-person tent. Each swag fits one person and consists of a bedroll, mattress, and elevated canvas cover. So you can get cosy in your swag, zip up the cover for ...
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For the ultimate Outback camping experience, you’ll be sleeping in swags under the stars.
A swag is like a sleeping bag combined with a 1-person tent. Each swag fits one person and consists of a bedroll, mattress, and elevated canvas cover. So you can get cosy in your swag, zip up the cover for protection from the elements, and breathe in the fresh Outback air as you sleep under the stars.
The campsites have basic facilities, and everyone is asked to help pitch in with cleaning and food preparation. This creates a communal atmosphere where everyone gets involved and helps the group have a smooth experience.
More Information
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What To Bring
- Day pack
- Breathable clothing with warm layers for the nights
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Hat
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water bottle (at least 2 litres)
- Bath towel and toiletries
- Swimmers and towel
- Camera
- Phone and charger
- Insect repellent or flynet
- Power pack for charging without electricity ( if desired)
- Money for meals
- Sleeping bag (you can hire one for $35 if you don’t have your own)
Note: There is a 15kg luggage limit, pl...
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What To Bring
- Day pack
- Breathable clothing with warm layers for the nights
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Hat
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Water bottle (at least 2 litres)
- Bath towel and toiletries
- Swimmers and towel
- Camera
- Phone and charger
- Insect repellent or flynet
- Power pack for charging without electricity ( if desired)
- Money for meals
- Sleeping bag (you can hire one for $35 if you don’t have your own)
Note: There is a 15kg luggage limit, please only pack soft bags (no hard suitcases)
What's Included
- 3-day, 2-night adventure in the Red Centre
- Experienced tour guide
- 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
- All transport in a 4WD all-terrain vehicle
- 2 nights swag camping accommodation with basic facilities
- All activities including guided walks, cultural presentations, and swimming holes
What's Extra
- If you don’t have your own sleeping bag to bring you can hire one for $35
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a luggage limit for this tour?
Yes, the luggage limit is 15kg in a soft bag plus your carry on day pack. No hard suitcases please.
Can my dietary requirements be catered for?
Passengers with special meal requirements or food allergies MUST ensure they or their travel agent inform ATA of this when booking. Food for the trip is purchased in advance and special requirements cannot be catered for after departing.
What are temperatures like in the Outback?
Temperatures in the Red Centre can be extreme. During the day, the weather can be more than 40 degrees Celsius and the sun is very strong. Pack lots of sun protection and drink lots of water! The evenings are cool, even freezing in the winter months. It is the desert after all! So pack warm clothes for the nights and mornings in the Outback.
What type of clothes should we pack for the Outback?
Lightweight, active clothing is ideal for exploring the Outback. Bring a mixture of layers, as the temperatures can be hot but long pants and shirts can protect against the sun. If you’re travelling in winter, pack warm clothes for the nights as well.
Is hotel pick-up available in Alice Springs?
Please enquire about hotel pickup upon booking. This may be organised in advance, but if you don’t pre-organise hotel pick-up, the default pick-up location for the tour is Alice Springs Hotel (formerly Aurora Alice Springs) at 4.45pm, 11 Leichardt Terrace.
What level of fitness is required for this tour?
It’s recommended that travellers only book this tour if they are reasonably fit and active. You should be able to hike 5-9kms a day over uneven terrain, and in high temperatures. Some hikes may require sections of walking/swimming through water. As long as you’re adventurous and prepared for anything, you’ll have an epic time on this tour!
What are the sleeping conditions like?
You’ll be sleeping in a swag, which is a classic Australian camping experience! A swag is a comfy bedroll with a built-in mattress and a canvas cover. So it’s like a sleeping bag and a 1-person tent combined. Each person has their own swag where you can bundle up and stargaze in tranquillity.
Policies
Important Information
This trip is only for fit, active travellers as there are a variety of walking trails and the weather can be very hot. Guests should be prepared to hike 5-9kms per day in hot weather.
Please notify us upon booking if there are any dietary requirements. Food is prepared in advance and special diets cannot be catered for unless you tell us in advance.
Itineraries may change due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, cultural events, public holidays, or other factors outside of our control.
Cancellations
All cancellations forfeit 25% of the recommended retail price (RRP) - not the discounted/sale price. No shows or client cancellations made within 60 days of departure forfeit 100% of the total ticket price.
A refund in the event of cancellation is subject to both our Cancellation Policy and the terms of the supplier.
Terms and Conditions
Our Terms & Conditions apply to this experience. Please review them before booking.
