West MacDonnell Ranges Full-day small group Tour -Scheduled Tour
Tour Itinerary and details
Start : At 8.00 AMDuration : Ten & a half hours (approx.)Price : Promotional Price AUD $ 149.00 per Passenger
Explore the Wonders of the West MacDonnell Ranges: A Full-Day Outback Adventure- Small Group
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges with our full-day tour. This guided adventure offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife of Central Australia. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs alike, this tour takes you on a scenic drive through the heart of the outback, stopping at key landmarks and natural wonders. A Scenic Journey Through the Outback: The West MacDonnell Ranges are famous for their striking panoramas, dramatic gorges, and tranquil waterholes. Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning photos and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged terrain. From the moment we leave the city, you’ll be surrounded by the spectacular desert scenery of the outback, with endless horizons, rocky peaks, and ancient landscapes stretching out before you. Key Stops and Highlights: As we journey through the ranges, we’ll make several stops at iconic locations, each offering its own unique charm and beauty: Tour attractions starting with hotel pickup, Anzac Hill, Honeymoon Gap, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Mount Sonder Lookout, Glen Helen, Ochre Pits, and return to your hotel. At Ormiston Gorge, we prepare your picnic lunch while you swim or picnic walk. Expert Guide and Local Knowledge: Throughout the day, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who will share their extensive knowledge of the region’s natural history, Aboriginal culture, and the unique flora and fauna of the outback. From learning about the geological formation of the ranges to hearing stories about the area's Indigenous heritage, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating part of Australia. An Unforgettable Outback Experience: This full-day tour offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the true essence of the Australian outback. With plenty of time to relax, swim, and explore, you'll witness the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges and connect with the land meaningfully. Whether you’re cooling off at a waterhole, hiking through a gorge, or enjoying a delicious bush lunch, each moment will be a memory you’ll cherish forever.
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges with our full-day tour. This guided adventure offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife of Central Australia. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and history buffs alike, this tour takes you on a scenic drive through the heart of the outback, stopping at key landmarks and natural wonders. A Scenic Journey Through the Outback: The West MacDonnell Ranges are famous for their striking panoramas, dramatic gorges, and tranquil waterholes. Throughout the day, you’ll have the chance to capture stunning photos and enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged terrain. From the moment we leave the city, you’ll be surrounded by the spectacular desert scenery of the outback, with endless horizons, rocky peaks, and ancient landscapes stretching out before you. Key Stops and Highlights: As we journey through the ranges, we’ll make several stops at iconic locations, each offering its own unique charm and beauty: Tour attractions starting with hotel pickup, Anzac Hill, Honeymoon Gap, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Mount Sonder Lookout, Glen Helen, Ochre Pits, and return to your hotel. At Ormiston Gorge, we prepare your picnic lunch while you swim or picnic walk. Expert Guide and Local Knowledge: Throughout the day, you’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who will share their extensive knowledge of the region’s natural history, Aboriginal culture, and the unique flora and fauna of the outback. From learning about the geological formation of the ranges to hearing stories about the area's Indigenous heritage, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating part of Australia. An Unforgettable Outback Experience: This full-day tour offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the true essence of the Australian outback. With plenty of time to relax, swim, and explore, you'll witness the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges and connect with the land meaningfully. Whether you’re cooling off at a waterhole, hiking through a gorge, or enjoying a delicious bush lunch, each moment will be a memory you’ll cherish forever.
Tour Itinerary
Anzac Hill: A Panoramic View of Alice Springs
Your first stop is Anzac Hill, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views over Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell Ranges. It’s the perfect spot to capture sweeping photographs of the town nestled in the desert landscape. Anzac Hill is also a significant war memorial honouring those serving in Australia’s defence forces, making it a place of beauty and reflection. We share historical information about Alice Springs' history.
John Flynn's Grave Historical Reserve
Next, the tour heads to John Flynn's Grave Historical Reserve, dedicated to Reverend John Flynn, the founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The reserve offers a peaceful setting to learn about Flynn's remarkable contributions to Australian society. As you take in the spectacular views of the West MacDonnell Ranges, your guide will share the inspiring story of Flynn’s vision for providing medical care to remote communities across the outback.
Simpsons Gap: A Natural and Cultural Icon
A short drive brings you to Simpsons Gap, one of the most striking locations in the West MacDonnell Ranges. The towering cliffs of Simpsons Range, the permanent waterhole, and the ancient Red River Gums create a tranquil and photogenic landscape. This site holds great cultural significance for the local Arrernte Aboriginal people and is considered the mythological home of giant goanna ancestors. Along the walking trail, you’ll also have the chance to spot local wildlife, such as the Black-footed rock wallaby.
Standley Chasm: A Spectacular Geological Formation
Prepare to be amazed by the dramatic Standley Chasm, also known as Angkerle Atwatye, which means "the Gap of Water" in the local Arrernte language. This 80-meter-high rock formation is a sight, with vibrant colours that change throughout the day. A 600-meter trail leads you to the heart of the chasm, where you’ll discover its geological significance and unique flora and fauna. The Western Arrernte people, who have lived in this region for thousands of years, manage the site.
Honeymoon Gap: A Romantic and Historic Landmark
Your next stop is Honeymoon Gap, a small but significant gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges. The site is not only important to the Arrernte people but also holds a unique historical tale. It was named after a couple, Bob and Victoria Darken, who camped here for their honeymoon in 1942. Despite car troubles and bad weather, the site became known as Honeymoon Gap, a name that stuck even after it was initially called Temple Bar Gap.
Ellery Creek Big Hole:
Your next stop will be Ellery Creek Big Hole, the largest and deepest waterhole in Central Australia. The spectacular waterhole is fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja). This natural wonder is perfect for a refreshing swim or a peaceful picnic by the water. Tall red cliffs and the sandy Ellery Creek surround it. Thousands of years of massive floods have carved out this waterhole, which is recognised as an internationally significant geological site. A sandy beach also lines this huge waterhole, offering beautiful scenery.
Ormiston Gorge:
Your next stop will be Ormiston Gorge, which has become a must-see on any visit to the West Macs. The Gorge has a near-permanent waterhole ideal for swimming, especially in the warmer months. The spectacular scenery features the soaring cliffs of an ancient mountain range, incredible rock formations, and a picturesque sandy river bed lined by giant River Red Gums. Walk up to a stunning lookout overlooking a beautiful swimming hole and swim in this surprisingly big, deep permanent waterhole.
We prepare your picnic lunch while you swim or take in the majestic scenery.
Mount Sonder Lookout:
Your next stop is Mount Sonder Lookout. This 360 ⁰ vista looks out towards the imposing Mt Sonder and over a beautifully scenic. Look for the wide range of birds of prey, such as the Wedge-tailed eagle and the Peregrine falcon and wood swallows circling the summit, riding the thermal updraughts. The view is a favourite spot for photographers and landscape artists.
Glen Helen Homestead and Gorge:
Your next stop will be at Glen Helen. Historic Glen Helen Homestead is the perfect place to relax for a while. Next, you may walk down a gorgeous waterhole to the striking Glen Helen Gorge. This stunning natural formation marks the confluence of the Finke River and the surrounding ranges. This permanent waterhole provides an oasis for local wildlife, and it is an essential refuge in the hot summer months for all nine species of fish recorded for the Finke and migrating waterbirds.
Ochre Pits
Your next visit to see the vivid colours of the mineral Ochre Pits, which have been mined for generations by the local Aboriginal people. The site of Ochre Pits is located 110km west of Alice Springs; the ochre pits are a colourful outcrop on the banks of a sandy creek. Magnificent scenery, colours, gums and a nice easy walk up the dry sandy river bed to view up close this treasure of the site.
Ochre occurs in various earthy colours, including white, yellow, orange, red, and brown. It’s an important part of Aboriginal culture that is used in everyday life. It’s the raw material for paintings and ceremonial body decoration.
Ochre was used to paint weapons to increase hunting success and protect wooden weapons from termites. Red ochre was mixed into an ointment to relieve decongestion, and white ochre was used as a magical charm.
These pits are significant Aboriginal Heritage sites. It is the only quarry for ochre in the Central Australian region that is open to visitors and where the mining and collection of ochre by the Traditional Owners still occur. The right to continue to take ochre from this site is protected by the Territory Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1976.
Neil Hargrave Lookout:
Between Ellery Creek and Ormiston Gorge, this lookout and free camp is a great spot to check out on a road trip to the West MacDonnell Ranges. You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the West MacDonnell Ranges. The beautiful panoramic views look right across the ranges, and it's a perfect place to rest for a while.
This lookout commemorates the valuable contributions made to the Northern Territory by Nathaniel Charles (Neil) Hargrave.
Mr Hargrave was elected to the Northern Territory Legislative Council in May 1954, where he made major contributions to the territory’s constitutional status and eventual self-government. He also advocated government action for the conservation of natural and historic places, leading to legislation that resulted in the formation of the Reserves Board (now the Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission).
A Day of Adventure and Culture:
This full-day tour of the West MacDonnell Ranges is the ideal way to immerse yourself in the Outback's stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. Whether you're hiking through dramatic gorges, swimming in pristine waterholes, or learning about the ancient traditions of the Arrernte people, you’ll leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
Your adventure will conclude with a drop-off at your hotel in Alice Springs, where you'll have time to reflect on the incredible sights and experiences of the day. This tour is a must-do for your Alice Springs itinerary, perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking to explore the heart of the Australian Outback.
Inclusions:
• Experienced and friendly guide
• 11-seater Toyota Hiace bus provided
• Complimentary water/ soft drinks, morning tea, and lunch are served, including lunch while you go on a picnic walk.
• Complimentary accommodation pick-up and drop-off
What to Bring:
• Sturdy walking shoes
• Sunscreen, hat and comfortable clothing
• Camera
• Jacket in cooler months
• Smile and happy faces
Not included:
• No wheelchair accessible
Not Allowed:
• Luggage or large bags
• Pets
Additional information:
• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• If any of the tour attractions is closed or unavailable due to circumstances beyond the tour operator’s control, a suitable alternative attraction will be introduced, and the tour will be conducted.
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travellers
Tour Conclusion
After visiting these incredible sites, the tour concludes with a drop-off at your accommodation, leaving you with lasting memories of the stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and rich Aboriginal culture of Alice Springs and the MacDonnell Ranges.
For your information, call us on +61 (0)8 8952 7272 or email sales@alicespringstransfers.com.au
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