Explore the West MacDonnell Ridge on a 1 day tour from Alice Springs. You’ll visit attractions such as Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge, Ochre Pits, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek and Glen Helen with an experienced guide. Enjoy the region’s natural beauty and photograph the Australian outback as you wind through rugged canyons and explore hidden waterholes and historic sites. Swim and hike along the way.
Highlights
- Venture out into the West MacDonnell National Park, also known as Tjoritja by the indigenous custodians
- Wander through the 80m high gorge and be amazed at Standley Chasm, traditionally known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye’
Take a dip at one of Central Australia’s biggest and most beautiful swimming spots, Ellery Creek Big Hole, - Visit the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and see the coloured ochre clay still used in traditional ceremonies.
- Relax and rejuvenate within the huge towering walls of Ormiston Gorge, traditionally known as ‘Kwartatuma’
- Look out for native wildlife, including the very shy black-footed-rock-wallaby throughout the Simpsons Gap region, traditionally known as ‘Rungutjirpa’
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Departs *Mon, *Wed, Thu, *Fri, Sun.
(*guaranteed departures)
Description
Day 1: Alice Springs – West MacDonnell Ranges
Our journey through the West MacDonnell Ranges begins with a visit to Simpsons Gap, an area rich in Aboriginal dreaming stories. Here, a permanent waterhole is a great attraction for wildlife, offering glimpses of its inhabitants.
Continuing westward, we reach Standley Chasm, also known as Angkerle Atwatye or “Gap of Water”. This natural wonder, with its 3-meter width and 80-meter height, is a breathtaking display of rugged beauty. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife as you explore this stunning location.
Next, we head to Ellery Creek Bighole, or Udepata, where the temptation to cool off in its refreshing waters is irresistible. Surrounded by towering red cliffs and sandy shores, this spot is a perfect oasis in the outback.
Our final destination for the day is Ormiston Gorge, where the landscape has been sculpted by immense geological forces, creating towering red walls. Take some time to absorb the beauty of this natural wonder before we return to Alice Springs. Reflect on your day of exploration as you make your way back to your chosen accommodation, reminiscing about the sights and experiences of the day.
Meals: Lunch
Driving Distance: 310 km
Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km
*Wildlife Tours reserves the right to change or alter this itinerary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions and/or park closures due to ceremonies and events held by traditional custodians.
Details
What's Included?
- Entry fee to Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye)
- Morning tea & picnic lunch
- Australian native wildlife sightings
- Guided bushwalking tours
- Accredited outback driver-guide
- Travel in air-conditioned mini-coach
- Comprehensive local commentary on tour
- Pick-up/ drop-off from selected inner-city Alice Springs points
What you need to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 2 Litres)
- Beach towel, swimwear & toiletries
- Clothing suitable for all weather (extreme conditions inc wind, rain, heat, cold, day/night)
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Sun protection - wide brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Sturdy & comfortable shoes for hiking (tread closed toe)
- Small day pack 5-7kg
- Cash for extra snack and meals
- Camera to capture the memories
Aditional Information
Exclusions
- To access Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, a NT Parks Day Pass is required. This pass is not included in the tour price, we recommend purchasing this pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
Pricing Options
| Fare Type | Retail | Allocation | Release |
| Adult/Child | AUD 175 pp | FS | 7 Days |
| Child (6-12) | AUD 125 pp | FS | 7 Days |
Pickup Time & Location
- 7:00am – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
- 7:00am – Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Haven Backpacker Resort – 3 Larapinta Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Mercure Alice Springs Resort -34 Stott Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Quest Alice Springs – 10 South Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00am – Swagmans Rest Apartments The – 67 Gap Rd Alice Springs
Weather
Covid Safety Measures
Wildlife Tours is registered as a COVID Safe business under the guidelines of Safe Work Australia and the ATEC COVID Ready badge program. Our procedures address four key areas to help control the risks of coronavirus for both our Tour Guides and our Guests:
- Manage staff and passenger well being
- Wherever possible, practice practical physical distancing
- Enhancing our hygiene and cleaning protocols
- Providing hand sanitizer and disposable face masks onboard all our vehicles.
- Ensuring our business is a fully vaccinated workplace.
Important Notes
- Guests are required to pre-purchase a NT Parks Day Pass for Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. This pass is not included in the tour price, we recommend purchasing this pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
- This itinerary is interchangeable and may vary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions and fluctuations or park closures due to ceremonies or events held by traditional custodians.
- Hiking included in this tour requires a moderate level of fitness.
- Child fares apply to children between 6 to 12 years old. Due to the nature of the activities involved, this tour is unsuitable for children 5 years old and under.
- This terrain is unsuitable for mobility-impaired travelers with wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
- Due to limited storage space in our vehicles, baggage must be kept to a 1 x 5-7kg bag per person.
- All tours MUST be re-confirmed with the tour operator within 7 days of departure on 03 9393 1300.
- Before departure, please notify the tour operator of any preexisting medical conditions.
- Private charter tours are available upon request.
FAQ
How long is the journey?
The journey typically spans an entire day, kicking off at dawn and winding down by the late arvo or early evening back in Alice Springs.
What sights will we behold?
Tourgoers are in for a treat with a mix of sights, including majestic gorges, serene waterholes, ancient rock formations, and diverse local wildlife and vegetation. Highlights might feature the likes of Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, and the Ellery Creek Big Hole, to name a few.
What gear should I bring along?
Essentials include sturdy walking boots, a broad-brimmed hat, ample sunscreen, and plenty of water. Season-dependent, you might also want to pack your bathers for a dip in the natural waterholes and some cosy gear for the nippier weather.
Is the tour a good fit for kids?
Most of these outings are perfect for the whole family. However, verifying with your tour operator about any age limits or suggestions for kiddos is a good idea.
What's covered in the tour cost?
Your ticket typically covers the ride from Alice Springs, a knowledgeable guide, entry fees to Standley Chasm, and, occasionally, your midday meal and nibbles. For precise inclusions, it’s best to check the specifics of your tour.
*To access Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, a NT Parks Day Pass is required. This pass is not included in the tour price, we recommend purchasing this pass in advance to ensure smooth entry on the day of your tour.
How strenuous is the trekking?
The trekking difficulty varies; however, most tours feature doable walks for folks with a decent fitness level. Be prepared for some uneven terrain at certain spots.
Do they sort out rides to and from where I'm staying?
Quite a few tour operators provide a pick-up and drop-off service at accommodations in Alice Springs. Best to confirm these details with your tour organizer upon booking.
