West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Day Trip from Alice Springs
4.9 / 5 · 85 traveler reviews
Experience the West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja) on a small-group adventure combining guided walks, wildlife spotting, Aboriginal cultural insights and spectacular swimming holes. Explore alongside an experienced local outback guide who accompanies you on the walks, sharing insights into the landscapes, wildlife and cultural significance of Central Australia. Walk through Simpsons Gap (Rungutjirpa) in search of the endangered black-footed rock wallaby and marvel at the towering 80-metre walls of Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye). Cool off with a refreshing swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, surrounded by dramatic red cliffs and ghost gums. Discover the culturally significant Ochre Pits, where vibrant mineral-rich ochres have been used by Aboriginal people for thousands of years in art and ceremony, before exploring magnificent Ormiston Gorge (Kwartatuma). With guided walks, local knowledge, wildlife, culture and ancient waterholes, experience the natural wonders of Tjoritja.
Your experience
Stop 1
We depart Alice Spring on an adventure to explore exploring the West MacDonnell National Park and surrounding UNESCO-listed areas onboard our West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja) day trip.
Stop 2
Explore the West MacDonnell National Park, known by the traditional owners as Tjoritja.
Stop 3
Refresh within the towering walls of Ormiston Gorge, traditionally known as Kwartatuma.
Stop 4
See the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and coloured clay ochre still used in traditional ceremonies
Stop 5
Cool off at Ellery Creek Big Hole, one of Central Australia's largest and most beautiful swimming spots.
Stop 6
Marvel at the awe of Standley Chasm traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye as you meander through the 80m high gorge.
Stop 7
Try for a glimpse of the very shy black-footed-rock-wallaby and other native wildlife through Simpsons Gap, traditionally known as Rungutjirpa.
Stop 8
We deliver you back to Alice Springs to your chosen accommodation around 18:00pm, as you reflect on your day of exploration and wonder.
What’s included
- Morning tea & picnic lunch
- Selected Alice Spring inner-city pick-up/drop-off points
- Air-conditioned mini-coach travel with local tour commentary
- Guided bush walks (3-4km, subject to fitness level)
- Translation app service available in several different languages.
- Angkerle Atwatye – Standley Chasm entry fee
Not included
- NT Park Day Pass for West MacDonnell Ranges National Park is required prior to travel
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
- Personal expenses
Meeting and pickup
Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside Stay at Alice Springs Hotel, 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs at 7:30am. Please advise us of your hotel details, so we can provide you with an exact pickup time according to your accommodation.
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- A minimum moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks.
- Child policy 6 years old and over, not suitable for children 5 years old and under.
- This itinerary may vary to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally spots in the parks close or do not allow swimming. As safety is our top priority we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour.
- Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing.
- Alternative, pickup locations are available within the Alice Springs area. To change please contact our reservations team for details.
- Prior to booking, we strongly recommend guests purchase travel insurance.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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