Larapinta Trail Tours
Embark on Larapinta Trail Tours in Central Australia. Discover the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Euro Ridge, Mount Sonder, Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek.
| DAYS | 5 |
| DEPARTS | 06:00 |
| RETURNS | 17:00 |
| PRICE | $2,980 Adult / Child – Twin Share Safari Tent $3,180 Adults 18+ – Private Single Safari Tent |
Highlights
- Experience the Larapinta Trail in Australia’s Red Centre, one of the country’s top wilderness trails.
- Explore 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 swim in several beautiful waterholes in 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 witness the breathtaking colours of the night desert transform into a million-star accommodation.
- Experience the flavours of ethically sourced, organic bush foods from the Central Desert, enjoyed around a campfire.
- Discover ravines and escarpments, where fascinating life forms will captivate the curious mind.
- You can enjoy the sunrise and breathtaking 360-degree views from Mount Sonder, one of the highest mountains in the territory.
The itinerary for the Red Centre is subject to change and flexibility due to the diverse landscape, culture, and weather conditions. Expert guides will ensure a fantastic adventure for everyone.
Full Itinerary
Arrival and Meet and Greet (pre-tour welcome) will take place.
Upon arrival at the airport, guests are responsible for arranging their transportation to their accommodation in Alice Springs (not included; please book directly). At 4.30 pm, everyone will gather in the Olive Pink Botanic Garden to meet their guide and fellow group members and discuss the upcoming itinerary. After the meeting, guests can return to their Alice Springs accommodation to rest and prepare for the forthcoming journey.
If you arrive early in the day, you can explore the lively centre of the Red Centre before heading into the remote outback. Look at Aboriginal artworks at the top art galleries in Central Australia. This is also an excellent opportunity to make sure you have all the necessary items for your Larapinta Trail.
Day 1: Alice Springs - Wallaby Gap
We will start early and leave the suburbs for the wilderness. The West MacDonnell Ranges are known for their natural wonders and traditional culture, making them the best in Australia. Our first walk is a 14km stretch starting from the outskirts of Alice Springs. We will see beautiful views, especially at Euro Ridge. We will 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 the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. If we have time, we can visit a natural waterhole for a swim. We will rest in a region critical to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Before dinner, we will have a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter, which uses wild-harvested produce from the Central Desert Region and beyond.
- Meals are provided for lunch and dinner.
- Accommodations are available 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 14km, with a grading of Grade 4, considered moderate to difficult.
Day 2 : Serpentine Gorge - Serpentine Chalet Dam
Today, we will explore the western half of the Larapinta Trail, known for its stunning views of the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil. This section of the trail is only recommended for experienced hikers with a good fitness level. If time allows, we may also have the opportunity to visit one of the beautiful natural waterholes for a swim.
- Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation options include a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges, with 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 means it is moderate to difficult.
Day 3: Ormiston Gorge - Glen Helen Gorge
Today, we will explore the low-lying regions near Ormiston Gorge. As we make our way up into the back reaches of the Finke River, we will encounter significant traditional sites like ‘Yapulpa’ associated with the Carpet Snake Dreaming and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If we have enough time, we can take a refreshing swim in one of the breathtaking natural waterholes. Tonight, we can relax at our permanent campsite and enjoy the stunning sunset and the vibrant colours of the night desert, which will provide us with a million-star accommodation.
- Meals provided 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 27km.
- The hiking distance for Section 10 is 11km, with a grading of Grade 3, which is considered moderate.
Day 4: Climbing Sonder Mountain
We start the trek to the peak of Mount Sonder early in the morning, around 3 am. It’s an 8km climb. The view from the top is breathtaking, with a 360° view and a stunning sunrise. After the climb, we have a cooked Aussie breakfast at camp. In the afternoon, you can relax at camp or visit Ormiston Gorge. You can enjoy the beautiful Milky Way at night at our remote campsite. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
- Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Accommodation is provided at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Options for accommodation include safari tents or bush swags.
- The driving distance is approximately 64km.
- The hiking distance for Section 12 is 16km.
- The grading for this section is Grade 5, which is considered problematic.
Day 5: Walk from Ormiston Pound to Alice Springs
The Ormiston Pound Walk is considered by many to be a highlight of the Larapinta Trail. It offers stunning views of the Chewing Range and Mount Giles, and the entry into the Gorge is breathtaking. After enjoying a picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack up and head back to civilization, where hot showers and everyday life await.
Tonight, after showering, 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 converse over a drink.
- Meals provided: Breakfast, Lunch,
- Dinner. Accommodation is not available.
- The driving distance is approximately 156km.
- Hiking distance and grading: 16km (Section 9/10), Grade 3 – moderate.
Tour Details
Options
Sleeping bags can be hired from us onboard for AUD 40; this includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own.
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
Where to meet
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 offers the opportunity to explore the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges, a popular wilderness walk in Australia. With up to 14 km of graded trail to cover each day, there is ample time to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Australian outback. Immerse yourself in this ancient environment’s rich history and natural wonders and uncover its enchanting secrets.
Central Australia is known for its surprising features, such as the tallest peaks in the Northern Territory, the oldest dramatic landscape in Australia, and various ravines, escarpments, and waterholes. Exploring this region offers a unique wilderness experience and a chance to appreciate the peaceful and tranquil landscape.
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)
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
FAQ
What is the best time of year to hike the Larapinta Trail?
How fit do I need to be to undertake the Larapinta Trail?
The Larapinta Trail is a challenging trek, requiring a good level of physical fitness. While it’s achievable for most people with adequate preparation, it involves long distances and some steep terrain. It’s advisable to engage in regular walking or hiking exercises before the trip.