Starting from
$35 AUD
Overview
"Flexible itinerary and a knowledgeable guide, this itinerary allows you to discover the West and East MacDonnell Ranges at a more relaxed pace. "
Although most have heard of the three icons, no-one ever forgets their time in the Macdonnell Ranges. Join our flexible, two-day adventure to learn more about these rugged landscapes with hidden escarpments, waterholes and gullies
Why you’ll love this trip.
- Visit the lesser known but equally impressive attractions in the West and East MacDonnell Ranges
- Experience what many consider as the best walking track in Central Australia on the Ormiston Pound walk.
- If there’s been recent rains, refresh yourself in desert swimming holes, such as Redbank Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole.
- Armed with a flexible itinerary and a knowledgeable guide, this itinerary allows you to discover the West and East MacDonnell Ranges at a more relaxed pace.
Itinerary
Alice Springs to East MacDonnell Ranges
Your departure time is 4.45pm today, so you have most of the day to relax. Alice Springs is really where you need to go to understand the heart and soul of Australia. Meet your guide and fellow travelers at the Alice Springs pick-up point this morning and set off to explore the Red Centre. Accommodation: Swag camping (basic facilities) (1 night) Total driving time today is around 1.5 hours. Total walking time is approximately 15 minutes
East MacDonnell Ranges
Often overlooked for its western counterpart, the Eastern MacDonnell Ranges just might be one of the Outback’s best kept secrets. This is the home of the Arrernte people, the Traditional Owners of the land. Learn about their caterpillar dreamtime story on a short walk to Emily Gap, an important spiritual site to the Arrernte people containing galleries of ancient rock paintings. Drive to Jesse Gap followed by Trephina Gorge, where you’ll set off on a one-hour guided walk to see its quartzite cliffs and rich birdlife. Afterwards, it’s time for lunch; grab a bite at the historical Ross River Homestead. After exploring the best of the Eastern MacDonnell Ranges, we drive to our overnight bush camp in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Accommodation: Swag camping (basic facilities) (1 night) Total driving time: about 3 hours
West MacDonnell Ranges
Spend the afternoon exploring the Outback scenery of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Visit one of the most photographed places in the Red Centre; Ormiston Gorge. Keep your eyes peeled for wallabies while admiring the colourful, sweeping walls surrounding its waterhole. Continue to Redbank Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole, a popular spot for a refreshing dip. After a satisfying day spent exploring the West MacDonnell Ranges, we head back to Alice Springs where our epic five-day adventure ends. Total walking distance: up to 10 kms. Total driving time: about 3 hours
Essential Packing List
Sturdy walking shoes
Hat and sunscreen
Water bottle (at least 2 litres)
Towel and toiletries
Camera/phone and batteries or charger
A sleeping bag is required - bring your own or pre-purchase at time of booking
Headlight or torch