The West MacDonnell National Park is a prehistoric mountain range broken by a series of gorges and chasms, dotted with beautiful waterholes and isolated pockets of wildlife and plants, found nowhere else in the world. Known as Tjoritja to the local Arrernte Aboriginal people, the National Park is rich with ancient creation stories and sacred sights. 

On this tour, you are able to follow a set itinerary or customise the tour to suit your interests before departure.

Simpson Gap

This gorgeous spot, popular with Alice Springs locals, offers a short, easy walk to a waterhole (no swimming) rich in native wildlife. Follow the dry creek bed and massive River Red Gums to a dramatic gap in the range, featuring towering cliffs on either side. Keep your eyes out for the famous colony of adorable Black-footed Rock Wallabies!

Standley Chasm (Angkerle)

Here is the perfect place to stop for morning tea (not included). This picturesque walk, suitable for all fitness levels, winds through a beautiful oasis, lush with an amazing array of native plants including cycads and ancient pines. It follows a permanent trickle of water that was once the surging floodwaters that created the natural alleyway of the chasm. The walk finishes with an astonishing view of the sheer quartzite walls rising more than 80m on each side of the narrow chasm.

Ellery Creek Big Hole

Ellery Creek Big Hole is the biggest and deepest waterhole in Central Australia, visitors are always amazed that this natural wonder exists in Outback Australia. It offers superb swimming (summer months only) and scenery unlike anywhere else. Udepata, is the Aboriginal name for Ellery Creek, which was a special meeting place for the Aranda people on the fish and honey ant dreaming trail.

Ochre Pits

Aboriginal people have been mining ochre from the Ochre Pits for thousands of years and still use ochre today for medicinal, ceremonial, and spiritual purposes. Learn how this sacred site and one of the largest ochre deposits in Australia is a natural resource vital to everyday traditional Aboriginal life. The vivid colours make for excellent photographs so bring your camera.

Mt Sonder

With stunning 360⁰ views, overlooking one of the most picturesque sections of the ancient Finke River, we will drive up to Mt Sonder Lookout with Mt Sonder dominating the skyline. This is a favourite spot for photographers and landscape painters.

Glen Helen

The historic Glen Helen Homestead, nestled on the banks of the Finke River with the towering cliffs of the MacDonnell Ranges as a backdrop, is the perfect place to stop for lunch. In the summer months, take the short walk down to the lovely waterhole for a swim next to the striking Glen Helen Gorge.

Ormiston Gorge

The spectacular scenery features soaring cliffs of an ancient mountain range and the incredible rock formations left behind. A string of beautiful waterholes emerges from the gorge, carved by a once mighty river. A variety of walks lead to a deep, permanent waterhole that offers excellent swimming (summer months only) or to a stunning lookout. The gorge also has abundant wildlife, including Black-footed Rock Wallabies and a remarkably diverse birdlife. As a result, Ormiston has become a must-see on any visit to the West MacDonnells.

John Flynn Memorial

On our way back to Alice Springs we will make a brief stop at the famous John Flynn Memorial, the resting place for the Reverend John Flynn, who was the founder of the Flying Doctor Service and the Australian Inland Mission before we drop you off at your accommodation.

Inclusions:

• Friendly, experienced and accredited guide
• Luxury air-conditioned 4WD vehicle
• Snacks, fruit and complimentary water throughout the day
• Complimentary accommodation pick-up and drop-off
• Entry fee to Standley Chasm
• 1.5 l water bottle
• Picnic Lunch 
• Morning Tea

What to Bring:

• Sturdy walking shoes
• Sunscreen, hat and comfortable clothing
• Camera
• Jacket in cooler months
• Swim wear and towel (during summer only)