Our most recommended things to do in Alice Springs

Alice Springs: Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight

1. Alice Springs: Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight

Your ballooning adventure begins in the cool pre-dawn darkness as you are picked up from your accommodation in Alice Springs. During the drive to the desert launch site you will get to know the crew as they make final weather checks and explain the routine for the morning. At the launch site gas burners are used to inflate the balloons just as the sun lights up the rugged MacDonnell Ranges. Once floating gently in the air you will appreciate the vast remoteness of the Australian outback. Wildlife, particularly big red kangaroos are seen nearly every day as the balloon floats above spinifex grasses, mulga scrub and cattle stations. After landing, enjoy a program designed to allow you a unique opportunity to experience the Australia bush. Most landings are in the desert, kilometers away from the nearest road. There is no traffic, no other people and no noise. The perfect place to enjoy a glass of sparkling Australian wine or if you prefer some tropical apple and guava juice. Perhaps mix the two for a delightful morning cocktail. Drinks are accompanied by a variety of muffins, biscuits, slices of cheese and fresh fruit. It's the perfect mix to enjoy before reboarding your bus to return to “town”.

From Alice Springs: Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner

2. From Alice Springs: Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner

Witness the splendor of Uluru on this day trip from Alice Springs. Visit a cultural centre, see rock art on a guided walk, hear some traditional stories, and top It all off with wine and dinner as the sun sets. Depart Alice Springs early to get a taste of the Australian Outback with a stop at Erldunda. Then, continue to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to see the domes of the rock formations on your first walk. Learn about the local Pitjantjatjara people at the cultural center. Then, go to the base of Uluru for a guided walk to see the Anangu rock art. Head to Mutitjulu Waterhole for a short hike to the home of the ancestral Wanampi water snake and share some traditional "dreamtime" stories. Sip a glass of sparkling wine as you watch the sunset over Uluru, and end the day with a barbeque dinner before the return journey to Alice Springs.

From Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip

3. From Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip

Be picked up from your Alice Springs accommodation at 7:45 AM and set off on a day of adventure and exploration! Enjoy the spectacular outback scenery and photo opportunities as you travel along the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges, stopping at historic sites. Enjoy beautiful walks at Simpsons Gap, a natural rock amphitheater that is home to endangered black-footed rock wallabies. Stop at Standley Chasm for morning tea and a leisurely stroll. At Ochre Pits, discover rock walls covered by natural colored ochre, used for sacred ceremonies of the local Aboriginal people. Ormiston Gorge is up next: a great place for a swim, or to see the towering walls of the gorge and pound, local plants and wildlife. By now, you will have certainly worked up an appetite for lunch. The next stop is at Glen Helen. The landscape here is spectacular - a towering sandstone wall is the first thing you see as you arrive. The area includes views of Mount Sonder, one of the highest points in Central Australia, which changes colors with the light.  On the way back to Alice Springs, witness the famous and enchanting Ellery Creek Big Hole. This waterhole is one of Central Australia’s most pristine, so don’t forget your swimmers in the warmer months. Visit Flynns Memorial and from October to March, you may decide to partake in an incredible Sunset Camel Ride at the Camel farm (optional, at your own expense). The panoramic landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges are extraordinary for their immensity and the spectacular array of sunburnt oranges, maroons and purples on display. These mighty ranges light up in brilliant oranges and reds at sunset on the return trip to Alice Springs. Get dropped off at your accommodation in Alice Springs at approximately 5:30 PM.

Alice Springs: Coach Transfer to Ayers Rock Resort

4. Alice Springs: Coach Transfer to Ayers Rock Resort

Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) aboard a luxury coach. Enjoy the rugged desert landscapes and the scenic views as you pass through the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges. On this 6-hour transfer you’ll stop at a camel farm and learn about the impact camels had in opening up Central Australia. Camels, ideally suited to the hot, dry climate of Australia’s interior, were imported in the 19th century and remained the principal means of outback transport until railways and roads were established. You’ll have a chance to ride a camel during your visit (not included in the tour price). While travelling through this remote country, your driver/guide will provide informative and entertaining commentary. Learn about the region’s natural and geological history, and about the unique Australian desert flora and fauna. The Perentie monitor lizard, the thorny devil, and the red kangaroo make their home here. You’ll also hear about the traditional customs and beliefs of local Aboriginals. There will be time for a stop at the Erldunda road house for a quick break. Take in the views of flat-topped Atila (Mt. Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed, and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage Site of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Alice Springs: 4WD Palm Valley Tour with Lunch

5. Alice Springs: 4WD Palm Valley Tour with Lunch

The day begins with pickup from your accommodation in Alice Springs at 7:00 AM. Travel through the picturesque West MacDonnell Ranges as you head to Hermannsburg for a morning tea break. Continue along the Finke Riverbed until you reach the impressive Palm Valley. Spend some time wandering amongst the ancient palm trees and explore this desert oasis. Once you’ve worked up a bit of an appetite, enjoy a Bushman’s lunch at the scenic Cycad Gorge. After lunch, marvel at epic views from the Kalaranga lookout then visit the Historic Precinct of Hermannsburg, known to the Arrarnta people as ‘Ntaria’. Explore the town, which is the birthplace of celebrated Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira, and admire the historic buildings. The tour returns to Alice Springs at 5:30 PM.

Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour

6. Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour

Discover the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell National Park on a guided bush walk through the Standley Chasm. Keep a look out for native wildlife, go for a swim in Ellery Creek Bighole, and admire the towering walls of Ormiston Gorge. Depart from central Alice Springs and travel to the Standley Chasm a 3-meter-wide, 80-meter-high gorge among the West MacDonnell Ranges. Spot the native wildlife as we you this beautifully rugged area. Head west to the Ellery Creek Bighole, known traditionally as Udepata, surrounded by tall red cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek. Cool off in the swimming hole here. You will also enjoy lunch in a scenic location nearby. Then, discover the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Spend time here admiring nature and its finest before beginning the leisurely journey back towards Alice Springs, with a final stop at another remarkable feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnells region, Simpsons Gap, before heading back to Alice Springs.

From Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges Guided Tour

7. From Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges Guided Tour

Experience the beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges on this tour from Alice Springs. Head to must-see locations like Anzac Hill, Flynn's Grave Historical Reserve, Simpsons Gap, and Standley Chasm. Marvel at natural wonders and stop at some local memorials. Be picked up from the comfort of your accommodation in Alice Springs. Sit back and relax in the comfortable bus on your way to Anzac Hill. Stop for panoramic views over the town of Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell ranges. Learn about the war memorial at Anzac Hill. Travel to John Flynn's Grave Historical Reserve where the Reverend Flynn was laid to rest. Hear about Flynn, the founder of Royal Flying Doctor Service. Enjoy the changing colors of the West MacDonnell Ranges from this location and get some photos. Continue to the towering cliffs of Simpsons Gap. Discover why this area is important to the local Arrernte Aboriginal people. Stroll along a dry creek bed to a dramatic gap in the MacDonnell Ranges. Try to spot some local wildlife like black-footed rock-wallabies at the watering hole. Head to the dramatic Standley Chasm geological formation. Standley Chasm is operated by Arrernte aboriginal family members who are direct descendants of the Aboriginal people who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Experience the unique landscapes created by the micro-climate in this valley.

Alice Springs: Guided Outback Camel Ride

8. Alice Springs: Guided Outback Camel Ride

Looking for a thrilling adventure that immerses you in the natural beauty of Central Australia? Choose Pyndan Camel Tracks for an unforgettable tour that's perfect for adventurers. Embark on a unique journey through the stunning landscapes up close to the MacDonnell Ranges, led by our experienced guides. From our one-hour afternoon ride to our very popular sunset tour, we offer a range of options that cater to your sense of adventure and desire to immerse yourself in the unexpected serenity of the Australian desert. Explore the rugged terrain, encounter native wildlife like kangaroos and eagles, and marvel at the spectacular views of the MacDonnell Ranges. Our camels are friendly and well-trained, ensuring a comfortable ride for all ages. The camel ride starts from at Pyndan Camel Tracks, located 20-minutes by road from Alice Springs. Your experienced guide will lead you into White Gums Station to enjoy panoramic vistas across the MacDonnell Ranges and hope to spot kangaroos during your one-hour ride. You'll discover the majesty of the outback and bond with your friendly camels. Visit the ‘Camel Lounge’ to learn about these adorable creatures and browse our camel themed souvenirs. Chat with your experienced guide’ about camels in Central Australia, camel farm life and our sustainable tourism practices. This is a great experience for all ages. Our sunset tour includes light refreshments. The tour ends with drop-off at your Alice Springs accommodation or in the town centre, if requested.

From Ayers Rock Resort to Alice Springs: Luxury Transfer

9. From Ayers Rock Resort to Alice Springs: Luxury Transfer

Travel through the desert scenery between Ayers Rock Resort and Alice Springs on this luxury transfer between the two locations. Your experienced driver/guide will provide comprehensive commentary as you pass through the beautiful rugged scenery of the outback. You will pass by Atila (Mount Conner) and stop at a local roadhouse for some afternoon tea. The driver guide will drop you off at your Alice Springs hotel.                                                                                                                                                                                                                              

From Alice Springs: Palm Valley 4WD Outback Safari + Picnic

10. From Alice Springs: Palm Valley 4WD Outback Safari + Picnic

Enjoy an exciting 1-day safari on a four-wheel drive from Alice Springs through the beautiful West MacDonnell Ranges to Hermannsburg, an Aboriginal community and historic precinct. Hermannsburg is renowned for its Aboriginal art collection, in particular the works of famous Aboriginal artist, Albert Namatjira. Enjoy a leisurely tea in Hermannsburg, and then set off on your 4WD for the second half of the adventure. Travel down the bed of the Finke River, one of oldest water courses in the world, into the stunning Palm Valley. Admire the spectacular rock formations, such as the one known as the Amphitheatre, and the lush palm trees of the oasis rising out of the white sand. Keep your eyes peeled for native plants such as the cycad and the Livistonia Mariae. Enjoy a picnic lunch within the beautiful Finke Gorge National Park, and on your return journey, relax and enjoy the changing colors of the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges.

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What people are saying about Alice Springs

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 745 reviews

It is a jam-packed day that lasts almost 24 hours. Well worth the long bus ride. Little stops along the way make you appreciate the nature and the place. Sunset dinner at the end is definitely the highlight and is an amazing way to end the day. Our driver Yad did a fantastic job driving and taking us around!

Our guide his name Philippine is very nice and humorous person and we have a nice time this trip. I will recommend to my friend thanks

Trip was very well organised and carefully thought through. It was a long day but it didn’t feel like it .

Driver was EXCELLENT! Shared information on local sites with a fun story and sense of humour

Very amusing and informative guide. Made for an enjoyable afternoon