Day Trip From Alice Springs
Discover the Day Trip From Alice Springs. Your experienced guide will take you to attractions like Simpsons Gap, Ormiston Gorge, Ochre Pits, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek, and Glen Helen. Capture the beauty of the Australian outback as you navigate through canyons and discover hidden waterholes and historic sites. Take a swim and go for a hike during your journey.
| DAY | 1 |
| DEPARTS | 07:00 FROM ALICE SPRINGS |
| RETURNS | 17:30 TO ALICE SPRINGS |
| Price | $ 120-150 AUD |
Tour Highlights
- The West MacDonnell National Park, also known as Tjoritja by the indigenous custodians, is a place worth exploring.
- Visitors can explore the impressive Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye’, and enjoy a refreshing swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, one of Central Australia’s largest and most stunning swimming spots.
- You can visit the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and observe the coloured ochre clay that is still utilized in traditional ceremonies.
- Visitors can find relaxation and rejuvenation at Ormiston Gorge, also known as ‘Kwartatuma’, with its impressive towering walls.
- Native wildlife, including the black-footed-rock-wallaby, can be observed in the Simpsons Gap region, traditionally referred to as ‘Rungutjirpa’.
What you can actually see!








Tour Description
Alice Springs is located in the West MacDonnell Ranges
We depart Alice Springs and travel towards Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye,’ which is a gorge within the West MacDonnell Ranges. We take time exploring the area’s natural beauty and continue west towards Ellery Creek Bighole, known as ‘Udepata,’ where we can cool off and swim surrounded by red cliffs and sandy banks.
Next, we visit Ormiston Gorge, marvelling at the geological forces that created the towering red walls. Our final stop is Simpsons Gap, a permanent waterhole and sacred space where indigenous dreamtime trails and stories intersect. After a full day of experiencing Central Australia’s iconic natural destinations, we return leisurely back to Alice Springs, dropping you off at your accommodation for the evening.
Meals: Lunch
Driving Distance: 310 km
Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km
Details
What's Included?
What do you need to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 2 Litres)
- Beach towels, swimwear & toiletries
- Clothing suitable for all weather (extreme conditions inc, wind, rain, heat, cold, day/night)
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Sun protection – wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Sturdy & comfortable shoes for hiking (tread closed toe)
- Small day pack 5-7kg
- Cash for extra snacks and meals
- Camera to capture the memories
Exclusions
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
Pickup Time & Location
- 7:00 am – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
- 7:00 am – Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Haven Backpacker Resort – 3 Larapinta Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Mercure Alice Springs Resort -34 Stott Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Quest Alice Springs – 10 South Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Swagmans Rest Apartments The – 67 Gap Rd Alice Springs
Weather
Online Booking
FAQ
What are the must-see attractions during a day trip from Alice Springs?
- Uluru/Ayers Rock is a massive sandstone monolith with cultural and spiritual significance.
- Ormiston Gorge and Standley Chasm are natural wonders in the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering stunning scenery and hiking opportunities.
- Kings Canyon is a deep sandstone canyon in Watarrka National Park with ancient rock art.
- The Kangaroo Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve where visitors can interact with kangaroos and other native animals.
- Finke Gorge National Park is known for its unique flora and fauna and the Mutitjulu Waterhole.
Are there opportunities to learn about Aboriginal culture on these trips?
Yes, many day trips offer guided tours with Aboriginal guides or visits to culturally significant sites where visitors can learn about local traditions, dreamtime stories, and view ancient rock art.
What type of wildlife might I see during a day trip?
Are there any activities for adventure seekers?
Yes, activities include hiking through gorges and canyons, swimming in natural waterholes, and exploring rugged terrain on 4WD tours.