Larapinta Trail

We start early and say goodbye to suburbia as we enter 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 14 km stroll starting from the outskirts of Alice Springs. Euro Ridge offers beautiful views along the way. We take our time and enjoy the walk, allowing us to fully appreciate the region and contemplate the next 4 days.

Our Ground Support Vehicle will take us to Wallaby Gap in the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. Along the way, we may stop at a natural waterhole for a swim. We will rest in a region important to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Before dinner, we will enjoy a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter. Kungkas Can Cook is an Aboriginal catering company that uses wild harvested produce from the Central Desert Region.

• Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
• Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
• Driving Distance: approx. 146 km.
• Hiking Distance and Grading: 14 km (Section 1), Grade 4 – moderate to difficult. 

Today, we will be exploring the western half of the Larapinta Trail, a 13.4km section that is recommended for experienced walkers with good fitness. This trail offers breathtaking views of the high quartzite ridgelines found in the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil, which is the highest point in the Northern Territory. If there is enough time, we may have the opportunity to visit one of the beautiful natural waterholes for a refreshing swim after a long day of walking.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
• Driving Distance: approx. 94km.
• Hiking Distance and Grading: 13.4km (Section 8), Grade 4 – moderate to difficult. 

Today, we will explore the low-lying regions near Ormiston Gorge. We will gradually make our way into the back reaches of the Finke River. This area holds great significance in traditional folklore. We will have the opportunity to see significant sites like ‘Yapulpa’, which is part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend, as well as the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If we have enough time, we can also swim in one of the stunning natural waterholes. We will relax at our permanent campsite and witness the beautiful sunset at night. As the night falls, the colours of the desert sky will create a mesmerizing million-star accommodation.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
• Driving Distance: approx. 27km.
• Hiking Distance and Grading: 11km (Section 10), Grade 3 – moderate.

We begin our trek to the peak of Mount Sonder at around 3 am. The climb is challenging, but the reward is worth it. Witnessing the sunrise and the breathtaking 360° view is an unforgettable experience. Afterwards, enjoy a delicious cooked Aussie breakfast at camp. In the afternoon, you can relax at camp or visit Ormiston Gorge. The evening offers another opportunity to enjoy the stunning Milky Way at our remote campsite.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
• Driving Distance: approx. 64km.
• Hiking Distance and Grading: 16km (Section 12), Grade 5 – difficult. 

The Ormiston Pound Walk is considered one of the best sections of the Larapinta Trail. It offers stunning views of the Chewing Range and Mount Giles and is a location that inspired Albert Namatjira. After enjoying a picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack up and return to civilization.

After showering, head to one of Alice’s Outback Restaurants tonight (your guide will provide details), where you can reflect on the past 5 days and enjoy a drink.

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
• Accom: N/A.
• Driving Distance: approx. 156km.
• Hiking Distance and Grading: 16km (Section 9/10), Grade 3 – moderate.

*Autopia Alice Springs Tours & Walking Country reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies. Days of the itinerary may be swapped on the ground due to operational reasons.