Things to do in Alice Springs
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Recommended activities to experience in the area surrounding Alice Springs
Alice Springs is a desert town located in the heart of Australia’s Outback. It is known for its unique charm and incredible experiences. Whether you are looking to explore a new place, take in some amazing sights or just relax, Alice Springs has something for everyone.
The city offers direct flights from major cities across Australia, making it easily accessible for those who want to explore the area. The climate is generally dry, with warm days and cool nights.
Recommended activities to enjoy in the vicinity of Alice Springs.
Alice Springs, located in Australia’s Northern Territory, offers various activities such as exploring the desert landscapes, learning about its rich history, and experiencing the culture of the Arrernte people. For a great day trip experience, consider visiting the nearby MacDonnell Ranges. This breathtaking landscape is home to some of Australia’s oldest and most culturally significant sites. You can also visit some of the nearby Aboriginal art galleries to view some of the region’s unique traditional artwork, or take a minivan tour of the outback and explore beyond Alice Springs. When visiting Alice Springs, you’ll want to spend some time in the city center. Here you can find plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants offering all sorts of delicious Australian cuisine. There’s also the Araluen Cultural Precinct, which is home to a theatre, gallery, and cafés, perfect for a relaxing afternoon. If you’re looking to explore further afield, consider taking one of the custom tours offered by local tour companies. These can range from single-day trips to multi-day camping excursions in some of the area’s stunning national parks. Pyndan Camel Tracks also offer camel rides for those looking for a truly unique experience. Finally, the most popular way to explore Alice Springs is via Larapinta Drive. This road links Alice Springs with Kings Canyon and other nearby attractions and makes for an unforgettable road trip experience. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, there are plenty of things to do in Alice Springs to make your visit complete.
Here are 10 recommended things to do in Alice Springs.
Experience the magic of the sunrise from high above in a hot-air balloon!
Experience the thrill of soaring above the majestic Australian Outback in Alice Springs with Outback Ballooning, who launched the largest hot-air balloon in the country in 2017, accommodating up to 24 passengers and a skilled pilot. The experience includes a peaceful dawn ride over the outback desert with kangaroos, brumbies, and camels roaming below. The ride ends with sparkling wine, juice, and light refreshments.
Observe the desert's awakening.
Embark on a journey to Central Australia’s mesmerizing Alice Springs Desert Park and behold the astounding beauty of its unparalleled wildlife and plant life! The park features three desert habitats with pathways to explore. Visitors can also watch the free-flying birds of prey show at the nature theatre. Step into the wild wonders of the park and witness the majestic Australian Bilby alongside a thrilling array of reptiles, bats, and birds, all hiding in the cool, dark nocturnal house. Additionally, visitors can learn about the Aboriginal people’s food-finding, bush medicine creation, and water storage practices.
Visit the Alice attractions.
Visitors to Alice Springs can experience a variety of attractions, such as the Reptile Centre, School of the Air visitor center, Telegraph Station, and Kangaroo Sanctuary. The latter is home to Joeys rescued by Chris ‘Brolga’ Barnes, and visitors can feed and interact with them.
Explore gardens of exquisite beauty.
The Olive Pink Botanic Gardens offer opportunities to explore nature through short walking tracks, access to a Visitor Centre for questions, and a café for refreshments.
Experience the ultimate golfing adventure at one of the world's top desert courses.
The Alice golf course offers a unique experience with its manicured greens and rocky outcrops. Golfers from all over the world enjoy the challenge of this course, which includes a pro shop, motorized buggies, a driving range, and a clubhouse with a restaurant.
Embark on a magical journey with our sunset camel rides!
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Pyndon Camel Tracks as you traverse the Ilparpa Valley on the back of a majestic desert camel, all while taking in the breathtaking sunset and spotting kangaroos and birds along the way. Witness the incredible mastery of “camel whisperer” Marcus, whose 30 years of experience have honed the skills of our impeccably trained camels. Free pick-up from Alice Springs accommodation is available.
One can explore the West Macs.
The West MacDonnell Ranges are known for their picturesque scenery, hiking trails, swimming spots, and natural wonders. You can take a tour or drive yourself. Embark on a wild adventure to Simpsons Gap and witness the captivating black-footed rock wallabies frolicking by the serene waterhole. At noon, witness the glowing red walls of Standley Chasm. Take a dip at Ellery Creek Big Hole. Embark on a breathtaking journey and unveil the hidden wonders of Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen, and the Ochre Pits – a hallowed site still cherished by the Aboriginal community.
Discover the Eastern MacDonnell Ranges.
Discover the wonders of the East MacDonnell Ranges as you venture beyond Alice Springs tour and into a world of breathtaking beauty. Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime as you explore the captivating Aboriginal rock art at Emily Gap and indulge in a peaceful picnic amidst the stunning scenery of Jessie Gap. Embark on a breathtaking journey along the circular walking track at Corroboree Rock and discover the captivating beauty of Trephina Gorge, one of the East’s most alluring attractions. At N’Dhala Gorge (four-wheel-drive only from here), see over 5,000 ancient rock carvings. Explore the ruins of Central Australia’s first town at the Arltunga Historical Reserve. Visit the beautiful Ruby Gap, where tiny garnets were once found.
One option for camping is at Rainbow Valley.
Rainbow Valley is a colorful sandstone bluff that’s perfect for sunset viewing. The bands of sandstone change from blazing ochre to purple as the light fades. Embark on a journey through breathtaking scenery and discover the wondrous Mushroom Rock – a mesmerizing sandstone marvel boasting a natural tunnel.
It took millennia for the tunnel to form. To get here, you can join a day trip from Alice Springs, 75km south. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is required. Alternatively, you can bring your own gear and camp. There are toilets, barbecues, and picnic tables available.
Discover the birthplace of Albert Namatjira.
Hermannsburg, located 1.5 hours west of Alice Springs in central Australia, is the first town in the region and boasts popular tourist attractions such as the home of Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira, a museum, Kata Anga Tea Rooms, and the Namatjira Gallery featuring original paintings by Namatjira and works by the Hermannsburg Potters.
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