On your vacation explore the scenic West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounds in Australia’s Red Centre.

Welcome to the West MacDonnell Ranges

This morning you’re headed for the beautiful West MacDonnell Ranges. While driving through amazing outback scenery, your Driver Guide will point out significant landmarks and share details of the region’s history and rich culture.

First stop is Angkerle (Standley Chasm). Take a walk along the stony watercourse, where spring-fed pools attract a great variety of wildlife and birds.

Then you’ll visit the Ochre Pits. Ochre has been used all over the world for decoration and painting since pre-historic times. At this location you can see the natural ochres in the cliff face that have provided a source of materials for Indigenous people for thousands of years.

Next up is Ormiston Gorge, showcasing all the spectacular geology and landforms of the Tjoritja/MacDonnell Ranges. The rugged scenery of the gorge is complemented by a near-permanent waterhole, which attracts an interesting variety of native fauna and flora.

Next you’ll enjoy a Ploughman’s lunch at Glen Helen Resort with time visit to Glen Helen Gorge. The permanent waterhole here is home to many species of animals, including a variety of water birds and fish.

Last stop before returning to Alice Springs is Simpson’s Gap. Surrounded by towering cliffs, incredible Simpsons Gap is one of the best known destinations in the ranges and features a number of walking tracks. Walk through Simpsons Gap to the waterhole, keeping an eye out for the elusive black-footed rock wallabies hiding among the rocks. Enjoy the late afternoon sun reflecting on the MacDonnell Ranges as you return to Alice Springs.

DEPARTS: Daily 8.00am from Alice Springs
(earlier from your hotel)
RETURNS: 5.30pm approx. to Alice Springs