Larapinta Walking Tours

We start early and leave suburbia behind for the wilderness of the West MacDonnell Ranges. These ranges are known for their natural wonders and traditional culture, making them the best in Australia. Our first walk is a 14km stretch starting from the outskirts of Alice Springs. We’ll see beautiful views, especially at Euro Ridge. We take our walk casually, allowing us to relax and fully appreciate the region for the next four days. Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at Wallaby Gap and take us to our remote camping location in the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. If we have time, we’ll visit a natural waterhole for a swim. We’ll experience the true essence of the region, deeply connected to the Dreamtime of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Before dinner, we’ll enjoy a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter, a delicious selection of bush foods prepared by an Aboriginal catering Company dedicated to utilizing wild harvested produce from the Central Desert Region and beyond. Meals are provided for lunch and dinner. Accommodation is in a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Options include Safari Tents or Bush Swags. The driving distance is approximately 146km. The hiking distance for Section 1 is 14km, with a grading of Grade 4, which means it is moderate to difficult.

Today, we will explore the western half of the Larapinta Trail, specifically a 13.4km section that requires experienced and well-prepared walkers with a good fitness level. This portion of the trail offers breathtaking views of the quartzite ridgelines in the West MacDonnell Ranges, including notable landmarks such as Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil (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 and enjoy a refreshing swim after a long day of hiking. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodations are provided at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Guests have the option of staying in Safari Tents or Bush Swags. The driving distance is approximately 94km. The hiking distance for Section 8 is 13.4km, with a grade 4 difficulty level, which is considered moderate to difficult.

Today, we will explore the low-lying regions near Ormiston Gorge. As we journey, we will gradually ascend into the back reaches of the Finke River. This area holds great significance in traditional folklore, with several significant sites. These include ‘Yapulpa’, part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend, and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If there is enough time, we will take a refreshing swim at one of the stunning natural waterholes. At our beautiful permanent campsite, we can relax and enjoy the sunset as the vibrant colours of the night desert fill the sky, creating a truly breathtaking experience under the million-star accommodation. Meals provided: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Accommodations are available at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Options include Safari Tents or Bush Swags. The driving distance is approximately 27km. The hiking distance for Section 10 is 11km, with a moderate grading of Grade 3.

We start our trek to Mount Sonder at around 3 am. It is an 8km climb to the peak. Witnessing the sunrise and the 360° view from the top is an incredible experience. You will be left speechless by this unforgettable achievement. Afterwards, a cooked Aussie breakfast awaits you at camp. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, either at camp or Ormiston Gorge. In the evening, enjoy the beautiful remote campsite and gaze at the stars of the Milky Way. It is a delightful way to end the day. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, safari tents, or bush swags. The driving distance is approximately 64km. The hiking distance for Section 12 is 16km, graded as challenging.

The Ormiston Pound Walk on the Larapinta Trail is highly regarded and offers stunning views of the Chewing Range and Mount Giles. The location inspired Albert Namatjira, and the entry into the Gorge is breathtaking. After a final picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack up and return to normality, with hot showers and our regular lives awaiting us. Tonight, after showering, make your way to one of Alice’s Outback Restaurants (your guide will provide details), where you can reflect on the past five days and enjoy a drink. Meals are provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is no accommodation available. The driving distance is approximately 156km. The hiking distance for Section 9/10 is 16km, with a grade of 3, considered moderate.