West MacDonnell Ranges

Around 18 kilometres west of Alice Springs, Simpsons Gap cuts through the ranges towards a permanent waterhole. The surrounding country supports black-footed rock-wallabies and more than 40 rare plant species. Further west, Ellery Creek Big Hole forms a permanent waterhole beneath high red cliffs. Ormiston Gorge offers a different experience, combining swimming with walks through rugged gorge and pound country. At Glen Helen Gorge, the ranges meet the Finke River beneath steep sandstone walls. Beyond it, Redbank Gorge narrows into a rocky chasm leading towards a permanent waterhole below Mount Sonder, while the Ochre Pits reveal the long cultural significance of Tjoritja to Aboriginal people. Whether you’re exploring world-renowned Indigenous art galleries, visiting iconic outback institutions like the Royal Flying Doctor Service, or taking in sweeping views from Anzac Hill at sunset, Alice Springs gives you a genuine taste of life in Australia’s vast interior. It serves as the ultimate basecamp to rest, refresh, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere before venturing further into the ancient landscapes that define the continent.