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One has not truly experienced Australia without venturing into its vast wild heart—the Outback. The Larapinta Trail immediately comes to mind for those seeking to explore the seldom-visited central areas of the country. Starting and ending in Alice Springs, traverse one section of the trail over five days, encountering majestic ridges, enchanting gorges, and ancient rock formations steeped in millennia-old stories. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, marvel at sweeping views across vast desert plains, and reach notable landmarks like Ormiston Pound and formidable Mt Sonder. Indulge in the flavors of the land with delectable bush food, delve into rich Aboriginal history and Dreamtime legends, and find solace at peaceful campsites under starry skies. Let the Larapinta Trail ignite your sense of adventure and leave an indelible mark on your soul, unveiling the timeless allure of Australia’s Outback.

  • Breathtaking landscapes

    Immerse in the visual feast with towering red cliffs, winding gorges, expansive desert plains, and panoramic ridgelines

  • Rich cultural heritage

    Visit significant Indigenous sites, hear Dreamtime stories, and feel the spirit and history of the land

  • Unique cuisine

    Savor delectable platters with organic bush food from Australia’s Central Desert

Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the rugged beauty of the Larapinta Trail. Begin in Alice Springs and venture into the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges. Traverse high quartzite ridgelines, encounter ancient folklore, summit the area’s highest peak and take in the vistas of the vast Australian Outback. Stay in remote and comfortable camps, learn about Aboriginal culture, savor authentic bush food. Experience the essence of the Larapinta Trail, where adventure, natural wonders, and cultural richness intertwine for a transformative hiking expedition.

  • Arrive in Alice Springs and settle into your accommodation, immersing yourself in the vibrant heart of the Red Centre. Take the opportunity to explore the city, visit art galleries showcasing Aboriginal artworks, and gather any necessary items for the Larapinta Trail. In the evening, join your group at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden to meet your Larapinta Trail hiking guide and fellow travelers, where you’ll discuss the exciting days that lie ahead. Rest and recharge for the upcoming adventure.

    The town of Alice Springs, Australia.

  • Bid farewell to the comforts of civilization as you head into the magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges, starting from the outskirts of Alice Springs. Marvel at the breathtaking views, particularly at Euro Ridge. Let the natural beauty of the region captivate your senses and allow you to unwind and immerse yourself in the journey. At Wallaby Gap, our Ground Support Vehicle will meet your group, transporting you to a remote campsite within the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. Indulge in a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter, savoring pre-dinner treats that celebrate the flavors of the Central Desert Region and beyond.
    Meals: Lunch and dinner
    Hiking: 8.7 mi (14 km)

    Euro Ridge near Alice Springs, part of the Larapinta Trail.

  • Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure along the western section of the Larapinta Trail, an 8.3 mi (13.4 km) stretch that caters to experienced hikers with good fitness levels. Discover the exhilarating beauty of high quartzite ridgelines, including the imposing Haasts Bluff and the Northern Territory’s highest point, Mt Zeil. Be prepared to be amazed by the stunning views that unfold before you. Enjoy nourishing meals throughout the day, providing you with the energy to fully appreciate the remarkable landscape.
    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 8.3 mi (13.4 km)

    Serpentine Gorge, one of the famous sites found along the Larapinta Trail.

  • Embark on a journey through the low-lying regions surrounding Ormiston Gorge, gradually ascending into the back reaches of the Finke River. Immerse yourself in the rich traditional folklore of the area, where you’ll encounter significant sites such as ‘Yapulpa,’ linked to the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend, and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. As the sun sets, enjoy the vibrant colors of the night desert at our beautiful permanent campsite, an ideal setting for stargazing beneath a canopy of a million stars.
    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 6.8 mi (11 km)

    A waterhole found along the Larapinta Trail.

  • Prepare for an early and challenging ascent as your group tackles the 5-mile (8 km) climb to the peak of Mount Sonder. Witness the awe-inspiring vision of the sunrise and be rewarded with a breathtaking 360° view that will leave you speechless—an unforgettable achievement that will etch itself into your memory. Spend the remainder of the day at camp, surrounded by the enchanting beauty of the Milky Way, embracing the tranquility of nature.
    Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    Hiking: 9.9 mi (16 km)

    Panoramic views across the desert plains in Central Australia.

  • Experience the grand finale of the Larapinta Trail with the awe-inspiring Ormiston Pound Walk. Marvel at the Chewing’s Range and Mount Giles, immortalized by Albert Namatjira. After a delightful lunch, bid farewell to the trail and head back to Alice Springs. Celebrate your journey at an Outback Restaurant, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying a refreshing ale or cool drink. Your adventure will have ended after dinner. Say goodbye to your guide, fellow hikers and retreat to your accommodation in Alice Spring. The following day, say goodbye to this part of Australia—or continue touring on your own.
    Meals: Breakfast and lunch
    Hiking: 5.6 mi (9 km)

    A campsite near the Larapinta Trail with permanent safari tents.

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Meet your guide

Walking Country
5.00
Walking Country
Walking Country, a trusted small-group tour operator based in Alice Springs, specializes in providing hassle-free experiences of the Larapinta Trail. With their expertise and more than two decades of experience, they take care of all logistical hassles, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey. Their commitment to Aboriginal culture shines through, offering extensive indigenous experiences and a deep appreciation for the local traditions. With trained guides well-versed in Aboriginal culture, wildlife, and the natural environment, Walking Country ensures an authentic and enriching exploration of the Larapinta Trail.
5.00 (1 reviews)
Denny Po (source: Google Reviews )

If you are looking for an unforgettable tour of the Larapinta Trail, we did a 5-day Larapinta Trail tour. It’s one of the most iconic Australian tour companies that allows you to see the best on this trail. In addition, they have their permanent campsite, and the evenings were outstanding. A big thanks to Don, he is one the best expert in Larapinta Trail.

Things to know

  • What you get on this adventure:

      • An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
      • Tour host
      • 5 days of hiking on a section of the Larapinta Trail
      • National Park fees and traditional owners and camping fees
      • Meals as indicated in the itinerary (4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners)
      • An outback meat tasting platter, organic bush food tasting platter straight from the Central Desert, and trail snacks such as fresh fruit, muesli bars and biscuits
      • Hot and cold drinks (excluding alcoholic beverages) and fresh drinking water
      • Overnights in private and permanent campsites on indigenous land (4 nights)
      • All camping equipment (such as linen, pillows, sleeping bags and permanent safari tents)
      • 4WD vehicle for all transportation
      • Extensive remote first aid kit, satellite phone and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)
      • Hotel pick up and drop off on the first and last day of the tour

    What’s not included:

      • Transportation to Alice Springs
      • Accommodation in Alice Springs before and after the tour
      • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
      • Alcoholic beverages (but you can bring your own if you wish to)
      • Guide gratuities — optional
  • To fully enjoy and participate in this guided Larapinta Trail trip, a moderate level of fitness is recommended. The hikes range from 5.6 to 9.9 miles (9 to 16 km) per day for 5 consecutive days, encompassing varied terrains and elevation gains. You should be comfortable walking for several hours each day and be prepared for quite challenging ascents, such as the climb to Mount Sonder—the most difficult part of the tour with lots of steep terrain and an elevation gain of around 2,800 ft (880 m).

    In short, it’s essential to have a good overall physical condition and stamina to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences along the Larapinta Trail. Keep in mind that you will always have a guide by your side who will encourage you and make the experience safe and enjoyable.

  • Here’s a list of hiking gear you need to bring:

      • Daypack large enough to fit all items you may need in a day
      • Trekking poles — optional
      • Water bladders or bottles (with 3-5 L total capacity)
      • Head torch with spare batteries
      • Insect repellent/fly net or sunscreen with fly repellent
      • Additional snacks such as energy bars or similar (your guide will provide dry fruit and nuts, fresh fruit, some muesli bars, lollies, and some cakes)
      • Reusable ziplock bag for snacks

    For clothes, you will need:

      • Lightweight, quick-drying clothes suitable for longer hikes/walks
      • Warm clothes for night/sleeping/early treks (clothes made of fleece are suitable)
      • Windbreaker or waterproof jacket for rain
      • Gloves and a beanie
      • Wide-brimmed hat
      • A pair of sturdy, lace-up boots for the track that provide adequate ankle support and have good, solid soles for walking on sharp rocks (new or near new condition)
      • A pair of hiking socks, (ideally one per day)
      • A pair of lightweight shoes
      • Warm clothes for the campsite
      • Swim suit/trunks and towel for showers/swimming
      • Flip-flops or similar (good for bathroom visits)
      • Soft sports bag or large backpack that will packed and transported on the bus

    For other items, we recommend you bring:

      • Blister bandages and tape
      • Sunscreen and sunglasses
      • Anti-bacterial gel
      • Wet-wipes and/or toilet paper for the treks
      • Plastic bag for rubbish collection
      • Personal items such as toiletries and medications
      • Power bank to charge devices (there is no electricity at camp)
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)
      • If you would like to bring any alcohol, purchase this before the meet-and-greet

    Bring comfortable clothes appropriate for the weather. You can expect cool evenings and mornings, warm daytime temperatures, and low possibility for rainy days. However, there is always a chance that the weather will be unpredictable, so you should be prepared for different scenarios. You’ll get a chance to discuss your packing list with the guide if you’re not sure about some items.

  • The campsites offer a unique and exceptional experience. Located on indigenous land, these beautiful private and permanent campsites feature permanent safari tents and are carefully chosen for their proximity to the hiking trails and breathtaking views of the landscapes. From enjoying the sunset over the majestic West MacDonnell Ranges to stargazing under the vast outback sky, these campsites provide the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments. Rest assured, the campsites are equipped with all the necessary amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Additionally, for those seeking extra privacy, single-person tents are available for an additional fee.

  • Group sizes and prices:

      • For this group adventure, the maximum number of participants is 15.
      • The cost does not decrease as the group grows.

    Hiking the Larapinta Trail can be arranged for larger and for private groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements:

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • A $340 non-refundable deposit to secure your place is due upon booking. The remaining amount is paid at the latest one month (30 days) prior to departure. Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

      • If Client cancels the Booking anytime prior to thirty (30) calendar days in advance of the trip contemplated by the booking, Client is entitled to a full refund minus the deposit.
      • After that deadline, Client is not entitled to any refund.
      • For bookings made within thirty (30) calendar days of departure, full payment is due upon confirmation and no refunds will be due in the case of cancellation
  • To get to Alice Springs, most people fly into one of major Australian cities like Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide. From there, we suggest taking another direct flight to Alice Springs. Once there, you should take a shuttle or a taxi from the airport to the city center (which is around 9 miles away).

    You will meet your guide at Olive Pink Botanic Garden at 4.30pm on day 0. You’ll be able to discuss the best arrival options with your guide prior to the departure as it may differ depending on where you come from.

  • 57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

    We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, their guides, and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Australia’s Northern Territory, please refer to Australia’s COVID-19 travel advice.

    Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

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