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Larapinta hikers posing

Walk the Larapinta Trail: All-Inclusive Experience

5-6 days | Moderate | 5.00
From $2,336 ()
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Few walks in Australia carry the weight of the Larapinta. Deep in the West MacDonnell Ranges, you’ll thread through ancient gorges, scale red escarpments, and stand on summits with views that stretch forever — hitting iconic spots like Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, and the crown jewel, Mt Sonder. Nights are spent around camp with proper outback meals and a star-filled sky that has to be seen to be believed. Choose from our classic 5-day walk or the Ultimate 6-day experience, which adds a scenic helicopter flight and a star-gazing dinner.

Tim
Tim

Adventure Highlights

  • Ancient landscapes, walking on country: The Larapinta Trail follows Songlines used for thousands of years by the Western Arrernte people—every step here carries history.
  • Best views on Larapinta: Counts Point offers what many consider the finest panorama on the entire trail—ridgelines, gorges, and Mount Sonder all in one sweeping vista
  • Two ways to do the Larapinta: Camp under the stars on the 5-day Standard, or add hotel nights and a scenic helicopter flight with the 6-day Ultimate
Duration
5-6 days
Season
May through August
Group size
Up to 12 people
Accommodation
Standard, Comfort: Hotel and/or campsite
Difficulty
Moderate: Good fitness required, hiking up to 16 km (10 mi) and 8 hours per day, with up to 500 m (1,640 ft) of elevation gain
What's included
Guide, lodging, all meals, fresh fruit & trail mix, luggage transfers, return transfers, and more

The adventure, day by day

This 5-day trip is pure, focused hiking—no hotels, but transfers and food are included just as with the 6-day tour. We'll be based at a stunning campsite at Ormiston Gorge the whole way through.

Few places on earth feel as ancient and raw as the West MacDonnell Ranges. Stretching west of Alice Springs, this rugged landscape of red quartzite ridges, ochre gorges, and ghost gum-lined waterholes sits on some of the oldest geology on the planet—home to the Western Arrernte people for over 50,000 years. The Larapinta Trail is Australia's great desert walk: remote, dramatic, and deeply rewarding. Over five days, we hike its most spectacular sections — scaling Mt Sonder, traversing hidden gorges, and earning views that stretch for hundreds of miles. Guided, fully catered, and camping in style at beautiful Ormiston Gorge.

Day 1: Standley Chasm and the Ormiston Gorge pound walk
Standley chasm sunray

We meet at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Alice Springs for a pre-tour briefing before heading out to Standley Chasm—a narrow, jagged slot canyon sculpted over millions of years, home to birds, lizards, wallabies, and ancient cycad palms. From there, we drive to Ormiston Gorge, one of the crown jewels of the West MacDonnell Ranges, for an afternoon circuit that climbs to a high escarpment overlooking the Pound, then descends into the gorge itself. Cliff faces rise like red lego blocks above the dry riverbed; river red gums, ancient pines, and the famous Sturt’s Desert Rose dot the way. We walk directly into our campsite at Ormiston Gorge, where the tent is already set up and a dip in the waterhole is waiting before dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Hiking: ~9 km (5.6 mi)
Elevation: +312 m (+1,024 ft) / -306 m (-1,004 ft)
Accommodation: Camp Ormiston Gorge (walk-in tents)

Day 2: A wander to Mount Sonder
mount sonder larapinta

We start early—the most challenging day is saved for when legs are freshest. Mount Sonder, the highest point on the Larapinta Trail at 1,380 m (4,528 ft), was made famous in the watercolour paintings of Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira, and the reality more than lives up to the legend. We climb through bushland as trees grow more stunted and the track opens onto sweeping, spinifex-covered slopes. At the summit, we sign the Visitors Book and take in views stretching for hundreds of miles. Those who’d prefer a shorter day can opt for a Redbank Gorge walk or an abbreviated version of the route. We return to camp with time for a swim before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: ~15 km (9.3 mi)
Elevation: +862 m (+2,828 ft) / -862 m (-2,828 ft)
Accommodation: Camp Ormiston Gorge (walk-in tents)

Day 3: Through the gorge to the Finke River
finke river

Today’s walk begins with a magnificent red mallee forest—wildflowers if the rains have been kind—and the remnants of an old cattle corral, a nod to the pioneers who once worked this country. We follow an undulating track through Ormiston Gorge, with Mount Sonder looming behind us and plains stretching ahead. The highlight is crossing the Finke River, known as Larapinta (“salty water”) to the Western Arrernte people and one of the oldest watercourses on earth. We cross to the west bank through a stand of river red gums and make our way back to camp, with time for a swim before the evening meal.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.5 mi)
Elevation: +196 m (+643 ft) / -223 m (-732 ft)
Accommodation: Camp Ormiston Gorge (walk-in tents)

Day 4: Eagles Landing to Counts Point
eagles landing larapinta

Today we walk Section 8 of the Larapinta Trail, and it may well be the finest day of all. A steady climb takes us up to Eagles Landing—named after an Eagle Ancestor Dreaming story connecting Ochre Pits and Serpentine Gorge—before we push on to Counts Point along an exposed ridge with open, rocky terrain. The views here are extraordinary: quartz ridgelines draw the eye to Mount Sonder, and in the distance to the right, the Northern Territory’s highest peak, Mount Zeil, appears on the horizon. After lunch, we descend steeply off the range via switchbacks and rocky steps into mulga scrub, finishing at Serpentine Gorge and transferring back to camp. Those preferring a gentler day can opt for the easy 3 km return walk into Serpentine Gorge and its sheltered waterhole.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: ~15.6 km (9.7 mi)
Elevation: +647 m (+2,123 ft) / -590 m (-1,936 ft)
Accommodation: Camp Ormiston Gorge (walk-in tents)

Day 5: Ochre Pits to Serpentine Chalet Dam and back to Alice Springs
larapinta serpentine gorge

Our final morning follows the Arrernte Walk from the Ochre Pits—an important cultural site for the Western Arrernte people, used for ceremony and pigment for thousands of years—through Inarlanga Pass, where smoky-green Macdonnell Ranges cycads glow against red sandstone walls formed around 300 million years ago. We connect onto the Larapinta Track for the final 4 km, following high ground with some of the best views of the whole trail. Afterwards, we transfer back to the DoubleTree by Hilton in Alice Springs, arriving at approximately 2:40 pm—tired, satisfied, and full of stories.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: ~8 km (5 mi)

In addition to the 5-day itinerary, this ultimate experience adds a helicopter flight, star-gazing dinner, and a mix of boutique accommodation and deluxe camping.

The Larapinta Trail isn't just a hike—it's a rite of passage through Australia's most legendary landscapes. Over 6 unforgettable days, we'll tackle rugged ridgelines, chase sunrises from Mt Sonder, and cool off in the crystal waters of Ormiston Gorge. When the sun goes down, pull up a seat for a star-gazing dining experience under an outback sky so bright it'll reset your definition of night. Then take to the skies for a scenic helicopter flight over the West MacDonnell Ranges—red canyons, sweeping desert, and a view that'll leave your jaw somewhere near Simpsons Gap. This is the Outback, turned all the way up.

Day 1: Arrival and Alice Springs
Welcome to Alice Springs

Today’s the arrival day. Book your own flight to arrive anytime in Alice Springs, and make your own way to the Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort. The accommodation has been booked for the night. Tonight, enjoy a free evening. You can explore one of the many restaurants in Alice Springs or dine in the hotel’s restaurant (at your own expense).

Accommodation: Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort

Day 2: Standley Chasm to Ormiston Gorge & Pound walk
Standley chasm sunray

We’ll meet the guides at the hotel, and then go to (and through) the awe-inspiring Standley Chasm. Afterwards, we’ll travel to Ormiston Gorge, one of the main highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park. We’ll walk up to a high escarpment overlooking the pound, and then descend into the pound and across the gorge. Then, we’ll go to a campsite at Ormiston Gorge. We’ll find our stand-up touring tents with off-the-ground beds and camping mattresses and pillows erected and our overnight bags waiting in our tents. We can take a dip in the refreshing waterhole before dinner, a great way to refresh after the day’s walk. Later on, a nice dinner with Australian wine awaits.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 6 hours
Elevation gain/loss: 110 m (360 ft)
Accommodation: Campsite

Day 3: Mount Sonder
View from the top of Mt Sonder

Today, we’ll start the day early so we can enjoy a glorious but challenging walk to Mt Sonder. This section’s walk to the summit showcases the stunning colors of the range and amazing views. Initially, we’ll climb through bushland, then the trees gradually become more stunted as the track rises on open, spinifex-covered slopes.  At the top, we will enjoy sweeping views of where we have been and record our achievement in the Visitor’s Book. The journey to the peak of Mount Sonder features an 8-km (5-mi) walk from the gorge over rocky and steep terrain suited to fit bushwalkers. We’ll return to our campsite with enough time to have a relaxing swim in the waterhole before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 16 km (10 mi), 6 hours
Accommodation: Campsite

Day 4: Ochre Pits to Serpentine Chalet Gorge (Nocturnal Tour)
Part of the Larapinta trail

After breakfast, we’ll walk an easy track along the Song Line of the Arrernte track from Ochre pits, which connects to Inarlanga Pass. The traditional landowners, Arrernte people, still use the Ochre pits. We’ll enter into the Inarlanga Gorge, which has been a ceremonial place and an important watering point for the Western Arrernte people for thousands of years. The descent back features spinifex foothills over a low saddle through mulga, and then we come back to our starting point. The next 2 nights will be spent in our hotel. After dinner, we’ll embark on the Nocturnal Tour at Alice Springs Desert Park, where we’ll experience the desert’s vibrant nightlife and encounter some fascinating nocturnal creatures.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 4 hours
Accommodation: Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort

 

Day 5: Counts Point
Larapinta trail path

On Day 5, after a nice breakfast in the restaurant, we’ll walk the Section 8 of the Larapinta Trail. We’ll climb to Eagles’ landing and have a morning tea stop, then continue to Counts Point. This vantage point offers a wonderful opportunity to see the overall geology of the ranges. There’s a spectacular view of Mt Sonder. After lunch, we’ll descend the range into the plains for the end of our walk at Serpentine Gorge chalet. Then, we’ll transfer back to our hotel for dinner (and more wine). 

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 15 km (9.3 mi), 8 hours
Accommodation: Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort

Day 6: Simpsons Gap to Wallaby Gap & helicopter ride
Helicopter ride

Today, we’ll walk the Section 1 of the Larapinta Trail, close to Alice Springs. Setting off from Wallaby Gap, the trail unveils its charms as it traverses the Scorpion Pool, a serene oasis nestled amidst the rugged terrain. The path then leads us to the enchanting Hat Hill Saddle, where sweeping vistas await, rewarding our ascent with panoramic views that stretch across the vast expanse. Then, we’ll reach Simpsons Gap, a breathtaking natural wonder adorned with towering red rock walls.  Afterwards, we’ll finish our journey with an afternoon helicopter ride from Alice Springs. We’ll take to the air and follow the Todd River to the Telegraph Station, and get a bird’s-eye view of Mt Gillen and Heavitree Gap before making our way to marvel at the breathtaking Simpsons Gap. The adventure ends at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 11 km (6.8 mi), 5 hours
Elevation gain: +500 m (+1,640 ft)

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.
Tim
5.00
Tim
Tim is a knowledgeable, well-prepared, and exceptionally caring guide who goes above and beyond to ensure every guest feels included, valued, and confident on their journey. His friendly and fair approach creates a welcoming environment for all, while his attention to detail—like bringing along a variety of snacks and hot drinks—adds a thoughtful touch that makes the experience truly special. Tim’s dedication and passion for what he does consistently leave a lasting impression on those he guides. A true 10/10 experience!

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)
J
Justine U

We have returned from the most wonderful guided Larapinta Trail adventure! It was a combined 50th birthday private walking group of mixed ages. Josh and Bec were absolutely incredible hosts that provided a fun an informative experience. A magical exploration of our spiritual heartland. We are forever grateful for the experience.

9
958elle

Had the most amazing adventure! The guides were fun, full of information and provided so many magical moments. The food was delicious and plentiful and the hikes were well planned and challenging. Can’t wait to book my next one!!!

B
Brian B

This was my second walk with these guides, having done the 6 foot track a few years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed all six days of the trip. The walks were well selected, with a mixture of fairly challenging days, like the 16km return hike up Mount Sonder, and easier days in between. The accommodation and food were quite satisfactory. The guides were good company and very knowledgeable about the area. I would definitely recommend this tour for any reasonably fit person with a love of the outback.

5.00(3 reviews)
J
Justine U

We have returned from the most wonderful guided Larapinta Trail adventure! It was a combined 50th birthday private walking group of mixed ages. Josh and Bec were absolutely incredible hosts that provided a fun an informative experience. A magical exploration of our spiritual heartland. We are forever grateful for the experience.

9
958elle

Had the most amazing adventure! The guides were fun, full of information and provided so many magical moments. The food was delicious and plentiful and the hikes were well planned and challenging. Can’t wait to book my next one!!!

B
Brian B

This was my second walk with these guides, having done the 6 foot track a few years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed all six days of the trip. The walks were well selected, with a mixture of fairly challenging days, like the 16km return hike up Mount Sonder, and easier days in between. The accommodation and food were quite satisfactory. The guides were good company and very knowledgeable about the area. I would definitely recommend this tour for any reasonably fit person with a love of the outback.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • Experienced hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
      • 5 or 6-day Larapinta trail trekking tour, depending on your selected itinerary
      • Accommodation
        • 5-day itinerary: 4 nights of camping at the magnificent Ormiston Gorge (walk-in tents with off-the-ground beds & deluxe camping mattresses)
        • 6-day itinerary:
          • 1 night at the Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort
          • 2 nights camping at Ormiston Gorge
          • 2 final nights at Doubletree Hilton (or, if open, Glen Helen Homestead)
      • All meals (breakfasts, packed lunches, and dinners), as in the itinerary
      • Australian wine served during dinner each night at camp 
      • Fresh fruit and trail mix during the walks
      • Luggage transfers
      • National Park Pass
      • Return transfers
      • With the 6-day tour only:
        • Helicopter flight over Section 1 of the Larapinta (for a unique view of the MacDonnell ranges)
        • Nocturnal experience in Alice Springs

    Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):

      • Sleeping bag rental
      • Single occupancy room 

    Not included:

      • International or domestic flights
      • Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges
      • Sleeping bag
      • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
      • Visa and passport fees
      • All personal expenses
      • Guide gratuities — optional
      • Insurance — available to add at checkout
  • This Larapinta trail trekking tour is ideal for hikers with a good-to-excellent level of fitness. You should be able to walk in all weather conditions. Still, you’ll have the option to opt out of any day’s walking and relax at the campground or homestead. On Day 3, you can also do an alternative easier walk for those not wanting to walk to Mount Sonder.

    Expect hiking of up to 16 km (10 mi), and up to 8 hours per day, while gaining up to 500 m (1,640 ft) in elevation. Check out the itinerary for day-by-day distances and elevation changes.

    The Larapinta Trail stretches 223 km (139 mi) from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder—a full traverse takes around 16 days, though most walkers choose to focus on the finest sections rather than tackling it end to end. Our handpicked 5-day & 6-day itineraries cover the trail’s standout highlights, giving you the best of Larapinta without missing a thing.

    For more hiking adventures in Australia, click here!

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • A backpack large enough to carry your personal items (around a 25-40L bag)
      • Travel insurance, passports, indemnity form, and visa
      • Sleeping bag — can be rented for an additional cost
      • Hiking poles — optional
      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
      • Comfortable hiking clothes 
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • Sunhat
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Swimsuit
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. Please note that the full packing list will be sent after booking.

    Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For this Larapinta trail trekking tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. 
      • It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
      • Private tours for a minimum of 10 people are available! Let’s get in touch if interested.

    A Larapinta trail trekking tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors older than 8 may be permitted to join the Larapinta trail trekking tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

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

  • The price for this Larapinta Trail is based on twin-share rooms and/or tents, but a single occupancy room/tent can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

    If you’re a solo traveller happy to share, we’ll do our best to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we’re unable to find a suitable match closer to departure, the single supplement will apply.

  • The starting point of your Larapinta trail trekking tour is Alice Springs. To get there, most people fly into Darwin International Airport (DRW), and then fly from there into Alice Springs Airport (ASP). From there, you can take a shuttle service or rent a car to reach Alice Springs.

    It’s best to book your own flight to arrive anytime in Alice Springs, and then make your own way to the Doubletree Hilton Alice Springs Resort, where the accommodation for the first night has been booked and settled. Your guide will provide more details about the group meeting before the adventure begins.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

    Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

  • Deposits

    Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

    Cancellations

    Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

    Basic

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.

    Super Flexible

      • If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
      • If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
      • If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
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