Larapinta Desert Trek|WOA

Itinerary

Day 1

ALICE SPRINGS – (ARRIVAL DAY)

Arrive at leisure today and check into your hotel.

We meet at 2.00pm in the foyer of the Doubletree Hilton (Barrett Drive) where you will meet the rest of the members of your group to discuss the coming days with your guide.

If you arrive earlier during the day you might like to enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling heart of the Red Centre before leaving it all behind for the desolate outback. Browse Aboriginal artworks at Central Australia’s best art galleries. This is also a good time to ensure you have all articles needed for your Larapinta Trail walk.

From here you will make your way to Olive Pink Botanical Gardens to meet a Traditional Owner where you will be ‘Welcomed to the Country’. After this we head back to the hotel to enjoy a dinner and relax before the walking begins.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Alice Springs at the Doubletree Hilton (twin share)

Day 2

ALICE SPRINGS TO SIMPSONS GAP

An early start and its bye bye suburbia – hello wilderness! The majestic and serene West MacDonnell Ranges are rich in natural wonders and traditional culture and are considered the best there is in Australia. Our first walk is a 23.4km ‘leg stretch’ commencing from the outskirts of Alice Springs. Some beautiful views can be seen, particularly at Euro Ridge. Our walk is taken casually, a fitting way to relax and immerse in the wonder of the region and to ponder the coming 4 days. Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at the picturesque Simpsons Gap and transfer us to our remote camping location. Let the true experience begin as we rest in a region synonymous in the dreamtime (Alcheringa) of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people.

For those who feel they cannot complete the entire 23.4kms, there is an opportunity to finish at Wallaby Gap at 13.5kms and return to the campsite with our support staff.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Camping

Day 3

SERPENTINE GORGE TO SERPENTINE CHALET DAM

Today we head to the spectacular western half of the Larapinta Trail and onto a 13.4km section of the Trail that is only suitable for well-prepared walkers with a good level of fitness. It offers exhilarating views of the high quartzite ridge lines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil (the highest point in the Northern Territory).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Camping

Day 4

ORMISTON GORGE TO GLEN HELEN

Today we traverse the low lying regions surrounding Ormiston Gorge gradually working our way upward into the back reaches of the Finke River. This area is steeped in traditional folklore with several important sites being viewed including ‘Yapulpa’, which is part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend as well as the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming.

Tonight our campsite is shadowed by Mount Sonder (The Pregnant Lady) and the imagery of the Yeperenye Hills (Caterpillar Dreaming). Relax at the campsite on the banks of the mighty Finke River as the sun sets and the colours of the night desert erupt into million star accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Camping.

Day 5

MOUNT SONDER

An early rise is an understatement as we challenge the 8km climb to the Peak of Mount Sonder (the complete return walk is 16km). The vision of sunrise and the 360 degree view will leave you speechless – a truly unforgettable achievement.

Spend your last night camping under the stars.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Camping.

Day 6

ORMISTON POUND WALK

Regarded by many as the best small walk of the Larapinta Trail, the Ormiston Pound Walk is full of wildlife, flora and beautiful scenery. A location inspirational to Albert Namatjira, it offers sensational views of the Chewing’s Range and Mount Giles, the entry into the Gorge will leave you amazed.

After another healthy lunch, we will pack and break camp for regrettably the last time and return to normality (hot shower and life as you know it awaits). Tonight we will reminisce the past 5 days and share some banter over a refreshing ale or cool drink at one of Alice’s classic outback restaurants for a farewell dinner.

(transfer to restaurant only included, not return)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Alice Springs at the Doubletree Hilton (twin share)

Day 7

DEPART ALICE SPRINGS – (departure day)

You have the day free to explore Alice Springs on your own if you have time before departing. Transport to the Airport / Railway Station can be arranged at the Hotel Reception.

Meals: Breakfast

Price

AUD $2,650

Inclusions

INCLUDED WITH THIS TRIP

The 7 day itinerary includes both arrival and departure days (Days 1 & 7)

Hotel Accommodation, Doubletree Hilton in Alice Springs Twin Share on Days 1 & 6

Camping at Basic bush Camp with swags and semi-permanent tents, 4 nights (Days 2, 3, 4, 5)

Expert Trek Guide

Provision of ground transport including 4WD support vehicle

All Bedding and Camping equipment

Safety Equipment to cater the needs of the Tour

Park entrance and trek fees

Meals as detailed in the itinerary. Includes supply of snacks, fruit & refreshments (days 1 to 6)

NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS TRIP

Flights

airport departure taxes

departure transfers

insurance

any optional tours and activities during free time

tips or gratuities and items of a personal nature.

NOTE: Airport pick-up is NOT included, there is an excellent Shuttle Bus service at the airport which will take you to the hotel at a cost of approx $20 per person.