About this tour
A 10-hour guided day tour through the West MacDonnell Ranges west of Alice Springs, visiting six gorges and waterholes across striking red desert landscape. You'll stop at Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge, Ellery Creek Bighole, and Flynn Memorial, with morning tea and lunch provided. Swimming is possible at Ellery Creek in warmer months. Suits anyone with moderate fitness who wants to see the ranges' geological drama without a strenuous pace.
Highlights
- Six gorges and waterholes across the West MacDonnell Ranges in one day
- Optional swim at Ellery Creek Bighole during summer months
- Standley Chasm entry fee included in tour cost
- Morning tea and bushman's lunch provided
- Air-conditioned transport with hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Experienced guide; activities rated safe for all ages
- Ochre Pits and Flynn Memorial stops for photos and history
- All walking tracks accessible to moderate fitness levels
What to expect
Hotel pick-up in the morning, then a scenic drive west into the ranges with your guide. You'll spend the day stopping at each gorge and waterhole — short walks to lookouts and creek banks, with time to photograph the red cliffs and rock formations. Morning tea is served partway through. A bushman's lunch (likely eaten outdoors near one of the waterholes) breaks up the day. In summer, you can bring swimwear for a dip at Ellery Creek Bighole. The tour wraps up with a drive back to Alice Springs, arriving late afternoon. Most activity is getting in and out of the coach and walking short distances on marked tracks.
What travellers say
- Covers multiple gorges and iconic spots in one efficient day tour
- Meals and morning tea included; no need to find lunch
- Safe, accessible walks suited to varying fitness levels
- Knowledgeable guide and air-conditioned coach comfort
- NT Parks Pass must be pre-purchased separately; not included
- 10-hour day is long; early start and late return
- Swimming only available in warmer months, not year-round
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This suits anyone wanting to see the West MacDonnells' geology and landscape without a full hiking commitment. You need moderate fitness for gentle walks and entry/exit from the vehicle, but no scrambling or long treks. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen — the desert sun is intense even in cooler months. Bring a water bottle and refill at stops. An NT Parks Pass must be pre-purchased and brought with you (digital copy is accepted); it's no longer included in the tour price. Summer swimming is optional but refreshing; bring swimwear if interested. The long day and early start suit early risers better than those who prefer a slower pace.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BookNow summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.