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5 Day Larapinta Walking Tour

Join us on a bushwalking trek adventure along sections of the spectacular Larapinta Trail located in the heart of Central Australia. Explore the wonder of West MacDonnell Ranges, Euro Ridge, Mount Sonder, Ormiston Gorge, and Ellery Creek.

DEPARTS
6:00 am
RETURNS
5:00 pm
Days
5
PRICE from
$3125 AUD

Operates

SUN
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Touring Route

5 Day Larapinta Walking Tour maps
Trip Style
Adventure
Language
English
Age Restriction
From 8 years old
Group Size
Max 16 people

Highlights

  • Discover the Red Centre's Larapinta Trail, one of Australia's top wilderness trails.

  • Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of West MacDonnell National Park (Tjoritja) on beautiful Arrernte country.

  • Be impressed by dramatic views of the ancient landscape from Euro Ridge and Counts point lookout.

  • Take a dip in some of the West MacDonnell ranges most impressive waterholes including Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek.

  • Enjoy our exclusive private campsite on traditional land, complete with permanent safari tents or Aussie Swags.

  • Taste ethically sourced, organic bush foods straight from the Central Desert around the campfire.

  • Explore ravines and escarpments, where life forms will excite the curious mind.

  • Watch the sunrise and stunning 360-degree view from Mount Sonder, one of the territory's highest mountains.

Trip Inclusions

  • 4 Nights’ Private and remote campsite on traditional land complete with safari tents with twin bedding (bush setting including portable toilets and pop-up showers, excluding electricity)

  • All camping equipment such as linen, pillows, blankets, sleeping bags and basic swag

  • Includes: 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners, trek snacks

  • Fresh drinking water, hot and cold drinks, excluding alcoholic beverages (BYO alcohol, cold storage will be provided, let your guide know at the meet and greet)

  • Guided bushwalking (~14km, grade 2-6)

  • Air-conditioned 4WD off-road mini-coach travel

  • Courtesy hotel pick-up/drop-off in Alice Springs

  • Walking Trail Fee 5 Days, traditional owners and camping fees

  • Professionally trained & accredited outback driver-guide & onboard host

  • Extensive remote first aid kit, satellite phone & Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB)

What to Bring

  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Your sense of adventure
  • Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
  • Swimmers and beach towel
  • Hand sanitiser and insect repellent
  • Money for snacks and meals
  • 3L reusable water container with instructions to track hydration levels all day
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat
  • Personal toiletries, beach towel, and shower towel
  • Beach thongs or flip-flops and swimwear
  • An overnight bag weighing 10–15 kg, including a compact daypack
  • Insect repellent with a tropical strength
  • A fly or mosquito net is advised during the warmer months
  • A personal first aid kit and any prescription drugs that may be required
  • Torch, headlamp, or flashlight
  • A camera to record your luxury moments

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Section 1: Alice Springs to Wallaby Gap

Arrival and Meet and Greet (pre-tour welcome)
Arrive at the airport and make your own way to your accommodation in Alice Springs (not included; please book directly). We meet at 4.30 pm in the Olive Pink Botanic Garden, where you will meet the rest of your group members to discuss the coming days with your guide. Afterwards, head back to your Alice Springs accommodation, retiring early for the night in preparation for the big journey ahead.

It’s an early start, and it’s 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 in Australia. Our first walk is around a 14km ‘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 Wallaby Gap and transfer us to our remote camping location within the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. If time permits, we will visit one of the stunning natural waterholes for a refreshing swim along the way. Let the true experience begin as we rest in a region synonymous with the Dreamtime (Alcheringa) of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. We will enjoy a Kungkas Can Cook Tasting Platter for pre-dinner nibbles. Kungkas Can Cook is an Aboriginal catering company passionate about bush foods and is dedicated to utilising wild harvested produce from around the Central Desert Region and beyond.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
Driving Distance: approx. 146km.
Hiking Distance and Grading: 14 km (Section 1), Grade 4 – moderate to difficult.

Day 2 – Section 8: 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 Larapinta Trail that is suitable only for well-prepared and experienced walkers with a good fitness level. It offers exhilarating views of the high quartzite ridgelines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil (the highest point in the Northern Territory). If time permits, we will visit one of the stunning natural waterholes for a refreshing swim after a long day of walking.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags. Driving Distance: approx. 94km. Hiking Distance and Grading: 13.4km (Section 8), Grade 4 – moderate to difficult.

Day 3 – Section 10: Ormiston Gorge to Glen Helen Gorge

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 and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If time permits, we will visit one of the stunning natural waterholes for a refreshing swim. Tonight, relax at our beautiful permanent campsite as the sun sets and the colours of the night desert erupt into million-star accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags. Driving Distance: approx. 27km. Hiking Distance and Grading: 11km (Section 10), Grade 3 – moderate.

Day 4 – Section 12: Mount Sonder Climb

An early rise is an understatement (approx. 3 am trek start) as we challenge the 8km climb to the peak of Mount Sonder. The vision of sunrise and the 360° view will leave you speechless – a truly unforgettable achievement. Afterwards, enjoy a well-deserved cooked Aussie breakfast at camp. Spend the afternoon at your own leisure at camp or at Ormiston Gorge before enjoying one last evening under the stars of the Milky Way at our beautiful remote campsite.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite; Safari Tents, or Bush Swags. Driving Distance: approx. 64km. Hiking Distance and Grading: 16km (Section 12), Grade 5 – difficult.

Day 5 – Section 9/10 : Ormiston Pound Walk to Alice Springs

Regarded by many as the ‘primo’ short walk of the Larapinta Trail, the Ormiston Pound Walk is full of wow factor, wildlife and flora and a grand finale to our walk. A location inspirational to Albert Namatjira, sensational viewings of the Chewing’s Range and Mount Giles – the entry into the Gorge will leave you dumbfounded. After our last picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack and break camp for regrettably the last time and begin our journey back to normality (hot showers and life as you know it awaits).

Tonight, after a well-deserved shower, make your own way to one of Alice’s Outback Restaurants (your guide will confirm the time and location), where you can reminisce about the last 5 days and share some banter over a refreshing ale or cool drink.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: N/A. Driving Distance: approx. 156km. Hiking Distance and Grading: 16km (Section 9/10), Grade 3 – moderate.

*Autopia Alice Springs Tours & Walking Country reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies. Days of the itinerary may be swapped on the ground due to operational reasons.

Exclusions
  • Any meals not indicated within the itinerary, excluding alcohol (BYO) storage provided. For those with special dietaries, we recommend you bring snacks as options are limited in the outback.
  • Alice Springs Hotel on Day 5 of the itinerary
  • Day 5: Transfer to the farewell dinner, please make your own way
  • Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended
  • Personal expenses
Optionals
  • Sleeping bags can be hired from us onboard for $40 AUD, this includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own.

Route details

Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside the front of Doubletree by Hilton 82 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs at 6:00am.

  • 6:00 – A Good Rest BandB – 51 Dixon Rd Alice Springs NT
  • 6:00 – Alice in the Territory – 46 Stephens Rd Mount Johns
  • 6:00 – Alice Springs Tourist Park – 70 Larapinta Dr Araluen NT
  • 6:00 – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
  • 6:00 – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
  • 6:00 – Desert Palms Alice Springs – 74 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
  • 6:00 – DoubleTree Hilton Alice Springs -82 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
  • 6:15 – Alice Lodge Backpackers – 4 Mueller St East Side NT
  • 6:15 – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
  • 6:15 – Alices Secret Travellers Inn – 6 Khalick St East Side NT
  • 6:15 – Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace
  • 6:15 – Desert Rosa Inn – 15 Railway Tce Alice Springs NT
  • 6:15 – The Diplomat Motel – 20 Gregory Terrace Alice Springs
  • 6:15 – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
  • 6:25 – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs

Please arrive 5-10 mins prior to your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.

At Autopia Tours, we actively promote the protection of flora and fauna on our Northern Territory Tours. It is our duty to ensure there is minimal disturbance to this World  Heritage Listed region and the species that call it home. Cultural sensitivity and respect for traditional owners should also be shown at all times.

Part of our responsibility is educating guests on minimal impact practices and the importance of ensuring the safety of wildlife and the environmental sustainability of the destinations we visit.

Learn more about EcoTourism: https://www.ecotourism.org.au/

Traditional Owners

Autopia Tours would like to begin by paying our respects to the traditional owners of this country, with specific acknowledgement to the Wurundjeri people. Please be conscious and respectful of the sensitivities of indigenous culture and the spiritual connection they have with the land at all times.

Wildlife Encounters

The natural behaviours of wildlife are to be respected and not interfered with. When viewing wildlife, people should take care to avoid rapid or sudden movements, which could frighten the animal, and should keep noise to a minimum and refrain from touching, petting or feeding all wildlife including birds. Contact with people can introduce diseases to wildlife and can cause them to become aggressive.

Wildlife should not be handled or fed, unless by certified wildlife handlers. Feeding wildlife can alter their natural foraging behaviour and can lead to disease or illness through contact with people and the introduction of foods that are harmful to their digestive system. Feeding wildlife can also cause them to become aggressive toward people.

Wildlife that appears to be in distress, injured or in danger should be reported immediately to the appropriate authority, such as your Guide/Tour Leader, a National Park Ranger or Visitor Centre Staff.

Protecting our National Parks

People should remain on designated walking tracks, behind safety barriers/fences and follow all directions given by the guide/tour leader. Venturing off these can alter fragile ecosystems and can harm wildlife shelters and native vegetation. There are other dangers to be aware of too, such as cliff edges, unstable rock formations, overhanging tree branches and slippery ground cover. Remaining on tracks ensures safe visitation for guests and the environment.

No flora or fauna should be removed from their natural setting. This includes dead wood, fallen leaves, flowers and so forth, as they form part of the ecosystem of the region and their removal could cause a disturbance.

Waste Management

All buses are fitted with waste bins. No organic waste should be disposed of onto the ground. Although organic, items such as banana peels, apple cores, bread and other food scraps, are not natural/native to the region and can introduce pest species, diseases or harm to wildlife if found and eaten. We recommend all passengers bring a water bottle with you on our Grampians Tour. Purchasing bottled water contributes large amounts of plastic into the landfill. Therefore, we ask guests to bring their own bottle, as there is access to water refill stations available on our vehicles. Please ensure you stay hydrated throughout the tour to reduce the risk of sun exposure and dehydration.

First Aid

All our guides carry a current Level 2 First Aid certificate. Please report any accident or illness to your tour guide. We recommend anyone with an existing medical condition to carry their medication with them on tour and to notify their tour guide at the beginning of the tour.

If you are a smoker! We ask you to refrain from smoking whilst in the company of other passengers and limit it to designated smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted on any of our vehicles, or in any type of accommodation including permanent campsites. We make frequent ‘comfort stops’ to allow free time for guests but cannot guaranteed smoke breaks. Please ensure you dispose of your cigarette butt responsibly and appropriately.

What is a suitable age for this tour?

Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

Yes, please notify us if you have any dietary requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking, or at least a few days prior to departure, that way we can make any necessary arrangements. Most of the meals are prepared by our tour guides with basic camping-style options and others are provided by our accommodation providers onsite. Guests can participate in the preparation of meals, clean-up, and vehicle unpacking/loading as it’s a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers.

How fit do I need to be for this tour?

Where do we stay on tour?

What is the minimum number of passengers required in order to operate?

What kind of vehicle do we travel in for this tour?

How much luggage can I bring on tour?

Are National Park fees included in the tour cost?

Do I require travel insurance for this tour?

It is highly recommended that all passengers have personal travel insurance, given we’re exploring remote parts of the Northern Territory with limited access to health professionals in the event of sickness or injury.  Autopia Tours is not authorised to provide information on the type of plan or policy options available. This can be provided by an accredited local travel agent or from your preferred insurance company.

Acceptance of Risk

Australia is home to many dangerous creatures, extreme weather conditions, and varied terrain. Experiencing these dangers while camping, hiking, or passing time outside may increase your personal risk. Safety is our number one priority, and our guides are highly trained to ensure passenger safety at all times. Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd cannot accept responsibility for any loss, injury, or accident caused by passengers onboard Autopia Tours. In the Top End, children must be at least 6 years old for day trips and 8 years old for overnight tours. Children under the age of 18 must always be accompanied by an adult, legal guardian, or caregiver. Despite all care being taken, the responsibility for children on tour lies entirely with their parents or caregivers. Passengers, including children, must wear shoes, sunscreen, and hats at all times.

What is your Vaccination Policy?

In accordance with current Government regulations, it is no longer a requirement to be double vaccinated, although we do highly recommend it.

Our COVID Statement

For your safety, we have implemented comprehensive hygiene measures and increased regular sanitation. Temperature checks of all staff will be conducted pre-departure, with disposable face masks and hand-sanitizer provided. For more information click here.

Our Contract

All bookings are made with Get Lost Travel Pty Ltd (ABN 94 143 929 962). By making a booking, you agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions. Your booking is considered confirmed upon receipt of your booking confirmation and/or invoice.

These Terms & Conditions are valid from 1 August 2025 until 31 March 2027, though dates and itineraries remain subject to change at any time.

Accredited Bus Number: AC003612.

Booking Confirmations & Enquiries

All bookings must be confirmed within 72 hours of departure via email to [email protected]

Before You Book

Please ensure you:

  • Understand the style, itinerary and physical demands of your chosen tour.
  • Familiarise yourself with these Terms & Conditions and tour details.
  • Disclose any medical conditions, dietary requirements or special needs.

We are not responsible for passengers who fail to review this information prior to travel.

Traveller Responsibilities
  • Travellers are required to comply with all relevant government regulations (Federal, State and Territory).
  • All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing. In exceptional cases (e.g. serious medical issues, visa denials, or regulatory changes), requests may be considered with supporting documentation. Approval is not guaranteed.
  • To ensure the safety of all passengers, if you are feeling unwell during your tour, you must notify your guide immediately.
  • If you choose to leave a tour early or join after it has commenced, no refund will be provided and any additional costs incurred due to late arrival or early departure remain your responsibility.
Traveller Information

To confirm your booking, you must provide:

  • Full name and contact details.
  • Email address and dietary restrictions (if applicable).
  • Nationality, country of origin or Australian postcode.
  • Pre-existing medical conditions that may affect your travel.
  • For Comfort Style Tours including domestic flight, passport details (or government-issued photo ID for Australian citizens) are required. Failure to provide this may result in missed flights and additional costs.

Please see our Privacy Policy for information on how we manage your personal data.

Special Requirements

Please advise us at the time of booking or no later than 7 days before departure of any:

  • Medical conditions.
  • Dietary requirements / food allergies.
  • Mobility or accessibility needs.

We will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee all requests, especially in remote regions. We recommend bringing your own snacks for special dietary needs.

Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend all travellers obtain comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking.

Insurance should include cover for:

  • Medical emergencies and repatriation (recommended minimum AUD $300,000 or USD $200,000).
  • Personal accident, illness, loss of property and liability.
  • Tour cancellation, flight delays and force majeure disruption.

Travel insurance is mandatory for all Comfort Style Tours. Proof of cover will be requested before departure. If you do not provide adequate cover, you may be refused travel and cancellation fees will apply.

If relying on credit card insurance, please bring policy number, insurer’s name and emergency contact details.

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FAQ

What are the available types of accommodation?

Accommodations include private and remote campsites on traditional land, offering safari-style tents with twin bedding and bush swags. Amenities include portable toilets and pop-up showers, but no electricity is available.

Is it possible to rent a sleeping bag?

Sleeping bags can be rented for an extra fee, which covers cleaning costs. You can also bring your own if you prefer.

Is travel insurance required?

It is advisable to consider purchasing travel insurance separately as it may not be included in the tour package.

What is the Larapinta Trail?

The Larapinta Trail is a hiking trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges of Central Australia, stretching over 230 kilometres from Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mount Sonder. It features desert landscapes, gorges, and Indigenous cultural sites.

How physically demanding is the tour?

The tour suits individuals with moderate to advanced fitness levels who can comfortably walk 10-20 kilometres daily on rough terrain. Certain parts of the tour may include steep inclines and declines, necessitating good physical health.

Are meals provided?

Meals are included on the tour, covering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

Is there a guide?

The tour is led by professional and experienced guides who provide insight into the natural and cultural history of the area, prioritize safety, and offer first aid when needed.

What is the total number of individuals in the group?

Group sizes may vary but are usually limited to 10-15 participants to provide a personalized and comfortable experience.

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