Trek Larapinta

We start early and leave the suburbs for the wilderness of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known as the best in Australia. Our first walk is a 14km leg stretch from the outskirts of Alice Springs. The views, especially at Euro Ridge, are beautiful. We walk casually, enjoying the region and preparing for the next four days. Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at Wallaby Gap and take us to our remote camping location in the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. If we have time, we may visit a natural waterhole for a swim. We will rest in a region critical to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Before dinner, we will have a Kungkas Can Cook tasting platter. Kungkas Can Cook is an Aboriginal catering Company that uses wild harvested produce from the Central Desert Region and beyond.

• Meals provided are lunch and dinner.
• Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, Safari Tents, or Bush Swags.
• The driving distance is approximately 146km.
• The hiking distance for Section 1 is 14 km, with a grading of Grade 4, which is moderate to difficult.

Today, we will be exploring the western half of the Larapinta Trail, specifically a 13.4km section recommended for well-prepared and experienced walkers with a good fitness level. Along this trail, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the high quartzite ridgelines that are characteristic of the West MacDonnell Ranges, including notable landmarks like Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil, which happens to be the highest point in the Northern Territory. If time allows, we may also have the opportunity to visit one of the beautiful natural waterholes for a refreshing swim after a long day of walking.

• Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, safari tents, or bush swags.
• The driving distance is approximately 94km.
• The hiking distance for Section 8 is 13.4km, with a grade of 4, which is considered moderate to difficult.

Today, we will explore the low-lying regions near Ormiston Gorge. As we make our way higher, we will reach the remote areas of the Finke River. This region holds significant cultural importance and has many important sites, such as ‘Yapulpa’, part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend and the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming. If we have enough time, we can swim in one of the beautiful natural waterholes. At night, we will relax at our permanent campsite and witness the breathtaking sunset and the vibrant colours of the desert sky, providing us with a million-star accommodation.

• Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Accommodation options include private and remote West MacDonnell Ranges permanent campsite, safari tents, or bush swags.
• The driving distance is approximately 27km.
• The hiking distance for Section 10 is 11km and is graded as moderate, with a Grade 3 difficulty level.

The trek to the peak of Mount Sonder starts very early, around 3 am. It is a challenging 8km climb. The view from the top at sunrise is breathtaking and offers a 360° view. It is truly an unforgettable achievement. Afterwards, you can enjoy a cooked Aussie breakfast at camp. In the afternoon, you can relax at camp or visit Ormiston Gorge. You can enjoy the beautiful remote campsite and stargaze under the Milky Way in the evening.

• Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Accommodations are available at a private and remote campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges, with Safari Tents or Bush Swags options.
• The driving distance is approximately 64km.
• The hiking distance for Section 12 is 16km, with a difficulty grading of 5 – difficult.

The Ormiston Pound Walk on the Larapinta Trail is highly regarded by many. It offers stunning views of the Chewing Range and Mount Giles and is a place that inspired Albert Namatjira. The entry into the Gorge is breathtaking. After having a picnic lunch at Ormiston Gorge, we will pack up and head back to civilization, where hot showers and everyday life await.

After showering, guests can make their way to one of Alice’s Outback Restaurants at the designated time and location provided by their guide. Here, they can reflect on the past five days and enjoy conversation over a drink.

• Meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Accommodation is not available.
• The driving distance is approximately 156km.
• The hiking distance is 16km for Section 9/10, with a grade 3 difficulty level considered moderate.