Issuu

WELCOME TO

Central Australia

Australian Tourist Publications

Welcome to Magazines

welcometocentralaustralia.com.au

YUBU NAPA ART GALLERY Yubu Napa is dedicated to showcasing the highest quality Aboriginal Art from Central Australia. They are located a short 5 minute walk from the information centre in Todd Street Mall. They have one of the biggest gallery spaces, allowing visitors to truly take in the artworks on display, including their stunning collection of contemporary Aboriginal Art. Yubu Napa also provide a comfortable studio space for working artists. The gift shop features an eclectic range of beautifully handcrafted gift ideas and Central Australian Photography. If you only visit one gallery while you are here, make sure to visit Yubu Napa – Alice Springs’ Premier Gallery!

Creating Beautiful Art YUBU NAPA ART GALLERY

GIFT SHOP & WORKING STUDIO 65 Hartley Street, Alice Springs 0450 894 142 gallery@yubunapa.com Monday to Friday: 9:30am to 5pm Saturday: 9:30am to 2pm

www.yubunapa.com

TENNANT CREEK

KARLU KARLU / DEVILS MARBLES

KINGS CANYON

ALICE SPRINGS

MACDONNELL RANGES

ULURU

COOBER PEDY

Uluru

CENTRAL AUSTRALIA Central Australia offers far more than just Uluru and Alice Springs. Stretching from Coober Pedy to Tennant Creek, the region features stunning sites like Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, the MacDonnell Ranges, Karlu Karlu, Palm Valley, Rainbow Valley, and the Larapinta Trail. Experience ancient Aboriginal culture through galleries, art centres, bush tucker, and guided tours. Unique events add to the appeal. For tips, planning and bookings, contact the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre — no visit ever feels long enough.

View our ebooks online at www.australiantouristpublications.com.au

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Simpsons Gap

Uluru Camel Tours

Alice Springs Reptile Centre

Ellery Creek Big Hole

CONTENTS Central Australia 4 Alice Springs 6 Alice Springs Tours & Attractions 10 Driving in Central Australia 21 Alice Springs Heritage Walk 22 Alice Springs CBD map 24 Alice Springs Town map 26 Accommodation 28 National Parks & Larapinta Trail 33 Events 34 Indigenous Culture & Arts 36 Aboriginal Sacred Sites and Permits 41 West MacDonnell Ranges 42 East MacDonnell Ranges 45 ISSUE DECEMBER 2025

North of Alice Springs 46 South of Alice Springs 47 Red Centre Map 48 Red Centre 50 Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park 52 Kings Canyon 56 Red Centre Way 58 Binns Track 60 Australian Tourist Tanami Track 61 Publications Outback Way 62 Explorers Way 64 Camping Regulations in the NT 65 Welcome to... Magazines Tennant Creek & The Barkly 66 Coober Pedy 70 Northern Territory Map 71 Australian Tourist

Publications PUBLISHER – Australian Tourist Publications Welcome to... Magazines MANAGING DIRECTORS – Trish Blackman and Jackie Honour ACCOUNTS – Jackie Honour © All content within this magazine is SALES – Trish Blackman M: 0418 143 342 copyright protected – James Acklin M: 0432 511 492 DESIGN – Sue Dwyer Graphic Design Australian Tourist Publications acknowledge IMAGES – Courtesy of Tourism NT, Tourism Australia the Traditional Custodians of the lands DISTRIBUTION ENQUIRIES – James Acklin M: 0432 511 492 represented in this magazine and pay their FRONT COVER – Devils Marbles/Karlu Karlu respects to Elders past, present and emerging. Find us on Facebook and welcometocentralaustralia.com.au

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ANAZC Hill, Alice Springs

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Springs is a true outback town in the centre of Australia. “Alice”, as she’s affectionately known, is surprisingly diverse, boasting world-class art galleries and museums, amazing natural

attractions, a jam-packed calendar of events, and a local community which is known for its innovation and spirit. With clean air, a relaxed pace, desert waterholes, great walks, rugged scenery, and a night sky full of millions of stars, Alice Springs has something for everyone.

GETTING AROUND An airport shuttle service meets all flights. Book with Alice Silver, online or at the airport. Taxi services operate from the airport and ranks located within the CBD. Hire cars can be booked and collected from Alice Springs airport with Budget Car Rental. Private car hire and a public bus service are also available. Uber does not operate in Central Australia.

HISTORY Alice Springs has been immortalised in books and movies and her fascinating history is both recent and ancient. The Arrernte people call this area Mparntwe (pronounced mbarn-twa) and maintain their traditional language and customs, and a strong spiritual connection to the land. Their complex creation stories, dating back many thousands of years, are still told today. The European history of the area began in 1860 with the arrival –6–

Annie Meyers Hill, Olive Pink Botanic Garden

of the great explorer John McDouall Stuart and, because of his efforts, a site was chosen just north of today’s CBD for the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. The station was part of the Overland Telegraph line, completed in 1872 under the supervision of Charles Todd. The temporary waterhole next to the site was named Alice Springs after Todd’s wife, but it turned out not to be a spring at all, and Alice never visited the town! The town eventually became a railway village which led to it being a major military post during World War II. Tourism began in the 1950s and remains a major industry, along with health and Aboriginal administrative services. Today, it hosts about 25,000 residents, a third of which are Indigenous, with an interesting mix of nationalities from all over the world. Olive Pink Botanic Garden, open daily from 8am to 6pm, is a renowned arid zone botanic garden with over 600 Central Australian plants, including Indigenous bushfoods and medicines. Enjoy their self-guided walks, equipped with interpretive signs, to learn about desert plants and the life of the Garden’s founder, Miss Pink. Walk up Annie Meyers –7–

Hill for stunning views of Alice Springs, participate in birdwatching, and look out for Black-footed Rock Wallabies. Relax with a coffee in the Bean Tree Café, which is open 7 days.

Alice Springs

Pawz n Clawz pet accommodation offers comfy spacious kennels that are all completely covered and secure in an air-conditioned and heated building. Each kennel has adjoining sleeping quarters allowing the dogs both warmth and space. Each room comes with its own trampoline bed, blanket, water bowl and, of course, a very high standard of cleanliness. The Cattery consists of 15 spacious condos, custom-built to cater for the single or multiple cat household. Every condo has multiple levels, a cat scratch post, hammock and hidey holes for privacy.

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Positioned in the heart of the 17-hectare Araluen Cultural Precinct, the Araluen Arts Centre is the major cultural hub of Mparntwe/Alice Springs. It boasts four galleries which display a range of high-quality exhibitions. These exhibitions include major touring exhibitions from other national arts institutions; at times they display highquality exhibitions from local artists and some original Albert Namatjira watercolours are always on display. The art centre also holds a significant collection of well over 1000 artworks, drawn upon for exhibitions in the galleries. The collection continues to grow year on year and, after forty years

Araluen Arts Centre

of collecting, it has created a wonderful permanent record of artistic practices of the region. The Northern Territory Government holds this collection for the benefit, enjoyment and education of the local community and visitors to Mparntwe/ Alice Springs. The precinct also houses the fascinating Aviation Museum and local creations at Central Craft. The 500-seat Araluen Theatre stages an exciting annual program and has welcomed countless world-class performers to its stage. Nearby, Yaye’s Café delivers outstanding meals and excellent coffee. And

Cycling, Alice Springs

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for film lovers, Monday nights from March to November (except public holidays) bring the best in arthouse cinema to Alice Springs.

Alice Springs Desert Park

ALICE SPRINGS TOURS & ATTRACTIONS Visitors to Alice Springs are inevitably surprised at how much there is to see and do. Observe outback animals at a world-

class wildlife park and reptile centre. Stroll through an arid-zone botanic garden, an arts precinct that rivals any in the state capitals, or Australia’s largest truck museum. Relive the town’s history at the region’s first European settlement, through the eyes of pioneering women, or the flying doctors, then and now. Alice Springs Desert Park, at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges, is an inspiring portrayal of Australia’s desert environment that effortlessly blends the plants, animals and people of the arid regions over three recreated habitats. It offers over 200 desert animals and 400 plant species. Witness free-flying birds at the Nature Theatre presentation; share in a living culture with guide presentations; spot the endangered bilby and mala, the thorny devil and other lizards, and snakes in the Nocturnal House; and dingoes, kangaroos and perenties. At night, spotlight locally extinct and endangered species in a predator-proof enclosure on a world-class Nocturnal Tour.

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Outback Ballooning

Outback Ballooning. Experience the magic of dawn from high above with Outback Ballooning, an awesome adventure with views of the rugged MacDonnell Ranges and vast Central Australian desert. As the sun paints the Outback in golden light, drift silently across spinifex plains and cattle stations, spotting kangaroos below. Your journey begins in the early hours of the morning when the temperatures are low, and the winds are gentle. The crew will collect you

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from your accommodation one hour before first light and transport you to the launch site. The expert pilots share fascinating insights into local ecology and culture, enhancing each moment and leaving you with lasting memories of this extraordinary, once-in-alifetime perspective. After landing, celebrate with sparkling wine and light refreshments in the middle of nowhere. It is an unforgettable way to experience the beauty, remoteness, and sheer scale of the Australian Outback.

Old Ghan Train Museum

National Road Transport Museum

Step into Australia’s rich transport history with a visit to the National Road Transport Museum , an extraordinary facility devoted to preserving and celebrating the nation’s unique road-transport heritage. Officially opened in 1995, this expansive complex has grown into one of the most impressive and comprehensive land-transport museums in the southern hemisphere—an experience that delights history lovers, motoring enthusiasts, and anyone curious about how our vast country was connected long before modern highways. Roam through a fascinating collection of historic trucks, vintage cars, and lovingly restored vehicles that once carried families, freight, and dreams across Australia’s great distances.

The museum is also home to the Old Ghan Train Museum, where fascinating artefacts, stories, and memorabilia trace the evolution of Australia’s railway. Outside, you’ll find the Steam Engine and Old Ghan proudly on display and the charming Alice Springs Mini Ghan Railway. The complex also houses the Kenworth Dealer Hall of Fame, the RSL Military Museum, and the Shell Rimula Wall of Fame, honouring more than 1,800 men and women who helped shape the transport industry. Plan to spend several unhurried hours taking it all in. Check their website for up-to-date opening times.

Take a Trip Through the Transport History of Australia’s Red Centre

Please see website for opening hours. Entry fees apply.

– Shell Rimula Hall of Fame – Kenworth Dealer Hall of Fame – Old Ghan Train Museum – RSL Military Museum

92 Norris Bell Ave, Alice Springs. Phone (08) 8952 7161 www.roadtransporthall.com – 12 –

Alice Springs Reptile Centre

Experience reptiles up close and personal at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, one of Australia’s most fascinating wildlife encounters. Step inside and come face-toface with an extraordinary collection of reptiles, from massive Perentie goannas and flashy Frill-neck lizards to Thorny Devils, impressive pythons, venomous snakes, and the legendary Terry the Saltwater Crocodile.

feedings and handle some of the centre’s more approachable residents, perfect for travellers seeking a truly immersive experience. Don’t miss the interactive shows at 11am, 1pm and 3.30pm, where selected lizards and pythons take centre stage before supervised handling sessions. Step into the Gecko Cave to discover a dazzling variety of geckos, each more intriguing than the last.

Rex and his friendly team greet every visitor with a genuine Outback welcome, always happy to share their deep knowledge and passion. Daily informative talks offer a rare chance to watch

Keep an eye on their social media pages for exciting updates on crocodile feeding. The Reptile Centre is an essential stop on any Alice Springs adventure!

Alice Springs

Reptile Centre

THE LARGEST REPTILE DISPLAY IN CENTRAL AUSTRALIA THORNY DEVILS • LARGE GOANNAS • HUGE PYTHONS • VENOMOUS SNAKES • FRILL NECK LIZARDS • TERRY THE SALTWATER CROC • FANTASTIC GECKO CAVE EXHIBIT

9 Stuart Terrace, Alice Springs, at the base of Billy Goat Hill, opposite RFDS. * For up to date opening times and show times, check out our website and facebook Phone (08) 8952 8900 enquiries@reptilecentre.com.au www.reptilecentre.com.au – 13 –

Open Monday-Sunday 9:30am-5pm

Please check Facebook for changes to opening hours

at 11am, Demonstratio3.ns30p m 1pm and

Women’s Museum of Australia

Old Gaol

Come and experience two remarkable Australian museums in one fascinating location. The Women’s Museum of Australia honours the trailblazing spirit of women who shaped the nation, from intrepid Central Australian pioneers to those who broke barriers in science, aviation, and the arts. Wander through thoughtfully curated exhibitions, admire a quilt stitched with 342 influential signatures, and marvel at a striking five-metre tapestry celebrating women in flight. Next door, in the same complex, is the heritage-listed Old Gaol (Her Majesty’s

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Gaol and Labour Prison Alice Springs), built in 1938 and in operation until 1996. This evocative site once housed men, women, and prisoners of war, and today invites visitors to walk through its preserved cell blocks. Hear compelling first-hand stories from former inmates, prison staff, and families who came to visit loved ones. In the women’s block, learn about Matron Telka Williams, whose compassion reshaped the experience of those in her care. Don’t miss the original kitchen, where colourful inmate-painted murals bring humanity and creativity to this powerful historic space.

RFDS Alice Springs Tourist Facility

Immerse yourself in the fascinating world, then and now, of the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) at the award-winning RFDS Alice Springs Tourist Facility, where history comes alive through clever technology and compelling storytelling. Since 1928, the RFDS has been a lifeline for people living, working, and travelling across remote Australia—and here you can truly appreciate its extraordinary impact. Hear directly from RFDS founder Rev. John Flynn in a remarkable life-size hologram and experience the thrill

of “flying” as a patient over the vast Outback through a virtual-reality headset. Sit inside a full replica fuselage of a Pilatus PC-12 and step into a former communication centre to see how vital calls once connected isolated communities with urgent medical care. Wander among historic medical equipment, marvel at vintage model aircraft, and immerse yourself in the spirit of service and ingenuity. Before you leave, browse the official RFDS shop; your purchase helps keep the Flying Doctor in the air, and supports a proud Australian icon.

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Alice Springs Helicopters

Alice Springs Helicopters offers daily scenic flights, heli-safaris and private charters with a range of expeditions as wide as the skies of Outback Australia. You will be surprised how much you can see, even on the shortest trips. From their helicopter pad conveniently located close to the city centre beside the Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel, they

offer awe-inspiring scenic flights over Alice Springs township, East and West MacDonnell Ranges, the Old Telegraph Station, Mt Gillen, Heavitree Gap, Simpsons Gap, and beyond. They even offer a romantic getaway flight landing on a secluded spot on top of the spectacular East MacDonnell Ranges. Book your aerial adventure now at alicespringshelicopters.com.au.

SCENIC FLIGHTS

Alice Springs Helicopters Discover the outback from above

Bookings alicespringshelicopters.com.au alicesprings@hmair.com.au Ph 08 8952 9800

Your way, your pace – explore the MacDonnell Ranges

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Explore the Red Centre with Alice Silver

Let long-term locals Alice Silver introduce you to the Red Centre the way only true insiders can. Start with their reliable airport shuttle, then explore in comfort in vehicles perfect for solo travellers, families, or full charter groups. From Uluru transfers and personalised charters to immersive single-day or multi-day journeys, every tour reveals rugged landscapes, vibrant

culture, and amazing wildlife across the wilds of remote Central Australia. Friendly guides, trusted vehicles, and deep local knowledge turn every kilometre into an effortless adventure. Discover Alice Springs, Uluru, Kings Canyon, the MacDonnell Ranges and more — your way, at your pace. Book today and let Alice Silver shape your next Red Centre escape.

TOURS • TRANSFERS • CHARTERS

Welcome to the Red Centre Let long-term locals show you “our backyard” in a style and pace that caters to you.

✔ Single and Multi-day Holiday Tours ✔ Uluru/ Ayers Rock Transfers ✔ Customised Charters ✔ Airport Shuttle Transfers

11 Shirley Court, Alice Springs 0477 245 941 bookings@alicesilver.com.au alicesilver.com.au – 17 –

Alice Springs Telegraph Station

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station, established in 1872, is one of the most significant heritage sites in Central Australia. Built as part of the Overland Telegraph Line — a 3,000-kilometre communication link connecting Adelaide to Darwin — the station played a crucial role in linking Australia with the rest of the world. Before its completion, international messages had to travel by sea, often taking weeks. The new line transformed communication, allowing messages to be sent in hours rather than months. The station was originally known as “Alice Springs” after surveyor William Whitfield Mills named a nearby waterhole in honour

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of Alice Todd, the wife of Charles Todd, who oversaw the telegraph project. A small community quickly developed around the station, forming the first European settlement in the region and laying the foundations for the modern town of Alice Springs. For decades, the station operated as a relay point, supplying and maintaining telegraph equipment and supporting staff who lived on-site in stone buildings designed to withstand desert conditions. Its operations continued until 1932, when telegraph services were moved into the growing township. Today, the restored Telegraph Station stands as a cultural and historical precinct, preserving the story of early communication.

The Kangaroo Sanctuary

The Kangaroo Sanctuary - home to the hit movie KANGAROO! Visit their kangaroos on a guided sunset tour and even cuddle an orphaned joey. The Sanctuary celebrates the beauty of the red kangaroo and teaches visitors about kangaroo rescue. It’s home to Brolga and Tahnee’s kangaroo family, featured in the hit movie KANGAROO (inspired by Brolga’s life) and Kangaroo Dundee (BBC UK / Nat Geo USA documentary). On the tour, enjoy a stroll through the Sanctuary’s 188-acre wildlife reserve, where you may meet characters from KANGAROO, Kangaroo Dundee, and many others. Their motto is “Kangaroos come first!”, and because kangaroos sleep during the day, tours are held in the late afternoon as they wake from their daytime rest. Tours are about 2.5 to 3 hours. The Sanctuary can only be visited on a prebooked tour. Book at www.kangaroosanctuary.com or by calling 8956 0038. Follow them on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook at @thekangaroosanctuary. – 19 –

Alice Springs School of the Air Visitor Centre

Discover a truly unique Australian experience at the Alice Springs School of the Air Visitor Centre. Step inside the world’s largest classroom and see how education reaches students across hundreds of remote kilometres. Gain a rare insight into living and learning in the Australian Outback through fascinating stories, artwork, exhibits, and live and/or recorded lessons. During your visit, a local guide shares how the school has evolved and how technology has transformed remote education. Watch a short film about life as an outback student and, when classes are in session, observe a live lesson from one of five broadcasting studios. Explore colourful displays of student artwork, historic photos, documents, and stories from families on cattle stations, Aboriginal communities, and remote outposts.

Learn how a 1951 radio system became today’s satellite and internet learning across 1.3 million square kilometres. All proceeds support remote students. A visit is more than a tour; it’s a glimpse into resilience, innovation, and the spirit of the Outback. Come and be inspired!

School of the Air radio lesson 1950s

ALICE SPRINGS SCHOOL OF THE AIR

Come and be inspired!

Connecting Students

Step inside the world’s largest classroom – a world first! Discover the Outback spirit through inspiring stories of innovation, determination, and resilience from our school and our remarkable students learning across remote Australia.

Head Street, Alice Springs ACROSS THE OUTBACKSince 1951 08 8951806834 schooloftheair.net.au – 20 –

Larapinta Drive, West MacDonnell Ranges

DRIVING IN CENTRAL AUSTRALIA Central Australia is one of the world’s great drive destinations, where you can hit the road and literally get off the beaten track! Most of the region’s popular destinations are accessible in any type of vehicle but a 4WD can open up some unique, out-of-the-way places.

Territory. Rent a car from Alice Springs Airport and get on the road with hassle-free rentals. Explore Alice Springs’ variety of waterholes or take an Aboriginal cultural tour. Offering modern vehicles at cheap prices, book your next adventure online and save!

Safe driving tips It’s essential to be well prepared before embarking on your journey through this rugged and remote region. When planning your route, consider the distances between towns and fuel stations to ensure you don’t run out of fuel. While driving, be mindful of animals such as kangaroos, cattle, camels and brumbies that may cross the road unexpectedly. Additionally, watch out for road trains, long trucks with multiple trailers, and give them plenty of space when overtaking.If you break down or have an accident, remember to always stay with the vehicle. Do not go looking for help. Instead, flag down the next passing motorist. Car hire Don’t have your own wheels? Great rental car options are available for pick up and drop off at Alice Springs, Yulara (Uluru), Tennant Creek and Coober Pedy, both in town and the airport with the following providers. Budget Car Rental. Get the good stuff with Budget and explore more of the Northern – 21 –

ANZAC Hill

ALICE SPRINGS HERITAGE WALK Explore the heritage of Alice Springs, a modern town rich in history. Take a fascinating, self-guided walk of the town centre and discover the historic buildings and heritage attractions, each with its own story to tell. 1. John Flynn Memorial Uniting Church The church was opened in 1956 as a memorial to the great Reverend John Flynn, founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, for his tremendous achievements for the people of the outback. Visitors are welcome and services are held every Sunday morning. 2. Adelaide House Designed by Reverend John Flynn and completed in 1926, Adelaide House was the only medical centre for the region until 1939. Today it houses a superb exhibition of Alice Springs history, antique medical equipment, and the hut where Flynn and Alfred Traeger broadcast their first pedal radio transmission. 3. The Residency Built in 1928, it housed the first Government Resident of Central Australia during a brief period of self-government for the region. Today it features historic displays, including the Queen Elizabeth’s stay in 1963, and regular art exhibitions. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. – 22 –

4. ANZAC Hill Giving a superb view of the MacDonnell Ranges, especially at sunrise and sunset, this most visible landmark is a memorial to lives lost in all world conflicts. Look out for the signage for the ‘World War I Stories Phone App’ on Anzac Hill to hear fascinating stories and information of soldiers and nurses who served in the Great War. 5. Stuart Town Gaol Completed in 1908 and housing prisoners until 1938, this is the oldest building remaining in the Alice Springs CBD. Keys to enter can be obtained from the National Trust office in Hartley Street School. 6. Old Hartley Street School Opened in 1930, this was the first purpose-built government school in Alice Springs and home of the first Central Australian broadcast of the School of the Air. Classes ceased in 1965 and today it houses a wonderful collection, allowing visitors to relive classroom life from the mid-20th century. 7. Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Tourist Facility Located within one of the finest heritage buildings in Alice Springs and built in 1939, it was home to the first RFDS radio operator for the Alice Springs base. The facility is a popular tourist attraction that includes a

Women’s Museum of Australia and Old Gaol

replica fuselage of a modern-day Pilatus PC12, essentially an emergency room in the air. A large display of historic medical equipment and a range of model airplanes documents the RFDS through the decades. Be amazed at the award-winning, life-size hologram of the Reverend John Flynn describing his vision for the RFDS. Admission fees apply and include a guided tour. 8. Old Gaol, Alice Springs The Old Gaol (Her Majesty’s Gaol and Labour Prison Alice Springs) was built in 1938 and closed in 1996. Learn about the history of the gaol and listen to stories of those who were incarcerated or worked there. The fascinating Women’s Museum of Australia is on the same site, where you can learn about the amazing achievements of Australian women.

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Alice Laundromat

To footbridge

Disability Liason Office

To footbridge

Todd Tavern

Senior Citizens

Disabled Toilets

Bus Stop

Public Telephone

Taxi Rank

Accommodation

Mail Box

Internet Facilities

Public Carpark Catholic Youth Centre

Water

AirRank Con/Heating Taxi Water Mail Box Shopping Bus Stop Internet Facilities Taxi Rank Parks & Gardens Mail Box Public Carpark Shopping Corridor Access Internet Facilities Shared Pedestrian and Vehicle Zone Parks & Gardens

The Residency

Stuart Town Gaol Police Station

Courthous

Government Offices

Stuart To Gaol Anglican Church

Catholic School

to Stuart Highway

Corridor Access

Catholic School

Courthouse

Shared Pedestrian and Vehicle Zone

Lions Walk to Anzac Hill

Bus Stop

Church

Service Old Station Centrelink Government Courthouse Offices

Parks & Gardens

Air Con/Heating

The Residency

Alice Plaza Shopping Centre

Church

Seat / Rest Spot

OldChemist Courthouse

Service Station Centrelink

Police Station

Anglican Church

Coles

to Stuart Highway

Automatic Teller Machine

Alice Plaza Shopping Centre

Shopping Catholic Youth Centre

Catholic School

to Stuart Highway

Disabled Parking

Chemist

Water

Public Toilets

Air Con/Heating

to Stuart Highway

Information

Disability Liason Office

Todd Tavern

Lions Walk to Anzac Hill

MAP KEY

Catholic Church

Youth Centre

to Stuart Highway

achine

ALICE SPRINGS CBD MAP

Stay @ A

Lions Walk to Anzac Hill

chine

Alice Plaza Shopping Ce

Alice L

TELEGR

Public Carpark Corridor Access Shared Pedestrian and Vehicle Zone – 24 –

TEL

Botanic Gardens

Public Library

Stay @ Alice Springs Hotel

Alice Springs Town Council

Colag Plaza

Flynn Church

Fan Arcade

This is Aboriginal Art

Reg Harris Lane

NAB

Cumming Plaza

Tuit Lane

Dentist

KFC

Adelaide House Uncle’s Tavern

Post Office

Diplomat Motel

Old Hartley Street School

Yubu Napa Art Gallery & Gift Shop

to Reptile Centre, RFDS & Women's Museum of Australia Bendigo Bank

own l

Woolworths

Bank SA

Chemist AC

Yeperenye Shopping Centre

Westpac Bank

Ombudsman

C’wealth Bank

ANZ Bank Doctor Dentist

Chemist

Coles Shopping Centre AC

Kmart St Vincent De Paul’s

Alice Laundromat

Service Station

LEGRAPH TERRACE / STUART HIGHWAY

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to Larapinta Drive / Stuart Highway

Doctor

MUELLER ST

Alice Springs Telegraph Station 13

ANZAC Hill

WIL LS T C

NORTH TO Gemtree Caravan Park Ti Tree Roadhouse Tennant Creek Darwin

HE LE CR

KEKWIK AVE

8 17

CAMPBELL ST

A P

Attractions and Galleries

Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat Stay at Alice Springs Hotel Diplomat Motel Wintersun Caravan Park Crowne Plaza Lasseters Hotel Discovery Parks Alice Springs Quest Apartments Pawz n Clawz pet accommodation G’day Mate Caravan Park

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I IRV

Accommodation 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

WEST Alice Springs Desert Park 10 Alice Springs School of the Air 11 Alice Springs Reptile Centre 12 Olive Pink Botanical Garden 13 Alice Springs Telegraph Station 14 Old Gaol / Women’s Museum of Australia 15 Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility 16 Pigglys Supermarket, Takeaway & Bottle Shop 17 Tjanpi Desert Weavers 18 Yubu Napa Gallery 19 Araluen Art Centre 20 This is Aboriginal Art 21 Alice Springs Helicopters

NE C

WEST TO Alice Springs Desert Park Flynn’s Grave Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges Ormiston Gorge Ikuntji Artists Hermannsburg Historic Precinct Palm Valley Red Centre Way

ALICE SPRINGS TOWN MAP •••••

only

Olive Pink Botanic Garden 12

BLO

OMF

IELD

STR

EET

Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat D

CRES

ND LE

PALM

PL CCT

AV E

S RE YC

PALM

STA

KER NIC

SI R

Araluen Cultural Precinct

JOHANNSEN

MO ME

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SOUTH TO: Alice Springs Airport Alice Springs Helicopters 21 Boomerang Art National Road Transport Museum Uluru Kings Canyon/Watarrka Coober Pedy

UNDERDOWN

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G’Day Mate Tourist Park

Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

ACCOMMODATION Central Australia offers a diverse array of accommodation options for all tastes, budgets, and desires. From 5-star luxury to a swag under the stars, you’ll find a place to stay, to make your visit memorable. G’day Mate Tourist Park. Located in a shady, relaxing, and secure environment. Rest up after a day spent discovering Central Australia. Grassed, shady sites, some with ensuite, immaculate amenities, full laundromat, camp kitchens, free barbeques, guided assistance to your site, gas refills, WiFi, tour information and

bookings, public bus at the gate and a pool are all part of the service. G’day is an excellent choice, with all your needs for a memorable stay. Rated #1 campsite in Alice Springs on Tripadvisor and #1 rated park in Alice Springs on Wikicamps. Wintersun Cabin & Caravan Park. With its country hospitality and central position just 2km from the centre of Alice Springs, Wintersun is the perfect base for a Red Centre holiday. This dog-free park has free WiFi, a shaded swimming pool, bathrooms, dishwashing area, camp

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Wintersun Cabin & Caravan Park

kitchen and laundry and is located just 400 metres from shops. It offers sparkling clean 1 and 2-bedroom cabin accommodation with kitchen, bathroom and linen, all with reversecycle air conditioning. Wintersun

also has shady caravan sites, some grassy and some concrete and parking beside each cabin. Their friendly office staff, steeped in local knowledge, can help you with organising tours and activities.

WINTERSUN CABIN & CARAVAN PARK

Located only 2kms north of the city centre, Wintersun provides convenient access to all the town’s great attractions. Guests enjoy shady grassy sites in a quiet, secure, pet-free setting. They offer a range of ensuite cabins featuring 1 or 2 queen/double beds plus bunks for the kids. Cabins include cooking facilities, air-conditioning, and parking beside each cabin. Free WiFi is available for all guests. 1 Stuart Highway, Alice Springs T 08 8952 4080 E wintersun@wintersun.com.au W wintersun.com.au – 29 –

Stay at Alice Springs Hotel

Discovery Parks – Alice Springs

Stay at Alice Springs Hotel, conveniently located in the heart of town, welcomes corporate travellers, families and leisure travellers with warm hospitality. They offer a café and restaurant, free WiFi, secure parking, swimming pool and is the perfect base to explore both the town and the spectacular surrounding Outback. Discovery Parks – Alice Springs is the perfect spot to begin exploring Australia’s Red Centre. This award-winning park offers a range of accommodation just five minutes from the town centre and close to some of the region’s most popular attractions. Featuring swimming pools, a waterslide, jumping pillows, kids club, entertainment centre and more. There’s something for every member of the family. The Diplomat Motel is superbly located in the centre of Alice Springs, providing the perfect place to stay, relax and unwind. The motel offers a selection of affordable accommodation, with tea/coffee, free WiFi and Foxtel. Enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, free parking and the popular Uncles Tavern and Stumps Cafe. Located only minutes’ walk from the heart of the Todd Mall, the Diplomat – 30 –

is close to shops, restaurants, cafes and popular local attractions. Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters is nestled at the foot of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. The 4.5-star hotel offers rooms with a balcony or patio. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a heated pool, a spa bath and a 24-hour health and fitness centre. Also on-site are a casino, sauna and spa, wellness centre, four bars and three restaurants, including Juicy Rump Bar and Grill, Tempo, a wine and tapas bar, and Tali which offers modern, Australian cuisine with outback influences. The Gap View Hotel is a captivating oasis in Alice Springs with a unique blend of dining, entertainment and camping facilities. Enjoy all the pub classics at their bistro with indoor and outdoor dining options, multiple bars, a range of live sports and entertainment, TAB, Keno and pool tables. Relax pool side with two resort style pools in their outdoor festiva-inspired space or host your next function or event at the Gap View. Stay, relax, play and experience the true essence of the outback at the Gap View Hotel.

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Quest Alice Springs

Gap View Hotel

Soak up the sun and cool off in the pool at Quest Alice Springs. Nestled amongst the eucalypts along South Terrace, this is perfect for both long and short stays. The CBD is within walking distance, so you can spend idle afternoons exploring Alice’s many eclectic

shops, cafés, and art galleries before capping off the evening with a pink sunset at nearby ANZAC Hill. If it’s nature you’re after, head out and explore the swimming holes and incredible views of Mount Sonder from the peaks of the MacDonnell Ranges.

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Hiking the Larapinta Trail

NATIONAL PARKS & LARAPINTA TRAIL A trip to Central Australia is not complete without visiting the region’s amazing and iconic National Parks. These protected parks and reserves encompass some of the most stunning and rugged scenery in the country, with a dizzying array of landscapes to explore. However, it’s important to plan to maintain the safety of you and your fellow travellers, and to ensure you’re complying with NT Parks and Wildlife’s regulations. NT Parks Pass If you’re a visitor to the Northern Territory’s Parks and Reserves you need to purchase a Parks Pass. The three passes are a Day Pass, a 2-week Pass, and an Open Pass (valid for 12 months). They must be obtained before entering parks, either online at nt.gov.au/ parks/parks-pass or from an accredited Information Centre. The NT Parks Pass does not apply to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park as it’s managed by Parks Australia under the Federal Government. Safety Safety is paramount when venturing into the Central Australian outback, including NT Parks and Reserves. This often harsh and remote environment places important demands on visitors. It’s crucial to carry ample water. During the hotter months, walkers should carry several litres of water, plan activities during the cooler parts of the

Weaved creations at Tjanpi. Tourism NT/Felix Baker

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day, and to be mindful of the risk of heatrelated illnesses. Always wear sun protection and, for longer hikes, carry navigation aids and communication devices such as EPIRBs and satellite phones. It’s also important to heed signage and stay on marked trails. Larapinta Trail The Larapinta Trail is fast becoming worldrenowned for those in the hiking community and for good reason. Stretching for 223 kilometres from Alice Springs to Mt Sonder, this challenging but spectacular trail takes hikers along the rugged MacDonnell Ranges, through ancient landscapes, past pristine waterholes and up to breathtaking lookouts. Divided into 12 sections, most of which are accessible by vehicle (some 4WD only), the trail offers options for both day walks and multiday treks, with designated campsites along the route. Fees apply for trail walkers. The NT Parks Pass covers day hikes, however a specific Larapinta Trail pass must be pre-purchased online for overnight or multi-day hikes. Pre-planning is essential for walking the trail and safety must be paramount. Multiday hikers can organise food drops at designated, locked storerooms on the trail. Keys are required and can be obtained from the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre and through companies offering trail transfers.

Alice Springs Beanie Festival

Parrtjima - A Festival in Light

EVENTS 2026

FEBRUARY 2026

Central Australia is home to a huge range of quirky events, found nowhere else in the world. With a jampacked calendar full of experiences, from small community affairs to worldclass festivals, take your holiday to the next level and plan it around these unique events.

20-24 Imparja Cup Cricket Carnival 27 (to March 2) Alice Springs Travelling Film Festival

MARCH 2026 21-22 26-29

Wide Open Space Music Festival fabALICE Festival

APRIL 2026 3-6 Aileron Bush Weekend 10-19 Parrtjima - A Festival in Light 11 (to May 4) Alice Springs Cup Carnival 26-27 Uluru Festival

MAY 2026 4 Alice Springs Cup Carnivale Finale 4 Rotary Bangtail Muster 9 AFL Melbourne Demons v Gold Coast Suns 16 Tennant Creek Raceday 15-17 West Macs Monster Running Festival TBA Alice Springs’ Longest Desert Lunch

JUNE 2026 5-8 Finke Desert Race TBA Great Kanku-Breakaways Marathon 19-22 Alice Springs Beanie Festival The fabulous Alice Springs Beanie Festival began with a quaint ‘beanie party’ in 1997 and has grown into one of the biggest and most fun events in Alice Springs. The core group who began ‘Beanie Fest’ has grown into a committed band of beanie-ologists. They know their beanies! TBA 25-28 – 34 –

Coober Pedy Opal Festival Brunette Downs Races

Ladbrokes Alice Springs Cup Carnival

Henley-on-Todd Regatta

JULY 2026

SEPTEMBER 2026

1 Territory Day 3 Alice Springs Rodeo 3-4 Alice Springs Show TBA Desert Festival Alice Springs – Fringe Edition 5-12 NAIDOC Week 7-9 Bush Bands Bash 10 Tennant Creek Show TBA Desert Harmony Festival Tennant Creek 25 Australian Outback Marathon Uluru 31 (to 3 August) Harts Range Races

3-6 TBA TBA TBA

Red Centre NATS Desert Mob & Marketplace Kwarta Tuma Desert Song Festival Barkly Rodeo

OCTOBER 2026 10-17

Alice Springs Masters Games

NOVEMBER 2026 28

AUGUST 2026 14-17 Run Larapinta 15 Henley on Todd Regatta Experience the excitement of the Henley on Todd Regatta in Alice Springs, the world’s only dry river boating event! Visitors of all ages are welcome to participate in a plethora of ‘boat’ events on the sands of the Todd River. Don’t miss the “Bring Your Own Boat” races and the world-famous “Battle of the Gun Boats”. 20-23 Shimano Gravel Muster Stage Race

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Alice Springs Christmas Show

Boomerang Art

Warlukurlangu Artists

INDIGENOUS CULTURE & ARTS Central Australia is the beating heart of Indigenous culture, where ancient creation stories are told through extraordinary art. Renowned nationally and internationally, this region produces some of Australia’s most celebrated Indigenous works. Remote communities host Arts Centres that showcase local talent, from bold paintings to intricate weaving and sculpture, offering visitors a window into ancient traditions. Alice Springs is the perfect hub to explore this rich creativity, with private and government-run galleries displaying and selling stunning pieces. Every gallery, studio, and exhibition invites you to

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connect with the stories and culture behind the art, making the town a premier destination for art lovers.

1 Boomerang Art, located on Brumby Road just off Ilparpa Road in Alice Springs, showcases fine, authentic Aboriginal artworks that celebrate the rich heritage and creativity of Indigenous Australian artists. Visitors can explore an impressive collection of paintings, more than 30 years in the making, displayed across two spacious showrooms. Discover the stories behind these remarkable pieces, sourced from communities across Central Australia. The studio welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m.

TO WESTERN AUSTRALIA

TO DARWIN YUENDUMU 2

HAASTS BLUFF TO WESTERN AUSTRALIA ULURU

4 8

HERMANNSBURG

CURTIN SPRINGS TO SOUTH AUSTRALIA

This is Aboriginal Art

to 4 p.m., including weekends and public holidays, with no appointment required. If you’re unable to visit in person, their extensive collection is also available for purchase online. Your purchase supports local artists and is a great investment.

ALICE SPRINGS 1 5 6 7

Warlukurlangu Artists, located 300kms north west of Alice Springs on the Tanami Highway, is one of the most successful Aboriginal-owned art centres in Central Australia. Warlukurlangu means ‘belonging to fire’ in Warlpiri, the local language. The art centre, which is 100% Indigenous owned, is named after a very special fire Dreaming site west of Yuendumu. Established in 1985, it has developed a national and international

profile and its paintings of traditional stories in bright acrylic colours have been featured in hundreds of exhibitions all around the world. Please contact them prior to an in-person visit. You can also browse and purchase their extensive collection online. Immerse yourself in the world of Aboriginal art and support local artists.

Warlukurlangu Artists

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Ikuntji Artists

Hermannsburg Potters

Hermannsburg Potters bring the vibrant landscape and spirit of Central Australia to life with their hand-crafted terracotta and underglaze pots. Taking inspiration from Country, culture, history and day to day life activities the Potters depict family, birds, animals, bush tucker, mission days, stories of Country and current life in Ntaria (Hermannsburg), based at the remote foothills of the MacDonnell Ranges, 130 kilometres west of Alice Springs. The vibrant and unique forms are made from terracotta clay working with the hand coil-pinch technique and finally painted with ceramic underglaze. The senior artists work with a style of painting reminiscent of Albert Namatjira, whose legacy continues to inspire the local community and its artists. This playful combination of mediums

WESTERN ARANDA ARTISTS OF CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

creates distinct work which had been widely exhibited and collected in Australia and overseas.

4 Ikuntji Artists was the first art centre established by women in the Western Desert Art Movement. In the 1980s women began painting in Haasts Bluff in the aged care facility. The women had been instructed by their husbands and fathers, and they had often assisted them in completing their paintings. By the early 1990s these women artists decided to pursue setting up their own art centre. Ikuntji Artists was first established in 1992 and has been continuously operating since. It is an award-winning business whose artists create paintings, fabric designs, prints, jewellery and more.

Hermannsburg Potters Aboriginal Corporation Book your visit PMB 260 Hermannsburg via Alice Springs via our website T: +61 (8) 8956 7414 art@hermannsburgpotters.com.au www.hermannsburgpotters.com.au

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This is Aboriginal Art

Ikuntji Artists

This is Aboriginal Art is a stunning two-level gallery space and active artist studio in the Todd Mall. Specialising in Central and Western Desert Aboriginal art, their welcoming staff are arts educated, allowing them to share qualified advice and knowledge gained from decades of respectable industry experience. The gallery boasts a large range of breathtaking and ethically sourced Aboriginal art, sculpture, handicrafts, and weavings. Whether you are seeking a stunning feature piece or small memento, their art is accessible to everyone.

permanent record of arts practice in Central Australia for the benefit, enjoyment and education of visitors to Alice Springs and the Central Australian community.

6 Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs

is home to more than 1,000 artworks that reflect the vitality and variety of works of art from the region. The Centre aims to develop a collection of artworks that reflect a

Ikuntji Artists

Open 7 days Authentic Aboriginal art, handicrafts & weavings – 87 Todd Mall, Alice Springs (08) 8952 1544 I 0435 658 648 I www.thisisaboriginalart.com.au – 39 –

Curtin Springs Paper

Yubu Napa Art Gallery and Gift Shop

Discover the richness of Aboriginal art at Yubu Napa Art Gallery and Gift Shop in Alice Springs, where every part of the space bursts with colour, culture, and creativity. Yubu Napa is more than a gallery; it champions Indigenous artists, ensuring they are treated fairly and their art is celebrated. Artists in residence experiment with new styles, weaving traditional stories into contemporary masterpieces, resulting in a collection that’s as diverse as it is stunning. From bold, modern pieces to timeless Aboriginal artworks, each creation tells a unique story of connection, culture, and Country. Visitors can explore an everevolving selection of paintings, sculptures, and eclectic gifts that capture the heart of Central Australia. Browse in-store or online for an extraordinary range of Indigenous art and unique keepsakes, all supporting talented artists and bringing their traditional

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stories to the world. Yubu Napa is a treasure trove for collectors, culture enthusiasts, and curious travellers.

8 Curtin Springs Paper, turns the raw

beauty of the desert into something truly special. On Curtin Springs Station, 90kms east of Uluru, native grasses are gathered by hand, then pulped, pressed and shaped into exquisite, textured paper that captures the spirit of Central Australia. Each sheet carries traces of the landscape itself — a tangible, beautiful souvenir born from the region’s hardy plants and sweeping plains. Join a one-hour Curtin Springs Paper Tour to step behind the scenes and watch nature transformed. Along the way, you’ll discover the station’s rich history, its deep connection to Central Australia, and the rugged landscape that inspires this remarkable craft. Paper-making tours commence 4 pm daily, subject to availability. Bookings are recommended.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

ABORIGINAL SACRED SITES AND PERMITS Mparntwe (pronounced mbarn-twa) is the Arrernte word for Alice Springs. Arrernte is one of approximately 20 Aboriginal language groups in Central Australia. Different family groups have been gathering there for thousands of years, trading their knowledge and stories. Their strong ties to the landscape are evident in the numerous sacred sites. Aboriginal sacred sites are protected under Northern Territory legislation, although all of the country is significant to Aboriginal people. Signs indicate prohibited entry to a sacred site, and visitors must respect the wishes of Aboriginal custodians. Aboriginal custodians have certain responsibilities to protect and maintain these sites. Custodians believe that many sacred sites are powerful places, and violating their sanctity can be dangerous both to people who transgress the law and to the custodians. Visiting Aboriginal Land. Nearly half of the land in the Northern Territory is owned by Aboriginal people, and permission by way of a permit may be required to enter these

– 41 –

lands. This enables landowners to monitor who is on their land and for what reason. It assists in wildlife protection and ensures the landowner’s privacy and visitor’s safety. You must always carry your permit when on certain Aboriginal land. Please note it may also be an offence to bring alcohol into many Aboriginal communities. While many communities welcome visitors to use their community stores and fuel outlets, some do not. Check when you purchase your permit for current information. Always ask first before taking any photographs of Aboriginal people. Permits are available from the Central Land Council (CLC), and a permit is legally required to visit any Aboriginal land outside of communities.For further information please contact the CLC: permits@ clc.org.au, (08) 8951 6320. The Mereenie Loop / Red Centre Way requires a permit, issued for a small fee from the Visitor Information Centre in Alice Springs, Hermannsburg Service Station, Discovery Resorts - Kings Canyon and Standley Chasm and supplied by Central Land Council©.

Kulgera Roadhouse/Hotel

Simpsons Gap

Swimming at Ormiston Gorge

WEST MACDONNELL RANGES The MacDonnell Ranges stretch over 640 kilometres running east-west through Alice Springs, lighting up each sunrise and sunset in a display of fiery reds, sunburnt oranges and deep purples. Estimated to be at least 340 million years old, they were formed when two tectonic plates collided. Wind, water, and time have exposed the skeleton of what was once a giant mountain range. The Traditional Owners of Alice Springs, the Arrernte people, are spiritually connected to the ranges through a network of ancient creation stories. The Yeperenye creation stories tells the story of ancestral spirits in the form of a giant caterpillars that emerged from the East MacDonnell Ranges and created the landscape of the ranges.

TJORITJA/WEST MACDONNELL RANGES This iconic National Park, soon to be World Heritage listed, stretches westward from Alice Springs and is a must-see for any nature lover who visits Central Australia. Visitors to Toritja (other than Northern – 42 –

Territory residents) must obtain an NT Parks Pass online before entering the Park. The “West Macs” are home to the tallest mountains in the Northern Territory and several spectacular permanent and semipermanent waterholes, which nestle in the gaps and gorges of the park. Setting out from Alice Springs along Larapinta Drive are some of the most stunning natural wonders in Australia, each with its unique beauty, the first of which is Simpsons Gap, only 25 kilometres from Alice Springs. A natural gap in the range, it is famous for its colony of gorgeous Black-footed Rock wallabies. It also has a visitor information shelter at the beginning of a short, easy walk to a beautiful waterhole (sorry, no swimming). Simpsons Gap is also a favourite picnic spot for locals. Cyclists can travel along an easy, sealed walking and bike track through the countryside from Flynn’s Grave on the outskirts of Alice Springs to the gap. Fifty kilometres from Alice Springs, Standley Chasm has been gouged through the ranges by flood waters that, over untold millions of

Ellery Creek Big Hole

years, have surged down a narrow tributary of the Finke River System. The result is a deep red cleft crowded on either side by sheer slopes that rise 80 metres above the floor. Aboriginal owned and operated, and an entry fee is required. The largest permanent waterhole in Central Australia, Ellery Creek Big Hole is a beautiful swimming hole about 90 kilometres from Alice Springs, via Namatjira Drive. Ormiston Gorge is often the favourite spot of visitors to the West Macs. The magnificent red walls of the gorge tower above the oasis of Ormiston Creek and its beautiful permanent water hole. The gorge provides a refuge for rare and endangered animals, and an amazing variety of native plants, including relict species from the Centre’s tropical past. Located 135 kilometres from Alice Springs, via sealed roads, Ormiston provides superb opportunities for swimming, bird watching, photography, camping and bush walking. Walkers can stroll down a sealed path for a dip in the cool waters, stride up to the Ghost Gum Lookout, or hike the incredibly – 43 –

spectacular Ghost Gum Walk (one hour) or the Pound Walk (3-4 hours). Redbank Gorge is at the western fringe of the park and is most well-known for its hike up Mt Sonder and swimming in Redbank waterhole. The 5 kilometres access road from Namatjira Drive is unsealed and a high clearance vehicle is recommended. The Mt Sonder walk (8kms/5-6 hours return) is one of the most rewarding in Central Australia and the views from the summit, particularly at sunrise, are literally breathtaking. The Larapinta Trail winds its way for the entire length of the Park. Ranked as one of the planet’s top 20 treks, the famous Larapinta Trail follows the rocky spine of the West MacDonnell Ranges for 223 kilometres from the Alice Springs Telegraph Station to Mt Sonder. One of Australia’s most unique and spectacular attractions, the trail can be completed in sections, end-to-end, or as a day walk. Pre-planning is essential and walkers must be well prepared. Fees apply to walk and camp on the trail with information at nt.gov.au/parks.

Haasts Bluff, home to Ikuntji Artists

Ikuntji Artists was the first art centre established by women in the Western Desert Art Movement. In the 1980s women began painting in Haasts Bluff in the aged care facility. They had been instructed by their husbands and fathers, and they had often assisted them in completing their paintings.

WITIRA KANYILA WORK AS ONE KEEP IT STRONG

Ikuntji/Haasts Bluff is nestled within the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, 230 km west of Alice Springs and 100 km west of Glen Helen. Visit Ikuntji Artists with their impressive international reputation representing Haasts Bluff artists nationally and abroad. Renowned for bold colours and the inclusion of traditional motifs alongside figurative and naturalistic imagery.

Open 10am-4pm Monday-Friday (please ring to make an appointment) CMB 211 Haasts Bluff via Alice Springs. Ph (08) 8956 8783 fineart@ikuntji.com.auv

www.ikuntji.com.au – 44 –

By the early 1990s these women artists decided to pursue setting up their own art centre. Ikuntji Artists was first established in 1992, after a series of workshops, and under the influence of the then community president, the late Esther Jugadai. The art centre was initially set up to fulfil the role of women’s centre providing services such as catering for old people and children in the community. After their first experiences made in printing T-shirts, the artists began producing acrylic paintings on linen and handmade paper, which quickly gained the attention of the Australian and international art world as well as earning the centre an impressive reputation for fine art. The focus changed from a women’s centre to an art centre in 2005 with the incorporation of the art centre as Ikuntji Artists Aboriginal Corporation. Today Ikuntji Artists are represented in many national and international galleries and institutions. Their art is famous for bold colour choice, decisive brush strokes and a long legacy of internationally renowned artists. The art gallery is open Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm. Please call ahead to make an appointment.

Trephina Gorge Nature Park

EAST MACDONNELL RANGES Rich in history and rugged natural beauty, the “East Macs” is the lesser-known cousin to the West MacDonnell Ranges but has so much to offer those who want to get off the beaten track. Discover a ghost town from the 1800s, secluded waterholes as beautiful as any in Australia and some of the most accessible Aboriginal rock carvings in the country. Yeperenye/ Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park, only 10 kilometres from Alice Springs, is a superb showcase of the region’s rugged beauty and cultural heritage. These two amazing gaps in the ranges boast dramatic red sandstone cliffs and ancient rock art. The sacred rock paintings, depicting the Caterpillar creation story, is central to the cultural beliefs of the Arrernte people. Visitors can enjoy short, easy walks through the gaps, marvelling at ancient geology and diverse wildlife. With its tranquil atmosphere and rich Indigenous significance, Emily and Jessie Gaps offer a wonderful connection to the spirit of Central Australia. Trephina Gorge Nature Park, a beautiful valley oasis 85 kilomteres from Alice Springs, is probably the most popular destination in the East Macs. It can be accessed by 2WD vehicles (weather permitting). It has fantastic – 45 –

walks and swimming is permitted at the glorious John Hayes Rockhole (4WD only). Overnight camping, including caravans, is permitted at three sites. N’Dhala Gorge is reached by an unsealed road that winds through riverine woodlands. The gorge hosts one of the largest sites of Aboriginal rock carvings open for public viewing. Overnight bush camping is allowed. No water is available. The Arltunga Historical Reserve protects the site of the first gold rush in Central Australia. Relive the gold rush years as you walk through the ghost town and its wonderfully preserved stone government buildings, abandoned mines and equipment, police station, miner’s camps and homes. An unmanned Visitor Centre provides an excellent, detailed understanding of this bygone era. Access to Arltunga is via an unsealed road. Nearby is the stunning Ruby Gap Nature Park, home to the best swimming in the East Macs, Glen Annie Gorge. This very remote park is 150 kilometres from Alice Springs. Ruby Gap is a popular place for camping, bushwalking and swimming, for those who like to escape the crowds. Much of the rugged terrain into the park is only suitable for accomplished four-wheel drivers.

Barrow Creek Telegraph Station

NORTH OF ALICE SPRINGS The Stuart Highway north of Alice Springs offers quirky roadhouses, isolated art galleries, early Australian history. So allow the time to stop and see the real Outback.

Visit Ti Tree Roadhouse The most central pub in Australia!

Restaurant & Bar I Mini-mart Takeaway food I Fuel I Swimming Pool Accommodation and Grassed Caravan Park & Camping

Aileron Roadhouse , 150 kilometres north of Alice Springs, is known for its giant sculptures of an Aboriginal man and woman, rustic charm, and an art gallery featuring works from the local Anmatjere Community. Ti Tree Roadhouse, 200 kilometres north of Alice, offers comfortable and affordable accommodation, fuel and food seven days and great outback hospitality. With wide open space that stretches to the horizon, Ti Tree has some of the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in Central Australia. Accommodation options suit the most discerning budgets; including camping sites, powered sites, backpacker rooms and single rooms. Take advantage of their in-house licensed restaurant, serving up hearty breakfasts, lunches and dinners, as big as the outback, every day. Barrow Creek, a further 80 kilometres north, was established in 1872 as a relay station the Overland Telegraph line and is one of only four original telegraph stations still standing. Take the time to look around the historic site or enjoy a beer in the Barrow Creek Hotel next door.

08 8956 9741

Phone titreeroadhouse@bigpond.com

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Rainbow Valley. Tourism NT/Steve Strike

SOUTH OF ALICE SPRINGS A unique adventure awaits for those travelling south of Alice Springs. Travel some of the loneliest stretches of the famed Stuart Highway, visiting her quirky outback roadhouses (there’s no towns) or get off the beaten track on unsealed roads and rugged 4WD tracks, skirting the edge of the Simpson Desert. Remember to be well prepared when driving in the remote outback. Always carry plenty of water, ensure you have enough fuel, and check road conditions prior to travel. Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve. Perched on the edge of ancient clay pans, the sandstone cliffs at Rainbow Valley are a photographer’s delight, especially at sunrise and sunset. The glowing reds near the top of the cliff bleed into a series of rich ochres, stunning yellows, and stark whites, displaying a rainbow of outback colours. This was a ceremonial meeting place for the Traditional Custodians and remains sacred to the Southern Arrernte people. Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve. Rising starkly 50 metres above the surrounding red sandy plains, Chambers Pillar was a navigational landmark for the early European explorers, but its history stretches – 47 –

back to the time of creation for the local Aboriginal people. The pillar, named by the great explorer John McDouall Stuart, is the most significant rock formation in the Reserve. Chambers Pillar glows like an ember at sunrise and sunset but is stunning at any time of day. Camping is permitted (bring your own water), or you can visit as a day trip from Alice. Kulgera is a roadhouse at the junction of the Stuart Highway, and the Kulgera Finke Road, featuring a police station, basic tyre repairs and a pub. Old Andado Track runs from Alice Springs, through Santa Teresa to Old Andado Station, perched on the edge of the vast Simpson Desert. It’s part of Binns Track, one of Australia’s epic 4WD journeys. You can return to Alice along the Old South Road, following the Old Ghan Heritage Trail next to the Finke Desert Race track, or continue south to access the Simpson Desert or outback South Australia and the Oodnadatta Track. A Desert Parks Pass, available online or at Mt Dare, is required to cross the Simpson.

RED CENTRE MAP Glen Helen Gorge

Warlukurlangu Artists Yuendumu

Warlukurlangu Artists

Ormiston Gorge

To Tennant Creek

Aileron Roadhouse Tilmouth Well

National Park Ormiston Gorge 13 Ochre Pits Ikuntji Artists Serpentine Chalet 11 at Haasts Bluff 10 Serpentine Gorge Standley Chasm 9 Tylers Glen Helen 8 Creek 5 Pass 14 Gorge 12 Na 7 Ellery ma Big Hole tjira Drive Tnorala (Gosse Bluff) 15 Hermannsburg Redbank Gorge

Palm Valley

Watarrka National Park

Discovery Resorts Kings Canyon

Lar a

n i e Loop R oad

Wallace Rockhole

Finke Gorge National Park

Watarrka

18 Kings Canyon

e pinta D riv

Owen Springs Reserve Stuarts Well Roadhouse

Kings Canyon

Henbury Meteorites Conservation Reserve

Kings Creek Station

Ernest Giles Road

Luritja Road

Kata Tjuta

21 Uluru

Uluru

Erldunda Desert Oaks Resort

Curtin Springs Wayside Inn Curtin Springs Paper Curtin Springs Experiences

19 Yulara Tourist Information Centre

Owen Springs Reserve

Stuart H ighw ay

Me re e

Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park

Native Gap Conservation Reserve

Toritja/West MacDonnell

Ikuntji Artists, Haasts Bluff

Mount Conner Lookout

Lasset er

Highway

Mount Conner (Access via tour only)

Mount Conner

PERMIT REQUIRED The Mereenie Loop passes through Aboriginal Land, obtain a permit/ pass for a small fee from the Visitor Information Centre in Todd Mall Alice Springs, Hermannsburg Service Station, or Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon.

Kulgera Roadhouse Kulgera

To Adelaide

Trephina Gorge Nature Park Arltunga Bush Pub and Eco Retreat

1 Aileron Roadhouse

• Fuel • Accommodation • Walks • Aboriginal Art Gallery • Restaurant • Anmatjere Man giant sculpture

2 Alice Springs Desert Park

• Desert Habitat Walks • Nocturnal House & Free-flying Bird Show • Cafe and Souvenirs

3 Flynn’s Grave

Ryan’s Well Historical Reserve

• Memorial • Bike Path to Simpsons Gap

4 Simpsons Gap

• Scenic Walks and Bike Path • Wildlife Watching

5 Standley Chasm

Gemtree

• Spectacular Geology, Walks & Wildlife • Aboriginal Cultural Tours • Kiosk Cafe/Campground

6 Gemtree Caravan Park

23 Arltunga Bush Pub and Eco Retreat Trephina Gorge

ALICE Nature Park SPRINGS 25 N’Dhala

Simpsons Gap

4 Flynn’s Grave

Alice Springs Desert Park

Gorge Nature Park

• Accommodation • Camping • Fuel • Meals • Fossicking

7 Ellery Creek Big Hole

• Waterhole - Swimming – Scenic Walks • Spectacular Geology • Camping - Caravans

8 Serpentine Gorge

• Scenic Walk - Wildlife - Lookout To Old Andando

Santa Teresa

Standley Chasm

9 Serpentine Chalet

• Historical Ruins & Scenic Walk • Bush Camping - No Facilities

10 Ochre Pits

• Scenic Lookout with walk • Sacred Site - Cultural Information

11 Ormiston Gorge

• Swimming - Scenic walks - Camping

12 Glen Helen Gorge

• Swimming - Scenic Walks • Accommodation closed

Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve

13 Redbank Gorge

• Waterhole - Swimming - Camping • Mt Sonder Walk - Spectacular gorge

14 Tylers Pass

• Tylers Pass Lookout

Rainbow Valley Conservation Reserve

15 Tnorala (Gosse Bluff)

• Four wheel driving • Scenic Walks • Cultural Information • Remnant Comet Crater

16 Palm Valley - Finke Gorge

• Four Wheel Driving • Scenic Walks & Lookouts • Camping

17 Hermannsburg

Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

• Historic Precinct and Art Gallery • Tea Rooms

18 Watarrka (Kings Canyon)

• Scenic Walks & Lookouts • Accommodation (outside park) • Camping & Caravan Sites

19 Curtin Springs Wayside Inn

• Accommodation • Restaurnant • Tours

20 Yulara Visitor Centre • Display & Souvenir Shops

LEGEND

To Finke

• Cultural Centre • Scenic Walks

Accredited Visitor Information Centre

22 Kata Tjuta

Fuel

23 Arltunga Bush Pub &

Accommodation, Store, Meals, Stop and talk to a local.

• Accommodation • Camping

Sealed Road Unsealed Road Park Boundary

Chambers Pillar Historical Reserve

21 Uluru

Red Centre Way Sealed Road Red Centre Way Unsealed Road

• Scenic Walks & Viewing area

Eco Retreat

24 N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park

• Spectacular geology • Wildlife • Walks

25 Trephina Gorge Nature Park

• John Hayes Rockhole • Camping and swimming • Spectacular scenery • Walks

Mt Conner on Curtin Springs Station and Curtin Springs Paper

RED CENTRE Curtin Springs Station and Wayside Inn is the perfect base from which to visit the Red Centre icons of Uluru and Kings Canyon. Curtin Springs is a million-acre cattle station on the Lasseter Highway, only 100 kilometres east of Uluru and a little over two hours drive from Kings Canyon. The multi award-winning Curtin Springs has been owned by the Severin family since

1956 and they have made this remote place their home in a very special part of Central Australia. As the first Wayside Inn in the region, Curtin Springs allows visitors a glimpse into the complexity of life in the remote Australian outback. As a diverse tourism and agricultural business, Curtin Springs stands as testimony of the commitment to the region by the Severin family. It provides an opportunity for visitors to learn about what it takes to

DISTANCES FROM ULURU Alice Springs – 461 km Kings Canyon – 304 km Erldunda – 244 km Curtin Springs – 100 km

Connellan Airport Curtin Springs AANT LASSETER HIGHWAY Yulara (resort)

VALLEY OF THE WINDS

SUNSET VIEWING

PARK ENTRY STATION

Kata Tjuta

To Kaltukatjara and WA border (Docker River)

buses

cars

sealed road unsealed road

Uluru

Uluru to Kata Tjuta - 50 kilometres WALPA GORGE

KATA TJUTA DUNE VIEWING Sunrise and sunset

SUNSET VIEWING

TALINGURU NYAKUNYTJAKU SunriseVIEWING and sunset SUNRISE

CULTURAL CENTRE

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Curtin Springs Experiences

live in remote Australia, raise a family there and run a thriving business. Please make the time to meet some of the locals and hear their fascinating stories. While you’re there, stop and experience Curtin Springs Paper to see how they make beautiful paper from the native grasses on the station. Please contact Curtin Springs for their onehour paper making tour times.

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As you travel along the Lasseter Highway towards Curtin Springs, you will see Mt Conner, a 300-metre-high monolith located on the private property of Curtin Springs Station. To visit Mt Conner enquire at Curtin Springs Wayside Inn for availability with Seit Tours. Highlights of their small-group guided 4WD tours include visiting salt lakes, major cattle yards and sunset over Mt Conner. Bookings are essential.

Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park

ULURU – KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK Take a journey into Australia’s physical and spiritual heart by visiting one of Australia’s most iconic symbols, the twice World Heritage-listed Uluru. Central to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, this natural wonder of the world speaks of timeless folklore, rich Indigenous culture and great spirituality. However, the national park and nearby resort village of Yulara offer a host of attractions and activities beyond this famous monolith. So allow at least a few days to enjoy the full experience of this wonderous part of the world. Uluru rises 348 metres from the desert and has a girth of 9.4 kilometres. These statistics alone assure its starring role as the world’s most famous monolith, yet it is estimated that at least two-thirds of the weathered rock lies beneath the surface. Nothing better encapsulates the – 52 –

Uluru experience than viewing “the Rock” at sunset and sunrise. This unmissable event sees the colours shift from pink to blood red, to mauve, whilst the sky above reflects an unimaginable array of colours as if created from an artist’s palette. The Uluru base walk can be experienced with a local guide, or self-guided, on foot, by bicycle, or on a Segway tour. The full walk is 10.6 kilometres however visitors can choose to experience the most spectacular and interesting aspects of Uluru on the much shorter Mala and Kuniya Walks, on opposite sides of the Rock. Follow in the footsteps of ancestral beings and discover sacred sites, rock paintings, waterholes and an amazingly diverse range of plants and animals. Park Rangers conduct guided walks daily from the Mala carpark, which is included in the cost of your park entry fee.

The Cultural Centre, situated in the shadow of Uluru, provides fascinating displays, artworks and videos showcasing the culture, history, geography, and the flora and fauna of this twice World Heritage-listed national park and its significance to the Traditional Owners, the Anangu. The Centre also has two art galleries, a café and periodic presentations from local Aboriginal people. Kata Tjuta (formerly known as the Olgas) are not as well-known as her nearby cousin Uluru but to many visitors are even more spectacular. The tallest of her 36 domes rises 546 metres above the surrounding plain. Like Uluru, Kata Tjuta’s colours change from rich reds, through to iridescent oranges, to burnt yellows and deep violets of sunrise and sunset. Walkers can enjoy two extraordinary

walks which begin approximately 50 kilometres from Uluru; the famous Valley of Winds walk and the easier Walpa Gorge walk. The full Valley of the Winds walk (Grade 4) is 7.4 kilometres and takes 3-4 hours, although many visitors choose to walk as far as the Karu lookout (1 hour return) or Karingana lookout (2.5 hours return). Guided tours are available with several companies and can provide insight into the geology, the resilient flora and fauna that seek refuge amongst the domes, and the significance of Kata Tjuta to the local Anangu Aboriginal people. If you choose to set out on your own, interpretive signs along the way provide lots of interesting information. Parts of the Valley of the Winds walk will be closed at 11am when the forecast temperature is 36C or higher. Check with the Tourist Information Centre or at the Park Entry Station for closures.

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Uluru

Dozens of tours and activities in and around Yulara and the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park are available, providing a multitude of ways to experience the natural wonders of the Park and Anangu culture. Check with the Tourist Information Centre in the town square, open daily from 8am to 5pm, for a program of free familyfriendly activities. Experiences include Indigenous-guided garden walks, bush food presentations, or the popular Bush Yarns where an Indigenous guide chats about Aboriginal culture and connection to Country. The Information Centre can also make enquires and bookings for a host of paid activities from the tranquil

Uluru Camel Tours

to the thrilling. For a bird’s-eye-view of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, take to the skies for a helicopter ride, check out the scenery astride a camel, or cruise around the Rock on a Segway or a bicycle. And the fun doesn’t have to end once the sun has set. The wildly popular Field of Light exhibition can be experienced three ways, the Sounds of Silence dinner has been delighting visitors for decades and Wintjiri Wiru is a new cultural storytelling experience brought to life with groundbreaking technology. Outback Australia is also one of the best places in the world to view the stars and two astronomy tours can take you on an other-worldly experience. For an unforgettable Uluru adventure, hitch a ride on a camel train with the multi award-winning Uluru Camel Tours, the largest working camel farm in Australia with the most spectacular location. Home to over 60 beautiful camels, they offer a camel experience that can’t be beaten anywhere in Australia, with stunning views of World Heritage listed Uluru and Kata Tjuta as their backdrop. A fully working saddlery, detailed history display

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Kata Tjuta

outlining the 130-year history of camels in Australia, and information on the tough Afghan Cameleers who played a vital role in opening the outback, complete

the experience. Make sure your camera phone is fully charged to capture life-long memories of the Red Centre aboard Uluru Camel Tours.

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Kings Canyon

KINGS CANYON For many visitors to Central Australia, Uluru

who have made the effort to travel the 300

is at the top of their must-see list, and Kings

kilometres north from Uluru, or take the

Canyon/Watarrka is seen as a side trip. Until

360 kilometres road-less-travelled Mereenie

they see “The Canyon”! For many of those

Loop from Alice Springs, Kings Canyon has

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Rim Walk – Kings Canyon

left an incredible mark on their memory. The Kings Canyon Rim Walk (6kms, 3-4 hours in a loop) is undoubtedly one of the best walks in Australia.

to make the three-to four hour trek, the Kings Canyon Creek Walk along the floor of the canyon is flat, easy, shady and delightful.

The steep ascent up stone steps to the rim of the canyon at the beginning of the walk is difficult. But if you’re fit and healthy, don’t let that deter you, because the walk gets easier, and even more spectacular! Around every corner, across every bridge, and through each crack in the sandstone, a new natural wonder awaits. The sheer canyon walls soar more than 100 metres above Kings Creek to a surreal landscape of bee hiveshaped, rocky domes. About half-way along the walk is the beautiful Garden of Eden waterhole (sorry, no swimming) surrounded by a lush garden of rare and unusual plants, many of them ancient species from when this was a tropical landscape.

Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon. Relax under a canopy of stars at one of the most picturesque campgrounds in Australia, only ten minutes from the canyon. Enjoy uninterrupted views to Kings Canyon and immerse yourself in Light Towers, a maze of light and sound. Plus enjoy the facilities which make this property an oasis in the desert, including multiple onsite dining options.

Be sure to bring a few litres of water per person on the Rim Walk, as there’s no where to refill your water, and always stay at least two metres from the edge of the canyon. For those not willing or able – 57 –

Light Towers, Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon

5 EPIC DRIVE ADVENTURES 1. RED CENTRE WAY

ALICE SPRINGS TO ULURU AND RETURN IN 5 DAYS The Red Centre Way is one of Australia’s great outback journeys, showcasing worldfamous landmarks, ancient landscapes, and the living culture of the First Australians. Beginning and ending in Alice Springs, this five-day loop passes through striking desert scenery, lush water holes, rugged ranges, and sacred sites. Before setting out, visit the Alice Springs Visitor Information Centre to obtain your NT Parks Pass and Mereenie Loop permit. An allwheel-drive vehicle is essential, and a highclearance 4WD is needed for Palm Valley.

DAY 1 – ALICE SPRINGS TO ORMISTON GORGE OR FINKE GORGE NATIONAL PARK (PALM VALLEY) - 130KMS Start your adventure at the Alice Springs Desert Park, described by Sir David Attenborough as one of the world’s best wildlife parks. Continue west into Tjoritja/ West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, home to majestic cliffs, gorges, and cool desert waterholes. Stop at Simpsons Gap to spot rock wallabies, stroll through the – 58 –

dramatic walls of Standley Chasm, and swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole. Hike the lookouts of Serpentine Gorge or relax at Ormiston Gorge, known for its birdlife and excellent trails. Nearby Redbank Gorge offers a hike up Mt Sonder for panoramic views. Alternatively, 4WD travellers can venture south to Palm Valley in Finke Gorge National Park, where rare Red Cabbage Palms grow among towering red cliffs. Watch the sunset transform the ranges into shades of ochre before camping nearby. On your way, stop at Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, established in 1877, to explore the mission buildings and home of famous Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira.

DAY 2 – ORMISTON GORGE OR PALM VALLEY TO KINGS CANYON – 260KMS Head west toward Kings Canyon via the remote Mereenie Loop Road. Along the way, stop at Tnorala (Gosse Bluff), a massive crater formed by a comet impact over 140 million years ago, and learn the Western Arrernte creation story of this

GLEN TJORITJA/ HELEN WEST MACS

KINGS CANYON

ALICE SPRINGS RAINBOW VALLEY

KATA TJUTA

ULURU

CURTIN SPRINGS Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park

sacred site. The route crosses open desert country where you may spot brumbies, camels, and donkeys. At Kings Canyon, choose from camping or luxury accommodation at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon or Kings Creek Station.

DAY 3 – KINGS CANYON TO ULURU – 300KMS Begin the day with the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, one of Australia’s most spectacular hikes. Climb to the rim, pass through “Priscilla’s Crack,” peer over sheer sandstone cliffs, and descend into the lush Garden of Eden. Those seeking an easier option can enjoy the scenic Kings Creek Walk. Nearby, Kathleen Springs offers a short walk to a peaceful waterhole. Before heading south to Uluru, stop at Discover Resorts–Kings Canyon for a refreshing swim in the pool or a bite to eat. On arrival at Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort), head into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for the unforgettable sight of Uluru glowing at sunset—a must-see moment.

DAY 4 – ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK Rise early for a sunrise camel trek with Uluru Camel Tours or join a guided walk

around Uluru’s base, exploring Mutitjulu Waterhole and the Ranger-guided Mala Walk, where you’ll learn ancient Anangu creation stories. Later, drive 40Kms west to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), whose massive domes rise even higher than Uluru. The Valley of the Winds Walk offers breathtaking views and spiritual stillness. In the evening, enjoy dinner under the stars, stargaze with an astronomy guide, or visit the acclaimed Field of Light installation.

DAY 5 – ULURU TO ALICE SPRINGS – 445KMS Return east along the Lasseter Highway, stopping at roadhouses for rest and refreshments. At Curtin Springs Wayside Inn, 90Kms from Uluru, tour a millionacre cattle station and learn about their handmade grass paper. Closer to Alice Springs, detour to Rainbow Valley, famous for its colourful sandstone cliffs and spectacular sunset views — a perfect finale to your Red Centre journey. The Red Centre Way offers more than just a road trip — it’s an immersion into Australia’s heartland, where ancient landscapes, Aboriginal culture, and desert beauty combine for an unforgettable adventure.

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TOP SPRINGS TENNANT CREEK

ALICE SPRINGS

GEMTREE ARLTUNGA

Gemtree

2. BINNS TRACK

ALICE SPRINGS TO TENNANT CREEK SECTION The Binns Track is a 2,230Kms off-road adventure spanning from the SA/NT border to the tropical north near Katherine. Named after NT Parks and Wildlife Ranger Bill Binns, the route showcases the Territory’s diverse landscapes, culture and pioneering history.

MT DARE TO ALICE SPRINGS – 420KMS The journey begins at Mt Dare Hotel, a remote outback roadhouse in South Australia. From here, the Old Andado Track skirts the western edge of the Simpson Desert, travelling through red dune country and the floodplains of the Finke River. A key stop is Molly Clark’s Old Andado Homestead, a remarkable relic of early pastoral life that has endured the desert’s harsh conditions. Arriving in Alice Springs, travellers will find a surprisingly vibrant town rich in history, arts, museums and wildlife experiences. The region’s scenery is outstanding, with ancient ranges, waterholes and world-class walking trails in every direction. Day trips include the West and East MacDonnell Ranges, Palm Valley, Rainbow Valley and Chambers Pillar.

ALICE SPRINGS TO PLENTY HIGHWAY (VIA EAST MACDONNELL RANGES) – 290KMS The East MacDonnell Ranges stretch 150 km east of Alice Springs, through remarkable – 60 –

geology, hidden waterholes and powerful cultural sites. From the Ross Highway, begin at Anthwerrke (Emily Gap), a sacred Caterpillar Dreaming site just east of Alice. The Binns Track then leads you into the ancient petroglyphs of N’Dahla Gorge. Hike the nearby trails of Trephina Gorge or cool off in John Hayes Rockhole. Further east, 4WD travellers can explore the wild beauty of Ruby Gap Nature Park. Continue north to the historic ruins of gold-rush Arltunga before the rugged Harts and Fergusson Ranges rise dramatically on the horizon. Finish with a welcoming break at Gemtree Caravan Park—your base for camping, accommodation, famous camp oven dinners and outback hospitality. Stay a while and try your luck at fossicking for your own sparkling Central Australian gems.

PLENTY HIGHWAY TO TENNANT CREEK – 690KMS Iytwelepenty / Davenport Ranges National Park marks the transition from arid desert to the fringes of the tropical north, with waterholes supporting abundant birdlife and native fish. Before Tennant Creek, visit the iconic Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles—huge, gravity-defying granite boulders that glow at sunrise and sunset. In Tennant Creek, learn about the area’s rich gold-mining history and the pioneering Overland Telegraph Line.

HALLS CREEK WOLFE CREEK METEORITE CRATER

STRETCH LAGOON LAKE GREGORY

BILLILUNA BALGO YUENDUMU

Driving the Tanami Track

ALICE SPRINGS

3. TANAMI TRACK ALICE SPRINGS TO HALLS CREEK – 1053KMS

WARLAYIRTI ARTISTS (BALGO)

Stretching across the vast Tanami Desert, the Tanami Track is a remote but generally well-maintained earth and gravel road, serviced by the Shire of Halls Creek and mining companies. The first 280 kms from Alice Springs have sealed single and dual lane sections, and most of the remainder of the track is unsealed. This is the only direct route between Alice Springs and Halls Creek, and most travellers allow two days to make the crossing, taking time to explore remarkable desert landmarks, remote communities and unique cultural sites.

Inside the Aboriginal community of Balgo is Warlayirti Artists Aboriginal Corporation, one of the most remote art centres in the world. Around 300 artists from Wirrimanu, Mulan and Kururrrungku (Billiluna) create paintings, etchings, photography, film and music there.

WARLUKURLANGU ARTISTS (YUENDUMU) Located 300 kms north-west of Alice Springs at Yuendumu, this long-running Aboriginalowned art centre is renowned for its vibrant works and strong community programs. Please call ahead to visit the gallery.

ALICE SPRINGS TO BALGO – 846KMS From Alice Springs, it is 724 kms from the Stuart Highway turnoff to the WA border and a further, 122kms to Balgo (40 km off the Tanami). The route is isolated and can close quickly due to rain. A 4WD is essential, and travellers should be self-sufficient. Avoid towing caravans or trailers in wet conditions. Check Main Roads WA or NT Roads before departure. – 61 –

LAKE GREGORY AND STRETCH LAGOON From Billiluna (87kms north of Balgo), detour to Stretch Lagoon (16kms) or Lake Gregory (103kms), part of an internationally recognised inland wetland system supporting more than 73 species of waterbirds. With three lakeside bush camps (no facilities), this region is a highlight for birdwatchers and photographers. Camping permits are required and must be obtained at Billiluna, Balgo or Mulan communities.

WOLFE CREEK CRATER –145KMS SOUTH OF HALLS CREEK Accessible via a 23kms of unsealed road through Carranya Station, Wolfe Creek Crater (Karntimarlarl) is one of the world’s largest meteorite impact sites at 880 metres wide and is more than 300,000 years old. Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular views from the rim. A basic campsite maintained by Parks and Wildlife provides an overnight stop. Road conditions vary; check with the Halls Creek Visitor Centre before travelling.

Rainbow Valley

OUTBACK WAY LAVERTON - ALICE SPRINGS - WINTON Dubbed “Australia’s Longest Shortcut” the Outback Way from Laverton Western Australia, through the Northern Territory’s Red Centre to Winton in Queensland, is a 2800km odyssey across the heart of the continent. Almost half of the track is dirt roads, so you will need a four-wheel-drive, but if you want to take the road less travelled, that’s all part of the adventure.

LAVERTON TO ULURU – 1125KMS

Note: Permits are required. Contact your nearest Visitor Information Centre for details. Scenery steals the show on this stretch of the Way, a wild and remote part of Australia, with open spaces stretching to the horizon, vast salt lakes, and pockets of natural springs and waterholes that come to life after infrequent rain. The area is sparsely populated, not counting wild camels, dotted occasionally with roadhouses and isolated Aboriginal communities. Three renowned art centres, Tjulyuru, Tjarlirli and Kaltukatjara lie on route.

ULURU TO ALICE SPRINGS - 445KMS Visitors approaching the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park from the west, get a very different introduction than the many thousands who enter from the main Park Entry Station. The first sight of these amazing natural

wonders is of the imposing domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Then as you drive through the Park, the world-famous Uluru appears. Settle into your accommodation at Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort) and plan for a few days stay. Be sure to include the legendary Uluru sunset and sunrise, the Uluru Base walk, and Kata Tjuta’s awesome Valley of the Winds walk. Explore the area aboard a camel, in a helicopter, on a segway, or with a local guide. Learn the ancient Aboriginal creation stories first-hand from the oldest living culture in the world. After sunset, treat yourself to fine dining under the stars, or relax with an Aussie BBQ, or visit the wildly popular Field of Light exhibition. On your way to the famous town of Alice Springs, enjoy some outback hospitality at Curtin Springs Wayside Inn, part of a millionacre cattle station. Take a break at the Mt Conner lookout and gaze at the “other” giant rock formation jutting hundreds of metres out of the ground. A side trip to Henbury Meteorite Craters will fascinate geology buffs, and finally, Rainbow Valley is a great spot to visit before reaching Alice Springs.

ALICE SPRINGS TO WINTON –1190KMS Plan for several days in and around Alice, there is a lot to see and do. Learn about the town’s fascinating history and lifestyle, and the art

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ALICE SPRINGS GEMTREE WARBURTON

BOULIA

WINTON

ULURU

LAVERTON

and culture of the Aboriginal people. Visit the Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Doctors, School of the Air, Australia’s largest truck museum, and the world-class Desert Park wildlife park. Take a drive and immerse yourself in the spectacular surrounding scenery. Explore the ancient West and East MacDonnell Ranges, swim in serene waterholes, hike the Larapinta Trail, or take your 4WD to Palm Valley or Chambers Pillar.

an eye out for roadside sculptures and quirky outback characters as you approach Winton. The final stop on this epic adventure, Winton is the proud birthplace of Australia’s unofficial national anthem, Waltzing Matilda, and home to the outstanding Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum. Here, ancient fossils, legendary stories and true outback spirit combine to deliver a perfect finish to your journey.

The Plenty Highway, traversing the spectacular Harts Ranges will take you into Queensland. Make Gemtree Roadhouse and Caravan Park your first stop on the Plenty and take advantage of their genuine outback hospitality. This family-owned property offers cabins, camping and a caravan park in a stunning natural bush setting. Gemtree has loads of family-friendly, fun activities and they are famous for their award-winning camp oven dinners. Try your hand at gem fossicking while you’re there (they can rent all the gear). And if you don’t strike it lucky, you can buy something special from their gem room. Rolling east, most of the road is unsealed until Boulia in Queensland. Boulia is famed for its mysterious Min Min Light and rich pioneering heritage. Explore the Boulia Heritage Complex, wander the Burke River, and soak in that bigsky silence that defines this frontier country. As you continue east, the landscape opens into sweeping Mitchell grass downs dotted with jump-up mesas – classic dinosaur country. Keep – 63 –

KATHERINE

TENNANT CREEK ALICE SPRINGS ULURU TO COOBER PEDY AND ADELAIDE

Driving the Exploerers Way

5. EXPLORERS WAY

ADELAIDE TO TENNANT CREEK SECTION IN 9 DAYS For those craving adventure, the Explorers Way offers one of Australia’s greatest road trips. Following explorer John McDouall Stuart’s route, this sealed highway journey showcases iconic landscapes — Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, the MacDonnell Ranges, Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles, Nitmiluk National Park, and the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park. While the full route from Adelaide to Darwin is best enjoyed over 14 days, this nine-day itinerary highlights the stunning section between Adelaide and Tennant Creek.

DAYS 1-4:ADELAIDE TO COOBER PEDY – 846KMS Travel from South Australia to the opal-mining town of Coober Pedy. Stop at Port Augusta, a gateway to the Flinders Ranges, before continuing north. In Coober Pedy, discover its lunar landscape, underground churches and hotels, and try fossicking for opals. Don’t miss the colourful Kanku–Breakaways Conservation Park, 30Kms to the north.

DAY 6:ULURU TO KINGS CANYON – 300KMS Drive to Watarrka/Kings Canyon, where 100-metre-high sandstone walls create breathtaking scenery. Hike the Rim Walk for panoramic views of this natural wonder.

DAY 7:KINGS CANYON TO ALICE SPRINGS – 474KMS Rise early to see Kings Canyon at sunrise before heading to Alice Springs, the NT’s second-largest town. Take the Mereenie Loop (4WD and permit required) or travel via the Lasseter and Stuart Highways.

DAY 8:WEST MACS, ALICE SPRINGS & GLEN HELEN – 130KMS Explore the West Macs on a scenic day trip. Stop at Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and cool off with a swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, or Glen Helen Gorge.

DAY 5:COOBER PEDY TO ULURU – 734KMS

DAY 9:ALICE SPRINGS TO TENNANT CREEK – 510KMS

Arrive at Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, the spiritual heart of the Outback. Experience the awe-inspiring rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, explore local Aboriginal culture, and enjoy world-class dining under desert skies.

Drive north to Tennant Creek, pausing at the Devils Marbles Hotel and the sacred Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles — immense granite boulders that crack and shift over time, marking the journey’s awe-inspiring finale.

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