Experience the Northern Territory outback and spend time away in the heart of Australia.
Alice Springs, often referred to as Alice, is nestled in the ancient desert and rich in Aboriginal culture. In just 3 days, you can explore the town and experience its range of activities.
While Alice is a 5.5-hour drive from Uluru, it is still considered a gateway to the iconic natural attraction and beyond.
How to get to Alice Springs
You can reach Alice Springs by car, tour, or plane. It is about a 15-hour drive from Darwin or a short flight from most major capital cities, depending on your departure point.
Getting around Alice Springs is easiest by car, bike, walking, or the public bus which operates Monday to Saturday.
Things to do
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Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park
Located near the town, the magnificent Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park holds significant cultural importance to the Aranda people. The Aranda people say the national park was created by an ancestral being.
The park has waterholes, walking tracks, and unique landscapes. Popular swimming spots include Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, and Redbank Gorge. You might encounter some of the park’s threatened species, such as the black-footed rock wallaby, the central rock rat, and the long-tailed dunnart.
If you plan to visit, non-Northern Territory residents will need to buy an NT Parks Pass online before visiting.
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Camel rides
Just outside of Alice Springs, enjoy a family-friendly camel ride through the desert. Camel rides are available throughout the day from noon to afternoon and sunset. The hour-long journey provides a unique and fun way to explore the desert, with the sunset rides including refreshments.
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Sunrise hot air balloons
Soar above Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges for breathtaking sunrise views. Choose between a 30-minute or an hour-long hot air balloon flight, both showcasing the glorious morning light over the desert.
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ANZAC Hill
ANZAC Hill serves as a memorial for those who fought in World War I. At the top of the hill, you will find commemorative engravings and monuments. In 1939, it was the camp of the Darwin Overland Maintenance Force and was the base for those who transported supplies.
As a bonus, ANZAC Hill offers panoramic views across Alice Springs, the surrounding desert, and McDonnell Ranges. It is an excellent spot to watch the sunrise and sunset.
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Alice Springs Reptile Centre
The Reptile Centre features a variety of Australian reptiles, including saltwater crocodiles, frill-neck lizards, and thorny devils to name a few. Don’t miss the interactive reptile, which includes an informative talk and a chance to see snakes and lizards up close. The centre is open daily, except Sundays.
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Alice Springs Telegraph Station
The Alice Springs Telegraph Station is a museum with displays and stories about Australia’s telegraph communication with the world, starting in 1871. Both indoor and outdoor exhibits provide insight into Alice Springs’ history in the early 20th century.
Nearby, the Trail Station Cafe serves lunch, snacks, and drinks, making it a convenient stop during your visit.
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Olive Pink Botanic Garden
Even in Central Australia, there is a botanic garden worth exploring. The Olive Pink Botanic Garden has over 600 plant species, including Indigenous bushfood and medicine plants.
Take one of the 4 self-guided walks to see native plants that thrive in the rocky desert in Alice Springs. Some are known as resurrection plants because they appear dead but revive when it rains again.
Stop by the Bean Tree Cafe for breakfast, or drinks. You can view the digital garden map online or buy a copy with a small donation from the cafe.
The Garden also features a sacred site called Tharraletneme/Annie Meyers Hill, adding a cultural significance to your visit.