West MacDonnell Ranges Full Day Tour | 5 Gorges from Alice Springs
• Explore 5 iconic gorges in one full day • Wade into the crystal-clear waters of Ellery Creek Big Hole, Central Australia’s largest permanent swimming hole • Stand inside the fiery red walls of Standley Chasm (Angkerle), a sacred Arrernte site glowing at midday • Discover the Ochre Pits — ancient mineral deposits still used in traditional Western Arrernte ceremony today • Visit Ormiston Gorge, the grandest waterhole in the ranges, framed by 300-million-year-old quartzite walls • Pay tribute at the John Flynn Memorial, the resting place of the Royal Flying Doctor Service founder • Travel with an expert guide whose deep knowledge of Tjoritja (West MacDonnell Ranges) transforms every stop into a story
What to expect
Discover the West MacDonnell Ranges in full on this expert-guided day tour from Alice Springs — five gorges and cultural landmarks across Tjoritja National Park, Travel with Emu Run’s experienced local guides, whose knowledge of Arrernte Country and Red Centre geology transforms every stop into more than a photo opportunity. Swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, stand at the edge of Ormiston Gorge's ancient waterhole, marvel at the ochre deposits still used in Arrernte ceremony today — and pay your respects at the John Flynn Memorial. The most complete West MacDonnell experience from Alice Springs.
Reviews
Something unexpected happened when we were at Simpson gap. The vehicle can no longer continue with the journey. We waited for an hour for another vehicle to come. That means the day tour is shortened by an hour. What’s more, the replacement vehicle is not as comfortable and as spacious as the original one. There are other operators with the same journey at a much cheaper price. Overall, I’m still thankful that I’ve picked Emu Run which has a contingency plan.
Great tour. A lot of driving and some nice walks. Plenty of things to see without rush. Highly recommended.
I personally think that if you come all the way to Alice Springs, it would be a pity not to visit the national park nearby. The tour guide's enthusiastic guidance along the way is definitely the highlight of this trip, and it is at least worthy of a full score from me.
There was a vehicle issue requiring a change mid-trip, shortening the tour by one hour. The itinerary was packed and the attractions were plentiful. The price was higher compared to other operators. After the vehicle change, the replacement was smaller, making it feel overpriced.
The itinerary is well organized and there is no sense of urgency. The tour guide is very professional. In addition to the attractions, he also introduced a lot of history of Alice Springs.
This tour is fantastic. My family had wonderful Easter holiday. thank you, Karen!
Bluey was great, knows everything about this region. 10/10 recommended.
My family and friends had this tour couple years ago. Abosolutely great.
A fantastic day! Bluey was an excellent guide giving us lots of information on all the places we visited. His lunch was delicious. We loved the places and were very happy with our day!
This tour is value for money, strongly recommended!
Good to know
Insider Tips:
Don’t forget your camera! Every moment of this memorable one day tour is worth capturing.
You’ll visit:
- Simpsons Gap
- Standley Chasm
- Ochre Pits
- Ormiston Gorge
- Ellery Creek Bighole
- Flynn Memorial
- Optional swim at Ellery Creek Bighole (summer only)
Morning Tea and a Bushman’s Lunch consisting of wraps with a selection of cold meats and salads is included. All activities are considered very safe for all age groups. They do not require a high level of fitness or agility.
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