About this tour
Spend a full day traversing the West MacDonnell Ranges, a striking desert landscape dotted with gorges, waterholes and ochre cliffs. This 10-hour small-group tour covers ten key stops, including Anzac Hill, Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge. While you swim or walk at Ormiston, the guides prepare a bush-cooked picnic lunch featuring kangaroo and lamb, ready when you return. An expert local will point out wildlife and share the region's layered history as you move through authentic outback country.
Highlights
- Swim or walk at Ormiston Gorge's waterhole
- Bush-cooked kangaroo and lamb picnic lunch
- Red ochre pits and sculptural rock formations
- Mount Sonder outlook across ranges
- Ten gorges and gaps in one day
- Expert guide shares local history and wildlife
What to expect
You'll travel by vehicle through red-dirt terrain, stopping frequently to step out, photograph and explore. Most sites involve short walks to waterfalls, gaps between cliffs or lookout points—none strenuous. The highlight is Ormiston Gorge, where you can cool off in the waterhole or hike nearby while guides cook lunch over coals. Expect heat, flies and brilliant light; the landscape is sparse and dramatic rather than lush. You'll spot goannas, emus and other outback fauna from a distance.
Good to know
Bring hat, sunscreen and sturdy shoes. Bottled water, snacks, tea and coffee are provided. The tour suits all fitness levels and includes young children (prams welcome). If any site closes unexpectedly, your guide will substitute a comparable alternative.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.