About this tour
Spend seven hours exploring Central Australia's geological landmarks and colonial history west of Alice Springs. You'll walk through Simpson's Gap to spot rock wallabies, navigate the narrow sandstone corridor of Standley Chasm, visit the School of the Air radio classroom, and tour the Telegraph Station—the site of European settlement in the Red Centre. Hotel pickups included; travel by air-conditioned coach with a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights
- Rock wallabies among Simpson's Gap's ochre cliffs
- Standley Chasm's sun-lit sandstone walls at midday
- School of the Air—outback education via radio (weekdays only)
- Telegraph Station's 1870s pioneering infrastructure
- West MacDonnell Ranges' layered red escarpments
- Guided walk through rugged Outback terrain
- Comprehensive coach commentary on local geology and history
What to expect
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and drive you west into the ranges. At Simpson's Gap, you'll walk among weathered rock formations where wallabies shelter in cooler months. Next is Standley Chasm, a narrow gorge famous for its midday light display bouncing off rust-coloured walls—bring a camera. The School of the Air stop (weekdays only) shows how remote children learn via radio connection. Finally, the Telegraph Station reveals how Europeans established a foothold here in the 1870s. Expect 2–3 hours of walking on uneven terrain, but the pace suits all fitness levels.
Good to know
You must pre-purchase an NT Park Pass online (AUD 10 adult, AUD 5 child). Bring enclosed shoes, sunscreen, and water. School of the Air closes weekends and public holidays. Lunch isn't included; eat at Standley Chasm Cafe or bring your own. Flynet useful in summer; layers advisable in winter.
Frequently asked
- How long does Alice Springs Highlights & Nature Escape Day Tour take?
- Alice Springs Highlights & Nature Escape Day Tour runs for approximately 7 hours.
- How much does Alice Springs Highlights & Nature Escape Day Tour cost?
- Prices start from AUD $189 per person. Final pricing varies by date, group size and any add-ons — confirmed at checkout via Viator.
- Where does Alice Springs Highlights & Nature Escape Day Tour run?
- This tour operates around Australia. Specific meeting points and pickup options are listed by the operator at checkout.
- Who runs Alice Springs Highlights & Nature Escape Day Tour?
- The tour is sold and operated by its supplier through Viator. The Australian Explorer earns a small commission on bookings made via the link, which keeps this site free for travellers.
- Is the tour confirmed at the listed price?
- The price shown is the operator's "from" price as of our last sync. Final price, currency conversion, group discounts and cancellation policy are confirmed at checkout — always review before paying.
Tour sold and operated by its supplier via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original The Australian Explorer summaries, not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.