THE RED DESERT CITY

Alice Springs is perhaps the most iconic outback town in all of Australia, though it’s a little bit less a frontier settlement from stories and more an interesting mix of Aboriginal and far-out. This thriving town, which began as a telegraph station more than 100 years ago, grew into the cosmopolitan town you’ll see today. It’s populated by some crazy outback characters and all their quirks - after all, would you have thought up a boat race on a completely dry riverbed? It’s also the home of the growing desert Aboriginal art movement, and is one of the best places in the country to see this type of artwork in the many galleries located about town. The Alice, as it’s affectionately called, is an integral part of the vast central region of Australia, not just physically, but culturally as well. If you’re looking for a welcome respite after a long journey, Alice Springs is well worth the trip.

SAFARI TREKS

Alice Springs is usually a major stopover on the way north or south, up the Stuart Highway to Darwin or down to Adelaide. These safari tours usually last several days, and will stop in Alice Springs for at least one of them. Many of these tours have certain themes, whether it’s an in-depth look at wildlife or a trip to the many different wine regions throughout Australia. Each tour will usually include accommodation, whether that’s in a hostel or by camping, breakfasts and dinners and some lunches as well. Remember that you’ll have to pay some extra fees to get into some of the national parks.

There are many things you should bring with you when going on a safari tour. First, remember a really good pair of walking shoes that come up to about the ankle, because you’ll be doing a whole lot of walking. A hat is essential for those sun-filled days as well as lots and lots of sunscreen, and in winter don’t forget to bundle up. Unless you want to stink for many days a towel and toiletries are very important, and remember to bring some insect repellent to keep the bugs away and a torch to light your way at night. Finally, if you’re into a bit of comfort while you’re out there on the road, make sure to bring your own pillow. The accommodations may provide them, but they probably won’t be as great.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

SAFARI TREKS

These multi-day trips are perhaps just the thing you need to see this amazing part of regional Australia. Whether you decide to do a special wildlife trek or a trip through Australia’s wine countries, the experience you’ll get from it is unlike anything you’ll ever have.

Listing of extended-day tours that stop in Alice Springs.

ALICE SPRINGS TOUR

A tour of Alice Springs is a great way to see it in the shortest amount of time. From spectacular views of the town and the nearby MacDonnell Ranges from Anzac Hill to a walk along the bone-dry Todd River, these tours are definitely the best way to see all the sights.

For a full listing of tours in Alice Springs, select it as the Destination after selecting “Northern Territories” as the state/territory on the widget to the left.

SOMEWHERE TO STAY

The Alice has a ton of sleeping options, and many of them are incredibly reasonable. They’re all located within the main part of town, including a YHA hostel. If you’re more into camping, there are a few sites available, but those are mostly on the outskirts of town.