Established by the early explorers, Alice Springs and Surrounds remains the centre of activity and is known as an adventure travel destination where visitors can fossick for gems and explore the Australian desert while trekking, camping or four-wheel driving.

Alice Springs is surrounded by an intense desert landscape, with an unrivalled community identity and a wealth of quirky festivals and events, visitors can follow the Larapinta Trail and uncover the development of the pastoral industry and discovery of alluvial gold.

Framing the township is the MacDonnell Ranges, a natural highlight of Central Australia, home to picturesque swimming holes such as Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston, Glen Helen and Redbank gorges.

Stretching south towards the border lies the Simpson Desert. Explore the remote desert and view Aboriginal communities like Santa Theresa and Titjikala and hear firsthand accounts of desert life and purchase local arts and crafts.

South west of Alice Springs is the Aboriginal community of Hermannsburg with the stunning expanse of Finke Gorge National Park close by. Trek the area on a tour or camp at the nearby Palm Valley.

Finally, the area stretching north of Alice Springs is best known for its serene beauty and is the ideal destination for gem fossicking, bush walking, camping and four-wheel-driving.

Visit Alice Springs and Surrounds for a taste of its fascinating natural, cultural and historical wonders.

See the trip planner to plan your trip in this region.
Pictured Top; ASSA ABLOY Henley-on-Todd Regatta, Alice Springs. Credit: Tourism NT
Pictured below; ‘Get CeNTred’ Campaign, Central Australia – Aboriginal Art. Credit: Tourism NT