OVERVIEW

THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE AS GLEN HELEN LODGE IS TEMPORARY CLOSED WITH REOPEN DATE CURRENTLY UNKNOWN. HOWEVER THERE IS AVAILABILITY ON THE 7 DAY GROUP GUIDED TRIP 'UNDER CANVAS' TRIP CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE.

Trek the Larapinta Trail over escarpments and ridgelines of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Traverse Ormiston and Serpentine Gorges and hike Mount Sonder at sunrise. The dramatic colour changes in the rock formations at Glen Helen Gorge and Standley Chasm are spectacular. This is one of the most stunning outback experiences in Australia.

The Larapinta trail makes its way through the sacred land of the Arrernte people, with a view to gaining a better understanding of the ancient Indigenous culture and Traditional Owners of the land.

This walk is suitable for both experienced hikers seeking a spectacular challenge and for those who just want to experience the beauty of the Larapinta Trail on foot. With two guides, we can offer an easier walk each day for those that want it. This is a way of experiencing the splendid isolation and remoteness of the most spectacular parts of the Larapinta Trail with quality dining and relaxed comfortable accommodation.

Highlights

  • Ormiston, Glen Helen & Serpentine Gorge
  • Views from Mount Sonder at dawn
  • Finke River, Counts Point & Standley Chasm
  • Easy & hard pack-free hiking options each day
  • Authentic Australian farm homestead accommodation

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 2745

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 525

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of a room when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
ALICE SPRINGS TO ORMISTON GORGE, POUND WALK AND ELLERY BIG HOLE

After meeting in Alice Springs, we will drive west along Larapinta Drive and then Namatjira Drive, through the West MacDonnell National Park towards Ormiston Gorge. Our first stop on the Larapinta Trail. We will stop at Ellery Creek Big hole for a short leg stretch and trip briefing. The Ormiston Pound circuit walk is on a moderate rated track and takes around 4 hrs. Leaving Ormiston Gorge, the walk heads into low hills surrounding Ormiston Pound, stopping first at a serene lookout and then heading down into the pound itself and meeting the ancient Ormiston Creek River. We then follow the Ormiston Creek to an incredible lunch spot in the Ormiston Gorge, surrounded by towering red rock cliffs. Following lunch, we rock hop down the gorge and gradually climb up to the iconic Ghost Gum Lookout that overlooks the main waterhole, before descending back to our starting spot. From here, there will be time to laze by the Ormiston Gorge waterhole with ice cream or coffee and have a refreshing swim.

Walking: Easy / 10 km / 4 hrs

Meals: Walkers lunch and dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
SERPENTINE GORGE TO NAMATJIRA DRIVE VIA COUNTS POINT

Today we hike up to Counts Point, possibly the most iconic and unbeatable viewpoint in Central Australia (and of the Larapinta Trail). The first few kilometres of this walk are quite easy and level until we reach the base of the Heavitree Range. We then climb up to the crest of the ridge at Eagles Landing and are rewarded by uninterrupted views stretching to the horizon on all sides. Towards the end of the ridge, we reach Counts Point and stop for a well-earned lunch break with outstanding views. After leaving the lookout, we then descend off the ridge via a spectacular spur. We drop into the lovely shaded Lomandra Gully for a rest on our descent. The last few kilometres of the walk are along an easy, flat bush track.

Walking: Moderate / 16 km / 7 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
MOUNT SONDER AT SUNRISE

Today we will leave very early to avoid the heat and take advantage of the sunrise and the best light of the day. After 500m of easy walking, we reach the start of the climb onto the ridge leading up to Mt Sonder. This will be the steepest part of the climb today. Taking short, regular breaks, we will reach the main ridge and traverse the ridge to the 3km mark lookout, where we will see the magnificent dawn spreading across the landscape below.

From here, the next few kilometres are a gradual climb until we reach a short, sharp descent where we will stop for snacks before starting the climb towards the summit. The final stretch of this climb is much easier. Here we have brunch and a cuppa to celebrate. As we return, we enjoy the views on the descent. Once back near the trailhead we will have a picnic lunch in the river bed and take a well-earned rest in the shade.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 16 km / 8 hrs / easier option available

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and  dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 4
SERPENTINE GORGE LOOKOUT, ELLERY BIG HOLE & STANDLEY CHASM

At Serpentine Gorge, we commence our easy, flat, one-hour return walk into the beautiful Serpentine Gorge, where we rest in the shade and peacefully enjoy the reflections on the ancient rock whilst spotting birds coming to drink at the waterhole. The next stage of the walk is a short climb up to the lookout peering down into the ancient and spectacular upper reaches of the gorge. This is also a great chance to search for Black Footed Rock wallabies which call the cliffs of the gorge home.  On the return journey, we head to Standley Chasm nestled in the Chewings Range. Standley Chasm, known as Angkerle Atwatye to the Aranda people is located in a private nature reserve owned by the Iwupataka Land Trust and is operated by Aboriginal family members of the local Traditional Owners.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 6 km / 3 hrs

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and dinner at the hotel restaurant

Accommodation: Aurora Alice Springs

DAY 5
ALICE SPRINGS

This Larapinta Trail tour ends with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Genuine all-inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • Two expert guides
  • 4 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuite rooms
  • All meals, including breakfasts, restaurant dinners and walkers lunches
  • All transport from Alice Springs, plus all luggage transport
  • National park admission
  • Champagne sunset
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We stay three nights at Glen Helen Lodge the only accommodation located within the Tjoritja – West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, 130km west of Alice Springs. This extraordinary landscape is over 800 million years old and has been home to the Western Aranda Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years. We get to enjoy the comfort provided by the lodge with Glen Helen Gorge and the national park right at our doorstep.

At the end of each day, all the benefits of having a private room await, including a hot shower and a comfortable bed. The lodge, partly an old homestead, reflects the region’s character and is in an amazing location, offering up fantastic views, including sunsets like no other over the West MacDonnell Ranges. Importantly, all the rooms have their own ensuite.

The Mecure Alice Springs is a very good quality hotel in an excellent location. It’s a big property with plenty of room to relax in the garden or in the many other facilities that it offers.

Dinners will be prepared for us at Glen Helen. There’s an emphasis on Australian game meat, Top End fish, tropical fruit and bushtucker.

The packed lunches and picnics complete the circle ensuring that your appetite is always satisfied. In fact, you can look forward to having lunch on a daily basis at some of the most incredible locations on the Larapinta Trail. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin of some kind, plus a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by Auswalk’s famous trail mix.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ~AVERAGE

Distance training should be a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

ROCKY TERRAIN

Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility.

Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to strengthen your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on improving stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and Russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain if you can. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.

GENERAL INFO

The Larapinta Trail tracks are dry and firm but often rocky underfoot. Most of the walks are moderate in difficulty, however, most days involve between 7 to 9 hours on the track, across rocky terrain and ridgelines with steep inclines.  Please be advised that it may be warm this time of year and that you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you each day.

This trip operates with two experienced and knowledgeable guides so we can offer easier and harder walk options along the way.

Pre-tour accommodation: There are many good hotels in Alice Springs, however, we pick up and drop off at one central hotel the Aurora Alice Springs. The tour starts at the Aurora at 8.30 am and includes the final night at the Aurora Alice Springs on return.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

This environment is only suitable to walk from May to August as it is too hot at other times. Nights are generally significantly cooler than daytime temperatures. Please ensure you bring warm clothing for the evenings. The climate is marked by very low humidity. Please ensure you have at least 2L capacity for water on the walk, as this will be necessary.

See the Bureau of Meteorology information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Larapinta climate graph

Source; BOM

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

MAP

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 20 Jun 2024
    CLOSED
    from

    $2745

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $525

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. selawson

    1 February, 2023 at 12:09 AM
    5

    The Larapinta trail walk with Auswalk was fantastic. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly and organised (yet flexible when required). We really felt like they cared about us and our experience. The accommodation was relatively basic but adequate (and more comfortable for us than camping!) and the view from the rooms was amazing!
    I recommend getting fit before going and breaking in boots and socks, so you can enjoy it as much as possible.
    I would go on another Auswalk.

  2. Michael G

    31 January, 2023 at 11:27 AM
    5

    We recently did a walk in the Northern Territory.

    The guides were punctual, efficient, friendly, nice people and very helpful. The trip was well organised.

    They were accommodating and in the event of some walks being cancelled due to burn off – they did their best to find alternatives.

    The accommodation on the whole was very good and the meals also were good.

    The company’s communication with us was also always very polite, quick, efficient and helpful. Their website is clear and the pre-trip package information was quite accurate although in a few cases it mentioned meals to be included in one area and not in another yet were, in fact, included.

    I would certainly recommend this company for walking holidays in Australia.

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Overview

OVERVIEW

THIS TRIP IS CURRENTLY UNAVAILABLE AS GLEN HELEN LODGE IS TEMPORARY CLOSED WITH REOPEN DATE CURRENTLY UNKNOWN. HOWEVER THERE IS AVAILABILITY ON THE 7 DAY GROUP GUIDED TRIP 'UNDER CANVAS' TRIP CLICK HERE TO FIND OUT MORE.

Trek the Larapinta Trail over escarpments and ridgelines of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Traverse Ormiston and Serpentine Gorges and hike Mount Sonder at sunrise. The dramatic colour changes in the rock formations at Glen Helen Gorge and Standley Chasm are spectacular. This is one of the most stunning outback experiences in Australia.

The Larapinta trail makes its way through the sacred land of the Arrernte people, with a view to gaining a better understanding of the ancient Indigenous culture and Traditional Owners of the land.

This walk is suitable for both experienced hikers seeking a spectacular challenge and for those who just want to experience the beauty of the Larapinta Trail on foot. With two guides, we can offer an easier walk each day for those that want it. This is a way of experiencing the splendid isolation and remoteness of the most spectacular parts of the Larapinta Trail with quality dining and relaxed comfortable accommodation.

Highlights

  • Ormiston, Glen Helen & Serpentine Gorge
  • Views from Mount Sonder at dawn
  • Finke River, Counts Point & Standley Chasm
  • Easy & hard pack-free hiking options each day
  • Authentic Australian farm homestead accommodation

WALK OVERVIEW

TYPE OF WALK
GROUP GUIDED
TRIP LENGTH
5 DAYS
WALK GRADE
Moderate to Challenging

Grade 4 - Moderate to Challenging

Distances are longer up to 20 plus km. Steep hill sections and rough surfaces. Walking experience and active lifestyle necessary.

PRICE FROM
$ 2745

per person twin/double share

SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$ 525

Accommodations charge the same price per room regardless of whether there are one or two people occupying it. To cover the cost of the accommodation when occupied by one person we need to charge the single occupancy fee.

per person

Book now
Itinerary

ITINERARY

  • Day 1
  • Day 2
  • Day 3
  • Day 4
  • Day 5

DAY 1
ALICE SPRINGS TO ORMISTON GORGE, POUND WALK AND ELLERY BIG HOLE

After meeting in Alice Springs, we will drive west along Larapinta Drive and then Namatjira Drive, through the West MacDonnell National Park towards Ormiston Gorge. Our first stop on the Larapinta Trail. We will stop at Ellery Creek Big hole for a short leg stretch and trip briefing. The Ormiston Pound circuit walk is on a moderate rated track and takes around 4 hrs. Leaving Ormiston Gorge, the walk heads into low hills surrounding Ormiston Pound, stopping first at a serene lookout and then heading down into the pound itself and meeting the ancient Ormiston Creek River. We then follow the Ormiston Creek to an incredible lunch spot in the Ormiston Gorge, surrounded by towering red rock cliffs. Following lunch, we rock hop down the gorge and gradually climb up to the iconic Ghost Gum Lookout that overlooks the main waterhole, before descending back to our starting spot. From here, there will be time to laze by the Ormiston Gorge waterhole with ice cream or coffee and have a refreshing swim.

Walking: Easy / 10 km / 4 hrs

Meals: Walkers lunch and dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 2
SERPENTINE GORGE TO NAMATJIRA DRIVE VIA COUNTS POINT

Today we hike up to Counts Point, possibly the most iconic and unbeatable viewpoint in Central Australia (and of the Larapinta Trail). The first few kilometres of this walk are quite easy and level until we reach the base of the Heavitree Range. We then climb up to the crest of the ridge at Eagles Landing and are rewarded by uninterrupted views stretching to the horizon on all sides. Towards the end of the ridge, we reach Counts Point and stop for a well-earned lunch break with outstanding views. After leaving the lookout, we then descend off the ridge via a spectacular spur. We drop into the lovely shaded Lomandra Gully for a rest on our descent. The last few kilometres of the walk are along an easy, flat bush track.

Walking: Moderate / 16 km / 7 hrs / shorter option available

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 3
MOUNT SONDER AT SUNRISE

Today we will leave very early to avoid the heat and take advantage of the sunrise and the best light of the day. After 500m of easy walking, we reach the start of the climb onto the ridge leading up to Mt Sonder. This will be the steepest part of the climb today. Taking short, regular breaks, we will reach the main ridge and traverse the ridge to the 3km mark lookout, where we will see the magnificent dawn spreading across the landscape below.

From here, the next few kilometres are a gradual climb until we reach a short, sharp descent where we will stop for snacks before starting the climb towards the summit. The final stretch of this climb is much easier. Here we have brunch and a cuppa to celebrate. As we return, we enjoy the views on the descent. Once back near the trailhead we will have a picnic lunch in the river bed and take a well-earned rest in the shade.

Walking: Moderate to challenging / 16 km / 8 hrs / easier option available

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and  dinner at the lodge restaurant

Accommodation: Glen Helen Lodge in ensuite rooms

DAY 4
SERPENTINE GORGE LOOKOUT, ELLERY BIG HOLE & STANDLEY CHASM

At Serpentine Gorge, we commence our easy, flat, one-hour return walk into the beautiful Serpentine Gorge, where we rest in the shade and peacefully enjoy the reflections on the ancient rock whilst spotting birds coming to drink at the waterhole. The next stage of the walk is a short climb up to the lookout peering down into the ancient and spectacular upper reaches of the gorge. This is also a great chance to search for Black Footed Rock wallabies which call the cliffs of the gorge home.  On the return journey, we head to Standley Chasm nestled in the Chewings Range. Standley Chasm, known as Angkerle Atwatye to the Aranda people is located in a private nature reserve owned by the Iwupataka Land Trust and is operated by Aboriginal family members of the local Traditional Owners.

Walking: Easy to Moderate / 6 km / 3 hrs

Meals: Breakfast in the restaurant, walkers lunch and dinner at the hotel restaurant

Accommodation: Aurora Alice Springs

DAY 5
ALICE SPRINGS

This Larapinta Trail tour ends with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel.

What’s Included

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Pack-free walking

  • 25+ years experience

  • Customised

  • Eco Travel

  • Genuine all-inclusive pack free walking holiday
  • Two expert guides
  • 4 nights’ comfortable accommodation with ensuite rooms
  • All meals, including breakfasts, restaurant dinners and walkers lunches
  • All transport from Alice Springs, plus all luggage transport
  • National park admission
  • Champagne sunset
  • Auswalk guide pack including notes, maps, map case, insulated lunch bag and container
Accommodation & Dining

ACCOMMODATION & DINING

OVERVIEW

We stay three nights at Glen Helen Lodge the only accommodation located within the Tjoritja – West MacDonnell Ranges National Park, 130km west of Alice Springs. This extraordinary landscape is over 800 million years old and has been home to the Western Aranda Aboriginal people for tens of thousands of years. We get to enjoy the comfort provided by the lodge with Glen Helen Gorge and the national park right at our doorstep.

At the end of each day, all the benefits of having a private room await, including a hot shower and a comfortable bed. The lodge, partly an old homestead, reflects the region’s character and is in an amazing location, offering up fantastic views, including sunsets like no other over the West MacDonnell Ranges. Importantly, all the rooms have their own ensuite.

The Mecure Alice Springs is a very good quality hotel in an excellent location. It’s a big property with plenty of room to relax in the garden or in the many other facilities that it offers.

Dinners will be prepared for us at Glen Helen. There’s an emphasis on Australian game meat, Top End fish, tropical fruit and bushtucker.

The packed lunches and picnics complete the circle ensuring that your appetite is always satisfied. In fact, you can look forward to having lunch on a daily basis at some of the most incredible locations on the Larapinta Trail. A walkers lunch may include a high protein type salad, a roll or a wrap, a muesli bar, cake or muffin of some kind, plus a piece of fruit. Each day is slightly different. Lunch is always augmented by Auswalk’s famous trail mix.

Alcohol or drinks with meals are not included (except tea/coffee and juice with breakfast).

  • NIGHTS 1, 2 & 3

  • NIGHT 4

Fitness Guide

FITNESS GUIDE

It’s well worth investing some time and effort preparing for your walking holiday. The graph shows the average daily distance, elevation and terrain difficulty for your hike. The dotted line indicates the average across all our walks, which will give you a feel for how challenging your walk is compared to all – and the recommended type, and amount, of preparation needed.  Of course, you can adapt this according to your existing fitness levels and lifestyle.

The graph and the information below can be used in conjunction with the fitness guide to help you prepare for your walking adventure. Across all walks, average daily distance is 16.8km, average daily elevation is 448m, average terrain difficulty is 5/10.

ngraph

DISTANCE - ~AVERAGE

Distance training should be a consideration in your overall training program, so take every opportunity you can to walk. As you progress, incorporate longer walks into your training plan.

Schedule one or two long walks each week, gradually increasing the distance until you can comfortably cover 16km in a single day. Also include walks on consecutive days to help your body adapt to the demands of walking for multiple days in a row.

Ensure you can comfortably walk the average distance per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

ELEVATION - ABOVE AVERAGE

Elevation training is a major consideration in your overall training program. You must include walks with serious hill climbs.

If you do not have access to hills, it is essential to replicate the elevation level you will be undertaking in any way possible such as on a treadmill or stair climber. Walking up and down stairs at work, at a local oval with a grandstand, or up and down small hills is incredibly useful. Also, prioritising resistance weight training will help you develop overall muscle strength.  Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems, opposed to distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking.

If high altitude is a factor, incorporate sessions at a higher altitude to acclimatise your body to reduced oxygen levels if you are able to. Ensure you can comfortably walk the average elevation per day displayed in the graph, at least one month before you undertake your hike.

TERRAIN

MOUNTAINOUS / UNDULATING TERRAIN

As terrain associated with mountain climbs is often somewhat uneven and rocky, balancing and core exercises are vital.

Try to also include some form of elevation in more than 50% of your walking and prioritise resistance training, whilst incorporating stairs anytime you can. Walking up mountains or hills, up and down stairs at work, or up and down at a local oval with a grandstand is incredibly useful. Elevation is often where walkers encounter problems not distance, as it uses an entirely different set of muscles to everyday flat walking. Concentrate on doing lots of squats and lunges to build your glute muscles.

ROCKY TERRAIN

Whilst preparing for walking on rocky terrain, you must focus on the development of balance, strength, and agility.

Integrate targeted strength exercises, such as lunges, squats, and step-ups, to strengthen your leg muscles, with a particular emphasis on improving stability on uneven surfaces. Balancing exercises are essential. Undertake core strength activity, coupled with exercises such as planks and Russian twists to enhance balance. As you progress, include hikes on progressively rougher terrain if you can. Additionally, the appropriate footwear with good ankle support and tread for grip are essential. Stay mindful, watch your step, and use trekking poles for added stability.

General Info

GENERAL INFO

The Larapinta Trail tracks are dry and firm but often rocky underfoot. Most of the walks are moderate in difficulty, however, most days involve between 7 to 9 hours on the track, across rocky terrain and ridgelines with steep inclines.  Please be advised that it may be warm this time of year and that you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you each day.

This trip operates with two experienced and knowledgeable guides so we can offer easier and harder walk options along the way.

Pre-tour accommodation: There are many good hotels in Alice Springs, however, we pick up and drop off at one central hotel the Aurora Alice Springs. The tour starts at the Aurora at 8.30 am and includes the final night at the Aurora Alice Springs on return.

For what to bring please refer to Gear Advice on our FAQ section.

WEATHER

This environment is only suitable to walk from May to August as it is too hot at other times. Nights are generally significantly cooler than daytime temperatures. Please ensure you bring warm clothing for the evenings. The climate is marked by very low humidity. Please ensure you have at least 2L capacity for water on the walk, as this will be necessary.

See the Bureau of Meteorology information about average temperatures and rainfall at different times of the year.

Larapinta climate graph

Source; BOM

INSURANCE

We require that you have adequate travel insurance against potential losses, damage or injury, including cancellation costs and loss of luggage.

For all trips that require international travel, you must have purchased travel insurance that also includes medical evacuation coverage.

We also charge a cancellation fee if you cancel your walking holiday after we have confirmed it to cover costs incurred from our suppliers and in the office.  See the FAQ section for more information.

INFORMATION PACK

For nearly 30 years we have taken pride in providing seamlessly organised walking holidays, but we know, even with that in mind, that you’ll have many more questions. You will receive a very detailed information pack and itinerary approximately 6 weeks out from departure outlining all the fine detail and much more.

CONTACT

If you have any questions, feel free to ask one of our destination consultants or to speak with one of our guides. You can get in touch with us via our contact form, email us at info@auswalk.com.au, or call us on +61 3 9597 9767.

Map

MAP

Departure Dates

DEPARTURE DATES

  • DATES
    AVAILABILITY
    PRICE
    PER PERSON
    Single Occupancy
    DETAILS
  • 20 Jun 2024
    CLOSED
    Details
    from

    $2745

    SINGLE OCCUPANCY
    $525
Reviews

REVIEWS

Customer Reviews

5

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  1. selawson

    1 February, 2023 at 12:09 AM
    5

    The Larapinta trail walk with Auswalk was fantastic. The guides were knowledgeable, friendly and organised (yet flexible when required). We really felt like they cared about us and our experience. The accommodation was relatively basic but adequate (and more comfortable for us than camping!) and the view from the rooms was amazing!
    I recommend getting fit before going and breaking in boots and socks, so you can enjoy it as much as possible.
    I would go on another Auswalk.

  2. Michael G

    31 January, 2023 at 11:27 AM
    5

    We recently did a walk in the Northern Territory.

    The guides were punctual, efficient, friendly, nice people and very helpful. The trip was well organised.

    They were accommodating and in the event of some walks being cancelled due to burn off – they did their best to find alternatives.

    The accommodation on the whole was very good and the meals also were good.

    The company’s communication with us was also always very polite, quick, efficient and helpful. Their website is clear and the pre-trip package information was quite accurate although in a few cases it mentioned meals to be included in one area and not in another yet were, in fact, included.

    I would certainly recommend this company for walking holidays in Australia.

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ENQUIRE NOW

If you’re looking for further information on any of our walking holidays please fill out the enquiry form and we’ll be in touch.

Get in touch