Enjoy a full-day tour of the Red Centre’s landscapes, culture, and history. In the morning, visit the ancient Ewaninga Aboriginal Rock Carvings, Ooraminna Station Homestead, the Drover’s Boy film set, and the Red Dune Lookout. In the afternoon, explore Mparntwe (Alice Springs) and its historic sites that shaped the town and its role in the heart of the outback.
HIGHLIGHTS
You’ll visit
- Ewaninga Aboriginal Rock Carvings – Ancient petroglyphs by the Arrernte
- Ooraminna Station Homestead – Authentic outback charm and
- Drover’s Boy Film Set – Classic outback landscapes from Australian
- Old Ghan Museum – Stories of the pioneering Ghan train and early
- Red Dune Desert Lookout – Panoramic views of desert and the MacDonnell
- Morning Tea at the Wild Horse Bar
- School of the Air – Remote education for NT
- Telegraph Station – First European settlement in Alice Springs, relaying messages across the outback.
- Royal Flying Doctor Service – Emergency medical services for remote
- Anzac Hill – Spectacular views of Alice Springs and the MacDonnell
All activities are safe for all ages and require minimal fitness.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Experienced, Friendly Guide
- Accommodation pick-up and drop-off
- Air-conditioned transport
- Morning & Afternoon Tea
- Attraction Entry Fees
**Exclusions – NT Parks Pass ($10)
Please click here to buy NT Parks Pass before your tour
TOUR ITINERARY
Your adventure begins at 7:45 am with pick-up from your Alice Springs accommodation, as you head out into the vast, sunlit landscapes of the outback. Travel along the Old South Road,
taking in the rugged beauty of the Finke River and hearing stories of the historic telegraph line that once connected remote settlements across the Red Centre.
Step back in time at the Ewaninga Aboriginal Rock Carvings, where the ancient petroglyphs of the Arrernte people whisper stories of a rich and enduring culture. Continue to Ooraminna Station Homestead, a working cattle station and film set from The Drover’s Boy, and enjoy morning tea on the deck, surrounded by the peaceful sounds and endless horizons of the outback. From the Red Dune Desert Lookout, marvel at the striking panorama of rust-red sands stretching to the distant MacDonnell Ranges, before exploring the Old Ghan Museum, where the pioneering spirit of Central Australia comes alive through the story of the legendary train.
Return to Alice Springs for some free time to explore the town and enjoy lunch (at your own expense), before spending the afternoon immersing yourself in its history and culture. Visit the School of the Air to see how children in remote communities are taught across vast distances, and the Telegraph Station, Alice Springs’ first European settlement, once a vital hub for communication. Discover the lifesaving work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, before finishing the day atop Anzac Hill, where sweeping views of the town and the MacDonnell Ranges create a breathtaking finale to your journey. Return to your accommodation around 5:30 pm, having experienced a full day of outback history, culture, and natural beauty.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: Half-Day West MacDonnell Ranges Tour
What are the departure and return times?
We leave at approximately 7:45 am and the day concludes at approximately 5:30pm.
Can I bring my family?
Yes. Children aged 2 years and over are welcome on our tour and are charged at a child rate. All travellers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who will be responsible for their care.
What should I bring on the tour?
- Proof of booking (can include the e-version delivered to your email)
- NT Parks Pass (digital copy accepted; can be purchased here)
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre)
- Strong, non-slip walking shoes
- Hat (wide-brimmed is best)
- Flynet
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Casual and comfortable clothing (cool, light clothing is best in summer and warm clothing for winter)
How many people are on each tour?
We have a maximum of 21 people on each tour. You will travel in a comfortable air-conditioned bus.
How fit do I have to be?
There are a variety of short walks on this tour that can be enjoyed by all ages and fitness levels.
Can my dietary requirements be accommodated?
We are able to cater for one of the following special dietary requests upon request: vegetarian, gluten-free or dairy-free.
If you have a food allergy (e.g. peanuts), please advise at the time of booking and carry any necessary medication with you on tour.

