West MacDonnell Ranges Standley Chasm from Alice Springs
10.5 hours
Max 23 people
Commentary: Guide / Written · en, zh-HK, zh, nl, fr, de, hu, id, it, ja, ko, pl, pt, ru, es, vi
Alice Springs, Australia
About this activity
Explore the breathtaking West MacDonnell Ranges in a day! Discover Standley Chasm, swim at Ellery Creek and Ormiston Gorge, visit the Ochre Pits, and spot rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap. A perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure day trip.
Highlights
- Explore Tjoritja, the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges
- Spot rock wallabies at serene Simpsons Gap
- Marvel at towering cliffs in Standley Chasm
- Swim in Ellery Creek & Ormiston Gorge’s cool waters
- See vivid ochre cliffs used in ancient ceremonies
Full description
Known traditionally as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”, Standley Chasm is a 3-meter-wide, 80-meter-high gorge located in the West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja). We explore this beautifully rugged area before trekking west and are tempted to dip in Ellery Creek Bighole, known traditionally as Udepata, surrounded by tall red cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek. Be amazed by the massive geological forces which created the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Spend time here admiring nature and its finest, as we begin our leisurely journey back towards Alice Springs, with a final stop at Tjoritja West MacDonnells National Park region, Simpsons Gap, where several dreaming trails and stories cross. Featuring a permanent waterhole this is also a great place to spot resident wildlife. Now we’ve had our fix of some of the best of central Australia’s natural icons, we deliver you back to Alice Springs to your chosen accommodation and evening plans as you reflect on your day of exploration.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the West MacDonnell Ranges, where natural beauty and rich cultural heritage blend seamlessly for an extraordinary experience.
Our adventure begins at Simpsons Gap, a site deeply embedded in Aboriginal culture and Dreamtime stories. This serene location features a permanent waterhole that attracts a variety of wildlife, including the occasional rock wallaby. Keep your eyes peeled as we explore this sacred site, rich with ancient significance.
Next, we head west to Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”), a striking natural wonder. This narrow, 80-meter-high gorge is flanked by towering rock walls that glow in vibrant reds and oranges under the sun. The sheer magnitude and beauty of Standley Chasm will leave you in awe. Then, we travel to Ellery Creek Big Hole (Udepata), a breathtaking waterhole nestled between towering red cliffs and sandy creek beds. Here, you'll have the opportunity to swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Outback. A delicious picnic lunch will be served in this tranquil setting, adding to the beauty of your surroundings.
We continue our journey to the Ochre Pits, a vibrant and culturally significant site. These vivid mineral-rich cliffs have been used for thousands of years by local Aboriginal people for ochre—a substance essential in art and ceremony. The colours of the cliffs are truly striking and offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.
Our final stop takes us to Ormiston Gorge, where dramatic red rock walls and winding trails invite exploration. This area, shaped by geological forces over millennia, offers stunning views and the chance to truly connect with the raw power of nature.
After a day filled with unforgettable sights, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, we’ll return to Alice Springs, where you'll reflect on the stunning landscapes and rich stories of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Meals: Lunch and snacks.
Driving Distance: 310 km.
Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km.
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional land owner ceremonies. For operational reasons, the order of itinerary stops may vary at times.
Our adventure begins at Simpsons Gap, a site deeply embedded in Aboriginal culture and Dreamtime stories. This serene location features a permanent waterhole that attracts a variety of wildlife, including the occasional rock wallaby. Keep your eyes peeled as we explore this sacred site, rich with ancient significance.
Next, we head west to Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”), a striking natural wonder. This narrow, 80-meter-high gorge is flanked by towering rock walls that glow in vibrant reds and oranges under the sun. The sheer magnitude and beauty of Standley Chasm will leave you in awe. Then, we travel to Ellery Creek Big Hole (Udepata), a breathtaking waterhole nestled between towering red cliffs and sandy creek beds. Here, you'll have the opportunity to swim in the cool, crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Outback. A delicious picnic lunch will be served in this tranquil setting, adding to the beauty of your surroundings.
We continue our journey to the Ochre Pits, a vibrant and culturally significant site. These vivid mineral-rich cliffs have been used for thousands of years by local Aboriginal people for ochre—a substance essential in art and ceremony. The colours of the cliffs are truly striking and offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage.
Our final stop takes us to Ormiston Gorge, where dramatic red rock walls and winding trails invite exploration. This area, shaped by geological forces over millennia, offers stunning views and the chance to truly connect with the raw power of nature.
After a day filled with unforgettable sights, wildlife encounters, and cultural insights, we’ll return to Alice Springs, where you'll reflect on the stunning landscapes and rich stories of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Meals: Lunch and snacks.
Driving Distance: 310 km.
Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km.
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional land owner ceremonies. For operational reasons, the order of itinerary stops may vary at times.
Included / Excluded
- Lunch and snacks and Alice Springs hotel pickups
- Angkerle Atwatye – Standley Chasm entry fee
- Guided bush walks (3-4km, subject to fitness level)
- Air-conditioned mini-coach travel with accredited driver guide
- Local tour commentary, plus text translation app service in several languages
- NT Parks Day Pass Required: Entry into Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park for day trips. This pass is not included in the tour price
- Any meals not indicated on the itinerary.
- Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
- Personal travel insurance is recommended.
Meeting point
Start Location
Stay at Alice Springs Hotel, Leichhardt Terrace, Alice Springs NT, Australia
Pickup time is between 7:00m and 7:30am.
Important information
Know before you book
- Passenger details needed at booking: date of birth, food allergies, and contact phone number.
- Children aged 6 to 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times due to the swimming holes involved.
- A minimum moderate level of fitness is required to complete the walks down to the waterfalls in sometimes extreme weather conditions on this tour.
- Notify us of medical conditions when booking. Tour requires moderate to high fitness and mobility.
- Tour not suitable for mobility-impaired guests, including wheelchairs, walkers, prams, or strollers.
Know before you go
- Travellers must reconfirm tour details by calling 03 9393 1333 within 7 days before departure.
- Routes may change due to weather, park closures, or road conditions. Guest safety is our top priority.
- Limited to 1 small (5–7kg) day bag per person. No suitcases—please store them at your hotel.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts
Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund. Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Additional information
The weather in the Red Centre can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 50+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.