Alice Springs is often described as a contradiction of ruggedness and charm. Its ruggedness stems from its intriguing past as much as from its arid desert climate. Alice Springs is also a charming tourist hub, as it is where many visitors to Australia begin their discovery of the numerous natural wonders and amazing treasures that Central Australia (the Red Center) holds.
Convenient Alice Springs tour packages are the absolutely best way to explore this beautiful town, they are also perfect for getting you to the many wonderful tourist attractions nearby.
Have an Unforgettable Encounter with Australia's Indigenous Community
Aboriginal culture runs deep in Alice Springs with the original inhabitants, the Arrenrnte, having lived in the region for thousands of years. Many other Aboriginal peoples are well represented in Alice Springs and their culture is on full display. Your Alice Springs tours will certainly include a wide variety of opportunities for you to interact with Australia's indigenous community.
• Visit the Aboriginal Art and Culture Centre to learn a wealth of information about the way of life of the Australian Aborigines.
• Go on an exciting and informative bushwalk with friendly, expert local guides.
• Watch a captivating Aboriginal dance performance and learn to play the didgeridoo (a wooden trumpet developed by the Australian Aborigines).
One of the top things to do in Alice Springs is to take a thrilling balloon flight from Alice Springs out over fascinating desert landscapes as you make your way to the MacDonnell Ranges. These beautiful mountains sit on either side of Alice Springs and feature breathtaking gorges, inviting waterholes and striking flora and fauna.
You will also fly over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station (now known as the Owen Springs Reserve) and the perfect place for a 4-Wheel Drive adventure once you are back on the ground.
Speaking of which, if you would rather not venture up on a balloon flight, you can still be a part of all the excitement on an Alice Springs balloon chase. Your guides drive you through the desert tracks to meet the balloon at its landing spot. Enjoy complementary refreshments as you reunite with your friends.
Explore West MacDonnells
Travel aboard a modern, fully equipped, sightseeing bus to view the spectacular natural display of Ochre Pits nestled in the West MacDonnell ranges. The multi-colored walls of this area are painted in gorgeous white, yellow and red hues. See the layers of rock shimmering in the sunlight and hear how the Australian Aborigines used the ochre in their ceremonies and for trading among their different groups.
Also in West MacDonnells is Ellery Creek – the perfect place to relax and absorb all he natural beauty of the region. Stop for a refreshing dip in the amazing waterhole carved out by the creek over thousands of years.
Trips to and from Alice Springs
Cosmopolitan Darwin on Australia’s north coast is an ideal location from which to set out for the Red Center. Darwin to Alice Springs vacation packages give you plenty of time to first indulge in a tour of that exceptional tropical city followed by a variety of Alice Springs tours throughout the Outback. Some of Darwin’s most well-known tourist attractions are: Mitchell Street with its lovely cafes and restaurants; Cavenagh Street – location of Darwin's Chinatown and Chinese Temple; and the Darwin Botanical Gardens.
Australia tour packages never seem complete without a stop at Uluru (Ayers Rock). Ayers Rock tours take many forms but one of the most adventurous by far is the multiday backpacking trek from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock. Enjoy bush camping at night and by day follow along as your experienced guides take you from one exciting tourist stop to the nest.
• Explore the sandstone domes of the Lost City
• Listen to stories from the 'Tjukurpa' Dreamtime at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Kata Tjuta
• See Ayers Rock bathed in shifting brilliant colors in the sunrise
• Walk right up to the base of Ayers Rock to get a true feel of its immense presence
