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The Larapinta Trail follows the ancient spine of the West MacDonnell ranges - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
The Larapinta Trail follows the ancient spine of the West MacDonnell ranges  | Luke Tscharke
Hiking along the Larapinta Trail - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
Hiking along the Larapinta Trail  | Luke Tscharke
On the summit of Mt Sonder - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
On the summit of Mt Sonder  | Luke Tscharke
Ormiston Gorge offers swimming opportunities - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
Ormiston Gorge offers swimming opportunities  | #cathyfinchphotography
Picnic lunches are always a welcome highlight with our walkers - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
Picnic lunches are always a welcome highlight with our walkers  | Shaana McNaught
Water crossing at Ormiston Gorge - Best of the Larapinta Trail, Australia
Water crossing at Ormiston Gorge  | Luke Tscharke

Best of the Larapinta Trail

An extended trek visiting some of the hidden gems along the Larapinta Trail

Australia
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 180 reviews

9 Days from

$3870 USD

Trip Code: LA9
View dates to Book
Essential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Sleeping Bag Hire
$23 USD
Duration
  • 9 Days
Activities
  • 9 days trekking
Accommodation
  • 8 nights camping
Meals
  • 8 Dinners
  • 9 Lunches
  • 8 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

16kg of CO2-e PP per day

(129kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Best of the Larapinta Trail Trip highlights

  • Walk the most spectacular and scenic sections of the Larapinta Trail
  • Climb Mount Sonder for a spectacular sunrise
  • Wilderness camping under the milky way
  • Swim in peaceful waterholes hidden deep within the West MacDonnell Ranges
  • Gain an understanding of the rich history of Australia's traditional owners and the Indigenous culture

Overview

This adventure takes place on ARRERNTE Country. We acknowledge their enduring connection with this Country, as they are the traditional custodians of this land, and we journey in respect of their Country.

This fantastic route along the Larapinta Trail will take in the most spectacular highlights along the 223km track. The camping based trek will allow you more time to explore and soak in the beauty of the Central Australian desert as you traverse the most scenic stages of the Larapinta Trail.

Carrying just a day-pack, this walk will delight the wilderness lover and challenge even seasoned walkers. The Larapinta Trail offers one of the greatest desert treks on earth and is a bucket list experience for anyone who enjoys walking holidays. Following the spine of the West MacDonnell range, this extended walk along the Larapinta Trail will take in the sections along the trail that simply cannot be missed. It also provides a more achievable objective for walkers not yet ready for our 14 day Larapinta End to End trip. There will be some demanding stages as you pass over remote ridges and canyons, walking up to 30kms on some days.

The group camping gear is transported to each campsite by our professional support crew, freeing walkers to enjoy the diverse desert scenery, revel in the camaraderie of like-minded travellers and focus on achieving your goal.

Itinerary

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We pick you up from your Alice Springs accommodation between 6:30-7:00am and transfer to Standley Chasm. Today's walk is nothing short of spectacular. We set out through varied terrain dotted with Mulga and Witchetty Bush, navigating our way to Millers Flat. This journey includes traversing dry river beds and winding through stunning gorges, adding an adventurous element to the experience. The remote trail to Millers Flat is adorned with the unique Macdonnell Range Cycad, dotted along the path, offering a glimpse of rare plant life that adds to the area's charm. Upon reaching Millers Flat, we take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the area before preparing for our return journey. The return trip takes us back through rocky terrain, adding a challenging yet rewarding aspect to the hike. We eventually descend back into Standley Chasm from the north, completing a memorable 10km round trip. Camp is at Standley Chasm, providing a perfect end to an exhilarating day of exploration and adventure. *You will need to arrive in Alice Springs the day before your trip, ensuring that you arrive in time to attend the 3:30pm pre-trip briefing.

Meals: L,D

From Standley Chasm we follow the spectacular Bridle Trail, an old trading route used by the early settlers in the region. We head up to follow the ridgeline over Reveal Saddle to Brinkley’s Bluff. From this high point, just over 1100m, you are rewarded with superb views of the spine effect created by the West MacDonnell Ranges. After lunch we take on a steep descent and pass Mintbush Spring, named for the native plant that grows here: a beautifully mint-scented bush related to sage and lavender. Our welcoming camp tonight is at the peaceful Birthday Waterhole.

Meals: B,L,D

We rise early today for one of the most challenging and rewarding sections on the trail. The track undulates over rough, rocky terrain and we are exposed (to the elements and to the magnificent views!) atop Windy Saddle and Razorback Ridge for the first part of the day. In the afternoon we drop down to Fringe Lily Creek, a nice place for a break as it offers some shade. After lunch the trail takes us on a rough spinifex journey through this semi-arid region allowing breathtaking views of Hugh Gorge. A transfer will bring us to camp, which will either be at Birthday Waterhole or up Hugh River.

Meals: B,L,D

Today we stay on the south side of the West MacDonnell Ranges whose soaring presence dominates our vista. The trail remains low, undulating gently through lower level woodlands and spinifex fields, taking us past Hugh View and Ghost Gum Flat. We hope to chance upon some of the Larapinta's unique birdlife, such as the Splendid Fairy-wren, Spinifex Bird and Painted Firetail Finch. Upon arrival to Rocky Gully we transfer to our campsite at Serpentine Chalet for the next few nights. If time permits we may stop off at Ellery Creek for a refreshing swim before heading to camp.

Meals: B,L,D

This section of the trail offers breathtaking views as you walk along the high quartzite ridge lines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges. We ascend to Counts Point where we are able to take in clear views of Central Australia’s western horizon, to Mt Zeil (1531m) the highest peak in the Northern Territory, and Mt Sonder which marks the end of the Larapinta Trail. We can even see the fascinating, huge comet crater of Gosse Bluff. A descent through mysterious old Mulga stands brings us back to our camp at Serpentine Chalet, where we enjoy another great evening meal together.

Meals: B,L,D

An early start is required to fit in all of the highlights of this section of the trail. Today takes us into the rugged heart of this ancient landscape on a track only opened to the public as recently as 1997. The trail today is again challenging as we ascend to 1088 metres. And again, as always on the Larapinta, our epic climb is rewarded with expansive views. The view opens up across the Alice Valley to the giant, bulky mass of of Mt. Giles, one of the Northern Territory's highest peaks at 1389m.

Meals: B,L,D

We have a slower morning today, recovering from a challenging walk yesterday. In the mid-morning we head to the best side walk of the entire Larapinta Trail: Ormiston Pound. The Pound offers an immense variety of extraordinary scenery. We explore the upper reaches of the Gorge where Rock Wallabies scamper about the imposing cliffs, and follow the track through scrub filled with native birds: Spinifex Pigeon, Budgerigar and Mistletoe Bird. Keep an eye out overhead for the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle, Australia's largest raptor. This walk includes an unavoidable water crossing, through still, cold water. The water level varies throughout the season but can be up to 1m deep in the early season. The water crossing is about 20m across, and your guides will be there to assist.

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we walk out of our camp on the Finke River. The local Arrernte name for the river is ‘Lhere Pinte’, meaning salty river, which is where this trail gets its name from. The Finke is also estimated at being the oldest river in the world. Today we have views and trail dominated by the bulk of Mt Sonder, whose colours change magnificently throughout the day. We initially head north-west through spinifex before crossing Davenport Creek, a tributary of the Finke River. We climb over a low section of the range to Hilltop Saddle, arguably one of the best views of the mountain which will be tomorrows walk before descending into Rocky Bar Gap, where we will be met by your support vehicle to be transported a short distance back to camp on the Finke River.

Meals: B,L,D

Your guides will have you up early this morning for our pre-dawn walk up Mount Sonder. Weaving your way up to the 1380m summit of this majestic mountain following only the glittering light of your head-torch, surrounded by deep and peaceful darkness, is a truly inspiring experience... and watching the sunrise from the top is unforgettable! From the peak we have expansive views across the entire Larapinta landscape we have explored over the last few days. We descend to Redbank Gorge and can enjoy a great brunch back at camp. After brunch we board the bus and transfer to Alice Springs. Sitting back and watching the now familiar ancient desert landscape slide by the bus window gives most trekkers a sense of awe and satisfaction. Congratulations on all you have achieved over the last nine days! We will drop you to your accommodation at approximately 3-4pm. This evening your group may like to arrange a celebratory dinner together at one of Alice's great eateries.

Meals: B,L

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

18 scheduled departures between 3 Sep 2026 and 12 Sep 2027.

  • Departs 3 Sep 2026 – ends 11 Sep 2026 (9 days)
  • Departs 13 Sep 2026 – ends 21 Sep 2026 (9 days)
  • Departs 8 Apr 2027 – ends 16 Apr 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 18 Apr 2027 – ends 26 Apr 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 29 Apr 2027 – ends 7 May 2027 (9 days)
  • Departs 9 May 2027 – ends 17 May 2027 (9 days)
  • … and 12 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 8 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 dinners
  • Professional wilderness guide and support staff
  • Tents and swags for sleeping (but not sleeping bags)
  • Catering & eating utensils
  • Off-road transport from Alice Springs
  • Vehicle supported camping throughout
  • All National Park and camping fees
  • Comprehensive group first aid kit
  • Emergency radio/sat phone
  • Mandatory pre-trip briefing held the day before the trip starts

Not included

  • Airfares
  • Accommodation in Alice Springs before and after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and postage
  • Backpacks
  • Sleeping Bag hire (must be booked at least 14 days in advance)
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser
Trek the Larapinta Trail - Australia's Most Iconic Walk
Trek the Larapinta Trail - Australia's Most Iconic Walk
Larapinta Trail 2021
Walk the Larapinta Trail

Reviews (180)

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The food, guides, organisation, tents and other supplied gear were all excellent. The trails were rough and rugged but the scenery breathtaking.

Damian|West Leederville, Western Australia
14 Aug 2026
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Absolutely stunning scenery. Quite a challenging hike, but absolutely worth the effort. Guides were incredibly knowledgeable and really added a dimension to the hike. Would absolutely recommend for anyone that likes to be challenged, but rewarded for the effort.

John|Balmain, New South Wales
14 Aug 2026
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Peter and Claire were incredible guides! Patient, knowledgeable and incredible chefs. They absolutely made the trip so seamless. The food was amazing, the landscape unbeatable, the tent/swag set up was so easy and lots of fun. Pure magic!!! I cannot recommend this trip enough. Once in a lifetime!

Stephanie|Maddingley, Victoria
14 Aug 2026
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Our 9-day trip with Pete and Claire was excellent. They guided us through the track sections with care and knowledge.

Meals were excellent and all the group pitched in to assist.

My fellow guests were all good fun and walked as a group, allowing us to move efficiently and with fun.

Bernard|Kew, Victoria
14 Aug 2026
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Trip was well organised and executed. However, the guides were the real key to making this a special and fun trip. Not to mention the amazing food they magically produced every day.

David|Strathfield, New South Wales
22 Jul 2026
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Great guides who expertly directed, advised, cooked and supported our group over 9 days of stunning hiking on the Larapinta Trail.

Hamish|Hawthorn, Victoria
16 Jul 2026
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Larapinta highlights tour was amazing. Aside from the incredible walk itself, Ruth and Grace were knowledgeable, engaging and empathetic. The food was excellent too.

Paul|Bruce, New South Wales
11 Jul 2026
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Loved every minute of our 9 day Larapinta camping & trail walking experience. Our party of six 'oldies' (61 to 76) were well supported by guides Daniel and Ewel spending 7 to 10 hrs per day on the trail and enjoying fabulous meals in the evening. For those who enjoy a camping experience, highly recommend.

Peter|Roseville, NSW
4 Oct 2025
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This was a tough hike. Ewel and Dan were not only great guides with a wealth of knowledge of everything local but amazing camp cooks too. My husband and I enjoyed the challenge of the walk and the good company of our small group.

Glenys|Ferny Hills, QLD
1 Oct 2025

Responsible Travel

The cultural conversation at Standley Chasm will teach you more about Arrente country | Luke Tscharke
Our Reconciliation Action Plan
 
As an Australian-owned and operated organisation, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing custodianship of the land, waters and culture for over 60,000 years.
 
In April 2024, we launched our inaugural Innovate Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), formally endorsed by Reconciliation Australia. Our vision is to create cultural safety within the community, our organisation, and on all the lands we are privileged to share, through collaboration, meaningful engagement, and continuous learning while respecting the wisdom of Traditional Custodians.
 
For nearly four decades, we have worked with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to curate immersive adventure experiences across Australia. Every journey begins with a meaningful Acknowledgement of Country, and most of our Australian multi-day itineraries include cultural engagement with local Traditional Custodians.
 
Our Australian Walking Holidays, Tasmanian Expeditions, and Blue Mountain Adventure Company divisions hold Triple Certification from Ecotourism Australia, including the Respecting our Culture Certification, underscoring our dedication to cultural authenticity, responsible business practices, and acknowledging the profound spiritual connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to the land and water.
 
Read our RAP

Extra trip info

Sleeping in swags on the Larapinta Trek | LIz Rogan

Outback Camping

During the trip we camp with swags and tents; a true Australian Outback experience. Your guides will prepare all the meals and run the camp, however you will be asked to contribute by putting up your own tent and rolling out your swag. Participation around the camp will make for a more enjoyable experience for everybody.

Campsite setup down by Birthday Waterhole | Linda Murden

Outback Camping

Our vehicle-supported wilderness campsites will vary throughout the Larapinta Trail in different remote bush locations providing a true wilderness experience. Throughout the trip, we will enjoy the comforts of swags with three-inch thick foam mattresses and pillows. Sleep directly under the outback sky and enjoy some of the best stargazing the country has to offer or set up a wilderness tent for a bit more privacy – the choice is yours.

Each evening we will enjoy the benefits of vehicle support with fresh, locally sourced, and high-quality meals while dining over the campfire. There is often plenty of fish, meat or other protein-based main dishes and fresh salads.

At some campsites, we are lucky enough to be within close vicinity of swimming holes so that we can enjoy a refreshing dip after a long day on the trail.

There are bush toilets at each campsite. There are even a couple of places on the trek where we have the option to have a hot shower!

Hiking along the Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory | #cathyfinchphotography

Expect rocky, uneven surfaces

While the Larapinta Trail is a well-marked, well-defined track, walkers should still expect parts of the trail to be very rocky underfoot.

This may focus your concentration on avoiding stones, so make sure you train with some rock-hopping before you go to be comfortable with this type of terrain.

We strongly recommend investing in proper hiking boots with good support for both the foot and ankle.

The trail can be steep in some sections, which will require you to use your hands when descending or ascending, and is overgrown with spinifex in places, so gaiters or hiking pants are recommended.

There is not a lot of shade along the trail and you will be exposed to the sun for the majority of your walking hours.

Sunrise walk on Mt Sonder | #cathyfinchphotography

Mt Sonder ascent

The trail up Mt Sonder is the same as the rest of the trail, well-marked and rocky in places. However you will be walking this in the dark for the dawn ascent so a good head torch is required.

You will encounter a lot of steps and some very rocky sections on the descent, which is long and gradual.

Show All|Hide All

A majority of the terrain on the Larapinta Trail is rough and rocky, particularly on high ground, in gorges, creek and river beds. The ground is often distorted with embedded or loose rock depending on the trail variations.

The trail conditions of the Larapinta Trail are rocky, rugged, hard surfaced and dry. While a number of sections of the trail wind through open plains, undulating areas and relatively flat country, overall, the trail is characterised by rocky, stony and mountainous terrain which can rise from 680m above sea level to more than 1,200m along some sections.

Yes. Generally, groups will have the opportunity to shower at Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge. A small fee may be applicable at some campground showers.

You will need an excellent level of fitness for this trek on the Larapinta. You need to be capable and prepared for long, fast paced walks. Previous experience on multi day walks is highly recommended. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect.

Our Larapinta Trail trekking season runs from April to September, when trekking conditions are most favourable. Winter is arguably the best time to experience the Larapinta Trail, as it offers prime trekking conditions, more stable temperatures and endlessly blue days.

In the Centre, the four traditional seasons are more distinct, and temperatures are more extreme than in most other parts of Australia. Trekking in winter (May to August) is generally pleasant with light winds, and daytime temperatures averaging 15-25C or 60-80F. However, winter nights often plummet below freezing and there are frequent frosts; please make sure that you prepare for the cold evenings on winter treks.

The shoulder seasons of April and September tend to bring higher daytime temperatures with daytime temperatures averaging 25-35C or 75-95F. Nights are typically mild hovering around 10-15C or 50-60F. Higher daytime temperatures can occasionally occur necessitating adjustments to itineraries. This may entail a reduction in walking activities and an increase in more leisurely pursuits such as swimming.

While rainfall is infrequent along the Larapinta Trail, it remains essential to be equipped for any weather scenario. The region is susceptible to unpredictable spells of hot or cold weather at random intervals. Rest assured, our facilities are well-equipped to accommodate both extremes, ensuring an enjoyable experience amidst the diverse conditions of Outback Australia. However, in light of this variability, we hope to stress to you the importance of following our suggested packing list, checking local weather updates prior to departure and packing appropriately for a more informed and enjoyable journey.

You must arrive in Alice Springs the day before your trek begins. The trip commences with a COMPULSORY pre-departure briefing in the afternoon on the day before departure. It is ESSENTIAL that you make your travel arrangements to enable you to attend this briefing.

The Best of the Larapinta Trail is fully vehicle supported. You will carry just a day pack containing the items you need during the day (including water, sun hat, snacks, lunch, camera, waterproof and warm layers, etc). This is likely to weigh between 5-7kg.

Any excess luggage can be stored at your pre/post tour accommodation in Alice Springs.

Yes. The terrain on this trek is rugged, and the Quartzite rocks are famous for shredding even the most trusted old pair of hiking boots. For your comfort, you must have high supported boots with a heavy duty grip. There are lots of rocky, uneven and unstable sections, so ankle support will be beneficial.

Hiking poles can definitely assist you with going up and down the inclines and for stability. If you have not used them previously, we recommend that you do some training with them before you head out on the hike.

It is possible to charge batteries using an inverter run off the vehicle battery. However this can be slow and is limited to times when the vehicle is driving, so we advise carrying extra sets of batteries for your cameras and/or portable chargers.

Not frequently. Sporadic reception can be received depending on your carrier, but generally only for the first day and when on top of Mt Sonder.

No. A water tank will be carried in the support vehicles and the guides will provide you with drinking water each day.

As we do not have a parking facility to offer travellers, you will need to make your own arrangements for your car. You can ask your pre/post tour accommodation about car parking or contact Discovery Parks Alice Springs on phone (02) 8952 6111 or [email protected] who may be able to offer parking for a fee.

  • Unrivalled experience, first on the trail in 1995
  • Vehicle supported camping throughout allows you to walk with just a day pack
  • We've handpicked the best sections so you can experience the highlights of the trail in less time

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