4
Introductory to Moderate
Activities
  • 6 days walking
Accommodation
  • 5 nights exclusive eco-comfort camp
Meals
  • 5 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 5 Breakfasts
Trip Code: SOG8331

Larapinta Trail In Comfort Trip highlights


  • Trek through the ancient landscape of the West MacDonnell Ranges
  • Summit Mount Sonder for a spectacular sunrise
  • Hike the main highlights including Ormiston Gorge and Standley Chasm
  • Gain a deeper understanding of the ancient Indigenous culture and Traditional Owners of the land
  • Relax in the evenings around a campfire as the guides prepare delicious 3 course meals
  • View spectacular and abundant bird-life along the whole trail

Why Book With Us

  • You'll love the extra amenities at our exclusive eco-comfort camps, which are big on comfort yet small on environmental impact
  • No single supplements for solo travellers
  • Unrivalled experience, first on the trail in 1995
  • Choose from more dates than any other operator
  • Our trip is part of the Great Walks of Australia collection

Since 1995 – when we offered the first commercial trek in this outstanding walking destination – we have led the way on the Larapinta Trail and our exclusive eco-comfort camps continue to set the standard, winning us the 2016, 2017 and 2019 Ecotourism award in the Brolga Northern Territory Tourism Awards.

On this fully supported trek you walk with just a day pack to explore the best sections of this iconic desert trail: from the high ridge lines of the West MacDonnell Ranges you'll see the vast flood plains that form this ancient land. You'll be dwarfed by the immensity of Ormiston and Serpentine Gorge and soothed by their idyllic waterholes. You'll be amazed by dramatic colour changes in the rock formations at Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm... and to top it all off you'll climb to the lofty peak of Mt Sonder to watch the sunrise (1,380m).

At the end of each day we relax in comfort at our architect-designed camps – including hot showers, comfortable lounges and heated dining shelter – as our guides prepare gourmet 3-course dinners around the campfire. Our exclusive camps combined with passionate guides, spectacular food, and an unsurpassed itinerary make this tour the ultimate Larapinta experience.

Activities:

Itinerary

We pick you up from your accommodation between 7-7.30am and begin our walk at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station, the official start of the Larapinta Trail. Please ensure you've had breakfast before the pick up (you may need to pre-purchase food as most cafes will be shut before 7am). From here the trail takes us west through witchetty bush, mulga scrub, and bird-filled shady woodlands. We climb high over exposed hills to the jagged outcrop of Euro Ridge, with expansive views over Alice Springs and the surrounding landscape, before descending to the passage of Wallaby Gap. After a stop for refreshments you take a quick transfer by bus to Nick's Camp. Nick's Camp is one of our exclusive award-winning camps, nestled in the bush with stunning views across the Heavitree Range and Alice Valley. Following your introduction to camp you will be treated to a spread of local bush foods prepared by local specialist Rayleen Brown. Walking Time: 5-8 hours

Meals:  L,D

From Nick’s Camp we continue west through magnificent, shady Bloodwoods and tall Ironwoods, the dominant trees on this narrow alluvial flat. We may catch sight of Black-footed Rock Wallaby as we approach one of the most important waterholes of the area, Simpsons Gap. A short transfer takes us to the stunning Standley Chasm where you will enjoy a talk about indigenous culture. All departures will journey into Arrernte country for a cultural conversation. After a delicious picnic lunch and a walk into the magnificent Chasm – a private reserve still run by the traditional owners – we transfer to back to our campsite. Walking Time: 3-5 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's highlight is the 5km walk along the crest of the high ridge leading to Counts Point. From here we have 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 also see the huge comet crater of Gosse Bluff, a feature of the landscape for the next few days. We descend from the high ridgetop though mysterious stands of mulga trees. At the base of the ridge we follow a track of dolomite limestone toward camp; keep your eye out for fossil stromatolites under foot, one of the most ancient forms of life. Stepping off the main trail, we follow our private track to Charlie's Camp, named in honour of pioneering Larapinta guide Charlie Holmes. Tonight’s camp is nestled in secluded wilderness at the foothills of Counts Point. Spend the evening relaxing around the campfire while your guides prepare a scrumptious dinner. Walking Time: 5.5-6.5 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

After another wonderful breakfast we walk out of camp to the breathtaking Inarlanga (Echidna) Pass, visiting Serpentine Chalet en route. We spend some time in the magnificent pass to enjoy the peace and marvel at the ancient cycad palms. From here we trek south-west to an original ochre quarry, a sacred Aboriginal site. The rainbow of vibrant colours on the wave-like ochre wall makes for stunning photos. We then break for a picnic lunch and an early finish in preparation for our big day tomorrow. This afternoon you can enjoy a swim at Glen Helen Gorge. We transfer west to one of our exclusive Camps. Fearless – named in honour of trekking guide Sue Fear, or Sonder Camp - named after the majestic Mt Sonder. Both Camps are located at the foothills of Mount Sonder. Walking Time: 3-7 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

Your guides will have you up early this morning (2-3am) 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! Mount Sonder is the official end and highest point of the entire Larapinta Trail and as such we have expansive views across the entire vast landscape we have been exploring over the last few days. We descend to Redbank Gorge and can enjoy a great brunch back at camp. There are options for this afternoon, including resting at camp or swimming at Finke River. Walking Time: 7-8 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we enjoy the best side walk of the entire Larapinta Trail: Ormiston Pound. The Pound offers an immense variety of extraordinary scenery and is the perfect walk to complete our journey. We explore the upper reaches of the Gorge where we may see 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. After lunch 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 six days! We will drop you to your accommodation at approximately 4-5pm. This evening your group may like to arrange a celebratory dinner together at one of Alice's great eateries. Walking Time: 3-4 hours

Meals:  B,L


Inclusions

  • 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners, snacks & hot drinks
  • 5 nights at our exclusive eco-comfort camps on a twin share basis or free upgrade to single tent for solo travellers
  • Professional wilderness guide & support staff
  • Camping equipment including tents, swags & stretcher beds plus all cooking equipment and utensils
  • Fees to Aboriginal Traditional Owners
  • National Park fees
  • Alice Springs hotel pick up/drop off on first and last day of tour
  • All transport during the tour
  • Emergency communications & 24 hour back-up
  • Comprehensive group first aid kit

  • Accommodation in Alice Springs before and after the trip
  • Transfers from/to Alice Springs airport
  • Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and alcoholic beverages
  • Backpack and sleeping bag (if you would like to hire a sleeping bag please let our staff know at least 14 days prior to your trip)
  • Airfares
  • Travel insurance
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser

Accommodation


Trail Surface


Suitability

Introductory to Moderate

4

The Classic Larapinta Trek is graded introductory to moderate. This trek involves walking 5-7 hours each day over rugged terrain with some steep ascents and descents. 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. Suggested preparation: We recommend regular exercise 3 or 4 times per week (this can be cycling, jogging or walking) in the months leading up to your trip. At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (5–7kg) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. The best way to train for an active holiday is to simulate the activity you will be undertaking on the trip. Train for uneven terrain by finding a hilly, rough narrow bush track, and go for a lovely long walk in your trekking boots.


Departure dates



Frequently Asked Questions

A majority of the terrain on the Larapinta Trail is hard, 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.

If you need to use a CPAP machine during the trip please speak with our staff about this. There are charging points at camp, but not in your tent. You will need to bring spare batteries that can be charged by USB port during the day while the group are not at camp and/or bring a small solar panel to charge the batteries.

Yes, if you are travelling on your own you will receive a free upgrade to your own private tent. No single supplement applies.

You will need a good level of fitness for this trek on the Larapinta. You need to be capable and prepared to spend 5-7 hours each day trekking over rugged terrain with some steep ascents and descents. 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.

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.

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.

The Classic Larapinta Trek 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). This is likely to weigh between 5-7kg.

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

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.

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

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.

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.


Larapinta Trail In Comfort Trip reviews


Larapinta Trail In Comfort Videos

Classic Larapinta in Comfort Trek - Everything you need to know

Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.