West MacDonnell Ranges Tjoritja from Alice Springs

West MacDonnell Ranges Tjoritja from Alice Springs

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Selected Alice Springs Accommodation

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Explore the West MacDonnell National Park, known by the traditional owners as Tjoritja
• Marvel at the awe of Standley Chasm traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye as you meander through the 80m high gorge
• Cool off at Ellery Creek Big Hole, one of Central Australia’s largest and most beautiful swimming spots
• See the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and coloured clay ochre still used in traditional ceremonies
• Refresh within the towering walls of Ormiston Gorge, traditionally known as Kwartatuma
• Try for a glimpse of the very shy black-footed-rock-wallaby and other native wildlife through Simpsons Gap, traditionally known as Rungutjirpa

ITINERARY:

Known traditionally as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”, Standley Chasm is a 3-meter-wide, 80-meter-high gorge amongst the West MacDonnell Ranges. We hope to spot the native wildlife as we explore this beautifully rugged area before we track west and are tempted to dip in Ellery Creek Bighole, known traditionally as Udepata, surrounded by tall red cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek. Onwards to where massive geological forces created the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Spend time here admiring nature and its finest before we begin our leisurely journey back towards Alice Springs, with our final stop at another amazing feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnells 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 reminisce on your day of exploration. Meals: Lunch. 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 landowner ceremonies.