Alice Springs is the heart of Australia with an abundance of rivers, ranges, native wildlife, and ancient Aboriginal culture to explore. Sit back and take in the beautiful scenery and warm weather, or explore the terrain on an action packed tour.
Alice Springs Desert Park
Located at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges only 7kms from the centre of Alice Springs, the Desert Park should be on every tourist’s list of things to do in Alice Springs. The Desert Park showcases wildlife found in Central Australia in open enclosures that replicate a range of local habitats. This is a great introduction to the local wildlife you can encounter such as kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes and thorny devils.
Olive Pink Botanic Garden
The Olive Pink Botanic Garden has over 500 central Australian plant species including bush foods and medicinal plants like native lemon grass, quandong and bush passionfruit. A network of walking trails takes visitors around the garden and up to Annie Myers Hill offering spectacular views of Alice Springs, the Todd River and the MacDonnell Ranges. Birdwatching is a popular pastime here with over 80 different species of birds having been recorded. There are plenty of shelters available for tourists to relax or enjoy a picnic during their visit.
Alice Springs Reptile Centre
The Alice Springs Reptile Centre showcases an impressive collection of venomous snakes, thorny devils, and bearded dragons. You’ll also come across Terry, their 3.3 metre saltwater croc! The Reptile Centre offers some great experiences for those who dare. Have a python around your neck or get hands-on with a blue tongue lizard during their handling demonstrations.
ANZAC Hill
Anzac Hill is one of the most visited landmarks in Alice Springs. Take a trip up to the top of Anzac Hill to the war memorial for a 365-degree view over the town, a spectacular view particularly at sunrise and sunset. The war memorial is to honour those who served in the defence of their country during all wars in which Australia has participated. Making it a special place to pause and reflect. This should be at the top of any tourist’s list of things to do in Alice Springs.
Larapinta Trail
The world-renowned Larapinta bushwalking trail passes through the West MacDonnell National Park and is a great sight to explore on foot. There are varying types of trails to choose from to suit everyone’s fitness levels, whether it be a short hike, or a more challenging week long adventure. There are plenty of swimming holes where you can cool off along the way so don’t forget your bathers. It’s definitely a worthwhile addition to your Alice Springs itinerary.
Kangaroo Sanctuary
The Kangaroo Sanctuary is a special part of Alice Springs. The Kangaroo Sanctuary was started by Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns who cares for orphaned and injured kangaroos. Education is a vital part of the success of this project so Chris spends time educating locals and tourists on how to prevent collisions with wildlife. There are also guided sunset tours over the 90 acre property where you can walk amongst these iconic Australian animals in their natural habitat.
Finke Gorge National Park
The Finke Gorge National Park covers an area of 46,000 hectares, and includes the impressive Palm Valley. It is host to rare and unique plant species and home to many gorges and swimming holes. Visitors to the park can experience camping, bushwalking and four-wheel driving during their trip. Hike, swim, climb or ride your way through, and experience first-and the beauty of this land.
Araluen Cultural Precinct
The Araluen Cultural Precinct is the hub of indigenous culture in Alice Springs showcasing traditional and contemporary Aboriginal art. You’ll come across an array of galleries, museums, sculptures and sacred sites offering a unique look into Aboriginal art, culture and heritage. There are a number of centres within the precinct providing talks and guided tours for those wishing to learn more.
Uluru-Kara Tjuta National Park
Take a trip down to the spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru. Located 462 kilometres South-West of Alice Springs, it is well worth the trip, with tour operators running daily trips from the town centre. Here you’ll get a first-hand experience of the stunning outback scenery of the red rocks that are millions of years old. Whether you are wanting to sit back and relax, or take in the culture, there are plenty of things to do while you’re in Uluru.
Hot Air Ballooning
For a unique adventure during your stay in Alice Springs, add in a hot air ballooning experience one morning as the sun rises. Have a bird’s eye view of Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges while keeping an eye out for native wildlife including wallabies and kangaroos as you float across the sky. It’s a memory you will take with you forever as one of the most breathtaking things to do in Alice Springs.
Hire a Car and Enjoy a Road Trip
Go on a road trip to Alice Springs so you can enjoy the freedom in exploring the area at your own pace. You can also drive to Ayers Rock and enjoy the amazing landscapes along the way including Mt Connor and Finke River. To help you find the perfect vehicle for your next trip, visit VroomVroomVroom. They compare rental cars from major brands so you are assured of getting high-quality vehicles without burning a hole in your pocket since they guarantee the lowest rates.
Photo Credit: Tourism Australia and Tourism NT
