A Perfect Day in Alice Springs
Alice runs to the rhythm of the desert — the trick is to work with the climate: out early to the gorges, easy through the heat, and up Anzac Hill for a big outback sunset.
A Perfect Day in Alice Springs
Alice Springs — Mparntwe — sits at the heart of the Red Centre, ringed by the ancient MacDonnell Ranges. The trick to a perfect day is to work with the desert climate: be out among the gorges while it is cool, take the middle of the day at an easier pace, and save the evening for a big outback sunset. Here’s how we’d shape one lovely day in and around town.
Out early to the gorges, easy through the heat, and up Anzac Hill for sunset — that’s an Alice day done right.
Morning to Sunset
A Near Gorge
Simpsons Gap or Standley Chasm in the cool of the morning, when the light is best.
Desert Park
Desert wildlife, a nocturnal house and the superb birds-of-prey show.
Telegraph Station
The original waterhole and 1870s Overland Telegraph that gave the town its start.
Anzac Hill Sunset
A sweeping view over the town and the MacDonnell Ranges as the light turns.
A Few Golden Rules
- Be out early — take the midday heat slowly
- Carry plenty of water and be sun-smart; buy a Parks Pass where needed
- Time the Standley Chasm visit for the middle of the day, when sun reaches the walls
- End the day up Anzac Hill for the sunset over the ranges
- Got more time? See three days in Alice Springs
A Perfect Day — FAQ
How do you spend a perfect day in Alice Springs?
Head out early to the near West MacDonnell gorges such as Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm, meet desert wildlife at the Desert Park, learn the town’s story at the Telegraph Station, and finish with sunset from Anzac Hill.
Can you see Alice Springs in a day?
You can enjoy the highlights — a nearby gorge or two, the Desert Park and the Telegraph Station — comfortably in a day. Add days for the wider ranges and Kings Canyon: see three days in Alice Springs.
What’s the best sunset spot in Alice Springs?
The Anzac Hill lookout gives a sweeping view over the town and the MacDonnell Ranges, and is the classic spot to end the day. Ormiston Gorge and other range lookouts are lovely too.
When is the best time to visit?
The cooler months from April to September are ideal, as summer is very hot. Whatever the season, sightsee early, carry plenty of water and buy a Parks Pass where it is needed.
Alice Springs, Planned Around You
The MacDonnell Ranges and their gorges and waterholes, the Desert Park and the Telegraph Station, and the road south to Uluru — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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