West MacDonnell Ranges Tour
A guided day through Tjoritja, west of Alice Springs — the gorges and waterholes of Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek and Ormiston, with the driving handled.
West MacDonnell Ranges Tour
West of Alice Springs, the MacDonnell Ranges — Tjoritja — run for hundreds of kilometres in a rampart of ancient red rock, split by a string of dramatic gorges and waterholes. On this guided day we take in Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge, with some itineraries pushing on to Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge. Short, easy walks reach each one, and a few waterholes are cold but swimmable. We handle the driving and the Parks Pass; you enjoy the country. Family-owned since 1974, tailored and quoted per enquiry.
What You’ll See
Simpsons Gap
A classic gap in the ranges, and one of the easiest to reach.
Standley Chasm
A sheer, glowing cleft that lights up around the middle of the day.
Ellery Creek Big Hole
A deep, cold waterhole in a striking gorge — bring bathers.
Ormiston Gorge
Towering walls, a permanent waterhole and superb short walks.
Good to Know
- Short, easy walks reach the gorges — suits most fitness levels
- Some waterholes allow swimming, but the water is cold — bring bathers
- We arrange the Parks Pass needed for many sites
- Best in the cooler months — see the best time to visit
- Read more on the West MacDonnell Ranges
Tell us your dates and group. Call 0409 661 342 or enquire online.
West MacDonnells Tour — FAQ
What does the West MacDonnell Ranges tour visit?
A guided day west of town through Tjoritja — Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge, with some tours reaching Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge. Read more on the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Can you swim on the tour?
Some of the waterholes, such as Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge, allow swimming, though the water is cold. Bring bathers and a towel, and check current conditions on the day.
Is it a hard day?
No — the gorges are reached by short, easy walks, so it suits most fitness levels. We do the driving; you enjoy the scenery. For longer walking see our Larapinta guided walks.
Do I need a Parks Pass?
Yes — a Parks Pass is needed for many sites in the ranges, and we arrange it as part of the tour. Every tour is tailored and quoted per enquiry.
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.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry