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Holidays

Australia's Red Centre & Larapinta Trail

Australia
Available Departures: May, Jun

17 days from

US$10,575

without flights
View Dates & Prices
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
MODERATE MODERATE

Australia's Red Centre & Larapinta Trail

Trip Code: TAL
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Australia's Red Centre & Larapinta Trail

Highlights

  • Trek through the stunning landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges, visiting sites like Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Mount Sonder

  • Witness the majesty of Uluru at sunrise and explore the domes of Kata Tjuta

  • Discover Sydney’s iconic landmarks, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

  • Unique Eco-Camp Stays in remote wilderness, offering comfort, stunning views, and a relaxing base to enjoy the Australian outback.

At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 14
  • 7 days walking
  • 8 days sightseeing
  • Max altitude - 1,380m
  • Join In Sydney
Accommodation & Meals
  • 15 Breakfasts
  • 16 Lunches
  • 15 Dinners
  • 11 nights Hotel
  • 6 nights Camping
Overview

The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s most iconic walking trails, passing through the stunning landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges in Central Australia. Renowned for its unforgettable views, diverse ecosystems, and rich Indigenous heritage, this legendary trail offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the vast Australian outback. This journey includes the ascent of Mount Sonder (1,380m), where you may witness a spectacular sunrise that fills the sky with vibrant colours.

In addition to the Larapinta Trail, your adventure features the highlights of Australia’s Red Centre, including the majestic Uluru and the impressive domes of Kata Tjuta. We will engage in experiences that provide fascinating insight into Aboriginal culture, such as cultural conversations and guided tours of sacred sites. Throughout this immersive journey, you'll have the chance to spot unique wildlife, including kangaroos and Black-footed Rock Wallabies, and explore some of Sydney’s iconic landmarks, including its stunning harbour and the world-famous Opera House.

Is this holiday for you?

This Larapinta Trail holiday is graded as moderate, requiring participants to walk for 5–7 hours each day over rugged terrain, with some steep ascents and descents. Trail conditions vary, featuring rocky and hard surfaces that can be quite dry. While certain sections pass through open plains, undulating areas, and relatively flat country, the overall experience is defined by stony, mountainous landscapes, with elevations ranging from 680 metres to over 1,200 metres above sea level.

During the trek, you'll stay in our stylish and comfortable semi-permanent campsites, while well-located hotels provide accommodation for the rest of the trip. Most meals are included, offering quality, locally sourced food to enhance your holiday experience.

Itinerary

Download Trip Notes
Upon your arrival, make your own way to our group hotel conveniently located in the heart of the city's Central Business District. Taxis are readily available and the journey takes around 20 minutes. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the chance to explore the local area at your own pace. Our hotel is within walking distance of some of Sydney's most iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Aquarium, Sydney Town Hall, and St. Mary's Cathedral, making it easy to enjoy a leisurely stroll and get acquainted with the city's vibrant atmosphere this afternoon.

Accommodation

Hotel
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This morning we will head to the shores of Sydney Harbour for a traditional Welcome to Country Ceremony. Performed by the Aboriginal Traditional Owners on Gadigal Country, this sacred ceremony will offer insight into the rich cultural heritage of the land. Once granted permission to explore, you'll set out on a scenic stroll along the Sydney Foreshore, with the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House in full view. The day culminates at the Royal Botanical Gardens, where you'll receive a full pre-tour briefing, all while gazing across the sparkling harbour. Afterward, enjoy the evening at your leisure, exploring Sydney or relaxing to beat any jetlag.

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B L
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Today, get ready for one of the best walks in Sydney: the Manly Scenic Walkway, stretching from Spit Bridge to Manly. This beautiful track offers some of the most stunning views of Middle and North Harbours. Along the way, we'll pass Fisher Bay, Sandy Bay, and Clontarf Beach, and discover ancient Aboriginal rock engravings at Grotto Point. Don't forget to take in the panoramic views from Arabanoo lookout before ending the walk with an ice cream at Manly Wharf. Next, we'll board the iconic Manly Ferry for a ride through the harbour, passing the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as the sun sets. It's a perfect moment for photos! Later, we'll gather for a celebratory dinner at a waterfront brewery, with the Opera House as your backdrop.

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Bid farewell to Sydney as you catch a morning flight to Alice Springs, where the Red Centre of Australia awaits. After checking into the group hotel, it's time to meet some of the region's most famous inhabitants at the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Get up close and personal with kangaroos in their natural habitat before heading to one of the town's top eateries for a delicious woodfire pizza dinner.

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Your first morning in the heart of Australia is yours to explore. Perhaps visit the Alice Springs Botanic Gardens, take in sweeping views from ANZAC Hill, or browse the local galleries and cafes along Todd Mall. In the afternoon, we'll head to Alice Springs Desert Park for the world-renowned bird show. Afterward, enjoy an incredible astronomy tour at Earth Sanctuary, one of the clearest places on Earth for stargazing. The night sky is pure magic, with the Milky Way offering a spectacular show.

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Today, we start at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station, the official beginning of the Larapinta Trail. From here, we follow the trail west through the rugged outback, crossing wattle bush, mulga scrub, and shady woodlands. We'll climb to the stunning Euro Ridge, with sweeping views of Alice Springs, before descending into Wallaby Gap. After a well-earned rest, we transfer to Nick's Camp, an award-winning eco-camp nestled in the bush with panoramic views of the Heavitree Range. Here, we'll indulge in a bush food feast prepared by local expert Rayleen Brown.

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5-6 houers walking
Hide Details
Today, we explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the region. We begin with a walk through majestic Bloodwoods and Ironwoods, then head to Simpsons Gap, a vital waterhole where you might spot a Black-footed Rock Wallaby. Afterward, a short transfer takes us to Standley Chasm, a sacred site where the traditional owners will share their stories and culture. After a delicious picnic lunch, we'll explore the Chasm before returning to camp to relax for the evening.

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Camping

Meals

B L D
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Today's adventure brings us to the top of the Larapinta Trail, with a challenging 5km ridge walk to Counts Point. From here, the views of the Central Australian landscape are awe-inspiring, including Mt Zeil (the highest peak in the NT) and Mt Sonder. As we descend into dolomite limestone terrain, keep an eye out for ancient stromatolites-one of the planet's oldest forms of life. We'll then make our way to Charlie's Camp, where we'll camp under the stars, at the base of Counts Point. Spend the evening sharing stories around the campfire, with your guides preparing a delicious meal.

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Camping

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B L D
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After a hearty breakfast, we begin today's walk through the stunning Inarlanga Pass, passing ancient cycads and the peaceful Serpentine Chalet. Our destination is the Ochre Pits, a sacred Aboriginal site where vibrant ochre walls create a stunning kaleidoscope of colours. After capturing the beauty in photos, we'll pause for a picnic lunch. In the afternoon, relax with a swim at Ellery Creek before heading back to camp for a well-earned rest.

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Camping

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Rise and shine-your adventure starts early today with a pre-dawn journey up the mighty Mount Sonder. The guides will have you out of bed at the crack of 2-3am, as you begin the 16km trek to the summit under the guiding light of your head-torch. The cool night air, the quiet darkness, and the sound of your breath are all part of the magic that makes this climb so special. As you weave your way to the top, you'll feel like you're walking through another world. And when the first light of day spills across the horizon, you'll be rewarded with unforgettable views. From the summit, you'll look out over the entire landscape we've been exploring, with endless views from the highest point of the Larapinta Trail. After taking in the breathtaking vista, we descend back to Redbank Gorge, where a delicious brunch awaits. Your afternoon options include a well-deserved rest at camp or a refreshing swim in the Finke River.

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Camping

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B L D
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Today, we tackle the spectacular Ormiston Pound, a true highlight of the Larapinta Trail. This incredible walk takes us through diverse landscapes, from towering cliffs where Rock Wallabies leap and scamper, to scrublands teeming with native birds like Spinifex Pigeons, Budgerigars, and Mistletoe Birds. The highlight is the majestic Wedge-tailed Eagle soaring high above. Along the way, we'll cross cold, still water-an unavoidable part of the adventure-so be ready for a 20-meter crossing, with water levels varying by season. Your guides will assist you through the crossing, ensuring everyone stays safe and dry. After this beautiful walk, we board the bus for a scenic transfer back to Alice Springs, with the endless desert landscape rolling by your window. You'll feel a deep sense of satisfaction, knowing that you've conquered the heart of the Larapinta. After arriving, we'll drop you at your group hotel, where we'll gather for a celebratory dinner at one of Alice Springs' top restaurants.

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Camping

Meals

B L D
Hide Details
This morning we depart from our Allice Springs hotel for the last time and head to our next stop, home to the awe-inspiring monolith, Uluru. Our drive will be approximately 5-6hrs so we will arrive at Uluru in the afternoon and refresh ourselves at our hotel before dinner. If we have time, we will take a short walk to catch our first glimpse of the Uluru sunset, to watch the fading shades of red fall on the great rock as the sun goes down.

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The day begins with the sun rising over the desert landscape as we prepare for an unforgettable adventure at Kata Tjuta. The Valley of the Winds loop track takes us through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in Australia. Among the towering domes of Kata Tjuta, the views are jaw-dropping, and the sense of isolation is profound. After a challenging climb, we'll stop at two lookout points where the wild beauty of the Mars-like landscape spreads before you. As we continue, we'll venture into Walpa Gorge, a natural sanctuary where native plants and animals thrive, and where you may spot a wallaroo hopping among the rocks. After lunch, prepare for something truly special. As night falls, Uluru will cast its silhouette across the desert as the Field of Light exhibition comes alive. With over 50,000 spindles of light swaying gently in the desert breeze, the exhibit creates a surreal experience, transforming the landscape into a shimmering sea of colour. This immersive installation is the perfect way to end our Central Australian adventure.

Accommodation

Hotel

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L D
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All good things must come to an end, and today we'll make the most of our final morning. Early risers will witness a stunning sunrise as we begin the iconic Uluru Base Walk. This 10.6km loop takes us around the base of the mighty rock, offering a chance to take in its massive presence from all angles. As we walk, we'll reflect on the incredible journey we've shared through Central Australia's most remarkable landscapes. After completing the walk, we'll return to the hotel to freshen up before catching our lunchtime flight back to Sydney, where our journey ends. You'll leave with incredible memories, a sense of achievement, and the knowledge that you've explored some of the most unique landscapes in the world.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D
Hide Details
Today we will rise with the sun to prepare for a day of exploration in Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park. We'll venture west to Kata Tjuta, where we'll embark on the Valley of the Winds loop track. This challenging walk rewards us with breathtaking views, allowing visitors to immerse themselves among the domes of Kata Tjuta. Along the trail, we'll enjoy unparalleled vistas of the surrounding Mars-like landscape from two scenic lookout points.

After a well-deserved lunch, we'll take a short walk into Walpa Gorge, often likened to stepping into an ancient temple crafted by nature. This desert refuge is home to a variety of plants and animals and is one of the few places in Kata Tjuta where you might spot a kanya, or common wallaroo, hopping around the domes.

As evening falls, prepare for a truly magical experience. The Field of Light installation will illuminate Uluru, casting the rock into silhouette against the night sky. Gentle rhythms of color will light up the desert landscape, creating an enchanting display. Known as Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku-which means "looking at lots of beautiful lights" in the local Pitjantjatjara language-this vast exhibition covers more than seven football fields and invites you to immerse yourself in a fantasy garden of 50,000 spindles of light. The stems sway and breathe through a harmonious desert spectrum of ochre, deep violet, blue, and gentle white.

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B L D
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After a leisurely morning at our hotel, wel take a mid-morning shuttle to the airport for our flight back to the East Coast and the vibrant beachside metropolis of Sydney. Upon arrival, we will drive to the group hotel for one final night.

In the evening, we'll gather for a fitting farewell dinner on the harbour. As we enjoy our last meal together, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences and achievements of our two-week journey through the stunning regions of coastal and Central Australia.

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Your tour will conclude today after breakfast at the hotel. You are welcome to take some time to explore more of Sydney's many wonders or, if you prefer, make your way to the airport via the nearby train line for your onward journey.

Accommodation

Hotel

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B L D
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Download Trip Notes

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

16 breakfasts, 14 lunches, 13 dinners are included in the cost of the holiday.

Water in Australia is generally safe to drink straight from the tap. We encourage you to refill your personal bottles each morning, as this is a more sustainable option. Please avoid purchasing single-use plastic bottles to reduce environmental impact.

Australian cuisine is diverse, drawing influences from Europe, Asia, and the native Aboriginal heritage. You’ll find classic dishes such as grilled barramundi, kangaroo fillets, and Aussie beef steaks, often paired with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Popular meals include the iconic Aussie barbecue, featuring lamb, sausages, and prawns, and classic pub fare like meat pies and chicken parmigiana. Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, with many restaurants offering innovative plant-based dishes. Throughout Australia, you will also find a wide variety of international cuisine, reflecting the country’s multiculturalism.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

Our eco-comfort camps are thoughtfully designed to enhance your experience. After a day's hike, you'll have a relaxing base where you can unwind and take in the pristine desert scenery. The camps feature a communal kitchen, lounge, and dining shelter, all elevated on platforms to stay clear of the dust. The open-sided lounge provides a cool, shaded retreat during warm afternoons and a heated shelter for cooler nights. The dining area offers a comfortable, communal table setting, and a campfire circle provides an informal spot to relax under the stars.

The camps are equipped with clean, composting toilets that use an eco-friendly system, and hot showers, a welcome relief after a day on the trail. Accommodation is in spacious safari-style tents, each offering plenty of room for two people and their gear. A sturdy stretcher bed ensures a comfortable night’s sleep, and for those who prefer, the stretcher can be moved outside, giving you the option to sleep under the vast outback sky.

Strategically located in secluded wilderness areas along the trail, these camps offer a peaceful escape where you can fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings while benefiting from the comfort and amenities that make the experience truly special. Through a respectful partnership with local Traditional Owners and park authorities, we ensure that the impact of our presence remains minimal, supporting sustainable tourism in this iconic region.

The hotel we use in Sydney is located in the central business district, a great location for exploring the sites. We also use good quality well-located hotels in Alice Springs and Yulara

In Australia, tipping is not generally expected or required. Unlike in some other countries, service staff in Australia are paid a fair wage, so tipping is not relied upon as part of their income. However, if you receive exceptional service at a restaurant, café, or bar, leaving a tip is appreciated but entirely optional. It’s common to round up the bill or leave a small gratuity of 5-10%, but there’s no obligation to do so. In other settings, such as taxis or hotels, tipping is even less common, though you may choose to tip if you feel the service was outstanding.

Tipping is not expected by the guides on this tour. However, if you would like to show your appreciation for excellent service, leaving a tip would be greatly appreciated.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Most visitors to Australia require a visa obtained prior to arrival.

Passport holders from the following countries can apply for the Australian Tourist Visa online prior to their arrival which allows you a stay in Australia for up to 3 months:

  • Canada

  • United States

  • United Kingdom

Applications can be made using the link below (other nationalities can also check their eligibility for an e-visa here):

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/electronic-travel-authority-601#Eligibility

New Zealand passport holders do not need to obtain a visa prior to arrival, they will be granted a visa on arrival.

All other nationalities should check with your nearest embassy or consulate.

The unit of currency in Australia is the Australian Dollar, abbreviated as AUD or symbolised as $. To distinguish it from other dollar currencies, it is sometimes written as A$ or AU$.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. Suggested preparation includes at least one-two hours of aerobic type exercise, four times a week (including a mix of walking and using a rowing machine). You should include day walking over steep, uneven terrain in your trip preparation.

In Central Australia, the four traditional seasons are more pronounced, and temperatures can be more extreme than in many other parts of the country. Winter (May to August) is generally pleasant for trekking, with light winds and daytime temperatures averaging between 15–25°C. However, winter nights often drop below freezing, with frequent frosts, so it’s important to prepare for cold evenings during winter treks.

The shoulder seasons, in April and September, tend to bring warmer daytime temperatures, typically ranging from 25–35°C, with mild nights averaging around 10–15°C. Occasionally, higher daytime temperatures may occur, which could necessitate adjustments to the itinerary, such as reducing walking activities in favour of more leisurely pursuits like swimming.

While rainfall is rare along the Larapinta Trail, it’s essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. The region can experience sudden fluctuations in temperature, with hot or cold spells occurring unexpectedly. Our facilities are equipped to handle these extremes, ensuring your comfort and enjoyment no matter the weather. However, we strongly recommend following the suggested packing list, checking local weather updates before your trip, and packing accordingly to ensure a more enjoyable and informed journey.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Lonely Planet Outback Australia (Travel Guide) by Anthony Ham

  • Down Under by Bill Bryson

  • Songlines by Bruce Chatwin

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Many of the equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive a 12.5% discount with Cotswold Outdoor, Snow+Rock and Runners Need. The discount code can be downloaded from your MyKE account and you can use this code at the checkout, either in store or online.

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2026

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  • Australia's Red Centre & Larapinta Trail
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: TAL /01/26/
  • This trip begins on Sun 24 May and ends on Sun 7 Jun
  • Download Trip Notes

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