Fall in Love With The Red Centre: Top 10 Things To Do in Alice Springs, Australia

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you fall in love with the Red Centre, ensuring reliable communication while exploring the top 10 things to do in Alice Springs, from stunning landscapes to rich Aboriginal culture and unique adventures.

At the heart of Australia’s Red Centre lies Alice Springs, a vibrant outback town surrounded by ancient mountain ranges and endless desert landscapes. Despite its remote location, Alice Springs offers a surprising variety of experiences, from exploring Aboriginal art and culture to hiking scenic trails and spotting unique wildlife. Here are the top 10 things to do in Alice Springs, Australia that will make you fall in love with the Aussie outback.

1. Immerse Yourself in Aboriginal Culture at Araluen Arts Centre

• The Araluen Arts Centre is the cultural hub of Alice Springs, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Central Australia.

• Admire the stunning watercolor paintings of Albert Namatjira, one of Australia’s most renowned Aboriginal artists.

• Explore the Araluen Cultural Precinct, which includes several galleries, museums, and a theater.

• Check out the program for performances, exhibitions, and festivals happening during your visit.

2. Get Up Close With Native Wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park

• Spanning 1,300 hectares, the Alice Springs Desert Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.

• Wander through three distinct desert habitats: Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland.

• Watch free-flying birds of prey demonstrations and see rare nocturnal animals in the Nocturnal House.

• Join a guided tour with local Aboriginal guides to learn about bush food and traditional survival skills.

Opening Hours: Daily, 7:30am – 6pm (last entry 4:30pm)
Admission: Adult $40, Child (5-15 yrs) $20, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $100

3. Hike the Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges

• The Larapinta Trail is one of Australia’s most spectacular bushwalking experiences, stretching 223km through the West MacDonnell Ranges.

• Choose from a range of day walks and multi-day treks, with stunning scenery at every turn.

• Don’t miss the 10km return walk to Ormiston Gorge and Pound, featuring towering red cliffs and a serene waterhole.

• Book a guided tour or tackle the trail independently, with camping sites and water tanks along the way.

4. Watch the Sunset From ANZAC Hill

• ANZAC Hill is the best spot in town to watch the sun set over the MacDonnell Ranges.

• The lookout offers panoramic views of Alice Springs and the surrounding desert landscape.

• The hill is a memorial to Australian and New Zealand soldiers who fought in World War I.

• Pack a picnic and enjoy the colorful display as the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple.

5. Explore the Olive Pink Botanic Garden

• The Olive Pink Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Alice Springs, showcasing the unique flora of Central Australia.

• Stroll through the garden’s walking trails and learn about the plants that thrive in the arid environment.

• Visit the Bean Tree Cafe for a refreshing drink or light meal in a tranquil setting.

• Admission is $5 per adult, which includes a informative guide booklet.

6. Meet the Kangaroos at the Kangaroo Sanctuary

• The Kangaroo Sanctuary is a haven for orphaned and injured kangaroos, located just outside Alice Springs.

• Join a guided sunset tour to see the kangaroos up close and learn about their behavior and habitat.

• Watch as the kangaroos are fed and learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts.

• Tours must be booked in advance and include hotel pickup and drop-off.

7. Take a Camel Ride at Pyndan Camel Tracks

• Experience the outback from a new perspective with a camel ride through the MacDonnell Ranges.

• Pyndan Camel Tracks offers 1-hour and half-day rides, as well as sunset rides with sparkling wine and snacks.

• Learn about the history of camels in Australia and their role in exploring the Red Centre.

• Rides depart daily and are suitable for all ages and experience levels.

8. Discover the Sounds of Silence at Uluru

• While not technically in Alice Springs, a visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a must-do when in Central Australia.

• Join a Sounds of Silence dinner under the stars, with views of Uluru and the distant domes of Kata Tjuta.

• Dine on gourmet cuisine featuring native ingredients while listening to the haunting sounds of a didgeridoo.

• Learn about the night sky and the significance of Uluru to the local Anangu people.

9. Shop for Authentic Aboriginal Art

• Alice Springs is a hub for Aboriginal art, with numerous galleries showcasing works from local artists.

• Visit the Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre to see paintings in the distinctive Hermannsburg watercolor style.

• Browse the Tjanpi Desert Weavers gallery for unique baskets and sculptures made from native grasses.

• Purchase authentic souvenirs and support local Aboriginal communities at the same time.

10. Take a Day Trip to the East MacDonnell Ranges

• While less famous than the West MacDonnell Ranges, the East MacDonnell Ranges offer equally stunning scenery and fewer crowds.

• Visit Trephina Gorge Nature Park to hike among towering red cliffs and sandy creek beds.

• Explore the ghost town of Arltunga, site of Central Australia’s first official gold rush in the 1880s.

• Cool off with a swim at Ruby Gap, a remote waterhole surrounded by rugged mountains.

Getting to Alice Springs with Airtel’s Connectivity

Flights to Alice Springs depart daily from major Australian cities, including Darwin, Adelaide, Sydney, and Melbourne. The Alice Springs Airport (ASP) is located just 15km south of town, with taxis and shuttle buses available for transfers. If you’re traveling from overseas, consider purchasing an international roaming plan from your mobile provider to stay connected during your trip. For example, Airtel’s international roaming plans offer affordable data and calling options for flights to Alice Springs and beyond.