Australian Walking Holidays: Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort

Departing from Nick’s Camp, the journey continues westward through a landscape dominated by magnificent shady Bloodwoods and towering Ironwoods that line a narrow alluvial flat. As the trail winds through this serene terrain, there’s a chance to spot the elusive Black-footed Rock Wallaby, often seen darting among the rocks as the group nears one of the region’s most iconic sites: Simpsons Gap, a dramatic waterhole steeped in natural and cultural significance. Following a short scenic transfer, the adventure continues at the breathtaking Standley Chasm. Here, guests are treated to a fascinating cultural talk, offering a deeper understanding of the rich traditions and enduring connection the Arrernte people have with this land. All departures include a guided cultural conversation on Arrernte country, creating a meaningful and respectful connection to place. After a delicious picnic lunch, the experience is elevated further with a walk into the awe-inspiring Standley Chasm itself, a striking geological formation located on a private reserve still owned and managed by the Traditional Owners. Later, guests return to camp to relax and reflect on a day rich with natural beauty and cultural insight.
Walking Time: 3–5 hours

Today’s highlight is an unforgettable 5km trek along the dramatic crest of a high ridgeline, leading to the spectacular viewpoint at Counts Point. From this lofty vantage, guests are treated to sweeping, uninterrupted views across Central Australia’s vast western horizon, taking in Mt Zeil, the Northern Territory’s highest peak at 1,531 metres, and the impressive silhouette of Mt Sonder, marking the trail’s distant end. In the distance, the ancient, otherworldly formation of Gosse Bluff, an enormous comet crater, commands attention, hinting at the geological wonders that await in the days ahead. The descent from the ridge winds through quiet, mysterious stands of mulga trees, their gnarled forms casting dappled shadows across the path. At the base, the journey continues along a dolomite limestone track, where sharp eyes may spot fossilised stromatolites beneath their feet, evidence of one of Earth’s earliest life forms. Stepping off the main trail, the group follows a private track to Charlie’s Camp, a secluded wilderness site nestled at the base of Counts Point and named in honour of pioneering Larapinta guide Charlie Holmes. As the sun dips below the range, guests can unwind by the campfire while the guides prepare a hearty, gourmet dinner, capping off a day filled with breathtaking views, ancient landscapes, and true outback adventure.
Walking Time: 5.5–6.5 hours

Following another delicious breakfast in camp, the journey continues toward the awe-inspiring Inarlanga (Echidna) Pass, one of the Larapinta Trail’s true hidden gems. Along the way, guests pause at the fascinating site of Serpentine Chalet, a place steeped in local history and intrigue. As the trail winds into the pass, walkers are enveloped by towering rock walls and the serene stillness of this sacred place. Ancient cycad palms, unchanged for millions of years, cling to the craggy gorge, offering a powerful connection to the region’s deep natural history. From the pass, the adventure heads southwest to a sacred Aboriginal ochre quarry. Here, guests discover a wave-like rock wall streaked with vibrant reds, yellows, and whites, natural ochres that have been used for ceremony and culture for thousands of years. The stunning colours and significance of this site make it a highlight for both photographers and those seeking a deeper cultural connection. After soaking in the atmosphere, the group breaks for a relaxed picnic lunch and enjoys an early finish in preparation for the following day’s challenge. There’s time this afternoon for a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Glen Helen Gorge, an iconic outback oasis. As the day winds down, guests are transferred west to one of two exclusive camps: Fearless Camp, named in honour of legendary trekking guide Sue Fear, or Sonder Camp, resting in the shadow of majestic Mt Sonder. Both camps offer a peaceful wilderness setting at the foot of the mountain, where guests can relax and recharge under the stars.
Walking Time: 3–7 hours

Before dawn breaks, guests are gently woken by their guides in the quiet early hours, between 2:00 and 3:00am, for what is sure to be one of the most unforgettable highlights of the journey: a summit of Mt Sonder. With only the glow of head torches to light the way, the group begins their ascent through still darkness, the silence of the desert night creating a sense of anticipation and awe. Climbing steadily toward the 1,380-metre peak, the landscape slowly begins to reveal itself. Reaching the summit in time for sunrise is a breathtaking reward, vibrant colours sweep across the sky as the first light spills over the vast Central Australian wilderness. From the top of Mt Sonder, the highest point and official end of the Larapinta Trail, guests enjoy sweeping, panoramic views stretching far beyond the horizon, taking in the very landscape they’ve spent days walking through. After soaking in this magical moment, the group descends to Redbank Gorge before returning to camp for a well-earned and hearty outback brunch. The afternoon is yours to enjoy, whether that means relaxing at camp, taking in the tranquillity of the bush, or enjoying a refreshing swim in the nearby Finke River.
Walking Time: 7–8 hours

This morning’s adventure is a grand finale, an unforgettable walk through the magnificent Ormiston Pound, often considered the finest side trip on the entire Larapinta Trail. With its dramatic terrain and sweeping vistas, Ormiston Pound delivers an incredible diversity of scenery and offers the perfect final chapter to an extraordinary journey. The trail winds into the upper reaches of Ormiston Gorge, where towering red cliffs rise above and the chance of spotting Rock Wallabies adds a thrill to every turn. The path meanders through vibrant scrubland alive with birdlife, Spinifex Pigeons dart through the spinifex, flashes of green signal passing Budgerigars, and the delicate call of the Mistletoe Bird echoes through the trees. Overhead, the powerful silhouette of a Wedge-tailed Eagle may be spotted circling in the endless sky. The walk includes a memorable and refreshing challenge, a water crossing through the gorge’s cool, still waters. Depending on the time of season, the water can reach up to a metre deep, stretching about 20 metres across. It’s all part of the adventure, and the guides are there to support everyone safely through. After lunch, the group boards the bus for the return journey to Alice Springs. As the familiar ancient desert landscape rolls by the window, a sense of accomplishment and quiet wonder settles in, this has been more than a trek; it’s been a transformational experience. Guests are dropped at their accommodation around 16:00-17:00pm. Many choose to round off their journey by gathering for a celebratory dinner at one of Alice Springs’ great local eateries, sharing stories, laughs, and memories from the trail.
Walking Time: 3–4 hours