6
Moderate to Challenging
Activities
  • 7 days self guided trek
Accommodation
  • 6 nights camping
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 6 Breakfasts

7 Days$1690AUD

Trip Code: LS7

Larapinta Trail Self-Guided Trip highlights


  • Walking Larapinta sections 7 through to 12
  • Immerse yourself in the spectacular Tjoritja National Park
  • Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges at your own pace
  • Enjoy the complete flexibility self guiding provides
  • Wilderness camping under the stars of the Australian Outback
  • Admire the unique birds, wildlife and plants in your own time
  • Trek through captivating ancient landscape
  • Experience Australia's outback wilderness

Why Book With Us

  • Choose the unparalleled expertise of Australia's leading tourism provider with nearly 50 years of experience, backed by countless client testimonials and prestigious awards.
  • All logistics taken care of so you can relax and enjoy the track
  • Quality, lightweight trekking meals included
  • Briefing and advice from our experienced guides before your trip

Ideal for the confident and independent traveller with support in the background, our self guided treks are fun and flexible.

Walking self guided and at your own pace is one of the best ways to truly appreciate the immensely diverse and unique landscapes, flora and fauna of Australia’s Red Centre. The trail takes you through narrow canyons, stunning gorges and forests of mulga and mallee, over high ridgelines and around idyllic waterholes, spending each night under the expansive star-filled Outback sky. On this itinerary you will complete sections 7 through to 12 of the Larapinta sections, allowing you to experience some of the highlights of this captivating trail.

On this 7 day self guided trek you'll be provided with the essential equipment for experiencing Outback Australia by foot. We'll set you up with comprehensive maps, quality lightweight trekking food, cooking utensils and stove as well as tent and sleeping gear, an emergency communication device, and invaluable advice from our experienced guides prior to your departure. World Expeditions are pioneers of this iconic trek and we are proud to support you on your independent journey by providing the best equipment and incomparable local knowledge.

A self guided walk along the Larapinta is suited to experienced walkers comfortable with their sense of direction and map reading, ability to carry a full pack, and used to being independent in the outdoors. We also offer a 14 day Larapinta Trail End to End self guided trip.

Activities:

Itinerary

This morning you will be transferred from Alice Springs to Ellery Creek to begin your walk. Today you will be walking through the vertical-spined dolomite country of the Bitter Springs formation. These 800 million year old rocks contain fossilised stromatolites, the cyanobacteria that were amongst the first life forms on this earth. If you didn't the night before, it is worth taking time to admire the Ellery Creek Big Hole waterhole before you start trekking. The trail will take you through scattered woodlands and over a stile to a trig point, a good spot for lunch. Arriving mid afternoon at your camp will provide you with an opportunity to relax or wander at leisure around the hills of your campsite at Serpentine Gorge. Difficulty rating: Medium | Walking time: 5.5 hours *You will need to arrive in Alice Springs the day before your trip, ensuring that you arrive in time to attend the 3:00pm pre-trip briefing.

Meals:  L,D

This section of the trail offers breathtaking views as you walk along the high quartzite ridge lines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges. You ascend to Counts Point where you are able to take in clear views of Central Australia’s western horizon, to Mt Zeil (1531m) the highest peak in the Northern Territory, and Mt Sonder which marks the end of the Larapinta Trail. You can even see the fascinating, huge comet crater of Gosse Bluff. You descend through mysterious old Mulga stands to camp overnight at Serpentine Chalet. Difficulty rating: Hard | Walking time: 7 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

An early start is required to fit in all of the highlights of this section of the trail. Today takes you into the rugged heart of this ancient landscape on a track only opened to the public as recently as 1997. The trail today is again challenging as you ascend to 1088 metres. And again, as always on the Larapinta, your epic climb is rewarded with expansive views. The view opens up across the Alice Valley to the giant, bulky mass of of Mt. Giles, one of the Northern Territory's highest peaks at 1389m. On arrival at Ormiston Gorge you will find many lovely campsites, a kiosk and showers. If you go for a quiet walk at dusk you may be lucky enough to see the shy dingo that sometimes roams along the river bank near camp. Difficulty rating: Very Hard | Walking time: 10-13 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This is a shorter and more gentle section of the Larapinta Trail which leads you into the head of the Finke River. The local indigenous Arrernte name for the Finke River has given the trail its name: Lhere Pinte (Larapinta) meaning salty river. If you feel like a further walk after setting up camp at the Finke River some walkers like to do a side-trip (without packs) to Glen Helen – perfect for an afternoon swim before heading back to your camp for dinner and another cosy night in your tent. Difficulty rating: Medium | Walking time: 4 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This section has views dominated by the impressive bulk of Mount Sonder. The colours of this magnificent mountain change dramatically throughout the day. You initially head northwest through a sea of spinifex before crossing Davenport Creek, a tributary of the Finke River. Your walk climbs over a low section of the range and descends into Rocky Bar Gap and your overnight camp. Difficulty rating: Hard | Walking time: 5-6 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

Hikers traverse an ancient landscape characterised by rugged terrain and the iconic West MacDonnell Ranges looming in the distance. Rocky Bar Gap introduces a dramatic interplay of light and shadow on weathered rocks, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. As the trail progresses, the scenery evolves, leading to the awe-inspiring Redbank Gorge. Here, the gorge showcases towering red cliffs, framing a serene waterhole that reflects the vibrant hues of the surrounding landscape. The trail is a sensory experience, with the scent of native flora lingering in the air and the sound of wind whispering through the eucalypts. You will pass beaneath the flanks of Mount Sonder, walking through dense Mulga and Mallee woodland until you reach the beautiful Redbank Creek and your overnight camp. Difficulty rating: Medium | Walking time: 4 hours

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning you will be up early for your sunrise ascent of Mount Sonder. By starting your walk of this section early you can complete the climb in the cool morning air, before the sun heats up the land. Mount Sonder is one of the highest peaks west of the Great Dividing Range and the views from the top are incomparable; standing on the summit and taking in the landscape you have traversed aver the last six days will be a highlight of your Larapinta Trail journey. On completion of this section you will be picked up at Redbank Gorge Carpark at 10.30am and transferred to Alice Springs where your tour will conclude. We hope you celebrate with long shower, afternoon nap, clean clothes and a delicious lunch and dinner at one of Alice Spring's great eateries... Congratulations on completing your Larapinta adventure! Difficulty rating: Hard | Walking time: 6 hours

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • Breakfasts, lunches, dinners, hot drinks
  • Light weight trekking food
  • Camp stove and fuel
  • Cooking and eating utensils
  • Sleeping mat, tent (twin share), hiking pack, sleeping bag
  • Off-road transport to/from Alice Springs to start/finish of your trek
  • All National Park and camping fees
  • Emergency communication device
  • Complete set of Larapinta Trail maps and route descriptions
  • Mandatory pre-trip briefing held the day before the trip starts

  • Airfares
  • Accommodation in Alice Springs before and after the trip
  • Items of a personal nature, such as laundry and postage
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Travel insurance
  • Snacks
  • Breakfast on the first day, dinner on the last day
  • Face masks and hand sanitiser

Accommodation


Trail Surface


Suitability

Moderate to Challenging

6

This trek involves 6-12 hours walking each day over rugged terrain with some steep ascents and descents. The trail conditions of the Larapinta Trail are rocky, rugged, hard surfaced and dry. While a number of sections of the trail wind through open plains, undulating areas and relatively flat country, overall, the trail is characterised by rocky, stony and mountainous terrain which can rise from 680m above sea level to more than 1,200m along some sections. This trek should not be underestimated as it can be tough and challenging. You will need a good level of fitness and must be in good health. You will be carrying a full pack of around 15-25kg and should be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. You will also need to be comfortable with map reading and self guiding. Suggested preparation: We recommend one hour of strenuous exercise 4 times per week (this can be cycling, jogging or walking) interspersed with relatively demanding bushwalks carrying a day pack. At least once a week, you should walk with a weighted day pack (5–7kg) for several hours for leg strengthening and aerobic fitness. The best way to train for an active holiday is to simulate the activity you will be undertaking on the trip. Train for uneven terrain by finding a hilly, rough narrow bush track, and go for a lovely long walk in your trekking boots. Multi day walks while carrying a full weight pack (15-25kg) should be considered essential in your training preparation. Please contact our staff if you have any queries about your suitability for this trip.


Departure dates


Notes

HS
Holiday Season
Note:
Holiday season supplement applies for any trips that overlap with a public holiday.
DN2
This trip is not suitable for solo travellers. Please contact our team for alternative tour suggestions.

Priceper person from

$1690AUD

Options & Supplements*
    *Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

You will walk sections 7 through to 12.

A majority of the terrain on the Larapinta Trail is rough and rocky, particularly on high ground, in gorges, creek and river beds. The ground is often distorted with embedded or loose rock depending on the trail variations.

The trail conditions of the Larapinta Trail are rocky, rugged, hard surfaced and dry. While a number of sections of the trail wind through open plains, undulating areas and relatively flat country, overall, the trail is characterised by rocky, stony and mountainous terrain which can rise from 680m above sea level to more than 1,200m along some sections.

You will need an excellent level of fitness for this trek on the Larapinta. You need to be capable and prepared for long, fast paced walks. Previous experience on multi day walks is highly recommended, as is previous experience on a self guided walk. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect.

You must arrive in Alice Springs the day before your trek begins. The trip commences with a COMPULSORY pre-departure briefing the day before departure. It is ESSENTIAL that you make your travel arrangements to enable you to attend this briefing.

Yes. The terrain on this trek is rugged, and the Quartzite rocks are famous for shredding even the most trusted old pair of hiking boots. For your comfort, you must have high supported boots with a heavy duty grip. There are lots of rocky, uneven and unstable sections, so ankle support will be beneficial.

If you are an experienced walker and prefer the solitude of a self-guided trek, we offer trail head transfers. Please note that the trail is truly remote, with minimal mobile phone coverage. This option should only be considered by well-resourced trekkers with significant wilderness experience.

You will need to carry all of your gear for this trek in a 70-80L pack. Depending on the amount of personal gear you bring, your pack will weigh approximately 15kg – 25kg. One food drop is located at Ormiston Gorge for your convenience (you can add your own snacks to this at your pre trek briefing).

Any excess luggage can be stored at your pre/post tour accommodation in Alice Springs or our office.

Hiking poles can definitely assist you with going up and down the inclines and for stability. If you have not used them previously, we recommend that you do some training with them before you head out on the hike.

It is not possible to charge your devices. We advise carrying extra sets of batteries for your cameras and/or portable chargers.

Not frequently. Sporadic reception can be received depending on your carrier, but generally only for the first day and when on top of Mt Sonder. You will receive an EPIRB in case of emergencies.

Our Larapinta Trail trekking season runs from April to September, when trekking conditions are most favourable. Winter is arguably the best time to experience the Larapinta Trail, as it offers prime trekking conditions, more stable temperatures and endlessly blue days.

In the Centre, the four traditional seasons are more distinct, and temperatures are more extreme than in most other parts of Australia. Trekking in winter (May to August) is generally pleasant with light winds, and daytime temperatures averaging 15-25C or 60-80F. However, winter nights often plummet below freezing and there are frequent frosts; please make sure that you prepare for the cold evenings on winter treks.

The shoulder seasons of April and September tend to bring higher daytime temperatures with daytime temperatures averaging 25-35C or 75-95F. Nights are typically mild hovering around 10-15C or 50-60F. Higher daytime temperatures can occasionally occur necessitating adjustments to itineraries.

While rainfall is infrequent along the Larapinta Trail, it remains essential to be equipped for any weather scenario. The region is susceptible to unpredictable spells of hot or cold weather at random intervals. Rest assured, our facilities are well-equipped to accommodate both extremes, ensuring an enjoyable experience amidst the diverse conditions of Outback Australia. However, in light of this variability, we hope to stress to you the importance of following our suggested packing list, checking local weather updates prior to departure and packing appropriately for a more informed and enjoyable journey.

You must carry and drink plenty of water along the Larapinta Trail. We recommend you have capacity to carry up to 5L per day. Consider all the following to work out how much water to carry: weather conditions, distance to be walked, the effort you will put in, and your fitness. Take enough water for cooking and emergencies. Drink water regularly, don't wait until you are thirsty as this is one of the early signs of dehydration. Even if walking in mild conditions, you will still need to drink water regularly.

The availability of surface water depends on large rainfall events that are rare and unpredictable in Central Australia. The quantity and quality of temporary surface water is unreliable. You should use the water supplied at trailheads. If you urgently need water and can't access it from a tank, you can drink surface water. However, you should treat it first by boiling or filtering if possible. Water tanks are monitored and refilled by rangers according to the season and number of walkers on the trail. They are filled up well before they empty. It is helpful if you record water supply levels at trailhead logbooks. You should urgently report any leaks, low tank levels or other concerns to rangers at Simpsons Gap or Ormiston Gorge. You should boil the water, use sterilising tablets or a filter as the quality of the water can't be guaranteed. Water in these tanks is transported by the rangers over rough 4WD tracks in small loads. The water is for drinking and cooking only. Do not use it to wash yourself or your clothes.


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Positive Impact Travel

By joining this trip you are directly supporting positive impact projects in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We’ve offset the carbon emitted by this trip by purchasing credits that support important projects that address the UN’s seventeen SDGs, like reducing poverty, affordable and clean energy, reducing hunger, clean water and climate action.

Proceeds from this adventure purchase carbon credits through the world’s largest and most awarded carbon project developer, South Pole, which are invested into projects accelerating the transition to renewable energy sources in developing countries.

Supported projects are based on internationally recognised standards and are third-party audited. They entail a series of positive impacts on the ground, which benefit local communities and ecosystems, that are aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.