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.