Trek Notes - Australia

Larapinta Trail 5-day

Introduction
Situated in the heart of Central Australia, the Larapinta Trail in the West MacDonnell Ranges was completed in 2002 and is divided into 12 sections, each a one to two day walk. The entire trail extends over 223km's and has acquired an international reputation as a tough challenging trek, prompting National Geographic to number it among the top 20 such experiences to be had on the planet.

The trail is made up of 12 interconnected sections which are graded between 3 and 5 according to the Australian Trail Standards and so cater for hikers of varying abilities (see map below). It provides walkers with an unequalled opportunity to experience the West MacDonnell Ranges from its snaking trails, gorges and plains on the desert floor to breathtaking vistas from its numerous peaks and ridges. Some of the key attractions of the ranges include Simpsons Gap, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Standley Chasm and Glen Helen. It is the country that the famous artist Albert Namatjira used as his inspiration with its rugged peaks, rolling hills, spinifex and all shades of red imaginable.

The MacDonnell Ranges stretch for over 400km in an east-west direction in parallel ridges with flat valleys between. From a break in the ranges called The Gap, where the Stuart Highway passes through just south of Alice Springs, they are split into the East MacDonnell and West MacDonnell Ranges. They were formed through massive earth movements some 300 million years ago, breaking up what was then a sea bed as fossil remains testify. Importantly, the ranges facilitate a number of permanent water holes and provide sanctuary to a large number of plant and animal species that make the Larapinta such an awe inspiring trek.

Itinerary
Arrival Day
Arrive in Alice Springs - 6.00pm Start

Arrive at leisure today and check into your hotel.

We meet at 6.00pm in the foyer of the hotel where you will meet the rest of the members of your group to discuss the coming days with your guide.

If you arrive earlier during the day you might like to enjoy the sights and sounds of the bustling heart of the Red Centre before leaving it all behind for the desolate outback. Browse Aboriginal artworks at Central Australia's best art galleries. This is also a good time to ensure you have all articles needed for your Larapinta Trail walk.

Overnight Alice Springs

Walking Day 1 - Alice Springs to Simpson's Gap (B/L/D)

An early start and its bye bye suburbia - hello wilderness! The majestic and serene West MacDonnell Ranges are rich in natural wonders and traditional culture and are considered the best there is in Australia. Our first walk is a 20km "leg stretch" commencing from the outskirts of Alice Springs. Some beautiful views can be seen, particularly at Euro Ridge. Our walk is taken casually, a fitting way to relax and immerse in the wonder of the region and to ponder the coming 4 days.

Our Ground Support Vehicle will meet us at the picturesque Simpsons Gap and transfer us to our remote camping location. Let the true experience begin as we rest in a region synonymous in the dreamtime (Alcheringa) of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people.

Walking Day 2 - Serpentine Gorge to Serpentine Chalet Dam (B/L/D)

Today we head to the spectacular western half of the Larapinta Trail and onto a 13.4km section of the Larapinta Trail that is only suitable for well-prepared and experienced walkers with a good level of fitness. It offers exhilarating views of the high quartzite ridgelines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mt Zeil (the highest point in the Northern Territory).

Walking Day 3 - Ormiston Gorge to Glen Helen (B/L/D)

Today we traverse the low lying regions surrounding Ormiston Gorge gradually working our way upward into the back reaches of the Finke River. This area is steeped in traditional folklore with several important sites being viewed including 'Yapulpa', which is part of the Carpet Snake Dreaming legend as well as the Emu and Kangaroo Man Dreaming.

Tonight our campsite is shadowed by Mount Sonder (The Pregnant Lady) and the imagery of the Yeperenye Hills (Caterpillar Dreaming). Relax at the campsite on the banks of the mighty Finke River as the sun sets and the colours of the night desert erupt into million star accommodation.

Walking Day 4 - Mount Sonder Climb (B/L/D)

An early rise is an understatement as we challenge the 8km climb to the peak of Mount Sonder. The vision of sunrise and the 360° view will leave you speechless - a truly unforgettable achievement. Enjoy time at camp for your last evening under the stars of the Milky Way.

Walking Day 5 - Ormiston Pound Walk to Alice Springs (B/L)

Regarded by many as the "primo" small walk of the Larapinta Trail, the Ormiston Pound Walk is full of wow factor, wildlife and flora and a great finale to our walk. A location inspirational to Albert Namatjira, sensational viewings of the Chewing's Range and Mount Giles - the entry into the Gorge will leave you dumb founded.

After another healthy lunch, we will pack and break camp for regrettably the last time and return to normality (hot shower and life as you know it awaits). Tonight we will reminisce the past 5 days and share some banter over a refreshing ale or cool drink at one of Alice's classic outback restaurants (own expense).


Included
This is a fully inclusive tour. Pre-tour accommodation in Alice Springs twin share. Tour guide, ground support crew and all transportation. Camping equipment and bedding including swags, pillows, sleeping bags and blankets. Meals and snacks as indicated on itinerary and below. Hot and cold drinks excluding alcoholic beverages (note that the purchase of alcohol can be arranged with your guide at the pre-trek meeting. Cold storage will be provided), fresh drinking water.

Meals

• 5 Breakfasts (B)
• 5 Lunches (L)
• 4 Dinners (D)

Accommodation

• Hotel (1 night)
• Basic bush camp (4 nights)

Dates 2011
15th April - 20th April
22nd April - 27th April
29th April - 4th May
13th May - 18th May
20th May - 25th May
27th May - 1st June
10th June - 15th June
1st July - 6th July
29th July - 3rd August
5th August - 10th August
19th August - 24th August
26th August - 31st August
2nd September - 7th September
9th September - 14th September