Known as the gateway to Australia’s rugged Red Centre, Alice Springs is a unique and vibrant community shaped by aboriginal culture, colonial influences, and the challenges of isolated desert living. After pickup at your hotel in the afternoon, begin with a stop at the historic Overland Telegraph Station. Built in 1872, the communications outpost was a key link in connecting early frontier settlements across Australia.
Located in the geographical center of Australia nearly 800 miles (1,288 km) from another major city, Alice Springs residents have learned to adapt to an isolated lifestyle. Learn how students in remote surrounding areas receive an education through the radio at the School of the Air, and visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service base, which provides on-call medical aid to isolated communities.
Next, get an up-close encounter with famous Outback’s wildlife at Alice Springs Reptile Park. See some of the world’s most venomous snakes including taipans and death adders, scaly desert dwellers like goannas and thorny devils, and even a resident saltwater crocodile. Cap off your half-day tour with a drive up to Anzac Hill, where you can admire fantastic views of the copper-colored West MacDonnell Ranges and the township of Alice Springs nestled among the rugged landscape.
Desert Park Option
Should you choose to include the Alice Spring Desert Park Option, you will have the morning free to visit the park at your leisure. Rise early for your transfer to the world-class Alice Springs Desert Park where you will witness free-flying birds at the Nature Theatre presentation and see rare and endangered animals such as the Bilby. Time at the Alice Springs Desert Park is unguided; you will explore the park in your own time at leisure. Then have time to for lunch at your own expense, before you are picked up from your hotel for the ‘A Town like Alice’ Tour.
