Our 15 Favorite Alice Springs Tours & Experiences

Alice Springs might be at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, but it’s also a hub for truly memorable tours and experiences. Whether you’re floating above the Outback on a hot-air balloon ride or exploring ancient Aboriginal sites, this town offers a wide range of ways to connect with its stunning landscapes and rich culture. We especially like the Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs for its breathtaking views and the chance to see native wildlife from above — a peaceful, unforgettable way to start your day. For those wanting a deeper culture, the Uluru: 4-Day Rock to Rock Adventure Tour combines hiking, sunsets, and an overnight under the stars. Whatever your style, Alice Springs has something that will get you out of your comfort zone and into the real Outback.

Quick overview

Alice Springs is perfect for outdoor adventures, cultural tours, and scenic journeys. From hot-air balloon rides (Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs) to Uluru day trips (From Alice Springs: Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner), this list covers everything. You’ll find options for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. There are also family-friendly options like the Alice Springs Desert Park and multi-day camping safaris for those wanting to really immerse themselves.

1. Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs

This 4-hour hot-air balloon ride from Alice Springs offers a serene way to see the Outback at dawn. You’ll drift over the MacDonnell Ranges and spot native wildlife, including the iconic Red Kangaroo, all while enjoying the tranquility of the early morning sky. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a big plus. The experience is rated 5.0/5 by 426 reviews, with a price of around $265.70 per person. Most people rave about how professional and friendly the staff are, and how spectacular the sunrise views are. The light refreshments and sparkling wine after landing make the experience even more special. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a peaceful, visually stunning start to their Outback adventure.

Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience and don’t mind an early start, this balloon tour is hard to beat. It offers excellent value and a chance to see the Outback from a unique perspective.

2. From Alice Springs: Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner

This full-day tour explores Uluru and surrounds, with visits to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, guided walks, and scenic viewpoints. It includes transport, so you won’t need to worry about driving, and provides insights you won’t find in a guidebook. The highlight is the Uluru sunset, complete with sparkling wine and a BBQ dinner. Rated 4.7/5 by 743 reviews, it’s priced to reflect its comprehensive itinerary and comfort. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off. The tour also includes stops at Mount Connor and Mutitjulu Waterhole, giving a well-rounded experience of Uluru’s landscape and significance.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full, comfortable day focusing on Uluru and Aboriginal culture, with memorable sunset views and great food.

3. Alice Springs: Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight

For around 4 hours, this hot-air balloon experience offers the chance to drift silently over the Outback at dawn. You can choose between a 30-minute or 60-minute flight, with the latter providing an even more immersive perspective. The tour promises stunning dawn colors and views of the rugged MacDonnell Ranges, with the chance to see native wildlife from above. The experience also includes light refreshments and sparkling wine, making it a relaxing way to start your day. With a 4.9-star rating from 242 reviews, guests love the professionalism of the guides and the breathtaking scenery.

Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers seeking a peaceful yet adventurous start to their Outback trip with unforgettable aerial views.

4. Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner

This long day trip takes you from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock (Uluru), with stops at the Cultural Centre and Mutitjulu Waterhole. It’s a guided experience with Uluru base walks and insights into Aboriginal traditions. The journey includes a scenic drive, and you’ll enjoy a sunset view with a BBQ dinner and drinks. Rated 4.5/5 by 639 reviews, many comment on the long but rewarding day and the expert guides. The trip is perfect for those wanting a deep Uluru experience without needing to spend multiple nights away. Be prepared for a long day—about 18 hours—but the scenery and cultural richness make it worthwhile.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to see Uluru from Alice Springs in one day, with the bonus of sunset sights and a tasty BBQ.

5. Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket

This family-friendly venue offers a chance to explore the central Australian desert at your own pace. The ticket includes access to native wildlife enclosures, daily bird-of-prey shows, and Aboriginal cultural displays. It’s a great way to learn about desert flora and fauna and is rated 5.0/5 by 150 reviews. It’s also very affordable at just $16, with flexible hours ranging from 3 to 8 hours. Visitors love the bird show and the opportunity to see endangered animals up close. The Nocturnal House is especially popular, giving a different view of desert life at night.

Bottom Line: Perfect for families or travelers wanting a relaxed, educational experience about the desert environment.

6. Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon Camping Safari from Alice Springs

This 3-day camping safari combines Uluru, Kings Canyon, and Kata Tjuta with guided treks, sunrise, and sunset visits. The tour features glamping-style accommodations, delicious meals, and small group sizes (162 reviews, rated 5.0). Highlights include guided walks at each site and the chance to sit around campfires under starry skies. It’s ideal for travelers eager to immerse themselves over several days. Some reviews mention the basic but comfortable camping, and the expert guides making the trip truly memorable.

Bottom Line: A great choice if you want a deeper, multi-day experience with comfortable camping and guided hikes.

7. From Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip

This 9-hour tour covers Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and the Ochre Pits, with a focus on nature walks and Aboriginal sites. The tour includes comfortable transport, and guests love the informative guides and stunning scenery. It’s rated 4.7/5 and offers a full day of exploring remote landscapes without the hassle of self-driving. Highlights include the scenic walk at Simpsons Gap and the Ochre Pits with their vibrant colors, offering a real sense of the landscape’s cultural significance.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting a thorough day trip with a mix of nature and culture.

8. Alice Springs Camel Tour

This 2.5-hour camel ride is a fun way to experience the Outback with views of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. You can choose between an afternoon or sunset departure, and hotel pickup is included. The ride is described as calm and peaceful, with some reviews mentioning spotting wild kangaroos along the way. The tour costs about $64.55 per person. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, authentic desert adventure—plus, camels are surprisingly comfortable to ride.

Bottom Line: Excellent for a relaxed, memorable adventure that combines wildlife spotting and stunning scenery.

9. West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip from Alice Springs

This 10-hour tour takes you through Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Ellery Creek Big Hole, offering guided walks and swimming in waterholes. Rated 4.5/5, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day in nature. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, and the stops at key sites make for a balanced day of sightseeing and relaxation.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a full day exploring the highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges comfortably.

10. Uluru: 4-Day Rock to Rock Adventure Tour

This 4-day tour offers an in-depth experience, including sunset and sunrise views, guided hikes, and nights camping under the stars. It’s rated 4.9/5 from 128 reviews and provides a good mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Highlights include the Valley of the Winds hike at Kata Tjuta and witnessing Uluru from different angles. It’s best suited for travelers with multiple days available who want to truly immerse themselves.

Bottom Line: Ideal for dedicated travelers wanting a comprehensive, multi-day Outback experience with a mix of hikes and cultural insights.

11. 3 Day Red Centre Kata Tjuta Kings Canyon Outback ex. Alice Springs

This 3-day tour combines Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta, and Uluru, with guided walks, campfire evenings, and the choice to sleep under the stars or in safari tents. Rated 5.0/5, it offers a well-rounded adventure and is perfect for those wanting to see the most iconic sites in the Red Centre. The itinerary includes dawn and dusk viewing, and all meals and accommodations are included.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a balance of guided exploration and camping, with comprehensive cultural and natural experiences.

12. West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Day Trip from Alice Springs

Rated 5.0/5, this 10-hour full-day trip emphasizes nature walks, swimming in waterholes, and learning about Aboriginal culture. Stops include Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge, with guided walks and plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the small group size and knowledgeable guides. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting to see multiple scenic sites in one day without rushing.

Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want a well-organized, detailed day of outdoor exploration.

13. From Alice Spring: West MacDonnell Ranges Half-Day Tour

This 260-minute tour is perfect for travelers short on time who want a taste of the West MacDonnell Ranges. It visits Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and Honeymoon Gap, with a good balance of walking and sightseeing. It’s rated 4.7/5 and offers a good value for those with limited time.

Bottom Line: Ideal as an introduction or quick escape into the landscape surrounding Alice Springs.

14. Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour

Rated 5.0/5, this 1-hour night tour offers a rare chance to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. The small group setting and expert guides make it a memorable experience. Visitors love the close animal encounters, especially with Mala and other native creatures. It’s a perfect way to see a different side of the desert environment.

Bottom Line: Recommended for those interested in wildlife and night-time photography, or wanting a quieter, more intimate experience.

15. Alice Springs: West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour

This 10.5-hour tour covers gorges, waterholes, and Aboriginal sites with swimming, walking, and sightseeing. It’s rated 4.8/5, and its highlights include Ellery Creek, Standley Chasm, and Ormiston Gorge. Guests appreciate the comprehensive itinerary and the knowledgeable guide who makes the landscape come alive.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a full, active day exploring the natural and cultural highlights of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

How to Choose the Best Tour for You

When selecting your Alice Springs experience, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic start, the Early Morning Ballooning is an excellent choice. For a deep dive into Uluru and Aboriginal culture, the Day Trip with BBQ offers comfort and insight. If you want to immerse in nature and wildlife, tours like the West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip or Alice Springs Desert Park are ideal.

For those with multiple days, the camping safaris and multi-day adventures (Uluru 4-Day Tour, 3-Day Red Centre) provide a richer experience. Book early, especially for popular trips like the Uluru tours, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth trip.

Final Thoughts

Alice Springs offers a wide variety of tours and experiences, from peaceful balloon rides to intense multi-day adventures. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a seasoned explorer, you’ll find options tailored to your interests and pace. For a tranquil start, try the early morning balloon, while the Uluru multi-day trips are perfect for those craving deep immersion. Whatever you choose, booking in advance is wise to get the best dates and secure your spot.

Now is the time to start planning — the Outback awaits with its vast landscapes and stories. Make your choice, pack your sense of adventure, and enjoy exploring one of Australia’s most iconic regions.