About this tour
Spend seven hours exploring Central Australia's geological landmarks and colonial history west of Alice Springs. You'll walk through Simpson's Gap to spot rock wallabies, navigate the narrow sandstone corridor of Standley Chasm, visit the School of the Air radio classroom, and tour the Telegraph Station—the site of European settlement in the Red Centre. Hotel pickups included; travel by air-conditioned coach with a knowledgeable guide.
Highlights
- Rock wallabies among Simpson's Gap's ochre cliffs
- Standley Chasm's sun-lit sandstone walls at midday
- School of the Air—outback education via radio (weekdays only)
- Telegraph Station's 1870s pioneering infrastructure
- West MacDonnell Ranges' layered red escarpments
- Guided walk through rugged Outback terrain
- Comprehensive coach commentary on local geology and history
What to expect
Your guide will meet you at your hotel and drive you west into the ranges. At Simpson's Gap, you'll walk among weathered rock formations where wallabies shelter in cooler months. Next is Standley Chasm, a narrow gorge famous for its midday light display bouncing off rust-coloured walls—bring a camera. The School of the Air stop (weekdays only) shows how remote children learn via radio connection. Finally, the Telegraph Station reveals how Europeans established a foothold here in the 1870s. Expect 2–3 hours of walking on uneven terrain, but the pace suits all fitness levels.
Good to know
You must pre-purchase an NT Park Pass online (AUD 10 adult, AUD 5 child). Bring enclosed shoes, sunscreen, and water. School of the Air closes weekends and public holidays. Lunch isn't included; eat at Standley Chasm Cafe or bring your own. Flynet useful in summer; layers advisable in winter.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.