australian outback - Inspired Adventures

With most Australians living within 50 kilometres of the coast, it would be easy to assume that seaside wonders are Australia’s greatest natural asset. However, turn 180 degrees and start heading inland and you’ll soon discover a vastly different beauty: the uniquely red, undulating desert that is Australia’s Red—and it will leave you breathless.

From Uluru to Kakadu, the Australian Outback is staggering, its stillness and grace bringing peace to even the most frenzied traveller. The unique red rocks that are so distinct and iconic to the Outback are humbling, both in size and their seemingly random occurrence; you sense the power of nature, as well as the history and culture behind this vast landscape.

Anyone who has walked the base of Uluru will tell you how overwhelming small you begin to feel – not in an insignificant way, but rather as part of a realisation that we as human beings are a small part of an enormous and beautiful picture. For anyone who travels to Uluru it is an awe-inspiring experience. For Australians, it’s an even greater honour to stand at the base of a stunning formation that holds so much significance to modern Australians, as well as the traditional owners of the land.

Natural beauty aside, the Australian Outback gives an unparalleled insight into the original custodians of this land. I found my first trip to the Outback both revealing and touching – what I thought I knew about our Indigenous Australians was overtaken by reality as I realised how little I knew about this amazing culture and their history. Not only did I learn about the Dreamtime, the significance of rock paintings, artistic expression, and the connection to land, I also came to understand the modern reality of many Indigenous Australians for whom life is rapidly changing, and rarely easy. This is an idea that I took away from my Outback experience and something I will never forget.

There are many ways to experience the Australian Outback, from guided tours to creating your own bespoke adventure. Some of the best journeys include trekking the Larapinta Trail, trekking in Kakadu National Park, visit the Kimberley or travel from south to north Australian on The Ghan.

And once you’re there – how do you make the most of your Outback adventure? Approach it without any expectations, breathe in the beauty of this breath-taking land, and make sure to engage with the wonderful local communities!

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The Larapinta Trail is regarded as one of Australia’s premier walking tracks. From the old Alice Springs Telegraph Station to the peak of Mount Sonder, the trail stretches 223 kilometres along the backbone of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

You will stand on ancient escarpments and gaze out upon the ochre-coloured landscapes of Central Australia, and follow Aboriginal Dreaming tracks and trek beside one of the world’s oldest river systems.

By day, you will experience the diversity of desert habitats and learn the unique history of Australia’s Indigenous peoples. At night, you will fall asleep to the sounds of native wildlife under a blanket of stars.

Day 1: Alice Springs

Welcome to Alice Springs! On our first day in the Aussie Outback, we have the opportunity to explore this ruggedly beautiful town and get familiar with our surroundings.

Day 2: Simpsons Gap

From the outskirts of Alice Springs, we trek to Simpsons Gap, taking in the sweeping views of Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges from Euro Ridge. From Simpsons Gap, we transfer by private vehicle to our remote campsite on the Hugh River. Here, the true experience begins as we rest in a region synonymous with the dreamtime (Alcheringa) of the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people.

Trekking distance: 20km

Day 3: Serpentine Gorge – Serpentine Chalet Dam

This morning we transfer to the western section of the Larapinta Trail. Today’s trek is more challenging, however we are continuously rewarded with spectacular views of the high quartzite ridgelines that typify the West MacDonnell Ranges, including Haasts Bluff and Mount Zeil, the highest point in the Northern Territory.

Trekking distance: 13.4km

Day 4: Ormiston Gorge – Glen Helen

Today we traverse the low-lying regions surrounding Ormiston Gorge, gradually winding through rolling limestone hills towards the back reaches of the Finke River—one of the world’s oldest river systems. With majestic scenery from start to finish, this area is steeped in traditional folklore. As we trek, we are rewarded with spectacular views of Mount Sonder in the distance.

Trekking distance: 9.9km

Day 5: Mount Sonder

Today we transfer from camp to Redbank Gorge at the base of Mount Sonder (1,380m). The climb to the summit is arduous along a rocky and loose path. However, once again, our efforts are rewarded with incredible 360° views of the ranges, plains, valleys and salt lakes below. Take time to catch your breath and bask in the grandeur of the desert landscape.

Trekking Distance: 15.8km

Day 6: Ormiston Pound Circuit – Alice Springs

Today trek the Ormiston Pound circuit. Punctuating the West MacDonnell Ranges, this circuit is regarded as one of the best small walks of the Larapinta Trail and offers sensational views of the Chewings Range and Mount Giles. Although relatively short, the trek is quite challenging and takes approximately four hours to complete. Setting off, the trail winds around low peaks before descending into the ‘pound’, a flat area enclosed by a ring of mountains.

Trekking distance: 5km

Photos courtesy of Theresa Lord