Australian Multi-day Tour

Larapinta Pack-Free Hiking

Experience one of Australia’s most iconic long-distance hikes on a fully supported 8-day women’s adventure. If you’ve always wanted to hike the Larapinta Trail but didn’t want the challenge of carrying a full trekking pack or setting up camp each night, this trip offers the perfect balance.

Destination Northern Territory, Australia

Duration 8 Days

Price From $5,490

Departs 14 May 2028

Group Size 16 Max

Overview

Explore the Larapinta Trail with AW

Experience one of Australia’s most iconic long-distance hikes, on an eight day adventure that strikes the perfect balance of challenge and comfort.

We’ll explore the best sections of the Larapinta Trail, with six days of hiking through rugged ridgelines, dramatic gorges, remote desert landscapes, peaceful waterholes, and sacred Aboriginal sites. Daily hikes range from 8- 17 km and are graded moderate to difficult, with some steep climbs and descents.

This is a fully supported, pack-free adventure. You’ll only carry a day pack each day with your water, snacks and sun protection, while our crew transports your luggage and takes care of the rest. At night, enjoy comfort camping with a single safari-style tent, bed with mattress, hearty meals, and campfires under the stars- as well as composting toilet and basic shower facilities.

Supported by an experienced Adventurous Women Tour Leader and professional trekking guides, this is an empowering outback adventure shared with like-minded women. We’ll gather in Alice Springs before and after the trek to begin and celebrate our Larapinta experience together.

Fitness/Walk Grade

This trip includes consecutive days of hiking, with distances of up to 17 km per day. Trail conditions include a mix of rocky, stony, mountainous terrain as well as open plains.

Advanced training is required for this trip, starting at least 3 months before the hike. Focus on being able to comfortably walk for a full day, and then repeat that effort on back-to-back days with a weighted pack. This is often where the challenge lies, as the cumulative effect of several days of walking can feel more demanding if your body isn’t used to it. You’ll also need to be comfortable on uneven terrain, so including bush walking is recommended.

Pack-free hiking - your luggage moves with you
Wineglass Bay sunrise lookout walk
Freycinet National Park kayak with playful seals
Local Tasmanian produce at every meal
Comfortable lodge accommodation, not camping
Small group of like-minded women, max 14

Hiking the iconic Larapinta (credit_ Luke Tscharke) — Experience Australia’s iconic Larapinta Trail, with its rugged beauty and diverse landscapes. Image credit: Luke Tscharke

Day 1 Sun 14 May Alice Springs - Group Meeting & Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Alice Springs! At 5.30pm, the group will gather for a trip briefing followed by a welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Alice Springs

Day 2 Mon 15 May Alice Springs Telegraph Station - Wallaby Gap (14km)

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the eastern trailhead of the Larapinta Trail to begin our hiking adventure through the stunning landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Today’s walk takes us through mulga scrub and bird-filled woodlands before climbing onto Euro Ridge, where sweeping views stretch back toward Alice Springs and the surrounding desert ranges.

We’ll also pass through the dramatic natural formation of Wallaby Gap before transferring to our comfort camping accommodation for the next two evenings, set among desert oaks with views of the Heavitree Range.

Hiking distance: 14 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Single Tent (Comfort camping)

Day 3 Tues 16 May Wallaby Gap-Simpsons Gap (7km); Visit Standley Chasm (2km)

Today we continue west along the Larapinta Trail, hiking through shady woodlands of Bloodwoods and Ironwoods as we make our way toward Simpsons Gap. Simpson’s Gap is one of the region’s most significant waterholes and a great place to spot Black-footed Rock Wallabies.

After the walk, we’ll transfer to the spectacular Standley Chasm, where we’ll learn more about Arrernte culture and the significance of the area from the Traditional Owners.

Following a picnic lunch, there’ll be time to explore the dramatic chasm before returning to camp.

Hiking distance: 9 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Single Tent (Comfort camping)

Day 4 Wed 17 May Serpentine Gorge - Counts Point foothills (17km)

Today we leave camp and head deeper into the remote landscapes of the Larapinta Trail. The highlight of today’s hike is the spectacular ridge walk to Counts Point, where panoramic views stretch across Central Australia to Mt Zeil, the Northern Territory’s highest peak, and Mt Sonder in the distance.

Descending through rugged ridgelines and ancient mulga woodland, we’ll continue toward our next wilderness camp. Along the way, keep an eye out for fossilised stromatolites, some of the oldest known forms of life on Earth.

Tonight, we stay at a secluded camp nestled at the foothills of Counts Point.

Hiking distance: 17 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Single Tent (Comfort camping)

Day 5 Thurs 18 May Counts Point- Inarlanga Pass - Ochre Pits- Mount Sonder (8km)

After breakfast, we continue our journey along the Larapinta Trail, hiking through the breathtaking Inarlanga (Echidna) Pass and past the historic Serpentine Chalet. Along the way, we’ll take time to appreciate the peaceful surroundings and the ancient cycad palms that thrive within the pass.

Our walk continues to a sacred Aboriginal ochre quarry, where the vibrant colours of the ochre walls create a striking contrast against the desert landscape.

After a picnic lunch, it's an easier afternoon ahead of tomorrow’s bigger hike. There’s the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing swim at Glen Helen Gorge before transferring to our camp for the next two nights at the foothills of Mt Sonder.

Hiking distance: 8 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Single Tent (Comfort camping)

Day 6 Fri 19 May Sunrise Hike up Mt Sonder (16 km)

An early start this morning sees us setting out before dawn for the climb up Mt Sonder, the highest point and official end of the Larapinta Trail. Hiking by headtorch beneath the stars, we’ll make our way to the summit in time to witness sunrise over the vast desert landscapes of Central Australia.

After taking in the panoramic views across the West MacDonnell Ranges, we’ll descend to Redbank Gorge and return to camp for a well-earned brunch. The afternoon is yours to relax, with the option to rest at camp or enjoy a swim in the nearby Finke River.

Hiking distance: 16 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Single Tent (Comfort camping)

Day 7 Sat 20 May Ormiston Pound Hike (8km) - Drive to Alice Springs

This morning we complete our Larapinta adventure with one of the trail’s most spectacular walks through Ormiston Pound. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rugged landscapes, we’ll explore the upper reaches of the gorge, keeping an eye out for Rock Wallabies, native birdlife, and soaring Wedge-tailed Eagles overhead.

The walk includes a refreshing water crossing through the gorge before we enjoy lunch and transfer back to Alice Springs, arriving in the late afternoon.

This evening, we’ll head out for a farewell dinner to celebrate an unforgettable week on the trail.

Hiking distance: 8km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Alice Springs

Day 8 Sun 21 May Departure Day

Breakfast is included at the hotel. There are no included activities today. You may leave at any time.

Meals: Breakfast

Important Notes

Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as planned, but please remember this is adventure travel and conditions can change unexpectedly. Weather, road conditions, vehicle issues, or the health of fellow travelers may require adjustments. We’ll do our best to keep things on track, but a flexible and easy-going attitude is essential for the best experience.

Occasionally, certain experiences or activities may need to be modified or skipped due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, refunds will not be provided for any missed components of the itinerary.

Our adventures are designed to be achievable and enjoyed together as a group. This relies on everyone being able to participate at a reasonable pace. If your Tour Leader has concerns that your fitness, physical or mental wellbeing, or ability to maintain the planned pace is affecting the safety, wellbeing or experience of the group, they may ask you to sit out or shorten an activity or walk. We ask that you follow your Tour Leader’s instructions so the group can continue with the planned program.

If you are unable to participate in part or all of the remaining itinerary as a result, no refund will be provided for any activities or other arrangements missed.

Your Adventurous Women Tour Leader
Two nights in a hotel in Alice Springs in a twin-share room (single room available for a surcharge)
Five nights of comfort camping along the Larapinta Trail (Safari-style, single tent with bedframe and mattress)
Professional wilderness guide and support staff at the camp
National Park fees and fees to Aboriginal Traditional Owners
Tents, beds, sheets/pillow, cooking equipment and utensils
Meals as listed in the itinerary

"Loved every minute of the trip! Organisation was great, tour leader (Jazzy) was fabulous, and the other women on the walk were just lovely"

Celia Nepal

"So well organised by the team nothing was a problem so helpful lots of fun with the other Adventurous Women"

Lorrie Ningaloo Reef

"I loved the great group of women and the variety of activities. We hiked, cooked, kayaked, met elephants, laughed, swam and ate. Marie’s knowledge of her homeland made this a memorable experience"

Michelle Cambodia

"Loved the week hiking with Anna & an inspiring group of women. Really well organised, fun, delicious food, amazing scenery. Highly recommend"

Sue Bibbulmun Track

"A stunning part of the world to hike with a special group of awesome women, led by our wonderful leader Lyn"

Tammy Japan

Good to know

Cancellation & Refunds

Cancellation by Adventurous Women:
In the event that we cancel a tour or are unable to guarantee the departure due to not meeting minimum numbers, we will provide a full refund.

Cancellation by you:

90+ days before departure - Loss of deposit (partial voucher available*)
75-89 days before departure - Loss of deposit
74 days or less before departure - Loss of all payments
No refund is available once a tour has commenced

*Multi-day tour cancellations made 90+ days before departure are eligible for a $250 voucher

We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance with trip cancellation cover for peace of mind.

View our full booking terms & conditions

The Adventurous Women Way

The magic of our trips comes from travellers bringing a supportive mindset, a go-with-the-flow attitude, and a genuine spirit of adventure.

We explore beautiful, often remote places where life moves at a different pace. Flexibility, a little humour and positivity go a long way in creating an atmosphere where everyone feels free to be themselves and make the adventure far more rewarding.

Find more about the Adventurous Women Way and travelling with AW

Exclusions

The following is not included in the cost of the tour:

Domestic flights
Transfers to/from Alice Springs airport
Hiking gear (boots, backpack, etc)
Sleeping bag
Drinks other than water
Expenses of a personal nature
Travel insurance (highly recommended)

Solo Travellers

If you’re travelling solo not to worry, you’re in good company! Many of our travellers join solo and our trips are designed to feel welcoming and supportive from the moment you arrive. It’s a great way to meet like-minded women, and friendships often form quickly along the way.

You’ll have a single tent while on the Larapinta hike and we’ll pair you with a room buddy for the two nights in Alice Springs.

If you’d prefer your own room at the hotels, this option is available for an additional supplement. You can select your rooming preference at the time of booking or reach out to us for more information.

Arrival & Departure Details

The tour begins and ends at Mercure Alice Springs Resort in Alice Springs, located approximately 15-20 minutes from the airport. Please note that airport transfers are not included.

Our group meeting will take place at 5:30pm on 14 May, so we recommend booking a flight that arrives by 4:30pm at the latest. There are no scheduled activities on 21 May, and you are free to depart at any time that day.

Who will be leading the trip?

All AW trips are accompanied by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and help you get the most out of your experience, while embracing the Adventurous Women way.

On this trip, you’ll also be joined by a wilderness hiking guide who is highly knowledgeable about the Larapinta Trail. Camp

What should I bring?

A detailed packing list will be provided closer to the tour date. The most important item is a comfortable, well-broken-in pair of boots. You’ll also need a sleeping bag and a day pack to carry water, layers and snacks while walking. (Sleeping bags are available for hire- more information will be provided at the time of booking)

Pillows, sheets and eating utensils are provided.

What's the food like? Can I request a special diet?

Meals on the trip are healthy, hearty, and surprisingly varied given the remote location. Trail snacks are also provided throughout the hike, though we recommend bringing a few of your own favourites to ensure you have the fuel and snacks your body is used to.

If you have any dietary requirements or allergies, we’ll do our best to accommodate them. Please provide as much detail as possible in advance so we can advise what level of catering is possible. In some cases, we may recommend bringing additional snacks, and for severe allergies, we’ll discuss any necessary medical precautions prior to the trip.

What are the camp sites like?

The camps feature fixed single safari-style tents with basic raised beds and comfortable mattresses. A fitted sheet and pillow are provided, but you will need to bring your own sleeping bag, as temperatures can get quite cold at night. A sleeping bag liner is recommended.

Facilities at camp are simple but comfortable. The toilets are composting toilets, and showers are traditional “bucket” showers heated over the fire. As water is brought in by tanker and is a limited resource, we kindly ask guests to keep showers short.

There are limited USB charging ports available.

Do I need to cook or pitch a tent?

No. The support team will take care of preparing the camp site and all of the cooking. However you are expected to help with the washing up after each meal.

What does pack-free hiking mean?

It’s a multi-day hiking experience where you carry only a light day pack on the trail rather than a full pack with camping gear, cooking supplies and overnight supplies. Your day pack should have space to carry 2 litres of water, a packed lunch and a layer or two of clothes or sun protection, depending on the weather!

Find out more about pack-free hiking on our blog.

Is travel insurance required?

We highly recommend travel insurance, although it is not mandatory on AW’s domestic tours. The main benefit is trip cancellation, disruption and curtailment cover. As these are not always included in standard policies, we strongly recommend checking that they are specifically covered when purchasing your insurance.

Also, please be aware that domestic travel insurance generally does not cover ambulances and evacuation. For this reason, you may also wish to ensure that you have ambulance cover through your private health insurance or through a specific state-based membership (Vic & SA).

If you are looking for a recommendation, we suggest Go Insurance. Through an affiliation with this insurer, AW receives a financial benefit. As a way of passing value back to our guests, if you purchase a policy for an AW trip through Go Insurance using this link, you will receive a 10% discount on the premium. You can learn more about this offer by clicking here.