Westminster WestQuest Larapinta Expedition 2027

A rewarding and challenging desert trek

Feeling on top of the world as we descend down Brinkley Bluff. | Linda Murden

Sunrise walk on Mt Sonder | #cathyfinchphotography

Rocky trail views trekking through Larapinta | Linda Murden

Enjoy the remote nature of the Larapinta Trail on our self guided walk

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views along the Larapinta Trail | Gavin Yeates

Standley Chasm has a magnificent display of colours and forms at different times of the day | Gavin Yeates

Dawn ascent of Mt Sonder | Brad Atwal

Feeling on top of the world as we descend down Brinkley Bluff. | Linda Murden

Sunrise walk on Mt Sonder | #cathyfinchphotography

Rocky trail views trekking through Larapinta | Linda Murden

Enjoy the remote nature of the Larapinta Trail on our self guided walk

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views along the Larapinta Trail | Gavin Yeates

Standley Chasm has a magnificent display of colours and forms at different times of the day | Gavin Yeates

Dawn ascent of Mt Sonder | Brad Atwal

Code: SOG7403

Overview

Highlights

Walking consecutive days of Australia's iconic desert walk
Summit Mount Sonder
Wilderness camping under the stars of the Australian Outback
Rewarding and challenging expedition with your peers
Learning leadership skills and positive risk making decisions

This full pack carrying expedition program takes you through narrow canyons, stunning gorges and forests of mulga and mallee, over high ridgelines and around idyllic waterholes, spending each night under the expansive star-filled Outback sky. It is an incredible opportunity to truly appreciate the immensely diverse and unique landscapes, flora and fauna of Australia’s Red Centre. On this program you will walk consecutive days on the Larapinta Trail and summit spectacular Mount Sonder. Under the guidance and supervision of experienced and qualified wilderness guides, and your accompanying teachers you will gain a deeper understanding and insight into this unique environment. World Expeditions are pioneers of this iconic trek and provide incomparable local knowledge.

Countries:

Start and Finishing Point:

Adelaide

Activities:

Grading:Moderate to Challenging

Itinerary

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Day 1
Fly to Alice Springs, trip preparations

After months of preparation, our expedition begins as we fly to Alice Springs and meet our World Expeditions Schools wilderness guides. Following a detailed trip briefing, gear check and safety session, we begin one of the most important parts of expedition life: planning and preparing our food for the trail. We have time to visit local supermarkets, purchase supplies, organise menus and pack food into easy-to-access daily rations. Throughout the afternoon we work together to ensure our packs are organised and ready for the days ahead. Tonight we settle into camp knowing the adventure is about to begin. Overnight Discovery Parks Campground with toilets and showers

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Transfer to Ormiston Gorge. Hike Ormiston Pound Loop and on to Finke River. 17km

This morning we travel into the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges and begin our expedition with the Ormiston Pound Loop. This relatively gentle circuit is the perfect introduction to the Larapinta Trail, allowing us to ease into the walking, test our pack setup and make any final adjustments before the longer days ahead. Along the way we pass towering red cliffs, ghost gums, rocky creek beds and panoramic lookouts across the vast natural amphitheatre of Ormiston Pound. After completing the loop, we join the Larapinta Trail and continue towards the Finke River through open desert country and rugged ridgelines. Tonight we camp beside one of the world's oldest river systems beneath a sky filled with stars. Overnight Finke River Campsite Total: 17km, Elevation: 275m

Meals: Nil

Day 3
Hike Finke River to Rocky Bar Gap. 15.5km

Today we venture deeper into the heart of Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park as we trek from the Finke River to Rocky Bar Gap. The trail winds through ancient mountain landscapes, crossing dry creek lines and traversing rocky slopes that reveal stunning views across the surrounding ranges. We pass through country dotted with spinifex, desert oaks and hardy native plants that thrive in this challenging environment. As the kilometres pass beneath our boots, we develop our expedition skills, resilience and teamwork while experiencing the sense of remoteness that makes the Larapinta Trail one of Australia's most iconic wilderness walks. Overnight Rocky Bar gap campsite. 15.5km, Elevation: 480m

Meals: Nil

Day 4
Rocky Bar gap to Redbank Gorge. Walk to and explore upper gorge. 15km

Our journey continues through changing landscapes as we follow the Larapinta Trail towards Redbank Gorge. Along the way we move beneath rugged ridgelines and through wide valleys framed by the dramatic peaks of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Upon reaching Redbank Gorge, we have the opportunity to explore this stunning natural feature, where towering quartzite cliffs rise above cool waterholes hidden within the gorge. The contrast between the harsh desert environment and the sheltered gorge ecosystem is remarkable. After enjoying the area and preparing our gear for tomorrow's challenge, we settle in for an early night as we prepare for our pre-dawn departure to Mount Sonder. Overnight Redbank Gorge Larapinta campsite Trek 15km, Elevation: 124m

Meals: Nil

Day 5
Redbank Gorge to Mount Sonder Summit return (sunrise). 16km. Head back to Alice via Ellery Creek

Before most people are awake, we begin our ascent of Mount Sonder under the stars. Climbing steadily through the darkness, we reach the summit in time to watch the sunrise spread across the vast landscapes of Central Australia. From the top, sweeping views stretch across the desert plains, rugged ranges and sections of the Larapinta Trail we have spent days exploring. After celebrating our achievement and descending back to camp, we enjoy a well-earned rest before transferring back to Alice Springs via Ellery Creek. Tonight we reflect on the challenges overcome and the incredible journey we have completed together. Overnight Discovery Parks Camping Ground with toilets and showers Trek 16km, Elevation: 717m

Meals: Nil

Day 6
Depending on flight time Desert Park visit, transfer to airport fly to Adelaide

Depending on flight schedules, we may visit the Alice Springs Desert Park for a fascinating introduction to the plants, animals and environments that define Central Australia. Through interactive displays and exhibits, we gain a deeper understanding of the landscapes we have travelled through and the species that call the Red Centre home. We then transfer to the airport and begin our journey home, taking with us new skills, stronger friendships and unforgettable memories from our Larapinta expedition.

Meals: Nil

Learning outcomes for students

World Expeditions Schools journeys are designed to encourage positive personal development and the learning of life skills, while leaving the communities and environments we travel to, in a better condition than when we arrived.
The programs are designed to:
• Build strong friendships and bonds with their peers, their teachers, and the local people they meet.
• Increase the confidence to engage with new people, and collaboratively make informed decisions.
• Discover the benefits of working cooperatively together as a cohesive team, to achieve a common objective.
• Increase the ability to face, and cope with, mental and physical challenges and therefore increase resilience.
• Give students a chance to appreciate and care for the natural world. The environments we travel through are beautiful and often pristine, invariably the students will gain a deeper appreciation and understanding about how their individual actions impact on the environment.
• Learn personal skills i.e., time management, personal hygiene, responsibility for personal gear, patience, tolerance, and public speaking.
We help encourage students to learn what it means to be a true global citizen.

Inclusions

What's included

Return economy flights Adelaide to Alice
Two professional Wilderness Guides from World Expeditions Schools
Two teachers travelling from Westminster School
Off-road transport to/from Alice Springs to start/finish of your trek
All National Park and camping fees
Complete set of Larapinta Trail maps and route descriptions
Accommodation as per itinerary
Cooking fuel and washing tubs and first aid equipment

What's not included

Personal and camp gear and clothing - detailed packing list supplied
Travel insurance
All meals

Accommodation

Outback Camping

For the duration of the trip you will camp at public campsites located at the beginning of each trail section. Using your lightweight tents, sleeping bags and mats; this makes for a true Australian Outback experience! You will be able to retreat to the privacy of a tent after a day of exploration on the trail, and an evenings of stargazing. At each campsite you will find basic facilities nearby, including composting toilets and water tanks.

Trail Surface

Expect rocky, uneven surfaces

While the Larapinta Trail is a well-marked, well-defined track, walkers should still expect parts of the trail to be very rocky underfoot.

This may focus your concentration on avoiding stones, so make sure you train with some rock-hopping before you go to be comfortable with this type of terrain.

We strongly recommend investing in proper hiking boots with good support for both the foot and ankle.

The trail can be steep in some sections, which will require you to use your hands when descending or ascending, and is overgrown with spinifex in places, so gaiters or hiking pants are recommended.

There is not a lot of shade along the trail and you will be exposed to the sun for the majority of your walking hours.

Grading

Moderate to Challenging

This trek involves walking each day over rugged terrain with some steep ascents and descents. The trail conditions of the Larapinta Trail are rocky, rugged, hard surfaced and dry. While a number of sections of the trail wind through open plains, undulating areas and relatively flat country, overall, the trail is characterised by rocky, stony and mountainous terrain which can rise from 680m above sea level to more than 1,200m along some sections. This trek should not be underestimated as it can be tough and challenging. You will need a good level of fitness and must be in good health. You will be carrying a full pack of around 15-20kg and should be prepared for potential variable weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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?What sections of the Larapinta Trail will I walk?

The choice is yours! You can walk any 9 consecutive days of the Larapinta Trail. An example is included above, but a full list is provided in the trip notes. When booking please let us know which 9 consecutive days you would like to walk.

?When is the best time to walk on the Larapinta?

Our Larapinta Trail trekking season runs from April to September, when trekking conditions are most favourable. Winter is arguably the best time to experience the Larapinta Trail, as it offers prime trekking conditions, more stable temperatures and endlessly blue days.

?Is there phone reception on the trail?

Not frequently. Sporadic reception can be received depending on your carrier, but generally only for the first day and when on top of Mt Sonder. You will be provided with an EPIRB to use in an emergency.

?Will I be able to charge my devices?

It is not possible to charge your devices. We advise carrying extra sets of batteries for your cameras and/or portable chargers.

?Do you recommend hiking poles?

Hiking poles can definitely assist you with going up and down the inclines and for stability. If you have not used them previously, we recommend that you do some training with them before you head out on the hike.

?What can I do with my excess luggage?

Any excess luggage can be stored at your pre/post tour accommodation in Alice Springs.

?How much weight will I carry?

You will need to carry all of your gear for this trek in a 70L pack. Depending on the amount of personal gear you bring, your pack will weigh approximately 15kg – 20kg. Food drops are located at Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge for your convenience (if applicable to the sections of trek you choose to walk).

?Do I need to wear hiking boots on the Larapinta Trail?

Yes. The terrain on this trek is rugged, and the Quartzite rocks are famous for shredding even the most trusted old pair of hiking boots. For your comfort, you must have high supported boots with a heavy duty grip. There are lots of rocky, uneven and unstable sections, so ankle support will be beneficial.

?When should I arrive in Alice Springs?

You must arrive in Alice Springs the day before your trek begins. The trip commences with a COMPULSORY pre-departure briefing in the afternoon on the day before departure. It is ESSENTIAL that you make your travel arrangements to enable you to attend this briefing.

?Am I suitable for a self guided walk?

If you are an experienced walker and prefer the solitude of a self-guided trek, we offer trail head transfers. Please note that the trail is truly remote, with minimal mobile phone coverage. This option should only be considered by well-resourced trekkers with significant wilderness experience.

?How fit do I need to be?

You will need an excellent level of fitness for this trek on the Larapinta. You need to be capable and prepared for long, fast paced walks. Previous experience on multi day walks is highly recommended. If you have any questions about your suitability please give us a call and speak with one of our staff members. We are more than happy to discuss additional information about what you can expect.

?What is the terrain like?

A majority of the terrain on the Larapinta Trail is rough and rocky, particularly on high ground, in gorges, creek and river beds. The ground is often distorted with embedded or loose rock depending on the trail variations.

The trail conditions of the Larapinta Trail are rocky, rugged, hard surfaced and dry. While a number of sections of the trail wind through open plains, undulating areas and relatively flat country, overall, the trail is characterised by rocky, stony and mountainous terrain which can rise from 680m above sea level to more than 1,200m along some sections.

?What is the weather like?

Autumn (April and May) - Trekking conditions in autumn are pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 12-27C. Unlike the winter months when evenings become quite chilly, autumn evenings are cool and trekkers can comfortably pull their swag out from their tents and sleep outside under the blanket of stars. While the official wet season is over, you can still expect rain up until late May, as well as some cloud coverage during these months.

Winter (June to August) - During the daytime, temperatures hover at low-mid 20C with refreshingly cool breezes, however evenings temperatures can drop close to 0C, particularly in the valleys, and the frost that covers the ground can create a snow-like appearance. Many people are surprised to find out how cold it can get in the middle of winter, so trekkers need to make sure they are adequately prepared for cold nights with insulated sleeping bags, beanies, gloves and thermal underwear.

Spring (September) - Temperatures in September begin to rise leading to sporadic thunderstorms which creates the perfect environment for the landscape to come alive with wildflowers and lowline flowering shrubs. With cooler temperatures suitable for hiking, and clear skies for picture-perfect sunsets, it's no surprise that September is a popular season to trek the Larapinta Trail.

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