Bounce about the rugged landscape of Finke Gorge National Park, which includes Palm Valley, in a 4WD coach vehicle on a full-day trip from Alice Springs. Sit back and take in sights such as the Finke River, a natural stone amphitheater, and rock formations from Kalarranga Lookout. There will be a break for lunch in the Hermannsburg Historic Precinct where you can learn about notable Aboriginal community members such as the late painter Albert Namatjira.
Start your day with early morning pickup from your Alice Springs hotel, then travel about two hours by air-conditioned 4WD coach through the West MacDonnell Ranges. Throughout the day expect informative commentary about the geology, as well as
the plant and animal life in the area, from your guide.
Stop to stretch your legs in the heritage-listed Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, then continue into Finke Gorge National Park. After morning tea in Palm Valley, which is located in the park, hop back in your 4WD vehicle. Follow the Finke River along a sandy track that is surrounded by spectacular rock formations.
Palm Valley is named for the some 3,000 red cabbage palms found only here. See the trees in addition to other species of cycads and palms on a guided walk. From there, the 4WD vehicle takes you to Kalarranga Lookout. Hop out here for another guided stroll of less than a mile (1.5 km). Panoramic views of sculptural sandstone hills, rugged cliffs and natural stone towers create some great backdrops for photos.
Return to the Hermannsburg Historic Precinct where you can enjoy a ploughman’s lunch (think cheeses and bread). German Lutherans established Hermannsburg in 1877, making it the first Aboriginal mission in the Northern Territory. After lunch, stroll through historic Lutheran
mission buildings and learn about the importance of this area to the Western
Arrernte Aboriginal people.
One of the most interesting local history lessons takes place at the home of the late Albert Namatjira, an acclaimed watercolor artist who lived in the mission. You'll also get to see his art in the local art gallery.
In the late afternoon, board your coach for the drive back to Alice Springs. Your tour ends with drop-off at your Alice Springs hotel in the early evening.
Great fun . Guide was very knowledgeable and the landscape very interesting and amazing
Review by: Marta C, July 2017
Great tour, nice walk in Palm valley
Review by: Jane M, May 2017
Really enjoyed our day trip. Were picked up promptly and had a very informative and interesting day with a delicious meal complete with pet parrot and culminated with a swim in a waterhole. A superb day to be remembered always.
Review by: pd.kay, September 2016
A fantastic full day tour in 4WD. Brilliant guide! Extremely well organised with food and drinks. Adequate time to do longer walks if needed. Great morning tea at Hermannsberg! Loved the wonderful landscape and certainly was value for money!