Turn your Parrtjima trip into the holiday of a lifetime in the heart of Australia.

The town of Alice Springs is only a few hours’ flying time from most Australian capital cities and famous for its beautiful desert landscapes, colourful outback characters, opportunities for adventure, and unique Aboriginal culture.

Whether you are staying for a day or a week, we’ve got you covered to make the most out of your time with us.

Remember, it’s free to register at Parrtjima – A Festival in Light.

Diving into Alice (24 hours)

Rise early and greet the desert dawn floating peacefully over the landscape with Outback Ballooning. Once your feet are firmly back on the ground, tuck into a breakfast at Page 27, just off Todd Mall in the CBD. Next stop is Alice Springs Desert Park where you can easily spend two to three hours wandering through ancient landscapes and getting up close with desert animals.

Spend a leisurely afternoon at the Araluen Arts Centre to gain a real understanding of the history, art and culture of Central Australia, and learn about Aboriginal Dreaming and Indigenous people’s connection to the land. Round off your epic day with an evening of star gazing at Earth Sanctuary where guides take you on an entertaining and informative night-sky journey.

New horizons (3 Days)

Nestled between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs is the ideal place to enjoy a long weekend adventure.

Head out to the Telegraph Station and discover the town’s history or visit the country’s largest classroom at the Alice Springs School of the Air visitor centre.

Immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture along the Territory Arts Trail and get among the interactive displays at the Royal Flying Doctor Service visitor centre.

Make sure you spend a day visiting some of the many local waterholes. It’s hard to believe you’re in the desert when you take a dip in Ormiston Gorge, fringed by a beach of white sand.

Drive the Red Centre (7 days)

Make a marathon out of it and go the scenic route, taking in spectacular scenery, swimming holes and walks along the way. Either self-drive in a hire car or book a tour. It’s nothing like your normal road trip.

Take a lap of Australia’s red heart along the Red Centre Way loop road from Alice Springs and explore the diverse sights of the region, including the iconic Uluru. The Outback Way travels through Central Australia on a four-wheel-drive adventure you’ll never forget, with legendary landscapes, bold colours and impressive night skies. 

For more ideas on what to do in the Red Centre, visit Discover Central Australia.

Planning your trip

Looking for inspiration?

Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple or with your family, our partners, Travel Associates, have crafted exclusive packages to enhance your Parrtjima experience in 2023.

Exciting opportunities include a painting and historic tour at Hermannsburg, and getting up close and personal with endangered animals on a sunset and nocturnal tour at Alice Springs Desert Park.

Be one of the first to see the Parrtjima light installations and MacDonnell Ranges Light Show at the special Preview Night. This event includes an exclusive introduction and Welcome to Country, as well as delicious bush-food canapés, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages.

There’s also the chance to learn about the cultural meanings of bush foods and medicines of the local Arrernte people on the Merne Tour. Held at Alice Springs Desert Park, this is a one-of-a-kind tour.

Visit Travel Associates to find out more.