The essence of the Australian Outback

Capture the essence of the Australian Outback along one of this vast country’s most stunning and diverse walks - The Larapinta Trail. This time of year sees the perfect conditions for actively exploring these great desert landscapes – some of the Northern Territory’s most untouched outback wilderness.

Ranked by National Geographic in the top 20 trekking experiences to be had on the planet, the route extends 223 kilometres along the spine of the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges from the frontier town of Alice Springs to Mt Sonder.

The dramatic and varied desert scenery of this region is like nowhere else on earth, and best explored on foot. Trekkers can complete the entire trail in around fourteen days or tackle shorter one and two day sections of the walk. Beginning at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station, the trail meanders through an outstanding ensemble of rich colours and culture, scenic waterholes, and rocky outcrops descending into narrow canyons and spectacular gorges.

Highlights include; Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen Gorge and the Finke River Gorge - reputed to be the world’s oldest river bed. The trail culminates at the highest point, Mt Sonder (1380m), rewarding those who climb it with uninterrupted panoramic views that put into perspective the sheer scale of this ancient land.

Visitors can cool off in one of the many picturesque swimming holes that are found along the Trail such as Simpsons Gap which offers a permanent pool and is home to native rock wallabies that inhabit the Gap’s rocky ridges. At night camp under the stars, a highlight of the Larapinta experience.

These Red Centre landscapes are brought to life by the stories which the local people recount; the local Arrernte people believe that the ranges were made by giant caterpillars called the Yeperenye who rose up to become the Ranges! Referred to as the ‘Dreamtime’, these stories are the gateway to understanding the rich history and beliefs of the Aboriginal people.

A trek along the Larapinta offers exceptional outback experience, its stories, and the people that make this region what it is, a natural vast paradise touched by history, heritage and beauty.

Book a seven day Classic Larapinta Experience with World Expeditions, (worldexpeditions.co.uk) from £950pp. Starting at the Telegraph Station, the walk covers Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek, Serpentines Gorge, Ormiston Gorge and the Finke River. The walk will appeal to the avid walker, covering 10 to 15 kilometres each day.

Package includes all camping equipment, food and utensils, entrance fees to National Parks, off-road transport from Alice Springs and full vehicle support. Departs Sundays and Wednesdays from April to September and excludes international flights. Other tours available with World Expeditions include the three day Larapinta Experience, seven day Art Expedition Larapinta and the 14 day Larapinta End to End Tour.

Follow on screen adventurous trekker, Zoe Palmer, led by a World Expeditions guide, as she embarks on an incredible journey along the Larapinta Trail on National Geographic’s Treks in a Wild World - pilotguides.com/tv_shows/treks_in_a_wild_world/shows/northern-territories.php