Women’s Own Desert Trek - The Larapinta
Desert, Flora and Fauna,
More than Meets the Eye
Contrary to what many people assume, Central Australia is anything but a flat monotonous desert. Alice Springs is located at the base of the MacDonnell Ranges which stretch for over 400km in an east-west direction in parallel ridges with flat valleys between. They were formed through massive earth movements some 300 million years ago, breaking up what was then a sea bed as fossil remains testify. Being so old and weathered, generally they extend up only around 300 metres from the valley floor but are a sensational sight and more importantly, facilitate a number of permanent water holes and provide sanctuary to a large number of plant and animal species.
Just south of the West MacDonnell Ranges are the Gardener and James Ranges and a little further south-east is the George Gill Range which is home to the infamous Kings Canyon at Watarrka National Park, the site where the cult movie 'Priscilla Queen of the Desert' was shot. Another 120km or so further south-east lie Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) which rise approximately 350 and 500 metres respectively from the desert floor. The greater area around these two icons is a sandy plain with low lying sand dunes.
Even though the region of Central Australia only receives between 100 – 300 mm of rain per annum, there is still a rich and diverse range of plants and animals. A large part of this diversity can be attributed to these mountain ranges and rock formations. They can assist this diversity in a number of ways, namely; they can influence and often increase local rainfall, provide permanent or semi-permanent water holes, moderate temperatures compared to sand environments and provide shelter and refuge in caves, overhangs and crevices.
Accommodation
We like to camp in style and comfort which involves sleeping in enclosed swags or in large, wilderness style tents. A mattress, pillow, -5CC rated sleeping bags, sheets, woollen blankets are provided. A hands free headlight/torch is thoroughly recommended for after dark activities. Please note you will be required to carry your own day pack on this walk. All other equipment will be handled by our ground crew.
Tents, eskys (Coolers), pots and pans, camp ovens, utensils and crockery are all chosen for presentation and serviceability. While we do venture into the outback, it doesn’t mean we have to rough it! Your added comfort and safety adds to your overall experience and enjoyment.
Food & drinks
For breakfast you have a selection of cereals, toast with spreads, orange juice, fresh plunger coffee and black or herbal teas. For lunch we provide salad ingredients and a selection of meats for sandwiches plus fresh fruit. Dinners vary depending on the time of year but usually include chicken or other meat, fresh vegetables, sauces with pasta or rice. Bush bread (damper) will also be prepared for you on an open fire. If you have specific dietary requirements please inform our reservation staff at the time of booking so alternatives can be discussed.
Trek Guides
We pride ourselves on the very high standard of our guides. They all have a sound knowledge of our local area focusing on its history, Aboriginal culture, geology and the natural environment.
Things You Should Know
Our safaris are designed to suit active people who enjoy small group dynamics. When you are on a guided walk our guides are responsible for your well being so it is important you have a reasonable fitness level and are able to stay with the group whilst on all walks.
Our safaris do require a degree of participation with the preparation of meals, loading and unloading camping equipment, collecting fire wood and the washing of dishes after meals.
No part of the trek is compulsory. Should anyone choose not to walk a section of the Trek – that is fine. You are more than welcome to stay back at the camp and read, sleep or assist with the Ground Support personnel etc etc. THERE is NO obligation to do any or all of the trekking.
We will provide ...
... the latest model air-conditioned 4WD vehicles, all meals (as listed on itineraries), camping equipment, swags and pillows and supplies of drinking water (must have your own bottle).
What You'll Need to Bring
As we are camping you will need to be prepared for this. You'll need to bring a flashlight (torch), hat (wide brimmed best), sunscreen, insect repellant, a fly net (summer), any required medication, water bottle (at least 1.5 litres), walking shoes/boots (we do a lot of walking/climbing), warm clothing (winter), toiletries, swim wear, towel, camera, extra film or batteries and a great sense of humour.
