Namatjira Drive

Namatjira Drive is a spectacular 140-kilometre scenic loop through the West MacDonnell Ranges, named after the celebrated Arrernte artist Albert Namatjira. This sealed road winds past ochre-red gorges, permanent waterholes, and ancient cycad groves, offering a quintessential outback experience that blends Indigenous culture, geology, and breathtaking landscapes. It's a must-do for any self-drive itinerary from Alice Springs.

Highlights & What to See

• Ellery Creek Big Hole – A deep, permanent waterhole flanked by red cliffs, perfect for a refreshing swim or picnic. The surrounding dolomite and gneiss formations are a geologist's dream.
• Ochre Pits – A sacred Aboriginal site where ochre has been mined for thousands of years. The layered colours – white, yellow, red – are striking and culturally significant.
• Ormiston Gorge – One of the range's most dramatic gorges, with a permanent waterhole and excellent walking trails, including the challenging Ormiston Pound Walk.
• Glen Helen Gorge – At the western end of the drive, this gorge features a permanent waterhole that reflects the towering cliffs. It's a popular spot for birdwatching and sunset photography.
• Serpentine Gorge – A narrow, sinuous gorge with a lookout offering panoramic views. The walk to the lookout is short but steep, rewarding with stunning vistas.
• Standley Chasm – A private reserve with a narrow chasm that glows fiery red when the sun is overhead. The Angkerle Atwatye walk is short but unforgettable.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least a full day to drive the entire loop and stop at key points. Start early from Alice Springs to avoid the midday heat and to catch the best light for photography. If you want to hike some of the longer trails (like Ormiston Pound, 7.5 km), consider staying overnight at Glen Helen Resort or camping at one of the designated sites along the drive. Two days is ideal for a relaxed pace, allowing time for swimming, bushwalking, and soaking in the silence of the outback.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alice Springs – The gateway town, with the Araluen Cultural Precinct, Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, and the historic Telegraph Station.
• Simpsons Gap – A short drive from Alice Springs, this gap in the ranges is a great spot for a short walk and rock-wallaby spotting.
• West MacDonnell National Park – The drive itself runs through this park, but further exploration of its other gorges (like Redbank Gorge) is rewarding.
• Finke Gorge National Park – Home to the ancient Palm Valley, about 140 km southwest of Alice Springs, accessible by 4WD.
• Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park) – About 300 km southwest, this dramatic canyon is a highlight of the Red Centre and can be combined on a longer itinerary.

Please check official sources for current details.