16-21 August
2023

$3,121

Trip Cost
Paid in instalments

3/5

Challenge Grade

$3,000

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

On average, two people die and two people are diagnosed with MND in Australia every day.

Join MND Victoria’s Larapinta Trek and, with every step you take, you’ll help provide and promote the best possible care and support for people living with MND.

Immersed in the rich history of Australia’s First Peoples, over six days, you’ll follow well-worn, red dirt tracks along the slopes of the West MacDonnell Ranges, beside winding riverbanks, across open plains, up towering mountains and down into shaded gorges.

Past Ormiston Gorge and majestic Mount Sonder, you’ll conquer one of the world’s premier desert treks, through scenic and historic landscapes made famous by Albert Namatjira’s paintings.

At night, you’ll camp under a blanket of stars and fall asleep to the nocturnal sounds of the desert, satisfied by the knowledge that your team's effort will support Victorians living with MND.

How it works

Book with Confidence

Pay only $475 upfront to secure your place and pay the remaining balance in flexible instalments.

Cancel up to 90 days before travel with no penalty. For more details, see our FAQs.

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 1, Wednesday 16 August 2023 - Arrive in Alice Springs

Arrive in Alice Springs

The adventure of a lifetime begins! Upon arrival in Alice Springs, please make your way to the hotel in the heart of Central Australia. In the early evening, meet in the hotel lobby where you will meet your guides for a briefing on the coming days. The rest of the evening is free at your leisure to explore this ruggedly beautiful town in the heart of Australia.

Meals: None

Day 2, Thursday 17 August 2023 - Geoff Moss Bridge - Wallaby Gap

Geoff Moss Bridge - Wallaby Gap

After breakfast and packing up lunch, we’ll have a short transfer to the start of our trek. We begin our Larapinta Trail adventure walking Geoff Moss Bridge to Wallaby Gap, where we will witness some vast and beautiful stretches of Australian land. On our walk, we allow ourselves to be immersed in the wonder of the region and get a taste of what’s coming in the next few days. Afterwards, we’ll drive out to our remote campsite within the MacDonnell Ranges National Park. The true experience begins as we settle into rest in a region synonymous in the dreamtime of Western Arrernte Aboriginal people.

Trekking distance: 12km

Meals: B L D

Day 3, Friday 18 August 2023 - Finke River - Ormiston Gorge - Ochre Pits

Finke River - Ormiston Gorge - Ochre Pits

This morning we will weave our way from the Finke River to Ormiston Gorge through rolling limestone hills filled with unique plant life. The Finke is one of the oldest river systems in the world, and the local Arrernte name for this waterway gives the whole trail its name – Lhere Pinte, which means ‘salty river’. Today’s hike finishes at the beautiful Ormiston Gorge, home to the most impressive gorge in the whole West MacDonnell region. There’s a near-permanent waterhole shaded by ghost gums and towering red rock walls that is more than welcoming to any walker for a chance for a dip and freshen up. Later in the day, we’ll explore the Ochre Pits before returning to camp in the late afternoon and enjoying another dinner in the wilderness.

Trekking distance: 13.5km

Meals: B L D

Day 4, Saturday 19 August 2023 - Redbank Gorge - Mt Sonder

Redbank Gorge - Mt Sonder

This morning we rise before the sun and transfer from our campsite to Redbank Gorge at the base of Mount Sonder, where we start our ascent to the peak. The mountain is known traditionally as Rwetyepme – in local Arrernte culture she’s portrayed as a pregnant woman forever doomed to lay on her back and watch the sky. The climb to the summit is arduous along a rocky and loose path that occasionally disappears into brush. We are rewarded with a sunrise and incredible 360° views of the ranges, plains, valleys and salt lakes below. Here, we will take time to catch our breath and bask in the grandeur of the desert landscape - and the incredible summit achievement. After descending, we transfer back to our campsite where we enjoy our last evening under the stars of the Milky Way.

Trekking distance: 15.5km

Meals: B L D

Day 5, Sunday 20 August 2023 - Standley Chasm to Reveal Saddle

Standley Chasm to Reveal Saddle

For our last day of trekking, we will transfer to Standley Chasm and trek to Reveal Saddle. Known traditionally as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”, Standley Chasm is an icon of great cultural relevance, nestled amongst the West MacDonnell Ranges. After exploring the area, we’ll transfer back to Alice Springs, arriving in the early evening. Tonight, we’ll join for a final celebration meal and reflect on our achievements of the past few days.

Transfer distance: 8km

Meals: B L D

Day 6, Monday 21 August 2023 - Depart Alice Springs

Depart Alice Springs

This morning, we bid farewell to Alice Springs, the Red Centre and our Larapinta adventure. You will be filled with the memories and moments that have made this adventure one you will never forget. Please make your own way to the airport for your flight home.

Meals: B

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary ◊ 4-Star hotel twin-share & comfortable camping ◊ Meals as per itinerary ◊ Local guide ◊ Entrance
fees as per itinerary

Does not include: Airfares ◊ Airport transfers ◊ Travel insurance (highly recommended) ◊ Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages ◊ Personal expenses ◊ Tips and gratuities

Why you'll love this adventure

Discover the Australian Outback on one of the world’s premier walking treks
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Australia’s First Peoples, following red dirt tracks across the West MacDonnell Ranges
Camp under star-studded skies and fall asleep to the nocturnal sounds of the desert
Raise vital funds to provide care and support to people living with MND

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au) or phone (1300 905 188). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Larapinta trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We believe small group travel is better for the planet,
and better for you. Our adventures average between
10-20 participants, connected by their commitment to
the greater good.

Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?

Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.

What is the general age range of participants?

The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–84+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

MND Victoria has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 7,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $45 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and MND Victoria, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete full day hikes and ideally a hike over several days. You should aim to be able to walk for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Do I need to carry my luggage on trekking days?

You will need to carry a day pack with personal items such as water, snacks, medications and spare clothing. The rest of your luggage will stay at your accommodation.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share at a 3-4 star hotel before and after the trek. While trekking, accommodation is at one of the ground operator’s comfortable campsites.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms at the hotel are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?

Absolutely! If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.

What to expect

What is the food like?

Breakfast is generally a choice of cereals/muesli, toast cooked on the campfire, porridge, fruit, coffee and tea. Lunch is typically served en route during trekking days. Your guide will lay out food buffet style and you can make your own wraps and sandwiches using gourmet meats and beans, delicious condiments and cheese and fresh vegetables. By night, your tastebuds will be treated to traditional Australian outback campfire cookery, with a diversity of dishes ranging from steak and salad, jacket potatoes and barbecues, to risotto, pasta and stir frys.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide and Team Leader on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?

We have prepared a detailed COVID-19 Safety Management Plan to account for the wide variety of scenarios that may impact your departure. In the instance that the adventure is unable to proceed due to COVID-19, alternative departure arrangements will be provided where possible. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/our-covid-response.

Are COVID-19 vaccinations required for this adventure?

Inspired Adventures requires that all travellers are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have a valid medical certificate issued.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m travelling with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Will the funds raised go directly to MND Victoria?

Yes, all of your fundraising will go directly to MND Victoria. Only the travel costs are payable to Inspired.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

The funds raised for MND Victoria are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Costs and payments

How much does it cost to participate in this adventure?

The total cost to participate in this adventure is: $3,121 (land only)

In addition, you are also committing to raising $3,000 (per person) for MND Victoria.

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is highly recommended for domestic adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.