Alice Springs
Northern Territory, Australia
Daily Budget
~A$84
~US$55 · per day
Best Months
Climate
Dry Season / Winter
Vibe
Off the beaten track
Overview
Alice Springs — "the Alice" — sits in the geographic centre of Australia, surrounded by the MacDonnell Ranges and the vast red desert of the outback. It is the main service town for Central Australia and the staging point for trips to Uluru. With a deep Aboriginal cultural heritage, a surprisingly vibrant arts scene, and access to some of Australia's most dramatic landscapes, Alice Springs offers a raw, authentic outback experience that defines the Australian interior.
Editor's Pick
Alice Springs stands out for: Gateway to Uluru and Kata Tjuta — Australia's spiritual heartland; Experience genuine outback Australia and Aboriginal culture; Hiking in the West MacDonnell Ranges — gorges, swimming holes, and the Larapinta Trail.
Things to Do
View all 9 activitiesCatch sunrise from Anzac Hill for 360-degree views over town and the ranges
Catch sunrise from Anzac Hill for 360-degree views over town and the ranges (free)
Day trip or multi-day tour to Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Day trip or multi-day tour to Uluru and Kata Tjuta (from $250 AUD for a budget 2-day tour)
Top Hostels
View all 4 hostels
Hostels
4 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
9 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Alice Springs?
- Budget around A$84 AUD (~US$55) per day in Alice Springs, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Alice Springs?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Alice Springs are Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Alice Springs?
- Top-rated hostels in Alice Springs include The Jump Inn, Alice's Secret Traveller's Inn, Alice Springs YHA Pioneer. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from A$46 per night.
- What are the top things to do in Alice Springs?
- Must-do activities in Alice Springs include Catch sunrise from Anzac Hill for 360-degree views over town and the ranges, Day trip or multi-day tour to Uluru and Kata Tjuta, Explore the Araluen Cultural Precinct. There are 9 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.
