Alice Springs Weather in October

Average Sunshine Hours per Day in Alice Springs in October

October days in Alice Springs are mostly sunny, with a total of around 310 hours of sunshine or 10.7 hours per day. The sun rises between 6:14 am and 5:48 am and sets between 6:33 pm and 6:47 pm on the last day of the month, guaranteeing the average day length of close to 13 hours.

Daylight saving time in Alice Springs

In most parts of Australia, daylight saving time begins on the first Sunday in October, when clocks are advanced one hour. However, daylight savings is not observed in Alice Springs and the rest of the Northern Territory.

UV levels in Alice Springs in October

The average daily maximum UV index in Alice Springs in October is 6, which represents a high health risk from unsafe exposure to the sun’s rays. To protect yourself, minimise direct exposure to the sun in the middle of the day and wear a wide-brim hat and sunglasses.

Average Rainfall in Alice Springs in October

In Alice Springs, it rains for less than 4 days in October, with around 8 mm (0.31 in) of precipitation during the entire month. This is also the least humid time of year, with an average relative humidity of 24%.

Best Things to Do in Alice Springs in October

Warm weather and low rainfall in October provide excellent conditions for visiting Alice Springs before the onset of scorching summer temperatures. Here are the activities you shouldn’t miss this month.

Encounter native wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park

The Alice Springs Desert Park is among the town’s most popular attractions and a great place to spend a day learning about Australia’s native wildlife. Highlights include the Birds of Prey show, Indigenous bush survival talk, in addition to the nocturnal house, home to several vulnerable and endangered species, such as bilby, rufous hare-wallaby, and thorny devil.

Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges

Stretching for 644 km (400 mi), the MacDonnell Ranges, or “the Macs” as they are known to locals, are a must-visit on a sunny October day. You can drive out to Ormiston Gorge and then make your way back to Alice Springs via the spectacular Ellery Creek Big Hole and Standley Chasm gorge. Many of the scenic hikes in the area are short and easy, but if you’re up to a challenge, you can also tackle a section of the famous Larapinta Trail. 

Visit Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary

Children and adults alike will love visiting the wildlife sanctuary founded by Chris Barns, famous for his work with kangaroos from the documentary Kangaroo Dundee. Here you can get up close and personal with orphaned kangaroos and even get the chance to bottle-feed a joey. Don’t miss the sanctuary’s guided sunset tours where you can learn more about the rehabilitation and care of resident kangaroos.

Take a hot air balloon ride at sunrise

There’s no better way to appreciate the magnificent landscape around Alice Springs than to take a hot air balloon ride at dawn. Float over pristine dunes as the sun rises over the horizon, then enjoy breakfast and sparkling Australian wine in the desert before heading back to town. Just make sure to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Watch the sunset from ANZAC Hill

The 600 m (1,968 ft) tall ANZAC Hill that houses the memorial commemorating the sacrifice of Australian and New Zealand armed forces offers panoramic views of Alice Springs and the surrounding area. You can drive up the road or hike the moderate Lions Walk from Wills Terrace to the top. Head there at sunset to watch the desert transform as the sky turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and purple. Make sure to bring an extra layer of clothing as even in warmer months, the temperature can drop quickly after sunset.

Recommended Itineraries for Alice Springs in October

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Alice Springs? Our Self-Drive Tour Itineraries, such as Alice Springs Self Drive Loop and Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip, are packed with things to see and do in the region. For detailed information on all aspects of Australia travel, check out First Light Travel’s Blog and if you prefer a customised itinerary, feel free to get in touch with our Australia travel specialists who will help you create a perfect trip.