The Best Things to Do in Alice Springs in Summer

Common questions about summer in Alice Springs

If you’re considering spending your summer holiday in Alice Springs, you may want to know more details about the weather conditions. Keep reading as we answer the most common questions to help you prepare for your trip.

When is summer in Alice Springs? 

Summer in Alice Springs stretches from December to March. During this time of the year, you can expect very hot and dry days and somewhat cooler nights.

How hot does it get? 

In summer, the average temperatures in Alice Springs range from 20 °C (60 °F) at night to about 35 °C (95 °F) during daytime. January is the hottest month of the year, when temperatures can soar to around 40 °C (104 °F). 

The average UV Index in Alice Springs in summer

The ultraviolet exposure in Alice Springs in summer is close to 100%, even on a cloudy day. The average UV index during this time of year is 11 or more and wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential to protect you from the intense sun’s rays. 

Does it rain in summer in Alice Springs? 

Like other semi-arid regions, Alice Springs does get small amounts of rain throughout the year, including the summer months. Occasional heavy rains are also possible between December and March. 

You can expect a maximum of 6 rainy days in the summer months, with 25 mm (0.98 in) of precipitation and up to 32% of relative humidity. January is the wettest month of the year, with around 40 mm (1.5 in) of rainfall. 

High summer temperatures combined with increased humidity create conditions that can lead to the formation of spectacular, intense summer thunderstorms. Make sure to subscribe to local severe weather warnings to stay informed about any sudden weather changes.

Is it easy to get around? 

While most major roads in the Red Centre are sealed and suitable for all vehicle types, some national parks and more remote areas are only accessible with a 4-wheel drive. When heading out of town during summer, make sure you’re equipped with plenty of water and a reliable means of communication in case of emergency. 

If you're on one of First Light Travel's self-drive holidays, our local backup is available for you 24/7. Simply give us a call if you encounter any weather-related issues and we’ll provide necessary assistance.

For more inspiration on road trips in the region, check out our Northern Territory Self-Drive Itineraries. They include plenty of ideas on what to see and do, in addition to recommendations for unique accommodations. 

Things to do in Alice Springs in Summer

Despite the extreme heat, there’s no shortage of activities in and around Alice Springs that will keep you busy during the summer months. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, here’s a list of our favourite activities. 

Cool-off at Red Centre waterholes

The Red Centre has plenty of picturesque swimming holes, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The most popular ones include Ellery Creek Big Hole, Birthday Waterhole, and Ormiston Gorge in the West MacDonnell Range, as well as Emily and Jessie Gaps in the East Macs. Simpsons Gap, located just 18 km (11 mi) from the town centre, is one of the most accessible permanent waterholes in the area. 

Keep in mind, however, that several waterholes are only accessible by 4-wheel drive and there are no facilities nearby, so you’ll have to bring your own water and supplies. Additionally, some waterholes—such as Mutitjulu on the southern side of Uluru—are sacred and swimming is not permitted.

Join Alice Springs Desert Park nocturnal tour

Head to the Alice Springs Desert Park in the evening to join the nighttime walking tour led by expert guides. Using a special head torch, you’ll be able to spot echidnas, bilbies, and other native animals native to the MacDonnell Ranges, as they become more active in the cool of the night. 

Explore Central Australian art

Hot summer months are a great time to immerse yourself in Alice Springs' vibrant art scene. The town’s art galleries have a strong focus on Indigenous Australian art, whereas at the Araluen Cultural Precinct, you can familiarise yourself with the contemporary artists of Central Australia. Don’t miss the Mbantua Art Gallery and Cultural Museum, which specialises in art from the Central Desert region and boasts one of the largest collections of Aboriginal art in Australia.

Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service 

A trip to Alice Springs wouldn’t be complete without visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). Here you can learn more about the history of the flying doctors, a service that has been providing healthcare services to the country’s most remote areas since the 1920s. The museum also features a holographic theatre, a screen showing live locations of all RFDS planes, in addition one of the best cafes on shady grounds in Alice Springs.

Take Part at the Fab Alice Festival

This popular local festival pays homage to the 1994 Australian comedy-drama film Priscilla-Queen of the Desert. Over four days at the end of March, the event features everything from comedy, cabaret, and live music to community celebrations and fun social activities

Enjoy Earth Sanctuary astronomy tours

Due to minimal light pollution, the night skies around Alice Springs offer perfect conditions for stargazing. There’s no better place to learn about the night skies than Earth Sanctuary, a mere 15-minute drive out of town. Join one of the sanctuary’s family-friendly astronomy tours which take place right after the spectacular sunset over the East MacDonnell Ranges.   

Things to keep in mind when visiting Alice Springs in summer

• Hiking in Alice Springs is still possible in summer, as long as you start early and finish your hike by midday, before it gets too hot. Just keep in mind that some tracks are closed if the temperatures are expected to exceed 36 °C (96.8 °F). 
• There are no lifeguards at waterholes in the Red Centre, so be sure to enter the water carefully from the shore. Don’t go beyond your depth if you’re not a good swimmer, as water can get deep very quickly.
• Alice locals avoid being out­side for pro­longed peri­ods on hot summer days and the town may feel quite emp­ty at this time of the year.
• Summer is the peak fly season and it’s advisable to bring a fly net to fit over your headgear.

The ideal Alice Springs summer itinerary

Are you ready to start planning your trip to Alice Springs? 

First Light Travel offers several Northern Territory self-drive itineraries, including Alice Springs Self Drive Loop and Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip, to help you make the most of your holiday. You can explore your options with our free planning service or contact our Australia Travel Specialists who will be happy to customise a trip to your exact specifications.