The Best Things to Do in Alice Springs in Winter

Common questions about winter in Alice Springs

Below, we answer some of the most common questions that will help you prepare for your winter holidays in Alice Springs.

When is winter in Alice Springs? 

Winter in Alice Springs stretches between June and August. At this time of the year, you can expect pleasant weather and fewer crowds than during shoulder seasons. 

How cold does it get? 

In winter, the desert is at its coolest, with average high temperatures of 17.2 °C (63 °F) and lows around 11.6 °C (53 °F). Temperatures can drop below freezing overnight, leaving a thick layer of frost on the ground. The coldest month of the year is July, with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F).

Does it rain in winter in Alice Springs? 

Alice Springs is a very dry place throughout the year, and winter is no exception. The town sees an average of only 43 rainy days, ranging from 2 days of rain in August to a maximum of 6 days in the summer months.

Is it easy to get around? 

Stuart Highway, which runs through the heart of the Red Centre, and other major roads are well maintained and suitable for all vehicle types. However, many national parks are only accessible with a 4-wheel drive. If travelling to remote areas, make sure you’re equipped with the recommended outback travel gear and emergency supplies.

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 while you're on the road and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Things to do in Alice Springs in Winter

Alice Springs is the vibrant heart of the Red Centre, with plenty of events taking part during the winter months. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, here are the best things to see and do in Alice Springs in winter. 

Experience the Natural Beauty of Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Mild winter temperatures make the exposed 10 km (6.2 mi) Base Walk around Uluru more comfortable than at any other time of the year. Keep in mind, however, that on cold nights, experiences such as the Sounds of Silence and star gazing can become more challenging. 

For more details, read our comprehensive Guide to Visiting Uluru.

Hike the Larapinta Trail

Winter is the perfect time to attempt the famous Larapinta Trail or one of its shorter segments. The trail starts at the Telegraph Station and stretches for 231 km (143 mi) along the West MacDonnell Ranges, offering unparalleled views of the Central Australian Desert.

Learn about native wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park

There’s no better place to appreciate the beauty and diversity of the Australian desert wildlife than at the Alice Springs Desert Park. See endangered native animals, including bilbies, mulgaras, and rufous hare-wallabies,  join captivating nocturnal tours, and enjoy interactive presentations to learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Australian desert. Don’t miss the free flight shows where you can observe birds of prey in action against the backdrop of the vast desert landscape.

Watch the thrilling Finke Desert Race

The iconic Finke Desert Race, or "Finke'' as it is known among the locals, is considered to be one of the most difficult off-road races in the world. The event takes place on the King's Birthday long weekend in June, when you can watch hundreds of bikes, cars, buggies, and quads as they race through red dirt, sand, and spinifex grasses between Alice Springs to the Aputula (Finke) community. 

Other winter events in Alice Springs

June

• King's birthday, celebrated on the second Monday of the month
• Alice Springs Beanie Festival, a community-organised event where you can marvel at thousands of knitted hats

July

• Alice Springs Show Day, a fun family event held on the first Friday of the month
• Alice Springs Camel Cup that takes place at the only purpose-built camel racing venue in the southern hemisphere

August

• Picnic Day, celebrated throughout the Northern Territory on the first Monday of August
• Henley on Todd Regatta, the world’s only regatta on dry land

Things to keep in mind when visiting Alice Springs in winter

• Temperatures are at their lowest between June and July, so make sure to bring plenty of warm clothes for chilly evenings. 
• Freezing night temperatures can make sunrise and sunset watching—one of the highlights of a road trip to the outback—a little less enjoyable.
• This time of year is usually too cold for swimming in the Red Centre’s picturesque waterholes, especially if they are in the shade. 

The ideal Alice Springs winter itinerary

Ready to start planning your trip to Alice Springs? 

Our Australia specialists at First Light Travel have designed several Western Australia Itineraries, including Alice Springs Self Drive Loop and Alice Springs to Darwin Road Trip, to help you make the most of your holiday. These itineraries include plenty of ideas on what to see and do in the region, in addition to recommendations for unique accommodations. You can explore your options with our free planning service or contact our Australia Travel Specialists who will customise a trip to your exact specifications.