Alice Springs

Known as Stuart until 1930 and located in the Northern Territory of Australia, Alice Springs is second only to Darwin in population. This former service city is now reliant on the tourists that flood in to take in the sights and activities in the area. Accommodations abound ranging from luxury to caravan parks making it appealing to all sorts of travelers. Home to the Alice Springs Desert Park, this park is the epitome what the Australian Outback is. The animals, the plants, the landscape, and the dry harsh desert clime are all hallmarks of the Outback.

When visiting this wonderful park, plan on spending most of the day there because you will lose track of time as you wander the different habitats, sit through the shows and presentations (especially the Birds of Prey), and learn about the desert. This truly is a “must go to” destination.

With Australia having some of the deadliest snakes in the world, it is not surprising to find the Alice Springs Reptile Center in the city center. It should be on every tourist’s itinerary as a “must see” attraction. It houses more than 100 reptiles representing over 30 species, from the harmless olive python that is used in the hands on demonstrations to some of the deadliest snakes in the world and a wide assortment of lizards to fascinate the visitor. In addition, although not native to the area, Terry the saltwater crocodile was found in the Darwin harbor and given a home at the Alice Springs Reptile Center. Overall, the visit is well worth the price of admission.

Every visit has to include a trip out to Gemtree. This is a unique experience that will bring out the adventurer in young and old alike. At Gemtree, you get to search for Australian gemstones and they supply all the equipment, guides and appraisals. You keep the gems that you find. There is even a gem cutting service on site from April to September. Make sure that you take water with you.

The sheer number of activities to take part in, sights to see, and tours to go on will keep you busy for days. There is so much to do in the area that it boggles the mind. When you go to Alice Springs, make sure to stay for several days so that you are able to fully explore the city and area surrounding it.

The Australian Outback offers you a world of discovery. Come and explore it.