Every so often we come across something so good, we just have to share it with you.
This week Gary was chatting to friend Marc Woods whilst visiting the TJM store here in Alice Springs. Marc had been working around central Australia over the last couple of months, flying in a helicopter, taking incredible footage whilst servicing radio repeater sites.
Not just any old footage – but stunning film of places both well-known and lesser known – often with spectacular, rarely seen waterfalls.
It’s just over 7 minutes long, and Marc has given us permission to share it far and wide.
If you’re wondering about the places featured in this magic clip, here’s some more information:
Boggy Hole
Boggy Hole is part of the Finke Gorge National Park. Access is 120km west of Alice Springs (take Larapinta Drive out of Alice and just stay on it for the next 120km). Just as you get to Hermannsburg, there’s a turn on the left, and you’ll see the Boggy Hole sign. You’ll need a 4WD to get in.
Finke Gorge/Palm Valley Amphitheatre
Finke Gorge and the jaw-dropping Palm Valley amphitheatre all located in Finke Gorge (Palm Valley) National Park. Access is 130km west of Alice Springs to Hermannsburg, cross the Finke River and then immediately turn left (it’s well sign-posted).
This is a 4WD only road and as you can see, well worth the half hour trek in from the bitumen.
Check out our insider’s guide to visiting Palm Valley here.
Ormiston Gorge
Ormiston Gorge is located in the West MacDonnell National Park. It’s one of the best known and most photographed waterholes in outback Australia. It’s located 130km west of Alice Springs, and is accessible via sealed roads.
You can find everything you need to know about visiting Ormiston Gorge here.
Mt Zeil
Mt Zeil is the highest peak on the Australian continent west of the Great Divide. It’s higher than any mountain in Western or South Australia, and is located within the West MacDonnell National Park.
You can read more about Mt Zeil, including our guide to climbing this remote peak here. Be warned – it’s for VERY FIT, experienced bushwalkers only.
East MacDonnell Ranges
The East MacDonnell Ranges are a quieter alternative to the West Macs, and encompass hidden waterholes, rugged ranges, lots of hiking and some stunning Aboriginal Rock Art. Read our guide to planning your East Macs adventure here.
Trephina Gorge has one of the best campgrounds in central Australia. There’s also some spectacular walks and the 4WD only John Hayes Rockhole – which is just awesome to hike into.
Arltunga Historical Reserve is a fabulous, fun trip that we recommend especially for families. You can explore old gold mines (yes, you can even go in them) and restored historic buildings – and maybe even try your hand at gold fossicking yourself.
Kings Canyon/Watarrka
If you’re after WOW factor – Kings Canyon – Watarrka is a must. If you haven’t been, get along and check it out why it attracts almost as many visitors every year as Uluru does.
We’ve got a complete guide to getting to Kings Canyon, accommodation guides and information about the fabulous hiking you can do there. Find out more information here.
Finally, if you’ve enjoyed this post do us a favour – SHARE it on your Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest page to say thank you to Marc.
The ‘Central Australia Fly around May 2014’ is a great video. I wonder if you could tell the name of the song and artist who sings on it. Thank you, Neil