Outback Elite Tours

Palm Valley and Hermannsburg 4WD Classic Tour

Macdonnell 10 hours

Hidden amidst the rugged Finke Gorge National Park, Palm Valley is one of the most impressive destinations in Central Australia. Outback Elite Tours small group 4WD adventure is like no other, taking you along the oldest river in the world into an oasis in the middle of the Outback and home to the red cabbage palm (unique to this region), ancient rock formations and springs fed pools. This is one of the most unique and fascinating places in Australia. You will also have an opportunity to visit the local Aboriginal community at Hermannsburg.

Palm Valley

We will follow the scenic Palm Valley 4WD track along the famous Finke River to the uniquely astonishing landscape deep in Palm Valley. We will pass the amazing pinnacles of the Amphitheatre and through the beautiful Cycad Gorge before arriving at more than 3,000 giant Red Cabbage Palms. Our guide will share with you the mystery behind these special trees, the only palm trees found in Central Australia. On the way enjoy a sumptuous European-style morning tea with a selection of home-made buns, fresh fruit, yoghurt, teas and Italian-style brewed coffee.

Our one-hour guided walk is one of the best in Central Australia and winds through this ancient oasis, along a river bed with towering palms and stunning lookouts from the valley escarpment. You will discover Palm Valley‚Äôs unique environment including rare relict plant species and the spring-fed pools that support an array of unusual plants and animals. Our guide will also enlighten you on the cultural significance of the region to the local Arrernte Aboriginal people.

Hermannsburg

After the walk, we will enjoy a generous picnic lunch before taking the 4WD track out of Palm Valley on our way to the nearby community of Hermannsburg, known as Ntaria to the local Aboriginal residents. Established in 1877, Hermannsburg was a Lutheran mission for more than 100 years and the historic Heritage Precinct is wonderfully preserved today.

Hermannsburg was also the birthplace of the renowned Aboriginal landscape painter Albert Namatjira, and the origin of the Hermannsburg School art movement. Walk through the mission and gain a fascinating insight into life for the pioneering missionaries and their early contact with Aboriginal people. You will also have an opportunity to purchase art or souvenirs in the art gallery and gift shop before returning to Alice Springs after an unforgettable day in the Outback.