ACCOMPANIED ADVENTURE
Mparntwe (Alice Springs) and Tjoritja (West MacDonnell Ranges)
For Artists who want to immerse themselves in adventure
For Adventurers who want to immerse themselves in art
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In conjunction with Alice Springs Expeditions, Ingrid invites you to a Northern Territory
experience designed with a great balance of adventure, culture & comfort.
Stunning ancient geological wonders, the fun & vibrancy of Desert Mob,
and the supreme bliss of sleeping under the stars in the Finke Gorge.
what to expect:
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Five nights single accommodation (3 nights resort & 2 nights camping) Fully inclusive - accommodation, all meals, transport, equipment & activities included $3300 per person incl GST
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‘Desart’ Contemporary Aboriginal Art Exhibition & Marketplace
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Flexible ‘down time’ each day to relax and soak it all up, or pursue your own project
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On and off road quality vehicle touring to beautiful locations in the West MacDonnell Ranges
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Small group size, with dedicated host and expert local guide for a bespoke experience
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The unique atmosphere of Mparntwe (Alice Springs) with the colour & excitement of ‘Desert Mob’, against the stunning backdrop of ancient geology and geography of Tjoritja (West MacDonnell Ranges)
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Sleeping under the stars in a deluxe swag
Expert Guide
With 20 years in Northern Territory tourism and four wheel driving experience, John Stafford of Alice Springs Expeditions provides guests with the ultimate in comfort and safety. His specialised, local knowledge and friendly, flexible approach ensures 100% happy campers.
Welcoming Host
With a combination of recent travels in the region, a current artistic practice focused on dramatic landscapes, and a former career as a travel professional, Ingrid Bowen looks forward to accompanying a group of travellers on an art and landscape lovers adventure.
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Complete Care
Our aim is to guide you on an exciting and unique adventure, with opportunities to discover and connect with the evocative, awe-inspiring heart of our country. Our approach: relaxed yet professional; respectful of place, people and time; convivial meals, comfortable and restful accommodation.
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your itinerary:
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6 Sep arrival & transfer to Mercure Alice Springs Resort. Welcome to country and visit Araluen Arts Centre for an introduction to Desart. 'Mbantua' scenic bush location sunset & campfire dinner with local chef
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7 Sep morning at the Desert Mob marketplace, afternoon at leisure, evening Desert Song* concert, followed by dinner in a casual local restaurant
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8 Sep visit to Hermannsburg historic precinct to meet a traditional elder of the beautiful Finke Gorge region. There is an impressive collection of Namatjira and local water-colourists artworks in the museum. Afternoon set up camp on Ellery Creek in the Finke Gorge, time to wander and relax before our fireside dinner and stargazing
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9 Sep morning hike into a scenic hidden gorge, afternoon at leisure with many options available* including walks, 4WD touring, time to sketch, read or just relax, overnight camp in the same blissful spot
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10 Sep pack up camp after a leisurely breakfast, flexible day of visiting local sights, arriving at Glen Helen Resort in time for an afternoon walk & maybe a swim, enjoy the location and views before our bistro dinner and overnight
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11 Sep morning at leisure* & transfer to airport
This adventure is timed to coincide with ‘Desart’ - the largest and most dynamic contemporary Central Australian art exhibition and marketplace.
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September also typically affords perfect weather for camping, in the most scenic, silent gorge on beautiful Ellery Creek in the Finke Gorge.
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SMALL GROUP
Operating in a small group gives us the flexibility to accommodate conditions and the interests of the group.
GENEROUS SCHEDULE
Your schedule is generous in order to be able to stop, look & explore along the way. Discuss the landscape and cultural points of interest with John.
GET OFF THE GRID
Feel the benefits of being off grid and fully immersed in nature during the camping component.
PROJECT TIME
Most days there will be time to spend on your own project - be it sketching, reading, photography, writing, or just relaxing!
GO WITH THE FLOW
*Plans may need to adapt due to weather or cultural events.
