Alice Springs Desert Park

A walk-through park at the foot of the West MacDonnell Ranges that shows the plants and animals of Australia's deserts in recreated habitats: sand country, desert rivers and woodland. The nocturnal house is the best place to see rare desert mammals such as the bilby and the mala, and the free-flying birds of prey show is excellent.

Aboriginal guides explain how the Arrernte people have lived from the desert for tens of thousands of years, including bush foods and tools. Come early in the morning, when the animals are active and it's cooler; allow half a day.