VISIT
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Desert Mob takes place in Mparntwe/Alice Springs in September and October each year. The opening events, including the official opening and exhibition, artist talks, marketplace, workshops and demonstrations and Desert Mob After Dark events, all take place on the Araluen Arts Centre Precinct. Additional satellite events are presented at venues across Mparntwe, including Art Centres located within the central Mparntwe area.
Map:
GETTING HERE:
Travel Deals:
Make the most of your stay with our exclusive 10-day ‘Desert Mob Opening Weekend & Uluru: The Ultimate Self-Drive’ travel package through NT Now.
Package includes:
- Flexible accommodation options and car hire
- Desert Mob merchandising pack including tote bag, Desert Mob 2025 limited-edition catalogue and t-shirt.
- Desert Mob 2025 Artist Talks Entry ticket with catered lunch.
- Uluru Audio Guide for Self-Guided Touring around Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
- 3 Day Uluru & Kata Tjuta National Park Entry.
- Uluru Sunrise & Field of Light Tour.
BOOK HERE. (Terms and conditions apply.)
Flights:
Qantas, Virgin and Airnorth all service Mparntwe with flights from major cities around the country.
Flight specials and sales are also available through Webjet and Flight Centre.
Buses:
Greyhound Australia offers tours from some major capital cities to Alice Springs and provides the comfort of reclining seats, WiFi and large windows to enjoy the journey. A trip from Adelaide to Alice Springs takes 20.5 hours on the bus with stops at a range of locations including Coober Pedy, Marla and Indulkana. The coaches leave daily for this route. The service also offers a daily service from Darwin to Alice Springs, with 21 hours 40 minutes of travel time, and a 6 hour trip from Tennant Creek.
The Ghan Railway:
The Ghan is a much loved option to access the region, offering a range of price points and comfortable way to reach Alice Springs. Travelling up from Adelaide, through to Manguris, Maria and then Alice Springs, it extends as far as Katherine and Darwin in the North. The Ghan departs from the Adelaide Parklands Terminal, about 3 kilometres from the city centre.
Learn more about these travel options here or contact Visit Central Australia for assistance.
AND GETTING AROUND:
Transport:
A public bus service operates in Mparntwe. Service 400 – Gillen, Araluen and Larapinta – stops a short walk to the Araluen Cultural Precinct. Timetables and routes are available here: https://nt.gov.au/driving/public-transport-cycling/public-buses/alice-springs-timetables-and-maps
A shuttle bus service operates to and from the Alice Springs airport, picking up and dropping off at all regular accommodation locations.
Taxis are available along with a private car hire service. Uber and other ride share companies do not currently operate in Mparntwe.
As distances are minimal and it’s flat, Mparntwe is a great place to walk and ride to events.
Parking at Desert Mob:
Free parking, including accessibility parking, is available on the Araluen Arts Centre precinct and (mostly free) street and public parking is available close to all satellite events.
Bike Hire:
Getting around Mparntwe is easy by bike, the town is flat, and all the venues are all relatively close. You can hire a basic commuter bike or an E-bike from Red Centre Adventures and Outback Cycling.
*please note, if walking or riding, September and October days in Central Australia can be hot and sunny, so please carry drinking water and wear appropriate clothing for protection from the sun and heat.
ACCOMODATION/PLACES TO STAY:
Mparntwe has many accommodation options available, but it is best to book as early as possible for Desert Mob opening event dates.
For comprehensive information to assist with planning your travel to and stay in Central Australia, please visit Tourism Central Australia’s website: www.discovercentralaustralia.com/#
ACCESSIBILITY
Venue Accessibility
Our venue and most of the satellite venues have wheelchair access, with some exceptions or limitations.
Accessibility Services
Accessible seating is available for Desert Mob Artist Talks inside the theatre at the end of the middle rows. Please advise accessibility requirements when booking tickets. Staff will be available to assistance at events. Theatre seating is sturdy, with straight backs, and have armrests.
Accessible Parking
Accessible parking is available on the Araluen Arts Centre Precinct, and at or near most of the satellite venues.
Sensory Information
Some events will have large crowds. Outdoor events are all-weather. Please see our event pages and socials for details.
If you have questions, need further information regarding accessibility, or have any advice or feedback, please contact us at desertmob@desart.com.au
OTHER DETAILS
Marketplace
The Marketplace is an outdoor event. Weather can be unpredictable. If it is looking wet, please check our website or socials prior to the event for updates.
Under 16s
This event is a cultural celebration and children are most welcome. The opening events are busy so please keep children close and children need to be quiet for extended periods of time in the Symposium.
Event Photography
Desert Mob engages photographers and videographers to document our events. If you do not want your photograph taken, please speak with a Desert Mob staff member.
Waste
Desert Mob aims to use recycled packing materials and compostable containers where possible. If you have one, please bring a reusable cup for coffee at the Marketplace. Free water stations will be available throughout the event as well – bring your favourite water bottle along.
