Every June, Alice Springs fills with riders, drivers, pit crews and spectators for the Tatts Finke Desert Race. The course runs along sections of the old Ghan railway service track, through red dirt, sand, spinifex, mulga and desert oaks, to the small Aputula (Finke) community and back. It crosses the Finke River, believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. The race began in 1976 as a 'there and back' challenge between local motorbike riders. It's organised by a volunteer committee with the NT Major Events Company. The organisers estimate more than 600 competitors, about 300 volunteer officials, and more than 12,000 people camping beside the track.
How the race works
- Day one: competitors race from Alice Springs to Aputula.
- Overnight: competitors and crews camp at the race camp at Aputula.
- Day two: they race back to Alice Springs.
- The fastest combined time overall earns the title King of the Desert.
The full course is about 460 km. It was originally a bike race, and cars and off-road buggies joined in 1988. A prologue time trial near Alice Springs before the race sets the starting order.
When it's held
The race runs over the King's Birthday long weekend (the second weekend in June), in the cool dry season. Scrutineering, the prologue and town events fill the days before. Accommodation in Alice Springs books out months ahead, so reserve early.
Watching the race
Spectators line the track at points along the course, many camping out for the weekend. The organisers' spectator rules include:
- Camp at least 30 m from the track. Fast vehicles can leave the track without warning.
- Never stand on or cross the track while racing is under way.
- Camping at the Aputula race camp is reserved for competitors, crews, officials and volunteers.
- Alcohol is prohibited in Aputula and its campground. Respect community rules.
- Follow directions from officials and police, and obey road closures.
Read the current spectator guide on the official website before you go, because rules and access points can change each year.
Where to watch
Popular spots include the start/finish area near Alice Springs and accessible points along the track south of town. Some need a 4WD. Arrive early, bring everything you need, and expect dust. Many spectators camp out the night before.
What to bring
- A 4WD, if you're heading out along the track.
- Water, food and fuel. There are no services along most of the course.
- Warm clothing and sleeping gear. June nights in the Centre can be below freezing.
- Shade, a hat and sunscreen for the day.
- Dust protection for cameras and lungs.
- Rubbish bags. The organisers' rule is: if you take it down, bring it back.
- Your own firewood. Clear an area, dig a shallow pit, and make sure your fire is fully out.
See water and food planning and outback camping.
Safety
Motorsport is dangerous for spectators as well as competitors. The organisers ask spectators to always stand back from the track and never stand on the outside of corners. Leave your dog at home, keep children close, and never drive on the race track. After the race, take care on the road home: the traffic is heavy, the drivers are tired, and wildlife is about at dusk. See outback safety.
Visiting Aputula
Aputula (Finke) is a living Aboriginal community, not a tourist stop. Check permit requirements with the Central Land Council before travelling on Aboriginal land. See visiting Country respectfully.
Volunteering
The race relies on volunteers for marshalling, timing, the race camp and more. Registrations open on the official website ahead of each event. It's a great way to experience Finke from the inside.
Make a trip of it
Combine race weekend with the Red Centre: Uluru, Kings Canyon and the West MacDonnells are all in the mild June weather. See the Northern Territory road trip and other outback events.
Getting to Alice Springs
- Fly: Alice Springs Airport has domestic flights. Book early for race weekend.
- Train: The Ghan stops in Alice Springs. See the Ghan stops.
- Drive: Alice Springs is on the Stuart Highway, a long multi-day drive from Darwin or Adelaide. Allow plenty of time, and avoid night driving.
Where to stay
Race weekend is the busiest time of year in Alice Springs. Options include:
- Hotels and motels in town.
- Caravan parks and holiday parks.
- Self-contained apartments and short-stay rentals.
- Trackside camping for spectators, following the organisers' rules.
Book as early as you can, and have a backup plan.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
When is the Finke Desert Race?
The race is held each year over the King's Birthday long weekend in June. Check the official Tatts Finke Desert Race website for the current year's dates and schedule.
How many kilometres is the Finke Desert Race?
The organisers describe a 460 km course: competitors race from Alice Springs to Aputula (Finke) on day one and back on day two, so each leg is roughly 230 km.
What is the King of the Desert?
It's the title for the fastest finisher over the two-day return race. Since 2005 there have been two Kings of the Desert, one for cars and one for bikes.
Can spectators camp along the Finke track?
The organisers allow spectators to camp along the track, provided they stay well back from it; the spectator rules set a minimum of 30 m. Camping at the Aputula race camp is reserved for competitors, crews, officials and volunteers. Read the current spectator guide before you go.
Sources and further reading
Facts on this page were checked against these primary and official sources. Conditions change — confirm before you travel or buy.
- Tatts Finke Desert Race — Finke Desert Race Inc.
- Spectators information — Finke Desert Race Inc.
- About us — Finke Desert Race Inc.
