Desert Mob Art festival 2026
Immerse yourself in the rich creativity and culture of Central Australia with a special escape to the renowned Desert Mob in Alice Springs. Celebrating the work of hundreds of Aboriginal artists from remote communities across the region, this inspiring event offers a unique opportunity to connect with Indigenous art, culture and storytelling. Enjoy comfortable accommodation while exploring the festival’s acclaimed exhibition, vibrant marketplace, artist talks and cultural experiences. Complete your Red Centre experience with a guided tour through the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, where dramatic gorges, ancient landscapes and stunning desert scenery showcase the natural beauty of the region. This enriching holiday perfectly blends world-class Indigenous art, culture and unforgettable outback exploration.
The Official Opening of Desert Mob is held Thursday 10 September 2026, while the Exhibition runs from 10 September to 25 October 2026. Artist Talks are on Friday 11 September and Marketplace is on 12 September 2026 when you can purchase works directly.
4 NIGHTSPRICE BASED ON TRAVEL FROM 09 SEPTEMBER TO 26 OCTOBER 2026
Tour Inclusions
- FREE Flight to Alice Springs*
(value up to $750 per person, based on lowest available economy airfare at time of booking) - 4 nights accommodation in Alice Springs at Mercure Alice Springs in a Guest room with daily breakfast
- 5 Days Car Hire with Unlimited Kms
- Art Centre and Galleries Tour
- RFDS Visitor Experience
- Alice Springs Highlights and Nature Escape tour
Choose your travel option
Itinerary
Where to stay:
Mercure Alice Springs is located adjacent to the dry riverbed of the Todd River and only a few minutes' walk from the town centre, galleries and cultural precinct. Barra on Todd Restaurant and Bar offers distinctive cuisine and delectable dishes seasoned with local flavours. All rooms offer complimentary fast wi-fi and parking.
What to do:
Presented by Desart, Desert Mob is a significant event on the Australian arts calendar bringing together hundreds of Aboriginal artists from over 30 Art Centres across the Northern Territory, South Australia and Western Australia. The Official Opening of Desert Mob is held Thursday 10 September 2026, while the Exhibition runs from 10 September to 25 October 2026. Artist Talks are on Friday 11 September and Marketplace is on 12 September 2026 when you can purchase works directly.
Join us for a half day tour of the art centres and galleries in Mparntwe Alice Springs. If you’ve been thinking about buying Aboriginal art but don’t know where to start, let our guide help to reassure you and educate you about the art centres, history of Aboriginal art, and its relationship to country and culture.
See, experience and learn through the wonder of technology the heroic tales of the birth and growth of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia; by visiting RFDS’ original working base in Alice Springs that commenced in 1939.
This tour from Alice Springs through the West MacDonnell Ranges reveals the deep layers of Central Australia’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the towering cliffs of Simpsons Gap, where elusive rock wallabies hide among rugged landscapes. Wander through the vibrant sandstone walls of Angkerle (Standley Chasm), learn about the integral School of the Air, then step back in time at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station and discover its pioneering past.
Package terms
On sale until 04 Sep 2026. For travel during September and October 2026. Fly free offer valid on new bookings only, clients will receive a credit equal to the lowest available inbound economy airfare into Alice Springs at the time of booking, up to $750 per person, when booking before 30 November 2026, with travel valid from 1 August 2026 to 31 January 2027, there are limited amound of fly free offers available, clients may select different flights but the free component will only be allocated upto the lowest available inbound economy airfare into Alice Springs as selected by the NT Now consultants. Pricing based on dynamic from rates provided by suppliers and is subject to change. Seasonal surcharges apply. Blackout dates may apply and some inclusions may be closed over public holidays. Car Hire based on H class Compact 5 Passenger vehicle including: Unlimited kilometres, Standard Damage Recovery $5900 upgrade to Ultimate Protection with $0 Damage Recovery fee at additional cost), -tire and Windscreen Cover not available. Ultimate protection coverage is limited to one tire in the event of multiple tire damages, and towing charges will be reimbursed up to $500. Vehicle liability remains at zero under UP coverage. Compulsory Third-Party Insurance, Vehicle Registration Recovery Fee, Administration Recovery Fee and Premium Location Surcharge, this product is available for renters aged 25+. Please note road closures may be in place due to inclement weather, for up-to-date information visit https://roadreport.nt.gov.au/road-reports.Coverage is subject to specific driving restrictions and authorized areas. Please refer to the full terms and conditions for more details. Prices and inclusions are correct as of 24 June 2026 and may be subject to change due to availability, surcharges, fees or taxes without notice. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices are based on per person twin share. Please contact us on 1800 854 897 or deals@ntnow.com.au to enquire. Airfares and transfers are additional unless otherwise specified. For full terms and conditions and details on our refund policy, view our booking conditions. E&OE.


