If you haven't managed to glimpse a spangled grunter or marbled velvet gecko on your travels, head to the Desert Park where the creatures of central Australia are all on display in one place. The predominantly open-air exhibits faithfully re-create the animals' natural environments in a series of habitats: inland river, sand country and woodland.
It's an easy 2.5km cycle to the park. Alternatively, Desert Park Transfers runs from Alice Springs five times daily. The cost includes park entry and pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation.
Try to time your visit with the terrific birds of prey show, featuring free-flying Australian kestrels, kites and awesome wedge-tailed eagles. To catch some of the park's rare and elusive animals, such as the bilby, visit the excellent nocturnal house. If you like what you see, come back at night and spotlight endangered species on the guided nocturnal tour (bookings essential).
To get the most out of the park pick up a free audioguide (available in various languages) or join one of the free ranger-led talks held throughout the day.
