1. Standley Chasm, also known as Angkerle Atwatye, is a stunning natural attraction located in the West MacDonnell Ranges, approximately 50 kilometers west of Alice Springs in Central Australia. The chasm was formed over millions of years by floods and weathering, creating a narrow passage through the imposing red sandstone cliffs. The chasm is around 80 meters high and only a few meters wide at its narrowest point.
One interesting fact about Standley Chasm is that it is best visited in the middle of the day when the sunlight directly hits the walls of the chasm, creating a striking display of red and orange colors. This phenomenon is especially dramatic during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the sun casts a beam of light into the chasm, illuminating the entire passage.
The chasm is also of significant cultural importance to the local Aboriginal people, the Arrernte, who consider it an important ceremonial site. Visitors can learn about the traditional Aboriginal culture and the Dreamtime stories associated with the area through guided tours or interpretive signage.
2. Standley Chasm is open to visitors every day of the year, including public holidays. The opening hours vary depending on the season. In general, it is open from sunrise to sunset. It is recommended to arrive early to experience the full effect of the sunlight in the chasm.
For up-to-date information, it is best to check their official website or contact them directly. The contact details for Standley Chasm are as follows:
- Phone: +61 8 8956 7440
- Website: www.standleychasm.com.au
3. To visit Standley Chasm, visitors need to pay an admission fee. The current ticket prices for 2021 are as follows:
- Adults: AUD $12
- Children (5-15 years): AUD $6
- Students: AUD $8
- Families (2 adults and up to 3 children): AUD $30
There are several options for transportation to Standley Chasm. Visitors can drive their own vehicle or hire a car from Alice Springs. The chasm is located approximately a 40-minute drive from Alice Springs, and there is a car park available on-site. Alternatively, there are tour operators in Alice Springs that offer guided tours to Standley Chasm, which may include transportation.