Alice Springs Weather in August

What Is the Weather Like in Alice Springs in August?

During the month of August, daytime temperatures hover around 22°C (71.6°F), making it a perfect time for outdoor exploration. However, nighttime can bring about a significant dip in temperature, going down to about 5°C (41°F). This contrast makes the days ideal for getting outdoors and exploring, while the nights better spent rugged up and gazing at the clear skies.

In August, Alice Springs comes alive with a range of activities that highlight its natural beauty, unique wildlife, vibrant culture, and community. With pleasant winter weather, it's a great time to explore and immerse yourself in the heart of Australia. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, to immerse yourself in culture, or the chance to experience life in an Australian outback town, Alice Springs in August offers plenty of experiences for an unforgettable trip.

Average Temperatures in Alice Springs in August

August in Alice Springs sees the tail-end of winter and the onset of spring, resulting in a blend of cooler and slightly warmer days. However, it’s important not to underestimate the desert climate. While the heat is less intense compared to the peak summer months, temperatures during the day can still reach up to 22°C (71.6°F). This is balanced by cooler evenings, with temperatures dropping to a very chilly 5°C (41°F). 

As the month progresses, daytime temperatures can fluctuate by about 2-3°C, but they rarely drop below 18°C (64.4°F). Nights in Alice Springs during August can get quite chilly, sometimes even dropping to as low as 0°C (32°F). This means that packing a warm jacket or jumper for the evenings is a good idea.

Historically, the highest recorded temperature in Alice Springs for August reached 31°C (87.8°F) in 2010, which highlights that warm days are indeed possible even in the later winter months. However, these highs are relatively rare, and the weather is generally much milder. In contrast, the coldest night was in 2006, with a low of -3°C (26.6°F). Make sure you come prepared for a range of temperatures!

Average Sunshine Hours Per Day in Alice Springs in August

During the month of August in Alice Springs, the sun rises at around 6.59am and sunset is around 6.16pm, offering up around 11.3 hours of daylight for you to head out exploring in the pleasant winter weather.

UV levels in Alice Springs in August

In August, the average daily maximum UV index across Alice Springs is 5. This indicates a moderate health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation. As always in the desert environment, be sure to cover up during the day.

Average Rainfall in Alice Springs in August

Unlike the summer months, August brings a much lower chance of rainfall. This drier weather, combined with the mild temperatures, make August an excellent time for outdoor activities. The average rainfall is 8.3mm (0.33 inches), with around one day of rain in this period.

Best Things to Do in Alice Springs in August

With the chill of winter beginning to recede, August brings in a gradual rise in temperatures, making it a perfect time to explore the many attractions of this outback gem. Whether it's hiking around the iconic Uluru, visiting the local wildlife parks, or immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area, here's some of the best things to do in Alice Springs in August.

Explore the MacDonnell Ranges

Stretching for hundreds of kilometres on both sides of Alice Springs, the East and West MacDonnell Ranges are a must-see. With its scenic gaps and gorges, historic sites, and hiking trails, the MacDonnell Ranges offer ample opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Stretching for more than 160km, you can see the sights by car, or hop out and explore the land on foot - or enjoy a mixture of both. Plan your time well to explore the famous Larapinta Trail, stunning swimming holes, and great campgrounds. You could simply visit for a day and see a highlight or two, or spend a week making your way around this incredible landscape.

Night Sky Wonders

The clear and vast skies of Alice Springs also offer a unique opportunity to indulge in some stargazing, and August is a particularly good month for this activity. The contrast of the warm days and cool nights offers up clear skies for you to view. 

As darkness falls, the night skies of Alice Springs become a blanket of stars. You can learn about the southern hemisphere's constellations, planets, and the Milky Way from local astronomy experts or simply enjoy the view.

You even join a night tour at the Earth Sanctuary, which offers astronomy sessions led by knowledgeable guides. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride

These mild temperatures and clear skies also make August an ideal time for a hot air balloon ride over the desert where you are in prime position to take in the sweeping landscapes. Experience Alice Springs from a bird's-eye view and enjoy the breathtaking panorama.

You have the unique opportunity to look out for native wildlife while you watch a spectacular sunrise before your eyes. As you float peacefully, it will give you a sense of the complete remoteness of the vast landscape. 

Henley-on-Todd Regatta

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, then don’t miss this "bottomless" boat race that takes place in the sandy bed of the Todd River. The Henley on Todd is a boating regatta not quite like any other, bringing out that true Aussie humour for a fun-filled day. 

Participants carry the boats with no bottoms racing up and down the sandy dry Todd River. It’s the world's only boat race with no water. You can simply settle back and watch the action, join in or try some of the other activities, including sandcastle competitions, rubber duck races, market-style stalls and more!

Bird Watching

Enjoy watching the birds? Alice Springs is a great place to spot them and is home to a variety of bird species. Take a quiet walk around the Olive Pink Botanic Garden or the Alice Springs Desert Park, and you might spot colourful budgerigars, spinifex pigeons, and even the elusive mulga parrot.

Believe it or not, about 180 species of birds reside in the habitat surrounding Alice Springs.That’s plenty of opportunity for spotting them.

For more inspiration on what to see and do in Alice Springs in August, have a look at our comprehensive Nine Day Alice Springs Self Drive Loop. 

Recommended Itineraries for Alice Springs in August

This 14 Day Highlights of Northern Territory offers plenty of ideas on how to best spend your holiday in Alice Springs. And if you’d like to have a personalised itinerary created just for you, our travel specialists will be happy to help you plan a memorable trip