Alice Springs Weather in July

What Is the Weather Like in Alice Springs in July?

July in Alice Springs signifies the heart of the winter season, a sharp contrast to the overvearing heat of the summer months. However, don't be fooled. The desert environment still offers up sunny, dry days. Daytime temperatures can reach up to 20°C (68°F), with a chilling low of 3°C (37.4°F) at night. You'll want to pack layered clothing to help you adjust to the considerable temperature swings from day to night. 

These cooler night temperatures provide a refreshing contrast to the daytime warmth, offering a chance to recuperate from the day's activities and gear up for more sightseeing fun.

July ushers in opportunities for outdoor activities during the day, with comfortable temperatures for exploring the rugged beauty of the Uluru, visiting animal parks, or immersing yourself in the stark desert landscapes. Plan your days around the expected temperature to get the most out of your travels, with late morning and early afternoon providing the warmest temperatures of the day.

Average Temperatures in Alice Springs in July

In July, temperatures in Alice Springs range from a high of 20°C (68°F) during the day to a low of 3°C (37.4°F) at night. Daytime temperatures usually vary by about 3°C either way, never rising above 23°C (73.4°F). 

Overnight, the temperatures can drop to near freezing, so it's advisable to pack some warm clothing, such as a jacket or fleece, to keep you comfortable when the cooler climate sets in. Plan your adventures for the daytime with the mild, dry weather offering up perfect sightseeing temperatures. At night, stick to the indoors and layer up to stay cozy. If you are heading out for a dinner under the stars or evening walk, pack your winter coats.

Historically, the coldest day on record in the past two decades was in 2007, where temperatures plummeted to -7.5°C (18.5°F). In contrast, the warmest July day in recent years was in 2013, where temperatures soared to 31°C (88°F). It's evident that the weather can vary widely, even in the middle of winter, so it's wise to plan ahead.

Average temperatures in Alice Springs in July

Average Sunshine Hours Per Day in Alice Springs in July

During the month of July in Alice Springs, the sun rises at around 7.15am and sunset is around 6.04pm, offering up around 10.8 hours of daylight for you to head out exploring in the mild weather.

UV levels in Alice Springs in July

In July, the average daily maximum UV index across Alice Springs is 5, which sits slightly lower from the hot summer months. It’s important to recognise this still indicates a moderate health risk from unsafe exposure to ultraviolet radiation, so plan ahead for your visit and cover up.

Average Rainfall in Alice Springs in July

Sitting in the middle of winter, July is considered a particularly dry month in Alice Springs with an average of 13.4mm (0.5 inches) of rain throughout the month. You can generally expect about 1-2 rainy days throughout this time, which means if you’re ready for sunshine and mild weather, this is the perfect month to visit.  

Average rainfall in Alice Springs in July

Best Things to Do in Alice Springs in July

Winter in Alice Springs truly is a hidden gem, bringing with it cooler weather that’s perfect for exploring without the crowds of the peak tourist season. There’s plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities during the day, with comfortable temperatures for exploring the rugged beauty of the Uluru, visiting animal parks, or immersing yourself in the stark desert landscapes. Here’s some of the best things to do in Alice Springs in July.

Check out the Alice Springs Camel Cup

This quirky annual camel racing event is an absolute must-see and a great way to experience the unique culture of the outback. The event first started in 1970 as a bet between two friends, Noel Fullerton and Keith Mooney-Smith. 

It’s now run on the second Saturday of July each year, with about 20 riders bringing their camels from farms around the area to compete in eight races leading up to the finale at the end. If you have a bit of flexibility when planning your trip, then this is an event you don’t want to miss.

Uluru

Just a short distance from Alice Springs, it’s well-worth making the trip to Uluru, to visit the iconic Australian landmark. The cooler July weather provides the perfect conditions for exploring this massive sandstone monolith and the surrounding Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Whether you choose to walk around the base of Uluru, take a guided tour, or watch the stunning sunrise or sunset over the rock, it's an experience you won't want to miss.

Explore the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum

Learn about the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and its vital role in providing healthcare to remote areas of Australia. Located in the original Radio Station House, the museum offers interactive displays and the chance to see the RFDS aircraft up close.

There is also a large display of historic medial equipment used in the past, along with model airplanes used by the RFDS through the decades. Tours run every half an hour from 9.30am-5pm, taking you through the museum to explore everything on offer.

Visit the Art Galleries

Alice Springs is a vibrant hub of Aboriginal art and culture. You can spend a day just wandering through all the galleries dotted in the area. In July, you will find numerous exhibitions and events showcasing the talents of local artists. 

The Araluen Arts Centre hosts a collection of contemporary Aboriginal art, as well as works from renowned Australian artists. The Mbantua Fine Art Gallery and Cultural Museum features artwork from the Utopia region. The Keringke Arts Aboriginal Art Centre is a working art studio where you can buy directly from the artists. The Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre is home to landscape watercolour paintings showcasing the artist’s culture and stories. Or head to the Yubu Napa Art Gallery and Studio to feast your eyes on a large range of unique gifts with a working studio for you to browse through.

Walk around town

Alice Springs is not just about desert landscapes and outdoor adventures; it also boasts a vibrant town life. Take a stroll down the Todd Mall in the heart of the town will meander past the various local shops, cafés, and street markets. On select Sundays, the Todd Mall Markets are a staple of Alice Springs. Here, you can purchase local produce, try out bush tucker, buy handmade crafts, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Alice Springs also offers a diverse food scene, with eateries ranging from cosy cafes to upscale restaurants. From Australian classics to international cuisine, there's something to satisfy every palate.

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

Recommended Itineraries for Alice Springs in July

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.