Are there snakes in Alice Springs?

Australia is famous for its deadly snakes!

The country is so renowned for these dangerous reptiles, that tourists are always a bit cautious when it comes to Alice Springs’ dry landscape, being the perfect breeding ground for these slithering creatures. However, despite being the home for some of the most venomous snakes in the world, Alice Springs can still be a spectacular place to visit, even with a couple of snake sightings.

About the Snakes of Alice Springs

Australian snakes are generally a shy bunch, typically more scared of you than you may be of them. Overall, there is an average of only two deaths a year from snake bites, with many of the bitten treated quickly by the local professionals. There is a total of 13 species of snake roaming about Alice Springs, but two of them are non-venomous and three are blind. Giving you a lot less risk when trekking about the dry landscape. Simply keeping an eye out for them when trekking through the scenic region, as well as knowing what to do when seeing them, will diminish danger immensely.

The Most Common Snakes

• King Brown/Mulga Snake

  Despite its name, this snake is within the black snake family, being known as the world’s most venomous snake. It can be recognized by its flat head, smooth snout and a long body that reaches up to 3 metres. However, despite its danger, these snakes aren’t typically aggressive to humans, and will only strike if they feel threatened. Simply stand silently a distance away if you come across one and wait for the snake to decide to move.

• Woma Python

  Despite its name, these Pythons are a smaller variety of snake, only growing up to 1.5 metres long. They are nocturnal creatures, so they are rarely seen in the wild. However, due to most visitors believing that snakes only appear when the sun is shining, these species can be a scary surprise when night walking. So, make sure you keep an eye out on the ground when you trek about!

• Desert Death Adder

  The Death Adder is by far one of the scariest names in Australia’s list of snakes. It is one of the topmost venomous species in Alice Springs, identifiable by their short stocky body and flathead. They are typically seen sitting still for hours at a time, as they camouflage themselves in the dry sand and use their thin tail to imitate a worm. Drawing in lizards and birds to snatch up quickly for a tasty snack.

Related article: What to see in Alice Springs?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.