Explore
Alice Springs To Uluru Tour
Our small group safari adventure tour allows you to visit the key attractions of the Red Centre.
During the four-day tour, we visited three iconic locations in Uluru: Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta, and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987 due to its stunning geological formations, unique flora and fauna, and impressive natural beauty.
Your tour guide will lead you through the Red Centre, providing comprehensive commentary and revealing ancient stories, myths, secrets, and hidden gems.
The tour offers fully accommodated options, including comfortable twin-share safari tents for privacy, comfort, and security. Alternatively, you can opt for a traditional swag experience with a canvas-covered bed roll.
Highlights
- Discover the vastness of Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park.
- Experience the beautiful sunset view at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta cultural centre to learn more about the local culture.
- Explore the sacred Indigenous Rock Art sites.
- Visit Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti, and Kantju Gorge.
- Visitors can explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and enjoy hiking options like the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge.
- One can experience sunrise at the majestic Olgas – Kata Tjuta.
- Visit the West MacDonnell National Park, also known as Tjoritja, for a worthwhile exploration.
- Visitors can explore the impressive Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye,’ and be in awe of its 80m high gorge.
- Ellery Creek Big Hole is a popular swimming spot in Central Australia, known for its size and beauty.
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface to witness the use of coloured ochre clay in traditional ceremonies.
This itinerary is subject to change due to seasonal conditions and access restrictions in certain areas. The Red Centre’s landscape, culture, and extreme weather require flexibility and adaptability. The itinerary highlights are just a rough guideline. Expert guides will ensure a fantastic adventure for everyone.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Alice Springs / Yulara - Uluru
From either Alice Springs or Yulara (Uluru Airport), the journey begins towards Ayers Rock (Uluru), with a stop at Mt Conner lookout (false Uluru or Fool-Uru) for breathtaking views of the red mountain. A stop at Curtin Springs allows for a restroom break before arriving at the campground for lunch. (*Please note that only Alice Springs guests will be provided with lunch, while those joining from Ayers Rock must make arrangements beforehand.)
After lunch, we went to the Red Centre’s indigenous interpretive cultural centre. We received education on the significance of the national park, including its cultural, historical, ecological, and geological aspects. Then, we arrived at the base of Uluru and were amazed by its magnificence. We trekked towards the Mutitjulu waterhole and discovered sacred rock art sites. We listened to ancient creation stories and Dreamtime myths while hiking. We drove to Kantju Gorge, passing through holy sites. We saw the highest waterfall in Central Australia. After a full day of exploration, we watched a spectacular sunset and had dinner.
Highlights
- Uluru(Ayers Rock)
- The Red Centres Indigenous Interpretive Cultural Centre is a place of cultural significance.
- SacredRock ArtSite
- Mutitjulu Waterhole
- Kuniya Piti
- Kantju Gorge
- Sunsetat Uluru lookout
Meals are provided for lunch and dinner. Accommodations are at the Ayers Rock Coach Campground (Uluru) in Safari Tents or Bush Swags with communal facilities. The driving distance is 350km. The hike distance is 2-3 km and takes about 2-3 hours. Lunch is only provided for those departing from Alice Springs. If you are being collected from Ayers Rock, you must find your lunch before joining the tour.
Day 2: Uluru - Kata Tiuta - Kings Canyon
We wake up early and have a light breakfast. Then, we go to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to see the sunrise. If you thought Uluru was impressive, wait until you see Kata Tjuta. We hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge and admire the vast rock formations. After exploring Kata Tjuta, we visit Kings Canyon for another beautiful sunset. We end the day by having a delicious meal around the fire at our camp.
Highlights
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
- One can hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge.
- The Olgas- Kata Tjuta
- Glorious Sunrise at Uluru
The meals provided are breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The accommodation options are Kings Creek Station Campground, where you can stay in Safari Tents or Bush Swags with communal facilities. The driving distance is 406 km, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. The hike distance ranges from 2-6 km and takes 2-4 hours, depending on the weather.
Day 3: Kings Canyon - McDonnell Western Ranges
We start early and explore Kings Canyon, the crown jewel in Watarrka National Park. Bring your hat, water, and hiking shoes as we hike through towering cliff faces and admire the sandstone chasms. After resting, we head north, passing through Alice Springs and reaching the West MacDonnell Ranges to stargaze at our campsite. Highlights of day 3 include observing the outback scenery, taking a guided walking tour in Kings Canyon, and enjoying a meal around the campfire. We also offer a dazzling stargazing experience in remote outback Australia.
The itinerary includes meals such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodations are available at the West MacDonnell Ranges remote campsite with Safari Tents or Bush Swags with basic outback facilities. The driving distance is 370km, and the hiking is 2-4 km, taking approximately 2-4 hours.
Day 4: Standley Chasm and Tjoritja Western Ranges McDonnell - Alice Springs
We visit Standley Chasm, a narrow gorge in the West MacDonnell Range. We explore the area and look for native wildlife. Then we head to Ellery Creek Bighole, where we swim surrounded by cliffs and sandy banks. Next, we go to Ormiston Gorge to see the towering red walls. Our final stop is Simpsons Gap, a sacred space with a waterhole and indigenous trails. After a full day, we return to Alice Springs for the evening.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Accommodation: N/A
Driving distance: 250km (3 hours).
Walking Distance: Approximately 3km / 4km.
Details
What's Included?
- 3 Nights Outback bush camping (Ayers Rock, Kings Creek Station, West MacDonnell Ranges)
- Includes: 3 x breakfast, 4 x lunch, 3 x dinner
- Guided bushwalking tours (~12km, subject to fitness level)
- Onboard drinking water (BYO refillable bottle)
- All National Park permit entry fees
- Entry fees to Standley Chasm
- Australian native wildlife sightings
- Fitted sheet, pillow & case (tent option only)
- Accredited outback driver-guide
- Travel in air-conditioned mini-coach
- Comprehensive commentary on the tour
- Pickup/ drop-off from selected inner-city Alice Springs points
Aditional Information
What do you need to bring?
- Refillable water bottle (at least 3 Litres)
- Sun protection – wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
- Beach towels, swimwear & toiletries
- Sturdy & comfortable shoes for hiking (tread closed toe)
- Clothing suitable for all weather (extreme conditions inc, wind, rain, heat, cold, day/night)
- Soft luggage (max 15kg) & small day pack
- Insect repellent (tropical strength)
- Mosquito or fly net (summer)
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Cash for extra snacks and meals
- Rechargeable power bank (access to power for charging phones or cameras will be limited)
- Camera
- BYO sleeping bag & pillow (optional – if staying in a swag)
Exclusions
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
Pickup Time & Location
Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside the front of Aurora Alice Springs Hotel – 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs from 6:00 to 7:00 am.
From Alice Springs:
- 6:00 am – To Be Advised – Please call 48 hours before reconfirming
- 7:00 am – Alice Motor Inn – 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Alice on Todd Apartments – 1 Strehlow St The Gap
- 7:00am – Alice Springs YHA – Cnr Parsons St Leichhardt Terrace
- 7:00 am – Alices Secret Travellers Inn – 6 Khalick St East Side NT
- 7:00 am – A Good Rest B and B – 51 Dixon Rd Alice Springs NT
- 7:00 am – Alice Springs Tourist Park – 70 Larapinta Dr Araluen NT
- 7:00 am – Best Western Elkira Court Motel – 65 Bath St Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Crowne Plaza Lasseters – 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Desert Palms Alice Springs – 74 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – DoubleTree Hilton Alice Springs -82 Barrett Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Discovery Parks – Alice Springs 25 Palm Place Ross NT
- 7:00 am – Gday Mate Tourist Park – 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Gap View Hotel – 123 Gap Rd The Gap NT
- 7:00 am – Haven Backpacker Resort – 3 Larapinta Dr Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Heritage Caravan Park – 40 Ragonesi Rd Alice Springs, NT
- 7:00 am – Jump Inn Alice Budget Accommodation 4 Traeger Ave The Gap NT
- 7:00 am – Lemon Gum Apartments – 11 Gap Rd The Gap NT
- 7:00 am – Mercure Alice Springs Resort -34 Stott Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Quest Alice Springs – 10 South Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Stay at Alice Springs Hotel Aurora – 11 Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Swagmans Rest Apartments The – 67 Gap Rd Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – The Diplomat Motel – 20 Gregory Terrace, Alice Springs
- 7:00 am – Wintersun Cabin n Caravan Park – 1 Stuart Hwy Alice Springs
From Ayers Rock / Yulara:
- 1:50 pm – Ayers Rock Airport [AYQ] – Coote Rd Yulara NT
- 1:50 pm – Ayers Rock Campground – 173 Yulara Dr Yulara NT
Drop-off time and location
From Alice Springs:
- 5:30 pm – at select Alice Springs Accommodation in the central part of town
From Ayers Rock / Yulara:
- This tour finishes in Alice Springs; we do not offer Ayers Rock/Yulara drop-offs, only on the 3-Day touring option.
These are approximate drop-off times, and we recommend guests not to book a flight out on the final day of the tour. You must book an additional night’s accommodation in Alice Springs and fly out the following day.
Important Notes
- Mandatory passenger details required when booking include date of birth, dietary requirements and phone number.
- We do our best to cater for most dietary needs and food allergies. However, passengers MUST notify the tour operator of any special requirements or medical conditions when booking.
- Hiking included in this tour requires a moderate/ advanced fitness level and a doctor’s certificate for people over 70 years old (30 days before travel). The walks vary from 2km to 4km each, often over steep rocky areas and in direct sunlight with high humidity. An approximate 9-11 km walk is included throughout the three-day tour.
- Hiking is always embarked on at the guide’s discretion to ensure the safety of passengers.
- Children between the ages of 8 and 17 must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian and stay in private twin rooms. This tour is not suitable for infants or children seven years and under.
- Private rooms are available on request and subject to availability.
- Our vehicles have limited storage space. Therefore, baggage must be kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag and 1 x 5kg day bag.
- This terrain is unsuitable for mobility-impaired travellers with wheelchairs, walkers, prams or strollers.
- This itinerary is interchangeable and may vary to accommodate seasonal weather conditions and fluctuations or park closures due to ceremonies or events held by traditional custodians.
- Occasionally, sites within the parks close or do not allow swimming for safety purposes. We plan accordingly to make sure our guests always have the best experience possible on tour.
- Guests are asked to participate in preparing meals and loading/unpacking the vehicle.
- All tours MUST be reconfirmed with the tour operator within seven days of departure on 03 9393 1300.
- Private charter tours are available upon request.