Alice Springs To Uluru Tour
Our small group safari adventure tour offers a comprehensive experience of the main attractions in the Red Centre.
During the tour, we will visit three iconic locations (Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta, and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges) over four days.
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987 because of its amazing geology, plants and animals, and stunning natural scenery.
A tour guide will provide commentary and explore the Red Centre, sharing ancient stories, myths, secrets, and hidden gems.
The tour offers accommodations in twin-share safari tents for added privacy, comfort, and security, or you can opt for a traditional swag experience with a canvas-covered bed roll.
Tour Information
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Day 4
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Price $ AUD 1150 - 1295
- Departs 6:00
- Returns 18:30
Highlights
- Explore the impressive Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park.
- Visitors can enjoy the sunset viewpoint at Uluru (Ayers Rock) and immerse themselves in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta cultural centre.
- Explore the sacred Indigenous Rock Art sites.
- Explore Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti, and Kantju Gorge for a comprehensive exploration experience.
- One can explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge.
- Witness the sunrise at the awe-inspiring Olgas – Kata Tjuta.
- You can explore the West MacDonnell National Park, also known as Tjoritja, by the indigenous custodians.
- Explore the 80m high gorge and marvel at Standley Chasm, also known as ‘Angkerle Atwatye’ in traditional terms.
- Visitors can swim at one of Central Australia’s largest and most picturesque swimming spots, Ellery Creek Big Hole.
- You can visit the UNESCO-listed Ochre Pit mineral rockface and observe the usage of coloured ochre clay in traditional ceremonies.
The itinerary is subject to change due to seasonal conditions and access restrictions. The Red Centre’s diverse landscape, culture, and extreme weather conditions require flexibility and adaptability. The itinerary highlights are just a rough guideline. Expert guides will ensure everyone has a fantastic adventure.
What you can actually see!
Itinerary
Day 1: Alice Springs / Yulara - Uluru
The tour starts from either Alice Springs or Yulara (Uluru Airport). It includes visits and stops at various sites, including Ayers Rock (Uluru), Mt Conner lookout (false Uluru or Fool-Uru), and Curtin Springs for a quick break. Lunch will be provided at the campground for guests from Alice Springs, while guests from Ayers Rock must arrange their lunch before joining the tour.
We visited the Red Centre’s cultural centre to learn about the park’s significance. We were amazed by the grandeur of Uluru up close. We hiked to the Mutitjulu waterhole and discovered sacred rock art sites. We heard ancient creation stories and continued our hike to Kuniya Piti. We drove to Kantju Gorge, passing holy sites. We saw Central Australia’s highest waterfall. We ended the day with a breathtaking sunset and dinner cooked for us.
Highlights :
- Uluru(Ayers Rock)
- The cultural center is in the Red Centre.
- SacredRock ArtSite
- Mutitjulu Waterhole
- Kuniya Piti
- Kantju Gorge
- Sunset at Uluru lookout
Meals available: Lunch, Dinner. The available accommodations at Ayers Rock Coach Campground (Uluru) include Safari Tents and Bush Swags with shared facilities. Driving Distance: 350km. Hike Distance: 2-3 km / 2-3 hours. Lunch will be provided for those departing from Alice Springs. If you are being picked up from Ayers Rock, you must arrange 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 at Uluru. Kata Tjuta is even more magnificent than Uluru. We hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge and see the fantastic rock formations. After exploring Kata Tjuta, we go to Kings Canyon. We witnessed another beautiful sunset in the outback and had a delicious meal by the campfire.
Highlights :
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
One option is to hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge.
The Olgas- Kata Tjuta
Glorious Sunrise at Uluru
Meals provided are breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodations offered at Kings Creek Station Campground are Safari Tents or Bush Swags with communal facilities. The driving distance is 406 km, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. The hike is 2-6 km long and takes 2-4 hours, depending on the weather.
Day 3: Kings Canyon - McDonnell Western Ranges
We start early and explore Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Bring your hat, water, and hiking shoes as we walk through cliffs and enjoy the views. After resting, we head towards West MacDonnell Ranges to stargaze at our campsite. Day 3 Highlights: Outback Scenery – Travel through remote Australian countryside, passing Alice Springs and reaching Standley Chasm. Kings Canyon – Take a guided walking tour and learn about flora, fauna, and geology. Gather around the campfire for a meal and enjoy stargazing in the outback.
Meals provided include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Accommodations are available at the West MacDonnell Ranges remote campsite in safari tents or bush swags with basic outback facilities. The driving distance is 370km, which takes approximately 4 hours. The hike ranges from 2-4 km and takes about 2-4 hours.
Day 4: Standley Chasm and Tjoritja Western Ranges McDonnell - Alice Springs
On our fourth day, we visit Standley Chasm, a 3-meter-wide gorge within the West MacDonnell Ranges. We explore the area, looking for native wildlife. Then, we head towards Ellery Creek Bighole, a place to cool off and take a dip surrounded by red cliffs. Next, we go to Ormiston Gorge, where we admire the incredible geological formations. Our final stop is Simpsons Gap, a waterhole and sacred space. We then return to Alice Springs, dropping you off at your accommodation. Take some time to reflect on your four days of adventures.
Meals include breakfast and lunch. Accommodation is not available. The driving distance is 250km, which takes approximately 3 hours. The walking distance is around 3km to 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
Exclusions
- Any meals not previously indicated in the itinerary
- We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance
- Pre/post-tour hotel transfers
- Additional personal expenses
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)
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, packing, 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.