Starting from
$995 AUD
Overview
"This small group adventure encompasses the very best the Red Centre has to offer. Spend three days, exploring three iconic locations (Uluru, Kings Canyon & Kata Tjuta) in one tour. There is a very good reason why Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is included on the UNESCO World Heritage ..."
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Experience the stunning transformation of Uluru at both sunrise and sunset, offering two opportunities to witness its awe-inspiring beauty.
- Learn about Anangu culture at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Aboriginal Cultural Centre.
- Explore ancient UNESCO World Heritage List rock art paintings and stories, etched here for millennia.
- Immerse yourself in the world’s oldest living culture, rich in history and spirituality.
- Visit the serene Mutitjulu Waterhole, the sacred Kuniya Piti, and majestic Kantju Gorge.
- Find a moment of peace and self-reflection in the sacred landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
- Hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge for panoramic views.
- Marvel at Kata Tjuta’s (The Olgas) unique domes, shaped millions of years ago by Mother Nature.
- Discover the dramatic beauty of Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park).
- Enjoy the early morning Rim Walk with stunning cliff-top views (weather and fitness permitting).
- End the day stargazing under the Outback sky at a private campsite on Traditional Owners' land.
- Choose Your Preferred Ending: This tour concludes in either Alice Springs or Uluru/Ayers Rock/Yulara, depending on shuttle availability. Please confirm your preferred drop-off location when booking.
Itinerary
Alice Springs to Uluru / Ayers Rock
Your adventure begins with an early departure from Alice Springs or Yulara (Ayers Rock Airport), heading towards the iconic Uluru. Along the way, we will make a brief stop at Mount Connor (often referred to as “False Uluru” due to its similar appearance), offering a scenic viewpoint and a quick break at Curtin Springs. From there, we continue our journey to Uluru, where we’ll have lunch and a meet-up with guests arriving at Ayers Rock Airport.
The next stop is the Aboriginal Cultural Centre, where you’ll gain valuable insight into the rich history, stories, and cultural significance of the land you are about to explore. Afterward, prepare for an awe-inspiring experience as we take a guided walk around the base of Uluru, one of the most famous natural landmarks in the world. As you take in the breathtaking views, your guide will share the fascinating history behind ancient rock art, sacred waterholes such as Mutitjulu, and the Aboriginal stories of Kuniya the python and Liru the venomous snake.
The walk will continue to Kantju Gorge, home to the tallest waterfall in Central Australia (seasonal, depending on rainfall), and sacred caves that once served as nature’s pantry for the local Aboriginal people. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a delicious dinner while witnessing one of the world’s most stunning sunsets over Uluru. While the beauty is beyond words, you’ll have plenty of time to capture the moment and create lasting memories.
Day 1 Highlights:
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Red Centre’s Aboriginal Interpretive Cultural Centre
Sacred Rock Art & Mutitjulu Waterhole
Sunset at Uluru Lookout
Meals: Lunch, Dinner (*Lunch is not included for those joining us in Ayers Rock)
Camping: Private Ayers Rock Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities).
Drive Distance: 460 km
Hike Distance: 2-3 km
Uluru to Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon
Sunrise seekers, rise and shine! A pre-dawn wake-up call will be rewarded with an unforgettable experience as we begin the day before dawn to witness the stunning sunrise at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. After soaking in the first light over Uluru, we’ll continue our journey to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a striking collection of dome-shaped rock formations that evoke a sense of otherworldliness. You’ll embark on either the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge walk, both offering spectacular views and ample opportunities for awe-inspiring moments.
Following our time at Kata Tjuta, we stop at camp for a bite to eat before making our way to the Kings Canyon region, arriving in time to enjoy another breathtaking outback sunset. The day will conclude with a traditional campfire dinner, offering a truly authentic Australian outback experience.
Day 2 Highlights:
Sunrise at Uluru
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
Hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Camping: Private Kings Canyon Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities).
Drive Distance: 406 km (4.5 hours)
Hike Distance: 2-6 km (weather-dependent)
Kings Canyon to Ayers Rock/Yulara or Alice Springs
Following an early start, we depart for Kings Canyon. Prepare to be amazed by the dramatic 100-meter cliffs and striking sandstone formations that define this iconic landscape. The Rim Walk, renowned as the highlight of Watarrka National Park, offers panoramic views that are truly breathtaking. Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the canyon’s ancient geological history, its unique flora and fauna, and other notable features of this remarkable location.
On the return journey to Alice Springs, we will travel through the rugged Australian outback, either along the main highway or, conditions permitting, via the scenic Mereenie Loop or Ernest Giles Road. We expect to arrive back in Alice Springs between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm, where you will be dropped off, enriched with new experiences, lasting memories, and the stories of the outback to share with others.
Day 3 Highlights:
Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park)
Scenic drive through the Outback
Guided canyon walks and jaw-dropping views
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive Distance: 250 km (2.5 hours)
Hike Distance: 2-4 km
*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies.
Essential Packing List
3L Refillable water bottle
Wide brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
Swimwear, beach towel & toiletries
Comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (tread closed toe shoes)
All-weather clothing (extreme conditions inc wind, heat, cold, day/night)
Raincoat, windbreaker, warm clothes in the evening
15kg soft bag or backpack & small day pack
Tropical strength insect repellent
Mosquito or fly net (summer months)
Flashlight, headlamp or torch, camera
Money for snack and meals
Bring your own sleeping bag & pillow (optional - if staying in a swag)
Recharge power bank (limited access to power to charge phone or cameras)