Australia
2. Outback and Red Centre Discovery - 9 Days
$267/Person
Duration: 9 Days / 8 Nights
Destinations: Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), West MacDonnell Ranges
Ideal for: Adventure seekers, culture lovers, nature explorers, photographers
Tour Description
The Outback and Red Centre Discovery is a powerful 9-day journey into the heart of Australia’s ancient landscapes. This immersive experience connects you to Indigenous culture, dramatic desert scenery, sacred rock formations, and unique wildlife. Watch the sun rise over Uluru, hike through Kings Canyon, and explore the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges. Designed for those who yearn for authenticity and awe, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Australia’s spiritual and geological core.
Highlights
- Explore the rugged beauty of Kings Canyon and the Garden of Eden
- Witness the breathtaking sunrise and sunset over Uluru
- Learn from Aboriginal guides about Dreamtime stories and sacred sites
- Discover the geological wonders of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
- Enjoy hikes and gorges in the West MacDonnell Ranges
- Visit art galleries and cultural centres in Alice Springs
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Alice Springs
Arrive in the remote town of Alice Springs, set in the red heart of Australia. Transfer to your hotel and relax. In the evening, enjoy a traditional bush tucker dinner and stargazing experience with a local guide who explains Aboriginal astronomy.
Day 2: West MacDonnell Ranges Adventure
Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges, stopping at Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, and Ellery Creek Big Hole. Enjoy short walks, swimming holes, and dramatic rock formations. Return to Alice Springs for the night.
Day 3: Aboriginal Culture and Travel to Kings Canyon
Visit the Araluen Cultural Precinct and the Alice Springs Desert Park to understand local flora, fauna, and Aboriginal traditions. Then drive through desert landscapes to Kings Canyon, arriving in time for a sunset viewing over the escarpments.
Day 4: Kings Canyon Rim Walk and Transfer to Uluru
Start early with the spectacular Kings Canyon Rim Walk (moderate difficulty - 6 km), passing the Garden of Eden and sheer rock walls. For a shorter option, choose the Creek Bed Walk. After lunch, drive to Uluru, arriving by sunset to witness the rock glow in changing colors.
Day 5: Uluru and Aboriginal Art
Begin the day with a guided Uluru base walk, visiting waterholes and rock art sites. Learn the Anangu people’s Tjukurpa (Dreamtime stories). In the afternoon, visit the Mutitjulu Waterhole and Kuniya Walk, followed by time at the Cultural Centre. Optional: Scenic helicopter flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Day 6: Kata Tjuta Exploration
Visit the 36 massive rock domes of Kata Tjuta. Hike through the Valley of the Winds, one of the most beautiful walks in the region. Return to camp or hotel and unwind. Optional: Enjoy the Field of Light art installation at sunset.
Day 7: Free Day at Uluru or Optional Activities
Enjoy a leisurely morning or choose from optional activities such as camel rides, a sunrise helicopter tour, or a dot-painting workshop with Anangu artists. Relax by the pool or explore more walking trails.
Day 8: Return to Alice Springs
Travel back through the Outback to Alice Springs. En route, stop for scenic views and traditional roadhouse refreshments. Spend your final evening shopping for Indigenous art or enjoying dinner at a local steakhouse or vegetarian café.
Day 9: Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Alice Springs Airport for your onward flight, taking with you memories of red sands, sacred stories, and ancient landscapes.
Must-Do Activities
- Hike the Kings Canyon Rim Walk for dramatic desert views
- Watch sunset and sunrise at Uluru - a truly magical experience
- Discover Aboriginal traditions at the Uluru Cultural Centre
- Explore the spiritual Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta
- Stargaze under the Outback skies and learn celestial Dreamtime stories
Accommodation Options
- Alice Springs: DoubleTree by Hilton, Mercure Alice Springs Resort
- Kings Canyon: Kings Canyon Resort (hotel rooms or glamping tents)
- Uluru: Desert Gardens Hotel, Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge, Sails in the Desert (luxury)
Why Choose This Tour?
This Red Centre journey is an extraordinary opportunity to connect with Australia’s natural and spiritual soul. With a focus on cultural education, immersive landscapes, and a manageable pace, it’s ideal for travelers who want to understand Australia beyond the cities. Whether it's the magic of sunrise at Uluru or the grandeur of Kings Canyon, every moment is both grounding and awe-inspiring.