~~ 01-Apr-2024 to 31-Mar-2026~~Valid for 01APR24-31MAR26:
DAY 1: ALICE SPRINGS TO ULURU / AYERS ROCK (L, D)
Departing from Alice Springs, head towards Ayers Rock stopping off at Mt Connor (false Uluru) lookout for a view of this mighty red mountain and Curtin Springs for a toilet stop before arriving at the campground for lunch. After lunch, head to the Red Centre's Aboriginal interpretive cultural centre. Have a chance to learn about the cultural, ecological, historical, and geological significance of this very special national park. With the anticipation and excitement growing, make a short drive towards the base of Uluru and begin to comprehend the sheer size and magnificence of the giant monolith, getting up close and personal to explore further. Walking to Mutitjulu waterhole, discover sacred rock art sites in family caves and hear the creation stories of Kuniya and Liru as you continue the base walk towards Kuniya Piti. From here drive around sacred sites towards Kantju Gorge where you can envisage the highest waterfall in Central Australia, (truly a spectacle to behold, even more so when raining) an elders' cave, and the world's oldest pantry. After exploring the world's most impressive rock up close and personal, retreat for panoramic views to witness one of the most incredible sunsets on the planet, all whilst having dinner cooked for you, to feed those hungry eyes.
Accommodation: Ayers Rock Coach Campground - Bush swags with shared facilities.
DAY 2: ULURU TO KATA TJUTA TO KINGS CANYON (B, L, D)
It's an early rise and light breakfast as you head off for a spectacular sunrise in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. You thought Uluru was special and just when you think it couldn't get any more majestic you'll approach the stunning silhouette of Kata Tjuta. Here, set off on a hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge marveling at the mighty conglomerate rock formations. After exploring Kata Tjuta, make your way towards Kings Canyon region just in time to experience a glorious outback sunset followed by a hearty meal around the campfire.
Accommodation: Kings Canyon Campground - Bush swags with shared facilities.
DAY 3: KINGS CANYON TO WEST MACDONNELL RANGES (B, L, D)
Head off early to explore the mighty Kings Canyon (Watarrka) venturing into the ancient landscape and sacred grounds of the Ulpanyali and Lilla people. Arriving at the jewel in the crown at the centre of Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon), find yourselves surrounded by towering 100-meter cliff faces, views of sandstone chasms, and jaw-dropping backdrops that will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. Grab your water, hat, and sturdy shoes as you set off on foot to explore (the most seasonally applicable part of) the canyon in more detail. Rest up in the bus as you head back up north, passing through Alice Springs and heading out towards the West MacDonnell Ranges for an evening of stargazing at the bush camp.
Accommodation: West MacDonnell Campground - Bush swags with shared facilities.
DAY 4: STANDLEY CHASM AND TJORITJA WEST MACDONNELL RANGES TO ALICE SPRINGS (B, L)
Known traditionally as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”, Standley Chasm is a 3-metre-wide, 80-metre-high gorge amongst the West MacDonnell Ranges. At dawn, spot the native wildlife as you enjoy breakfast and look forward to the day ahead. Tracking west, you are welcome to enjoy a dip in Ellery Creek Bighole, known traditionally as Udepata, surrounded by tall red cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek. Onwards to where massive geological forces created the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Spend time here admiring nature and its finest before beginning the leisurely journey back towards Alice Springs, with the final stop at another amazing feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnell region, Simpsons Gap, where several dreaming trails and stories cross. Featuring a permanent waterhole this is also a great place to spot resident wildlife. Now you've had your fix of the best of central Australia’s natural icons, it's back to Alice Springs to your chosen accommodation and evening plans as you reminisce your four days of exploration and new friends made.~~~~ |