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Alice Springs · Northern territory · Australia
Red Centre To West Macdonnell 4 Day Tour - Basic Swag From Alice Springs
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From $1,034.41 per person
Current Project Expedition rate
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The Experience
What your day looks like
This small group adventure encompasses the very best the Red Centre has to offer. Four days, exploring four iconic locations (Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta, and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges) all wrapped up in one tour. There is a very good reason why Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The park was first added to the list in 1987, when the international community recognised its spectacular geological formations, rare plants and animals, and outstanding natural beauty. Your expert local guide will uncover some of the incredible secrets the Red Centre has to offer with guided -commentary, stories, and hidden gems that really bring this place to life. We have comfortable twin safari tents providing a little more comfort, privacy, and security, or you can try out a traditional swag experience (canvas-covered bedroll).
At a Glance
The experience, in brief
- Visit the UluruKata Tjuta Cultural Center
- Aboriginal Sacred Rock Art Site Visit Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti, Kantju Gorge
- Immerse yourself in UluruKata Tjuta National Park
- Hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge, The OlgasKata Tjuta
- Visit Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges
- Explore Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits, and Ellery Creek Big Hole
Your Itinerary
Your day, step by step
Day 1
Alice Springs
Sightseeing at Mount Conner. Alice Springs to Uluru Departing from either Alice Springs, we head towards Uluru (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 our campground for lunch.
Continued
Yulara
Cultural Immersion at Uluru Rock. After lunch, we head to the Red Centre’s Indigenous interpretive cultural centre where we 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 we make a short drive towards the base of Uluru as we begin to comprehend the sheer size and magnificence of the giant monolith, getting up close and personal to explore further.
Continued
Yulara
Nature Walks at Mutitjulu. Walking to Mutitjulu waterhole we discover sacred rock art sites in family caves and hear the creation stories of Kuniya and Liru as we continue our base walk towards Kuniya Piti. From here we drive around sacred sites towards Kantju Gorge where we 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.
Continued
Yulara
Leisure at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. After exploring the world's most impressive rock up close and personal, we 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 and allow you to get to know your fellow travellers.
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Yulara
Other at Uluru Rock. Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
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Yulara
Other at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Accommodation: Ayers Rock Coach Campground (Uluru) Basic Swags (communal campsite facilities). Driving Distance: 350km. Hike Distance: 2-3km / 2-3 hours.
Day 2
Yulara
Hiking at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Uluru to Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon We wake early for a light breakfast and 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 we approach the stunning silhouette of Kata Tjuta.
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Yulara
Hiking at Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Here we set off on a hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge marveling at the mighty conglomerate rock formations.
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Yulara
Sightseeing at Kata Tjuta. After exploring Kata Tjuta we make our way towards Kings Canyon region just in time to experience a glorious outback sunset followed by a hearty meal around the campfire.
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Alice Springs
Other at Kings Canyon (Northern Territory). Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
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Alice Springs
Other at Kings Canyon (Northern Territory). Accommodation: Kings Canyon Campground Basic Swags (communal campsite facilities). Driving Distance: 406 km (4.5 Hours). Hike Distance: 2-6 km / 2-4 hours (*weather dependent).
Day 3
Alice Springs
Sightseeing at Watarrka National Park. Kings Canyon to West MacDonnell Ranges We 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) we find ourselves surrounded by towering 100-metre cliff faces, views of sandstone chasms and jaw-dropping backdrops that will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck.
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Alice Springs
Hiking at Watarrka National Park. Grab your water, hat and sturdy shoes as we set off on foot to explore (the most seasonally applicable part of) the canyon in more detail.
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Darwin
Sightseeing at Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. Rest up in the bus as we head back up north, passing through Alice Springs and heading out towards the West MacDonnell Ranges for an evening of stargazing at our bush camp.
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Alice Springs
End of the day!
Day 4
Darwin
Nature Walks at Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park. Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs Our West MacDonnell National Park exploration unfolds amidst the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Fuel up with some breakfast while nestled within this awe-inspiring natural wonder, taking a moment to appreciate the immense geological forces that sculpted this landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife emerging with the rising sun.
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Alice Springs
Sightseeing at Ormiston Pound. Next, we cool off with a refreshing dip in the Ellery Creek Bighole (Udepata in Arrernte). Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek, this permanent waterhole offers a welcome respite in the arid outback. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye). This dramatic 3-meter-wide, 80-meter-high gorge provides a stunning backdrop for our exploration.
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Alice Springs
Hiking at Simpsons Gap. Our final stop is Simpsons Gap, another remarkable feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnells. This significant site boasts a permanent waterhole attracting diverse wildlife and holds cultural significance as the intersection of several Aboriginal dreaming trails.
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Alice Springs
Other. With hearts full of wonder and unforgettable memories, we return to Alice Springs, dropping you off at your chosen accommodation. Relive your incredible four-day exploration and connect with the new friends you've made along the way.
Before You Go
What to know before booking
Included
Guided bush walks (~12km, subject to fitness level) Australian bush swag - canvas-covered bush bed roll All National Park pass entry fees Accredited Outback driver guide & host Comprehensive tour commentary Air-conditioned mini-coach travel Selected Alice Springs pick-ups and drop-offs only
Not Included
Any meals not indicated in the itinerary Travel insurance is highly recommended Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary Personal expenses
What to Bring
2-3L Refillable water bottle Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen Beach towel & toiletries Swimwear Comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed shoes) All-weather clothing (extreme conditions day/night) Camera Flashlight, headlamp or torch Tropical strength insect repellent Mosquito or fly net (summer months) 15kg overnight bag & small day pack Bring your own sleeping bag & pillow (optional - if staying in a swag) Power bank (limited access to power to charge phone or cameras) Money for snacks and meals
Restrictions
Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.
Meeting & Pickup
Meeting point at, Northern Territory. Pickup Locations: Alice Motor Inn - 25-27 Undoolya Rd East Alice Springs Alice on Todd Apartments - 1 Strehlow St The Gap Alice Springs YHA - Cnr Parsons St Leichhardt Terrace Stay at Alice Springs Hotel Aurora - 11 Leichhardt Terrace Best Western Elkira Court Motel - 65 Bath St Alice Springs Crowne Plaza Lasseters - 93 Barrett Dr Alice Springs Desert Palms Alice Springs - 74 Barrett Dr Alice Springs DoubleTree Hilton Alice Springs -82 Barrett Dr. Alice Springs Gday Mate Tourist Park - 23 Palm Circuit Ross Alice Springs Haven Backpacker Resort - 3 Larapinta Dr Alice Springs Mercure Alice Springs Resort -34 Stott Terrace Alice Springs Quest Alice Springs - 10 South Terrace Alice Springs Swagmans Rest Apartments The - 67 Gap Rd Alice Springs
Languages Offered
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Before Booking
Mandatory passenger details are required at the time of booking: date of birth, dietary, and phone number.
Planning Notes
Hotel pickup offered: Yes Confirmation: Automatic
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