The Ultimate Red Centre Road Trip

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges on this full-day guided tour with Emu Run Experience. Journey through one of Central Australia's most iconic regions, stopping at stunning natural landmarks like Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, and Simpsons Gap. Marvel at towering red cliffs, serene waterholes, and the unique flora and fauna of this ancient landscape. Enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by nature, with plenty of time to relax and soak in the tranquillity of the Outback. With knowledgeable guides sharing stories of the region’s geology, history, and Indigenous culture, this tour offers an enriching and unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Australian wilderness. Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an authentic Central Australian experience!.

From the arid Red Centre to the tropical Top End, this pass provides you with access to over 80 parks and reserves across the Northern Territory. To purchase an NT Parks Pass, please visit here and obtain a pass direct from the NT Government.
Please note: You cannot access Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks on an NT Parks Pass. Please talk to your Sales Consultant and they will arrange this for you.

Embarking on the journey from Alice Springs to Yulara is a quintessential Australian adventure, taking you through the Red Centre’s stunning landscapes. This 450-kilometer drive typically takes about 5.5 hours. To make the most of your trip, have a hearty breakfast in Alice Springs before you set off, as services are sparse along the way. Your first decent stop, about an hour in, is the Stuarts Well Roadhouse—a small, rustic spot for fuel and a quick break. An early departure from Alice Springs is advisable to maximise daylight and enjoy the drive at a relaxed pace. Start on the Stuart Highway and then transition to the Lasseter Highway. Don’t miss the iconic “Welcome to Alice Springs” sign as you head out. Roughly halfway through your trip, stop at the Erldunda Roadhouse for a refreshing coffee and a chance to meet some cheeky emus—an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and experience local wildlife. About 3.5 hours into the drive, you'll reach the Mount Conner Lookout. Often mistaken for Uluru, this flat-topped mesa offers a picturesque photo opportunity and a teaser for the grandeur of your destination. As you approach Yulara, the landscape gradually shifts, and the silhouette of Uluru will emerge on the horizon, promising a breathtaking arrival.

Immerse yourself in the Australian culture through a breathtaking 1-hour storytelling experience through groundbreaking technology and lighting. Be seated in a sustainably built theatre in the desert, in the heart of Australia surrounded by picturesque views looking out towards Uluru and Kata Tuta. On arrival be greeted with a delicious cheese and dessert board with unlimited wine as the darkness falls and the beauty of Uluru becomes a silhouette. Be amazed as you listen and learn about the ancestral Mala story as the sky is lit up and the drones choreograph to tell the story and a deeper understanding of the ancient story.

Tick off the bucket list and walk around Uluru at sunrise! Venture into Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and be met with deafening silence as you begin the 12-kilometre base walk, visiting waterholes and ancient rock art sites. Watch golden rays light up Uluru in brilliant red at sunrise while enjoying an outback picnic and hot drink. While you continue the walk, immerse yourself in culture and listen to your knowledgeable guide share stories of Creation and learn of Uluru's significance to the Anangu people.

The Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks Pass allows entry to explore these universally recognised natural wonders. You will be required to show your Uluru-Kata Tjuta Parks Pass at the park entry gates before entering Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Please have your pass ready to be scanned prior to arriving at this location.

Revel in the early morning serenity of a truly spiritual place as the sunrise colours change on Kata Tjuta. Enjoy a picnic breakfast overlooking this Central Australian icon. Learn about this diverse environment whilst walking between the mighty conglomerate rock walls into Walpa Gorge and hearing how the 36 domes that makeup Kata Tjuta have evolved over millions of years. Take time to listen to the wind (Walpa) far above and view the scale of the rock walls that surround you. The spirituality of this amazing location embraces everyone who ventures here.

This exclusive dining experience combines the award-winning ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner under the outback sky with the once-in-a-lifetime Field of Light art installation.
With magnificent views of Uluru at sunset, a three-course bush tucker menu, premium selection of Australian wines and beers, fascinating star talk and a self-guided walk through the Field of Light art installation, your ‘A Night at Field of Light’ experience is complete.

Journey through time with an Aboriginal Cultural Tour in the heart of the Central Australian desert. Learn about the traditional practices of the Luritja and Pertame People, embark on a walk and talk, uncovering the outback's secrets. Witness the ancient art of grinding stones and how they transformed seasonal bush tucker - native plants and seeds that nourished these communities for generations. Savor a taste of these traditional foods, including the legendary witchetty grub and honey ants! Relax in the shaded haven and unveil the cultural significance of Aboriginal dot paintings. Decipher the hidden meanings and techniques used to create these stunning artworks. Explore a treasure trove of traditional tools, weapons, music sticks, and jewelry, all handcrafted from local desert woods. Discover the diverse desert seeds and learn about the vital role of bush medicine plants in Aboriginal life.

Light Towers by night proves that our lives on earth are teeming with the magic of unexplainable things. Awaken your senses to the mystery of the outback as you wander amongst this immersive visual and aural display.

Embark on an extraordinary aerial adventure with the Range Safari Flight Experience by Professional Helicopter Services. This unforgettable journey begins with a convenient return transfer from the Kings Canyon Resort, ensuring a seamless and comfortable start to your exploration. This 30-minute (approx.) flight takes you on a comprehensive tour of the region’s most stunning natural landmarks. Your adventure begins with a breathtaking flyover of Kings Canyon, where you’ll marvel at the towering cliffs and deep gorges that have made this site famous. As you continue, the flight will reveal the hidden beauty of the Garden of Eden, a lush oasis nestled within the canyon’s walls, and the mysterious Domes of the Lost City, whose ancient-looking formations evoke a sense of wonder. The journey doesn’t stop there. You’ll also soar over Kathleen Springs, a tranquil waterhole steeped in Aboriginal history, and the expansive Petermann Pound, a vast natural basin surrounded by rugged ranges. The flight then takes you over the dramatic Back Canyon and the Gorge Gill Range, offering breathtaking views of the rugged terrain that characterizes this remote part of Australia. Perfect for those who wish to experience the full grandeur of the Red Centre from above, this safari flight delivers unforgettable sights and moments of awe. After your flight, you’ll be comfortably returned to your hotel, leaving you with lasting memories of one of Australia’s most spectacular regions.

Start your day early to make the most of your journey from Kings Canyon to Alice Springs. Covering approximately 330 kilometers, the drive will take around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions and your stops along the way. If you're driving a rental vehicle, it's best to stick to sealed roads—travel south on Luritja Road and then east towards Ghan. Setting out in the morning will allow you to enjoy cooler temperatures and maximize daylight. Before you depart, grab breakfast or a coffee at the Kings Canyon Resort.Just outside town, immerse yourself in an authentic Aboriginal cultural experience. The Karrkee Indigenous Experience offers a fascinating insight into the local Aboriginal culture. Witness demonstrations on bush tucker (traditional food), bush medicine, hunting weapons, dot painting, and sacred fire rituals. About 36 kilometers from Kings Canyon, King's Creek Station at the base of the stunning George Gill Range offers a genuine taste of the Australian outback. Try one of the famous unique Kings Creek camel burger for lunch or relax by the pool with a refreshing drink before continuing your drive. As you head towards Alice Springs, you'll traverse a well-maintained highway with sweeping views of the outback. Watch for wildlife and iconic Australian landscapes along the way. Approaching Alice Springs, you'll notice the unique blend of desert and bushland that defines the area. Alice Springs is a vibrant hub with numerous attractions, restaurants, and accommodations. Spend your afternoon exploring highlights such as the Alice Springs Desert Park, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, or the historic Telegraph Station.

As twilight descends, join this exciting Nocturnal Tour and step into a vast, predator-proof enclosure for an unforgettable adventure! Join a passionate guide on a spotlight safari, searching for Central Australia's endangered nocturnal inhabitants. Witness bilbies hopping through the landscape, echidnas foraging in the undergrowth, and malas grazing under the starry sky. This intimate tour allows you to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Learn about their unique adaptations and the vital role they play in the desert ecosystem. Get ready for a night of discovery – the desert comes alive under the cloak of darkness!

Experience the breathtaking feeling of floating silently above the Outback as the sun slowly rises over the desert on this awe-inspiring ballooning adventure. Float gently across the vast expanse of the Central Australian outback – keeping an eye out for native wildlife including the iconic red kangaroo and gain an appreciation of the remoteness of the area as the balloon glides across the landscape.

Experience the breathtaking feeling of floating silently above the Outback as the sun slowly rises over the desert on this awe-inspiring ballooning adventure. Float gently across the vast expanse of the Central Australian outback – keeping an eye out for native wildlife including the iconic red kangaroo and gain an appreciation of the remoteness of the area as the balloon glides across the landscape.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!