Red Centre Uluru Kings Canyon & West MacDonnell - 4WD Eco Tent Adventure (to/from Alice Springs)

**Day 1: Alice Springs to Uluru / Ayers Rock** Your adventure begins early as we depart from Alice Springs and head towards Uluru. Along the way, we’ll stop at the Mt Connor lookout (often mistaken for Uluru) to take in the views of this impressive red mountain, followed by a quick stop at Curtin Springs. After lunch, arrivals from Yulara Resort, Ayers Rock Campground, or Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) will join the rest of the group. The afternoon brings a visit to the Red Centre’s Aboriginal Interpretive Cultural Centre where we dive into the rich cultural, ecological, and geological wonders of the national park. As anticipation builds, we get up close and personal with the mighty Uluru, uncovering its sacred rock art, family caves, and ancient stories on a base walk. Don’t miss the mesmerising Mutitjulu Waterhole or Kantju Gorge with its secret waterfall and the world’s oldest pantry. Finish the day with a knockout sunset and a dinner that’ll fuel those “wow” moments you’re about to have with your fellow adventurers. **Day 1 Highlights:** - Uluru (Ayers Rock) - Red Centre’s Aboriginal Cultural Centre - Sacred Aboriginal rock art - Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti (seasonal), Kantju Gorge - Uluru sunset and dinner **Meals:** *Lunch, Dinner (*not included for guests being collected in Ayers Rock). **Camping:** Ayers Rock Coach Campground (tents or bush swags, communal bathrooms). **Driving Distance:** 350km. **Hike Distance:** 2-3 km / 2-3 hours.

**Day 2: Uluru to Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon** Rise and shine for an early brekkie and a dazzling sunrise over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Just when you thought Uluru was jaw-dropping, in struts the majestic Kata Tjuta. We’ll hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge and be in awe of these massive, otherworldly rock formations. Next stop? Kings Canyon! Tonight, we’re camping at a super-exclusive safari spot situated on the lands of the traditional Wanmarra community, one of the most remote places on earth (you’re closer to the International Space Station than the nearest McDonalds). Round off the day with a campfire feast and outback stargazing – you’ve never seen a sky like this. **Day 2 Highlights:** - Spectacular sunrise at Uluru - Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) - Hike Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. **Camping:** Private Kings Canyon Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities). **Driving Distance:** 406 km (4.5 Hours). **Hike Distance:** 2-6 km / 2-4 hours (*weather dependent.

**Day 3: 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. Get your water bottle and hiking boots ready because Kings Canyon is calling! With its towering cliffs, sandstone chasms, and breathtaking views, this ancient canyon is the ultimate hiker’s dream. Conditions permitting, we’ll set off on foot to explore the canyon, including the iconic rim walk, on the most seasonally suitable section of the trail. Rest up in the bus as we head back up north, travelling off-the-beaten track via the Mereenie Loop Tourist Drive or Ernest Giles Road and heading out towards the West MacDonnell Ranges for an evening of stargazing at our private bush camp located near Mount Sonder **Day 3 Highlights:** - Kings Canyon Watarrka National Park - Mereenie Loop Drive (or Ernest Giles Road, depending on conditions) - Spectacular stargazing in the West MacDonnells **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. **Camping:** Private West MacDonnell Ranges Campsite - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (toilets only). **Driving Distance:** 370km (4 hours). **Hike Distance:** 4-6 km / 3-4 hours.

**Day 4: Standley Chasm and 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. 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. 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. 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 it along the way. **Day 4 Highlights:** - Ormiston Gorge & Ochre Pit - Ellery Creek Big Hole - Standley Chasm - Simpsons Gap **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch. **Camping:** N/A. **Driving Distance:** 250km (3 hours). **Walking Distance:** ~3km / 4km. _*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._