Red Centre Way (*681)

Day 1: Alice Springs – Uluṟu (Ayers Rock) – Valley of the Winds

Travelling south you’ll stop to visit a camel farm where there is time for a short camel ride (own expense) and later stop to view majestic Atila (Mt. Conner), before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort.

This afternoon travel to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), where your guide will escort you on a 2-3 hour walk among the domes to Valley of the Winds (shorter walk is available). Then take in a magnificent outback sunset at Kata Tjuta, while you enjoy a complimentary sparkling wine.

Day 2: Uluṟu sunrise & Guided Base Walk and Sunset

Rise early to travel to the Uluru sunrise viewing area, Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, to watch the first rays of the sun set Uluru and the Red Centre alight. Here you’ll receive your light breakfast, as well as have the opportunity to enjoy a hot drink and a biscuit. After sunrise, accompany your guide to commence your Base Walk of Uluru. First up walk from Kuniya Piti, an Uluru sacred site, and hear the Tjukurpa (Anangu, the local Aboriginal people, beliefs and law) story of the Mala Men. Next up is the Mala Walk, one of the most important habitation areas for the local Aboriginal people over thousands of years. The Mala walk includes a visit into Kantju Gorge, where after rainfall water can cascade over the side of Uluru and plunge some 90 metres. After a short rest break, continue on along the Lungkata Walk where your guide will tell you the Tjukurpa story of the cheeky Blue Tongue Lizard! Next stop is the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Your guide will indicate the natural features of the landscape, Aboriginal rock paintings and relay more traditional stories relating to this special place. The waterhole was once an important water source for Anangu. Your last section to complete your base walk is back to Kuniya Piti where you will board your coach back into town and receive a certificate of your achievement! B

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon then before you take in a spectacular Uluru sunset at the Sunset Viewing area where you’ll be served wine and nibbles while you begin to absorb the beauty of your surroundings. You can just relax or stroll around the Sunset Viewing Area to discover your own personal space to watch the amazing sunset. Arguably Australia’s most recognisable and fascinating icon, Uluru (Ayers Rock) stands 348 metres high, however, most of its mass is below ground level. You’ll be overwhelmed by its incredible size, presence and inherent spirituality. As the sun sets over the western horizon you’ll be witness to the majestic presence and many shades of colour for which Uluru is most famous.

Add-on the Uluṟu Barbecue Dinner for $130. After sunset, join us under the stars at our exclusive venue. Enjoy sparkling wine on arrival, and then dine on a menu of steak, lamb sausages, chicken skewers and garlic prawns, salads and a tasty dessert. All accompanied by a selection of wines, beers and soft drinks. There’s time for stargazing too (weather permitting).

Day 3: Uluṟu (Ayers Rock) – Kings Canyon

Your coach will take you on a journey between Ayers Rock and Kings Canyon, through some of the most beautiful and rugged scenery that the outback has to offer. Along the way, your Guide will keep you informed on all the key landmarks to look out for while sharing some local history and stories on the many sacred sites you'll pass through. Pass through Curtin Springs and view Atila (Mt. Conner). You’ll be amazed at the site of Atila, often mistaken for Uluru. Atila is a very distinctive, flat-topped mountain that rises 300 metres above the desert sand. After turning off the Lasseter Highway and onto Luritja Road your Driver Guide will provide informative commentary about the history of the surrounding cattle stations. Arrive at Kings Canyon Resort before dusk. You may have time to view the sunset behind Carmichaels Crag to finish off the day.

Day 4: Kings Canyon – Farewell from Alice Springs

Join a guided climb to the rim of Kings Canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park (for those with a good level of fitness, sturdy shoes required). An easier walk along the boulder-strewn canyon creek bed is also available. Enjoy lunch at Kings Canyon Resort (own expense) before travelling to Alice Springs, where your Short Break concludes.

As this Short Breaks concludes after 7.00pm, accommodation will need to be pre-booked for the night.