8 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon Explorer

Arrive at Alice Springs Airport and collect your hire car and head into town to check into accommodation.  Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool, exploring the town centre, or visiting local highlights like the Olive Pink Botanic Garden or the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. Enjoy dinner at a local pub or outback bistro and settle in for your first night in the heart of the desert.

Today, enjoy your included admission to the Alice Springs Desert Park, a world-class introduction to the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage of Central Australia. Walk through desert habitats, see kangaroos and emus in open enclosures, and experience the captivating free-flying bird show. Learn about Aboriginal bush medicine and traditional knowledge in the Nocturnal House and cultural presentations. After a day immersed in the desert landscape, return to Discovery Parks and unwind under the vast desert sky.

Check out and begin your scenic 5-hour drive west toward Watarrka National Park, home of the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon. Along the way, enjoy views of the changing outback terrain and optional stops at lookouts or roadhouses. Arrive at Discovery Kings Canyon take a rest before taking a short stroll along Kings Creek Walk or the Creek Bed Walk, and watch the sun set over the towering cliffs. 

Rise early for the highlight of your Kings Canyon stay - Kings Canyon Rim Walk. This iconic 6 km loop (allow 3–4 hours) begins with a steep ascent but rewards you with spectacular views of the red rock cliffs, the Garden of Eden, and domed 'Lost City' formations. Return to your accommodation for a well-earned rest or enjoy a dip in the pool surrounded by rugged canyon walls. Relax and reflect on this immersive outback day.

Depart Kings Canyon and drive south for approximately 3.5 hours through remote desert country to Yulara, the gateway to Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park. In the afternoon, explore the resort’s cultural centre, join a didgeridoo workshop, or take in your first glimpse of Uluru from the Dune Viewing Area. In the evening, use your included Field of Light General Pass to experience Bruce Munro’s breathtaking art installation. As darkness falls, walk among more than 50,000 solar-powered lights spread across the desert floor – a truly unforgettable experience blending art and landscape.

Today is yours to explore the wonders of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Drive into the national park and walk around the base of Uluru or take in the majestic domes of Kata Tjuta along the Walpa Gorge Walk. Return to your hotel for your final night at Uluru.

Depart Ayers Rock Resort and begin your drive back to Alice Springs, a journey of approximately 5–6 hours. Break up the drive with a stop at Curtin Springs Station or Mount Conner Lookout. For your final night perhaps take a walk to Anzac Hill for panoramic views of the MacDonnell Ranges.

After breakfast, check out and return your hire car to Alice Springs Airport in time for your departure. Leave with rich memories of red sands, deep canyons, ancient stories, and star-filled skies – a true journey into Australia’s spiritual heart.