How to have the ultimate Alice Springs to Uluṟu road trip

From the heart of the Red Centre to an Australian icon, Alice Springs to Uluṟu makes an epic road trip. Here’s everything you’ll ever need to know about doing it.

Alice Springs

Red earth, sunshine and quirky characters make Alice Springs a great place to launch an outback road trip.

Sitting at the epicentre of the Explorers Way (a 3000-kilometre route from Adelaide to Darwin), Alice Springs – simply ‘Alice’ to locals – is a popular base for visitors looking to explore the Northern Territory’s outback.

an echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — See wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Image: Tourism NT)

There’s plenty to do in the outback town. Bird shows at Alice Springs Desert Park and venomous snakes at Alice Springs Reptile Centre wow animal lovers. History buffs can whittle away hours checking out historic sites such as the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame or the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, where Europeans first settled in town. Throw in sunset atop ANZAC Hill, and you’ll be itching to see more of the Red Centre. Here’s where to head to soak in the very best of the region.

MacDonnell Ranges

You can easily get from Alice to Uluru in 5.5 hours along the sealed Stuart and Lasseter highways, but where’s the fun in that? Instead, head into the MacDonnell Ranges for an outback adventure bound to leave a lasting impression. The ranges are split in two – Tjoritja/West MacDonnell ranges and the East Macs – and both are impressive.

Tjoritja/The West MacDonnell Ranges

The better known of the two, The West MacDonnell Ranges stretch 200 kilometres and are etched with gorges, chasms and dry creek beds. They can be reached by following the Red Centre Way (an 1135-kilometre loop from Alice).

an aerial view of the Ormiston Gorge — You don’t want to miss the spectacular views in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/Salty Aura)

Places not to miss include the Standley Chasm, a dramatic, 80-metre-high rock face; the refreshing pools at Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge; and Simpsons Gap, an important spiritual site with several Indigenous dreaming trails.

a man standing between the towering red cliffs at Standley Chasm — Make your way through the towering red cliffs at Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT/Mark Fitzpatrick)

If you’re camping, unfurl a swag and enjoy a campfire at Redbank Gorge. Alternatively, Glen Helen Lodge offers basic accommodation close to Glen Helen Gorge and thr 1380-metre-high Mt Sonder.

a couple walking along Redbank Gorge — Camp at Redbank Gorge, a stone’s throw from a secluded waterhole you can swim at. (Tourism NT/Jess Caldwell & Luke Riddle)

Don’t miss

Alice Springs Helicopters offer scenic flights over the MacDonnell Ranges and thrilling mountain bike tours that drop you at sections along the mountain biking trails in the West Macs area.

The East MacDonnell

Less touristed, but arguably as stunning, the East Macs offer travellers insight into the Indigenous and gold rush history of the area.

Located 150 kilometres east of Alice Springs, bushwalking, camping and four-wheel driving is to be expected here.

A main attraction is Trephina Gorge Nature Park, where you’ll be surrounded by rising walls of red and purple quartzite. The gorge is also home to what’s said to be the largest ghost gum in Australia (at 33 metres high and about 300 years old) and forms part of the Wallaby Dreaming Trail, significant to the Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal people.

While you’re here, visit N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park, home to 6000 rock carvings, as well as the old gold rush town of Arltunga, which dates back to the late 1800s. You can stay at Hale River Homestead at Old Ambalindum , which offers a true outback experience.

Arltunga Historical Reserve Trephina Gorge Nature Park Northern Territory — Arltunga Historical Reserve (Image: ourism NT/Sean Scott)

Hermannsburg and Finke Gorge

Thought to be 350 million years old, The Finke River winds through Finke Gorge National Park, an important wilderness reserve between Alice Springs and Kings Canyon. Within the park’s confines is the ancient Palm Valley, where rare red cabbage palms, also dating back millennia, grow.

a 4WD driving across Finke Gorge — Finke Gorge National Park is an ancient, spectacular landscape. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

To get into the park, you’ll need a high-clearance 4WD and be comfortable conquering rocky tracks. You will also want sturdy hiking boots as there are a tonne of trails.

Call into Hermannsburg prior to entering the park: it’s a historic precinct where a Lutheran Mission was active in the late 1880s and where renowned Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira resided.

Check out the historical precinct in Hermannsburg. (Image: Tourism NT/Charlie Bliss)

Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park

After exploring the West Macdonnell Ranges head off-road along the Mereenie Loop as you make your way to Kings Canyon (you’ll need a 4WD and a permit). The canyon, plunging 270 metres, is the highlight of the park and an oasis of palms and ferns.

Kings Canyon, Watarrka National Park — The canyon, plunging 270 metres, is the highlight of the park.

Rise early and set off on the six-kilometre Canyon Rim Walk, which will lead you to the sandstone domes of the Lost City and a sacred watering hole aptly named the Garden of Eden. There is also the much gentler 2.6-kilometre Kings Creek Hike to a lookout.

Kings Canyon Walk — Take the Canyon Rim Walk to the sandstone domes of the Lost City.

You can Base yourself at Kings Creek Station , not far from Watarrka National Park . The 1800-square-kilometre property is open year-round and is a top spot to experience life on the land with both campsites and basic cabins available. Make time to enjoy traditional damper with a cup of billy tea.

Uluru

Uluru is a 3 hour drive from Kings Creek. Nothing says ‘outback’ more than the big red rock in the middle of the country, and you will certainly appreciate its isolation as you drive the road to reach it.

In spite of its remoteness, there is plenty to do at UNESCO World Heritage-listed Uluṟu. First up, you’ll want to explore on foot, so rise early and walk Uluru’s 10-kilometre base. You can also join a guided Mala Walk (two kilometres), which is a great option if you want to learn about Uluru’s cultural significance and Indigenous rock art.

Ayers Rock — A outback road trip wouldn’t be the same without visiting Uluru.

While you’re there, sign up for a plod atop a camel, hop aboard a Segway, enjoy a Harley Davidson ride or plummet toward Uluru on a thrilling sky dive.

Set your alarm so you can drive to one of the viewing platforms and watch Uluru change color at sunrise. Come nightfall, head to Field of Light where a carpet of 50,000 lights will shine.

Uluru Field of Light — Field of Light; one of the largest art installations in Australia’s history.

For a special outback dining experience, you can’t go past Sounds of Silence. Savour native Australian ingredients, such as kangaroo, finger lime and lemon myrtle, while the Milky Way dazzles from above.

Kata Tjuta

If you can squeeze it in, don’t miss the 36 large rock domes of Kata Tjuta. Located about half an hour’s drive from Uluru, they’re easy to reach on a day trip.

The domes are dramatic, with the tallest one, Mt Olga, soaring 546 metres high. Explore them on foot by following the challenging Valley of the Winds trail (7.4 kilometres). It will take you about three hours, so set off early to avoid the midday heat. There is also the easier Walpa Gorge (2.6-kilometre) walk.

Where to stay

Accommodation in Uluṟu comes in all shapes and sizes, from luxury suites, to tent-style pavilions and campsites. It also runs numerous tours and workshops, some of which are free. Squeeze it all in by jumping on the resort’s complimentary shuttle, especially if you’re travelling with children or the elderly.

Need to know

Although Uluru is open to visitors year-round, in summer temperatures frequently sit at 45°C and flies are at their most persistent. Instead, visit between May and October, when daytime temperatures are comfortable.

If a one-way road trip from Alice to Uluru is enough for you, fly out of Ayers Rock Airport to many of Australia’s major cities.

Want more Red Centre travel inspo? Check out our guide on eating, playing and staying in Australia’s heart.

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

The only Alice to Uluṟu itinerary you’ll ever need