Pushed for time? Strapped for cash? This trip gets you to the Outback's biggest drawcards in minimum time, at a minimum cost. The Outback and its attractions may be big, but that doesn't mean you need heaps of time to see them. This trip, which offers the choice of starting and finishing in either Alice Springs or Yulara, makes it possible to see the region's best-known attractions in a short amount of time. Get to know Uluru guided or on your own, navigate the boulder-strewn landscape of Kata Tjuta on a Valley of the Winds Walk and discover lost cities and a Garden of Eden on the Rim Walk through Kings Canyon. The Outback's never been so accessible.
Day 1
Leaving Alice Springs behind, hit the road for Australia's legendary Outback. First stop for the day is an outback roadhouse for a quick breakfast (own expense). Then it's back on the road for the drive to Yulara, stopping off along the way for views of Mount Connor and the Salt lakes.
For those joining the tour in Ayers Rock, join the group after lunch, jump back in the vehicle and travel into Uluru National Park. Check out the Cultural Centre with coffee in hand, before walking over to the main attraction, Uluru. Depending on how active you're feeling, you may choose to do the full base walk of Uluru which is around 6 miles (10 kilometers). No two angles of the Rock are the same, and it's sheer size will leave you awed by the time you've lapped it. If you'd rather do a shorter walk follow the signs to the Mala Walk before strolling to the Mutitjulu Waterhole.
In the evening, watch a spectacular Uluru sunset while enjoying a glass of sparkling wine and some snacks. Once the sun has set, your guide will drive you on to the night's campsite for hot showers and a hearty dinner. This evening sleep in a swag (Aussie bedroll) under the stars.
Day 2
Rise early for an included breakfast and memorable Uluru sunrise. Next, head to Kata-Tjuta (The Olgas) for a guided 3.4-mile (5.5-kilometer) walk through the legendary Valley of the Winds, returning to camp for lunch. In the afternoon, drive to the remote bush camp in Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) and freshen up with a hot shower. Tonight’s dinner will be an authentic Outback BBQ.
Day 3
After breakfast, drive to Kings Canyon for a guided hike along the Canyon Rim Walk (3.7-miles/6-kilometers). This varied landscape of chasms, canyons and cliffs is one of the most spectacular and surprising in the Outback. Enter a natural amphitheatre, discover the Lost City, cool off under the shade of the Garden of Eden's leafy palm trees and admire panoramic views from the North and South Walls.
After lunch, make tracks back to Alice Springs with a few leg-stretches on the way, before pulling into Alice early evening.
