Embark on an 8-day adventure from Adelaide to Uluru through Australia’s outback and create lifelong memories in nature. This camping trip offers diverse wilderness and untamed landscapes, showcasing rich Indigenous culture. Embark on an awe-inspiring adventure through the ancient gorges of the majestic Flinders Ranges and prepare to be mesmerized by the strikingly rugged terrain of the legendary Oodnadatta Track. Embark on an exhilarating adventure into the depths of an underground labyrinth in Coober Pedy! Journey beneath the surface and discover a hidden world waiting to be explored. Experience the Red Centre. Explore the enchanting and mystical terrain of desert plains, rugged mountain ranges, and awe-inspiring gorges, where hidden within lie the sacred sites of Aboriginal Australia. Marvel at the enchanting outback sunsets and gather around the campfire to share captivating stories with familiar faces and newfound friends.
Highlights
- The Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park offers an opportunity to explore ancient landscapes.
- Going off-road, one can explore fascinating lunar landscapes on the famous Oodnadatta Track.
- One can choose to sleep in a dugout nestled underground in Coober Pedy.
- Experience the beauty and fulfilment of hiking in nature.
- Experience the awe-inspiring spiritual sites of Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon.
- Experience authentic Indigenous culture by connecting with the Country.
- Experience the beauty of a sunset over Uluru.
- You can enjoy stargazing under the billions of stars in the Milky Way while camping in style.
- Engage in meaningful conservation efforts.
Pricing options
The tour with hostel dorm accommodation costs $1596 – 1995 AUD per person.
Age Restrictions: 18+.
If desired, assistance can be provided in arranging a private group tour. This option allows for the flexibility of exploring preferred sights at one’s own pace with their group. Contact our fantastic team of charters at charters@gltg.com.au for all the juicy details!
Private room upgrades? Enhance your stay with the ultimate luxury of a private double, twin, or single ensuite room, exclusively available through our esteemed business partner.
Availability is subject to booking at the time.
- The Ibis on Therry is at 15-21 Therry St, Melbourne, and opens at 7:00 am.
- The accommodation includes six nights of swag camping with facilities and one night in an underground bunkhouse multi-share dorm.
- All activities and experiences
- The meals included are seven breakfasts, four lunches, and five dinners.
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- The Storyteller Guide covers the fees for national parks and entrances.
- Water Bottle - 1L
- Swimmers and beach towels
- Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Insect Repellent
- During the cooler months (October, November, March, and April), it is recommended to pack thermals, bed socks, warm clothes, and a hot water bottle.
- Sleeping Bag
- Towel and Toiletries
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Camera
- Flashlight
- Waterproof rain jacket
- Snacks and meals are not included in the cost.
- Please bring one small overnight bag.
- A sense of adventure!
- Reusable facemasks
- Pack snacks for your day bag on the bus.
Embark on a thrilling journey along the ever-transforming Oodnadatta Track, an untamed dirt road that dances with the whims of the weather. If the road is deemed unsafe or sections are closed, our Guide may adjust the itinerary and take an alternative route. Suppose it is determined that travelling on the track is dangerous. In that case, the itinerary for day three will be modified to include visits to Port Augusta, Coober Pedy via Stuart Highway, Josephine’s Kangaroo Orphanage & Gallery, Coober Pedy township, Umoona Opal Mine & Museum, and an overnight stay in Coober Pedy.
8 Days
Tour Itinerary
On the first day, the trip will be from Adelaide to Flinders Ranges
Your eight-day outback adventure starts in Adelaide at 6 am. Your Storyteller Guide will meet you there. You’ll make a caffeine stop in the coastal town of Port Wakefield. Then, you’ll head to the Southern Flinders Ranges for a morning hike at Alligator Gorge. This hike is a great way to begin your tour in Mount Remarkable National Park. Embark on a delightful post-lunch adventure as you wander through the charming Quorn, renowned for its enchanting Pichi Richi Railway. Next, you’ll arrive at Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park and hike at Arkaroo Rock. This rock is an important cultural site for the local Adnyamathanha people. Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing rock paintings that vividly depict the enchanting Yura Muda (Dreaming or creation story) of Ikara (Wilpena Pound). You’ll experience a Welcome to Country ceremony at Wilpena Pound Resort in the afternoon. This ceremony will be in the Adnyamathanha people’s native tongue. Embark on a journey of connection and awe as you travel to the breathtaking Skytrek Willow Springs Station, where nature and adventure await. This 70,000-acre working sheep station will be your base while you explore the Flinders Ranges. Your Guide will prepare a delicious dinner for you. Then, you can relax and enjoy a front-row seat to the incredible light show in the night sky. The Flinders Ranges are known for their clear skies and stunning starry views. You’ll roll out your swag and sleep under the stars, surrounded b
The driving distance today is approximately 510 km.
Accommodation: Camping is available at Skytrek Willow Springs Station.
Meals IncludedL | D
On Day 2, We will be visiting the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
The fossils in the Flinders Ranges are so old that geologists had to revise Earth’s geologic timeline. They identified a new era called the Ediacaran Period. After breakfast, we will go on a morning hike through the park. We’ll see tall river red gums and waterholes and enjoy breathtaking views. We will meet with a Park Ranger to learn about conservation efforts in the park. We can also participate in conservation work. After lunch, we’ll take a scenic drive at Brachina Gorge. We can drink at a country pub before returning to camp for dinner. Driving time today is approximately 3 hours.
Accommodation: Camping is available at Skytrek Willow Springs Station.
Meals are included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
On Day 3, We will travel from Flinders Ranges to William Creek via the Oodnadatta Track
Today, we will travel along the Oodnadatta Track, a famous unsealed road in Australia. Experience the enchantment of a surreal and lunar terrain, where awe-inspiring wonders await, from the spellbinding Lake Eyre, Australia’s magnificent salt lake, to the captivating Mutonia Sculpture Park. We will also pass through Anna Creek Station, the world’s largest working cattle station, covering an area equivalent to the entire Country of Belgium. In the afternoon, we will arrive at the small outback settlement of William Creek. Despite its remote location, this town, with a population of only ten, is a well-known icon of the South Australian Outback. After dinner, you can relax and drink at the historic William Creek Hotel, open since 1887. Finally, you can sleep under the stars in the campground, using a swag for comfort.
The total distance of today’s drive is approximately 500km.
Accommodation option: Camping at William Creek.
Meals included: Breakfast, -, Dinner.
Please refer to the disclaimer in the Know Before You Go information for updates on road and weather conditions.
On Day 4, we will travel from William Creek to Coober Pedy
After breakfast, travel to Coober Pedy, the famous underground town in Australia. It has a unique landscape and exciting history. Take some time to explore the city. Visit Josephine’s Gallery & Kangaroo Orphanage, established in 2008, to care for orphaned kangaroos. It is as big as Germany and has a world-class Aboriginal Art Gallery. After lunch, go to Ummoona Opal Mine & Museum, where you can learn about opals and see an opal-cutting demonstration. Then, visit the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park, known for its breathtaking scenery. Experience the thrill of spending the night in an underground bunkhouse, then venture out to uncover hidden gems and delight your taste buds at one of the underground eateries. The driving distance today is around 170km.
The Umoona Opal Mine offers underground bunk accommodation, which multiple people share.
Meals included are breakfast only.
On day 5, the journey continues from Coober Pedy to Watarrka/Kings Canyon
Embark on an epic journey beyond the Dingo Fence and Breakaways Reserve to reach the majestic Kings Canyon from Coober Pedy. Once you cross into the Northern Territory, continue to Watarrka National Park. At Kings Canyon, take a Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience tour to learn about the oldest living culture. Embark on an enchanting journey filled with a stroll, fascinating facts about bush tucker and medicine, mesmerizing dot painting symbols, exquisite local crafts, and captivating bush paintings. After the tour, head to our campsite at Kings Creek Station. Indulge in the serenity of your surroundings and dive into the refreshing pool, creating the perfect oasis for relaxation. Don’t miss the stunning desert sunset from the viewing platform before dinner at the Station restaurant. Tonight, we’ll be staying overnight. The total driving distance for today is approximately 770km.
Accommodation option: Camping at Kings Creek Station
Meals included: breakfast only.
On Day 6, the journey from Watarrka/Kings Canyon to Uluru takes place on Tuesday
Start the day early for the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. It will be a magical experience. The park has sandstone walls, waterholes, forests, chasms, canyons, and caverns. Watarrka National Park is like an oasis in central Australia. Experience the breathtaking 360-degree views and embark on a journey to Priscilla’s Crack, a legendary spot immortalized by the iconic film Priscilla Queen of the Desert. See the Lost City and the Garden of Eden with its lush greenery and watering hole. After lunch, drive to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Watch a beautiful sunset over Uluru before dinner at camp. Sleep under the stars on the red Earth. The drive today is about 350km.
Accommodation: Camping at Ayers Rock Resort Campground.
Meals are included for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 7: Uluru (Wed)
Wake up early and enjoy the peacefulness of sunrise over Uluru. As the sun shines on the landscape, the colours of the rock formations change. Uluru is 348 meters high and over 550 million years old, giving it a strong presence. Embark on a captivating journey as you stroll along the magnificent 10km circumference of Uluru, immersing yourself in its ancient tales and forging a deep connection with this majestic rock. Along the way, relax by waterholes, rest under a Sheoak tree, and explore hidden caves. Indulge in a delicious lunch and immerse yourself in the captivating Cultural Centre, where you can delve deeper into the magnificent Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and the fascinating Anangu culture. In the afternoon, return to camp and have free time to relax by the pool or participate in activities at Ayers Rock Resort. Enjoy dinner at camp tonight. Today’s drive is only around 60km, and you can walk up to 10km if you choose the full Uluru base walk. Shorter Uluru walks are also available.
Accommodation: Camping at Ayers Rock Resort Campground.
Meals are provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
On Day 8, we will be travelling from Kata Tjuta to Yulara
Get ready to be amazed as the final day of the tour kicks off with a jaw-dropping and awe-inspiring sunrise at the magnificent Kata Tjuta! Kata Tjuta, meaning ‘Many Heads’ in Pitjantjatjara, consists of 36 domes that define the Red Centre landscape both physically and spiritually. Rising 546 meters above the plain, its peak is the highest point for miles. The ridges and ravines of the site hold significance in Indigenous creation-time stories. Embark on a journey of hidden tales and uncover the mysteries of the local Anangu culture as you traverse the breathtaking Valley of the Winds on a guided walk. Experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of a three-hour adventure, immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of the awe-inspiring landscape that embraces Kata Tjuta. The epic outback adventure reaches its thrilling conclusion as we journey back to Yulara in the late morning. Complimentary transfers are available from the resort for those departing from Uluru Airport. Bus transfers from Yulara are also an option for returning to Alice Springs. Please refer to the Know Before You Go information below. The driving distance today is approximately 120km.
The meals included are breakfast only.
Know before you book
Camping
- This camping tour requires participation from the passengers, which may involve assisting with meals and packing up camp.
- Experience the ultimate outdoor adventure on this tour, where you’ll camp amidst breathtaking national parks and cozy campgrounds, all equipped with essential toilet and shower facilities.
- When camping, single swags are used.
- Experience the ultimate comfort of swags, the Aussie Bed Rolls, crafted with durable canvas and a cozy built-in mattress. Bring your comfortable sleeping bag and pillow to snuggle up in the take.
- There is an option for a swag upgrade, available for a fee of $300, which includes a deluxe double swag that can accommodate two people comfortably. This upgraded swag provides a high-density foam mattress and mesh windows. Please note that availability is limited due to its size and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Experience the ultimate camping comfort with our 3-person dome tent, perfect for sharing with your favourite adventure buddy.
General
- Embark on an unforgettable adventure, starting in the vibrant city of Adelaide at dawn on day one and concluding in the breathtaking Yulara (Uluru) around midday on day eight. Please consider this when booking your onward travel.
- Hop on a thrilling journey from Uluru or Yulara to Alice Springs as our transfers depart in style from the Desert Gardens Hotel, with timings tailored to each season. Experience the seamless and luxurious transfers by AAT Kings, offering you unparalleled comfort and convenience at a pocket-friendly price of just $189 per person. For further information, please visit their website.
- To fully benefit from this experience, it is essential to appreciate outdoor activities such as hiking and be prepared for varying weather conditions.
- Get ready to step up your game! Participants should be in decent shape and prepared to tackle walks ranging from 3 to 12 kilometres on certain days. These walks may consist of uneven terrain and the possibility of getting wet.
- When making a booking, kindly inform us of any specific dietary needs. We offer a wide selection and strive to provide fresh options. Snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are not included.
- You are cordially invited to bring along on your journey a single backpack or soft travel bag weighing a mere 15 kg, accompanied by a delightful small piece of hand luggage.
- To ensure the safety and well-being of our passengers, we have implemented strict COVID-Safe protocols. As part of these measures, all passengers must complete online check-in and provide a ‘Fit for Travel’ self-declaration to ensure their good health. Don’t forget! This requirement is an absolute must and must be completed within 24 hours before you embark on your journey.
- This tour requires a minimum of six people to operate. If, by chance, your departure is cancelled due to not meeting the minimum numbers, all payments made will be transferred to a future departure date. If this option is not suitable, a full refund of the tour price will be provided.
- Please review our complete Booking Terms & Conditions before making a reservation.
What to Bring
- A wide-brimmed hat
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Tropical strength insect repellent
- Swimwear and beach towel
- Refillable water bottle
- Comfortable walking shoes/boots
- Camera
- Money for lunch and snacks (alternatively BYO as we will have an eski onboard for chilled items)
- Small day bag
- Hand sanitiser
Important Notes
- This tour will only depart if we have 8 passengers or more. We will wait until one week before departure to cancel if minimum numbers aren’t met.
- The itinerary may be subject to change due to cultural reasons, seasonal weather changes, operational logistics and accessibility.
- The minimum age requirements for this tour is 6 years old. This trip is not suitable for children under 6 years of age.
- Please email our Reservations Team (reservations@wayoutback.com.au) at least 48 hours prior to departure to confirm pick-up location and time.
- Travel Insurance is highly recommended.
- COVID-19 – together we can stop the spread, please seek medical attention and stay at home if you are feeling unwell
FAQ
The recommended time to visit Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) is during the cooler months of May through September. During this period, the weather is mild and comfortable, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20-25°C (68-77°F) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 5-10°C (41-50°F). This makes it suitable for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying Uluru’s stunning sunrise and sunset views.
A trip to Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is considered worthwhile. It holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for the local Anangu people and is widely recognised as one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks.
Visiting Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) in one day may not provide enough time to thoroughly experience and appreciate the area. Uluru is located in the remote Australian outback and offers a wide range of attractions and activities in its surroundings.
Visiting Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) without a tour is possible as Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is open to the public. Visitors are free to explore the area independently. However, it should be noted thaTrackru holds sacred significance to the local Anangu people, and visitors are expected to respect their culture and traditions.
