3 Day Kings Canyon tour to West MacDonnell Ranges 4WD

*Fare prices are per person for Adults or Children. Solo passengers who book the Safari Twin Share Tent fare option will be paired in a room with another traveller, where possible, with the same gender, but this is not guaranteed
Jump on board for an amazing 3-Day Kings Canyon Tour to West MacDonnell Ranges, where you can experience amazing scenery and stunning landscapes. Be prepared to take in some of the most awe-inspiring sights imaginable, camp at places you never thought possible and experience Uluru, Kings Canyon and the Red Centre in ways you never imagined. Your guide will provide information about this area, interesting stories, comments, and less-known places, making your visit more enjoyable. You may want to choose between small twin safari tents with extra privacy, comfort and safety or classic canvas swags for sleeping accommodations.

Highlights

  • reachable usually, our 4WDs open up the fantastic scenic wonders of the Red Center.
  • This way, you can experience more panoramic views and spend less time on roads while travelling by Mereenie Loop.
  • Join us at our exclusive campsites to enjoy peace and tranquillity that will leave an indelible memory of camping under the stars in the outback.
  • Experience amazing geology, waterholes, and bushwalks in Kings Canyon National Park and Watarrka National Park, with its prehistoric rock formations, lush oasis, and awe-inspiring cliffs.
  • See the beautiful ancient landscapes, calm waterholes and immaculate West MacDonnell Ranges National Park gorges.
  • Gaze at this natural gallery’s marvellous artistry, which includes Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge, Ochre Pits, and Ellery Creek Big Hole.
  • Start at Ayers Rock Yulara—Finish at Alice Springs alone. This tour starts at Ayers Rock Yulara and ends at Alice Springs alone.

Inclusions

  • It runs for three days for two nights
  • The operating days are Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday
  • Package -RK3-B / RK3-S,
  • Departure point: Yulara / Ayers Rock
  • Departs:12:00pm
  • Will finish in Alice Springs by 5:30 pm.
  • 2 Nights Permanent campsites
  • Accredited Outback driver guide
  • Transport is through a 4×4 off-road bus that is air-conditioned.

The Red Centre’s itinerary easily accommodates a high degree of flexibility because it has variations in landscape, aboriginal culture, and weather. Our expert guides have created awesome adventures for everyone.

Google & TripAdvisor Reviews

What to Expect?

Day 1

Ayers Rock to Kings Canyon

The Australian outback experience can be felt in the Kings Canyon region. The tour commences in the afternoon at Yulara/Ayres Rock. Enjoy a campfire dinner and mingle with other tourists. At night, gaze at the stars in the desert sky and feel connected to nature.

Highlights:

  • Impress yourself by viewing the wonderful landscapes of Kings Canyon.
  • Discover the peacefulness of our remote campsite, perfect for an extraordinary and unforgettable adventure.
  • Areas not disturbed by city lights offer a spectacular view of an incomparable starry sky during nighttime.

Meals: Dinner (*does not include lunch for guests picked up from Yulara Airport).
Accom: At Kings Creek Station, guests can choose between luxury Safari Tents or basic bush Swags in shared campgrounds.
Driving Distance: 406 km (4.5 Hours).
Hike Distance: 2-4 hours / 2-6 kilometres (*weather dependent).

Day 2

Kings Canyon - West McDonnell

Our travelling expedition is heading to Watarrka, known as Kings Canyon. The expedition also provides information on the past of the Ulpanyali and Lilla people. Experience what it’s like in a giant cliff and sandstone rift within the canyon. Let’s put the detailed hiking boots on our feet. Traverse Mereenie Loop Road under reduced driving distance. You will end your day stargazing at our safari camp in West MacDonnell Ranges.

Highlights:

  • Travel from Kings Canyon to the Mereenie Loop Red Centre Way across the heart of Australia to a camping area in the West MacDonnell Ranges.
  • Kings Canyon Watarrka National Park visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the area’s flora, fauna, and geological characteristics.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accom:  include permanent tents or private portable facilities known as bush swags
Driving Distance: 370km (4 hours).
Hike Distance: 4-6 km / 3-4 hours.

Day 3

McDonnell Western Ranges - Alice Springs

Discover the West MacDonnell Ranges’ Standley Chasm, also called Angkerle Atwatye. Enjoy breakfast while watching native wildlife in the morning. Adore the impressive red walls of Ormiston Gorge, formed by geological forces. Swim in the calm waters of Ellery Creek Bighole, surrounded by cliffs and sandy shores. Return leisurely to Alice Springs, making a final stop at Simpsons Gap. This area has a permanent waterhole and lots of native wildlife. As we take you back, reflect on the four days you spent discovering and making new friends.
Get ready for your evening plans at your accommodation.

Highlights: 

  • Tjoritja West MacDonnell
  • Ormiston Gorge
  • Ellery Creek Bighole
  • Standley Chasm
  • Simpsons Gap

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Accom: N/A.
Driving Distance: 250km (3 hours).
Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km.

Autopia Tours retains the right to change the itinerary’s route or timetable owing to seasonal weather changes and park closures caused by traditional landowner celebrations.

Tour Exclusions
  • Sleeping bags can be hired from us onboard for AUD 40; this includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own. Payment is made directly to the tour operator.
  • Any meals not indicated within the itinerary. For those with special dietaries, we recommend you bring snacks as options are limited in the outback.
  • Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary to a nominated pickup point.
  • Personal travel insurance is highly recommended
  • Personal expenses
Options

Sleeping bags can be hired from us onboard for AUD 40; this includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own. Payment is made directly to the tour operator. Please advise us when booking if you require a sleeping bag.

What to bring
  • 3L Refillable water bottle
  • Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Swimwear, beach towels & toiletries
  • Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (tread closed-toe shoes)
  • All-weather clothing (extreme conditions inc wind, heat, cold, day/night)
  • 15kg soft bag & small day pack
  • Tropical strength insect repellent
  • Mosquito or fly net (summer months)
  • Flashlight, headlamp or torch, and camera
  • Money for snacks and meals
  • Bring your sleeping bag & pillow (optional – if staying in a swag)
  • Recharge power bank (limited access to power to charge phones or cameras)
Where to meet

Our main meeting point for this tour will be outside the front of Ayers Rock Resort at noon.

  • Noon – Ayers Rock Campground – 173 Yulara Dr Yulara NT (bus stop near campground entrance)
  • Noon – Desert Gardens Hotel – Ayers Rock Resort 1 Yulara Dr Yulara
  • Noon – Outback Hotel Lodge – 2 Yulara Dr Yulara NT
  • 12:00pm – Sails in the Desert – 163 Yulara Dr Yulara NT
  • 12:00pm – The Lost Camel Hotel – Ayers Rock Yulara Dr Yulara NT

*Please arrive 5-10 minutes before your nominated pickup time so as not to delay or miss your tour.

Campsite amenities

NIGHT

PRICING OPTIONS

FACILITIES

INCLUDES



1st

Bush Single Swag (sleeps 1)

Kings Creek Station – Campground, shared showers & toilet facilities, unpowered site.

Self-contained canvas-covered bush bed roll with mattress to sleep on the ground outdoors under the stars.

Safari Tent Twin Share (sleeps 2)

Kings Creek Station – Campground, shared showers & toilet facilities, unpowered site.

Permanent tents, twin single beds, mattress, pillow & case, fitted sheets, protected from the elements



2nd

Bush Single Swag (sleeps 1)

West MacDonnell Ranges / Mount Sounder – Exclusive remote campsite, portable toilets, unpowered site

Self-contained canvas-covered bush bed roll with mattress to sleep on the ground outdoors under the stars.

Safari Tent Twin Share (sleeps 2)

West MacDonnell Ranges / Mount Sounder – Exclusive remote campsite, portable toilets, unpowered site

Permanent tents, twin single beds, mattress, pillow & case, fitted sheets, protected from the elements

Online Booking

Promo code to use: SEEKDIFFERENT 
Discount: 15% off

FAQ

On this adventure, you’ll tackle the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, wander through the Garden of Eden, marvel at Kata Tjuta’s (The Olgas) striking formations, trek the West MacDonnell Ranges, and dip in natural rock pools.
This tour is designed for folks with a fair bit of fitness, as there’s a good deal of hiking and navigating uneven ground. Kids might have age limits, so having a yarn with the tour operator is best.
Be sure to bring sturdy walking boots, sun protection (a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), a water bottle, togs, a camera, and comfy clothes that’ll suit different weather. Depending on your package, you might need a sleeping bag for overnighters.
Your accommodation is sorted, from sleeping under the stars to staying in cozy lodges. Just double-check what’s included in your package.
No, you don’t need any 4WD experience. The tour is led by seasoned drivers who know the terrain and local conditions.
The number of mates on the tour can vary, but it’s usually kept small for a more personal and comfy experience. Check with your tour operator for the maximum number.
The cooler months from April to September are the best times to explore the Outback. The temperatures are more bearable, making outdoor activities a breeze.

Safety is top-notch, with guides trained in first aid and emergency plans in place. The vehicles are kitted out with safety gear and communication devices.

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