This tour lasts eight days. It begins at Uluru in South Australia’s outback. It ends in Adelaide and takes you through the Red Centre, Australia’s spiritual heart. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity for Indigenous experiences and witness stunning desert landscapes and rock formations. The tour also includes unique experiences such as sleeping in an underground dugout, searching for opals, and traversing vast cattle stations. Embark on an epic journey through the untamed wilderness as you travel the legendary outback tracks and delve into the mystical wonders of the ancient Flinders Ranges. During the day, you’ll have unforgettable adventures; at night, you’ll get magical sunsets, campfires, and stargazing.
Highlights
- Uluru is acknowledged as a notable natural wonder and is suggested for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience.
- Discover and understand authentic First Nations culture through educational experiences.
- Visitthedistinctlandscapes of Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon.
- Experience the stunning sunsets and sunrises of the Red Centre.
- The Oodnadatta Track is an unsealed road in South Australia that travellers frequently visit.
- Coober Pedy provides visitors with the chance to stay in underground dugouts.
- The Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park allows visitors to discover its rich history and stunning natural surroundings.
- Hiking in natural surroundings offers numerous benefits.
- Volunteering opportunities are available for conservation efforts in the Flinders Ranges.
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 Day 1, stop in Yulara and observe the sunset at Uluru
Your adventure begins at 2 pm. You will meet your Storyteller Guide in front of the Desert Gardens Hotel. You will visit the Cultural Centre in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Here, you will appreciate the natural beauty and rich culture. Experience the awe-inspiring sacred sites of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, where ancient creation stories come alive with profound spiritual significance. Some stories are kept secret, but you will learn a little about the local Anangu culture. You will also appreciate the beauty of their land through exhibits and free presentations with Anangu and park rangers.
Tonight, visitors can set up camp and watch the sunset at a viewing platform in Uluru. This presents a chance for personal reflection while observing the vast desert. Additionally, there is the option to enjoy a communal campfire meal with fellow travellers and sleep outdoors beneath the stars in an Australian swag.
The estimated travel distance for today is approximately 60 kilometres.
Attention all passengers! If you want to arrange a bus transfer from Alice Springs to Yulara, we’ve curated some essential Know Before You Go details just for you! Don’t miss out; check it out below!
One accommodation option at Ayers Rock Resort is camping at the Campground.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2: Uluru
Wake up early to watch the sunrise over Uluru. The colours of the rock formations change when sunlight hits them. Uluru is a natural wonder, standing at 348 meters high and is 550 million years old. Embark on an enchanting journey as you join a guided 10km walk around the majestic base of Uluru, immersing yourself in its captivating stories and forging a deep connection with this iconic rock. Relax at waterholes, rest under a Sheoak tree, and explore caves. After lunch, camp attendees have free time. Experience the ultimate getaway at Ayers Rock Resort, where you can bask in the sun by the luxurious pool or immerse yourself in thrilling activities like a mesmerising didgeridoo performance, an enchanting guided garden walk, or a captivating museum visit.
Dinner will be provided at camp. The itinerary for today involves a 50km drive and the option of walking up to 10km on the Uluru base walk, as well as shorter walks. Meals included are breakfast, lunch, and dinner (B | L | D). After lunch, return to camp for leisure time. Relax by the pool or participate in activities at Ayers Rock Resort, such as a didgeridoo performance, a guided garden walk, or a chance to explore the museum’s artifacts. Enjoy dinner at camp tonight. Today’s itinerary includes a 50km drive and the option of a full Uluru base walk of up to 10km. Shorter Uluru walks are also available. The recommended accommodation option is camping at Ayers Rock Resort Campground. The package includes meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
On Day 3, the journey will be from Yulara to Kings Canyon/Watarrka
We begin our adventure from Yulara, heading towards the breathtaking Watarrka National Park, and the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon awaits! Right before us stands Kata Tjuta, a towering 546-meter-high marvel. This sacred site is significant in Indigenous creation stories and is known as ‘Many Heads’. Prepare for an unforgettable experience as we embark on the Valley of the Winds guided walk, surrounded by enchanting wildlife and vibrant wildflowers. We’ll traverse a narrow creek valley between two of Kata Tjuta’s grandest domes. After a delicious lunch, we’ll make our way to Kings Creek. Here, you can immerse yourself in the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience. This captivating hour-long journey unveils the cultural importance of specific areas for the Luritja and Pertame people. Get ready to hear intriguing stories about bush tucker and captivating art. Once we’ve soaked in all the wonders, we’ll arrive at the cozy Kings Creek Station campsite, where you can unwind and relax before a delightful dinner. Today’s estimated travel distance is 325 kilometres, but the memories we’ll create will be immeasurable.
Experience the unique and adventurous swag camping option at Kings Creek Station!
Indulge in an irresistible breakfast and lunch feast without the added dinner treat.
On day 4, the trip group travelled from Kings Canyon to Coober Pedy
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk starts early. Watarrka National Park has sandstone walls, waterholes, forests, chasms, canyons, and caverns. It’s like an oasis in central Australia. You can see Priscilla’s Crack and Lost City’s domes. You can also see the Garden of Eden’s greenery and watering hole. It’s a magical experience. Today’s journey takes us across the NT and SA border. Our destination is Coober Pedy, the ‘Opal Capital of the World’. The town’s unique architecture is due to the hot weather. Many residences are built underground. Tonight’s accommodations are in an underground bunkhouse. Free time is available for exploration and dining. The distance covered today is approximately 760km. The Umoona Opal Mine offers underground bunk accommodation. The meal plan includes breakfast only.
On the fifth day, the route will take you from Coober Pedy to William Creek
After breakfast, visit Josephine’s Gallery and Kangaroo Orphanage. The orphanage was established in 2008 to care for orphaned kangaroos from the north of South Australia. The gallery is a world-class Aboriginal Art Gallery. Prepare to be amazed by the vast collection of Aboriginal artifacts and breathtaking masterpieces created by Australia’s most renowned Indigenous artists. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the fascinating Umoona Opal Mine and Museum. Here you can learn about Aboriginal and European settlement. You can also see how early miners lived and try your hand at ‘noodeling’ for opals.
Instead of taking the sealed Stuart Highway, we will drive on unsealed roads. Along the way, we will stop at William Creek, one of the world’s most remote towns. Our route will also take us past Anna Creek, the largest cattle station globally. Additionally, we will see Lake Cadibarrawirracanna, which boasts the longest name in the world. After arriving at our destination, we’ll camp under the starry night sky and indulge in a delightful feast at the enchanting and historic William Creek Hotel.
The journey today will cover a distance of approximately 170km. Stargazing from the comfort of your swag is a memorable activity during the night.
The available accommodation option at William Creek is swag camping.
The package includes breakfast, a meal of your choice, and dinner.
On day 6, we’ll go from William Creek to Flinders Ranges via the Oodnadatta Track
The Oodnadatta Track in Australia is a famous unsealed road known for its unique lunar-like landscapes. Along the way, attractions include the Mutonia Sculpture Park and Lake Eyre, Australia’s largest salt lake. Take a lunch break in one of the outback towns before reaching your destination.
Skytrek Willow Springs Station is a sheep station located in the Flinders Ranges. It offers bush camping, walking trails, natural springs, and Aboriginal rock etchings on its 70,000-acre property.
The Flinders Ranges is known for its clear skies, which provide an excellent opportunity to observe a spectacular celestial display. Visitors can enjoy a campfire dinner and spend the night stargazing under the Milky Way.
Today’s itinerary includes a 500km drive. Please consult the Know Before You Go information for any disclaimers related to road conditions and inclement weather.
The accommodation at Skytrek Willow Springs Station includes camping, with meals provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
On the seventh day, we visited Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park
It would be best if you saw the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. It showcases over 540 million years of geological grandeur. You can explore ancient gorges and witness stunning beauty at every turn. Take a hike through tall river red gums and pines, passing by waterholes and a historic ruined homestead. Finally, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness to conclude your journey.
Visitors to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park can learn about conservation efforts by engaging with Park Rangers and participating in seasonal work that aids regeneration.
After lunch, visitors can take a scenic drive at Brachina Gorge, approximately 160km away. Guests can then return to camp for relaxation and the final dinner.
One possible lodging option is to camp at Skytrek Willow Springs Station.
Visitors to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park can engage with a Park Ranger, who can provide information on conservation efforts and offer opportunities for conservation work depending on the season.
After having a picnic lunch, travellers can take a scenic drive at Brachina Gorge. The day can end with relaxation and a final dinner at the campsite. The estimated total driving distance for the day is approximately 160 kilometres.
The accommodation options at Skytrek Willow Springs Station include swag camping.
On day 8, we travelled from Flinders Ranges to Adelaide
The Arkaroo Rock Trail offers scenic views of the Chace Range and is an important cultural site for the Adnyamathanha community. Prepare to be amazed as you explore the incredible Adnyamathanha rock art, a breathtaking depiction of the legendary Yura Muda creation story of Ikara. After breakfast, it is time to begin the trail and explore the area.
Before visiting Alligator Gorge at Mount Remarkable National Park in the Southern Flinders Ranges, it is recommended to have a picnic lunch. Alligator Gorge provides a satisfying end to the tour.
Our route will go through the Clare Valley wine region, known for its scenic beauty. We anticipate reaching Adelaide by 6 pm.
The distance covered on today’s journey is roughly 450 kilometres.
The provided meals consist of breakfast and lunch.
Know before you book
Camping
- Passenger participation is required for this camping tour, which may include tasks such as meal preparation and campsite packing.
- The tour provides camping options in different national parks and campgrounds with essential toilet and shower facilities.
- Single swags are often used for sleeping while camping. They are also known as “Aussie Bed Rolls” and are made of sturdy canvas material with a built-in mattress. Passengers are responsible for bringing their sleeping bags and pillows for the swag.
- During the booking process, customers can pay an additional fee of $300 for a deluxe double swag that can accommodate up to two people. This swag includes a high-density foam mattress and mesh windows. Availability is limited due to its size and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- If there is bad weather, two people can use a dome tent for three people.
General
- The tour starts at 2 pm in Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort). AAT Kings offers transfers from Alice Springs to Yulara, arriving by 1 pm. Another option is to take a morning flight to Uluru Airport and catch a free transfer bus to the Resort. Your Guide will meet you there at 2 pm.
- The tour concludes in Adelaide on the eighth day, typically around 6:00 pm.
- To fully enjoy this experience, it is advisable to appreciate outdoor activities, including hiking, and be prepared for diverse weather conditions.
- Effectively manage and cope with challenging weather conditions.
- Get ready to lace up your shoes and tackle walks ranging from 3 to 12 kilometres! We’re looking for participants with a moderate fitness level who are up for the challenge. These walks may involve uneven terrain and the potential for encountering moisture.
- On certain days, the distance travelled may be significant and involve walking on uneven terrain or crossing bodies of water.
- When making your reservation, please inform us of any dietary restrictions you may have. While we provide a range of fresh products, snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are not included in the package.
- Our company offers fresh products; however, snacks, soft drinks, and alcohol are not included in the package.
- Travellers are granted the magical privilege of bringing a single backpack or a soft travel bag weighing no more than 15 kg, along with a charming little piece of hand luggage.
- Passengers must complete online check-in and a ‘Fit for Travel’ self-declaration indicating their health status no later than 24 hours before departure to adhere to COVID-Safe guidelines.
- Travellers must complete a self-declaration called ‘Fit for Travel’ to confirm that they are not ill as a measure to ensure health safety.
- The tour requires a minimum of six people to operate. If there are not enough participants, the time may be cancelled, and payments will either be transferred to a future date or wholly refunded if necessary.
- The event has been cancelled due to not meeting the minimum attendance requirements. All received funds will be transferred.
- If the scheduled departure dates are not suitable, a full refund of the tour price will be given.
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
