Autopia Tours: Red Centre to West MacDonnell 4 Day - Basic Swag from Alice Springs

TOUR CODE: RA4-B

OPERATES: Mon, Wed, Sat

DEPARTS: 7:00am from Alice Springs

RETURNS: 17:30pm to Alice Springs only.

TOUR DURATION: 4 Days / 3 Nights

MAIN PICKUP LOCATION & TIME: Stay at Alice Springs Hotel Aurora - 11 Leichhardt Terrace (​Previously known as Aurora Alice Springs Hotel, ​this accommodation provider is now known as Stay at Alice Springs Hotel.)

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Kings Canyon Watarrka National Park
• Uluru (Ayers Rock) lookout at Sunset 
• Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta cultural center
• Aboriginal Sacred Rock Art Site 
• Visit Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti, Kantju Gorge
• Immerse yourself in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
• Hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge
• The Olgas-Kata Tjuta
• Visit Tjoritja - West MacDonnell Ranges
• Explore Standley Chasm, Ochre Pits and Ellery Creek Big Hole

ITINERARY:

This small group adventure encompasses the very best the Red Centre has to offer. Four days, exploring four iconic locations (Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges) all wrapped up in one tour. There is a very good reason why Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.  The park was first added to the list in 1987, when the international community recognised its spectacular geological formations, rare plants and animals, and outstanding natural beauty. Your expert local guide will uncover some of the incredible secrets the Red Centre has to offer with guided -commentary, stories, and hidden gems that really bring this place to life. We have comfortable twin safari tents providing a little more comfort, privacy, and security, or you can try out a traditional swag experience (canvas-covered bedroll).

Day 1: Alice Springs to Uluru 

Departing from either Alice Springs, we head towards Uluru (Ayers Rock) stopping off at Mt Connor (false Uluru) lookout for a view of this mighty red mountain and Curtin Springs for a toilet stop before arriving at our campground for lunch. After lunch, we head to the Red Centre’s indigenous interpretive cultural centre where we have a chance to learn about the cultural, ecological, historical and geological significance of this very special national park. With the anticipation and excitement growing we make a short drive towards the base of Uluru as we begin to comprehend the sheer size and magnificence of the giant monolith, getting up close and personal to explore further.  Walking to Mutitjulu waterhole we discover sacred rock art sites in family caves and hear the creation stories of Kuniya and Liru as we continue our base walk towards Kuniya Piti.  From here we drive around sacred sites towards Kantju Gorge where we envisage the highest waterfall in Central Australia, (truly a spectacle to behold, even more so when raining) an elders cave and the world's oldest pantry.  After exploring the world's most impressive rock up close and personal, we retreat for panoramic views to witness one of the most incredible sunsets on the planet, all whilst having dinner cooked for you, to feed those hungry eyes and allow you to get to know your fellow travellers. Meals: Lunch, Dinner. Accom: Ayers Rock Coach Campground (Uluru) Basic Swags (communal campsite facillities). Driving Distance: 350km. Hike Distance: 2-3km / 2-3 hours.

Day 2: Uluru to Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon

We wake early for a light breakfast and head off for a spectacular sunrise in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. You thought Uluru was special and just when you think it couldn’t get any more majestic we approach the stunning silhouette of Kata Tjuta.  Here we set off on a hike through the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge marveling at the mighty conglomerate rock formations. After exploring Kata Tjuta we make our way towards Kings Canyon region just in time to experience a glorious outback sunset followed by a hearty meal around the campfire. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. Accom: Kings Canyon Campground Basic Swags (communal campsite facillities). Driving Distance: 406 km  (4.5 Hours). Hike Distance: 2-6 km / 2-4 hours (*weather dependent).

Day 3:  Kings Canyon to West MacDonnell Ranges

We head off early to explore the mighty Kings Canyon (Watarrka) venturing into the ancient landscape and sacred grounds of the Ulpanyali and Lilla people. Arriving at the jewel in the crown at the centre of Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) we find ourselves surrounded by towering 100-metre cliff faces, views of sandstone chasms and jaw-dropping backdrops that will make the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. Grab your water, hat and sturdy shoes as we set off on foot to explore (the most seasonally applicable part of) the canyon in more detail. Rest up in the bus as we head back up north, passing through Alice Springs and heading out towards the West MacDonnell Ranges for an evening of stargazing at our bush camp. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accom: West Macdonell Ranges Campground Basic Swags (communal campsite facillities). Driving Distance: 370km (4 hours). Hike Distance: 2-4 km / 2-4 hours.

Day 4:  Standley Chasm and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs 

Known traditionally as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning “Gap of Water”, Standley Chasm is a 3-metre-wide, 80-metre-high gorge amongst the West MacDonnell Ranges. At dawn, we hope to spot the native wildlife as we enjoy breakfast and look forward to the day ahead. Tracking west you are welcome to enjoy a dip in Ellery Creek Bighole, known traditionally as Udepata, surrounded by tall red cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek. Onwards to where massive geological forces created the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Spend time here admiring nature and its finest before we begin our leisurely journey back towards Alice Springs, with our final stop at another amazing feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnell region, Simpsons Gap, where several dreaming trails and stories cross. Featuring a permanent waterhole this is also a great place to spot resident wildlife. Now we’ve had our fix of the best of central Australia’s natural icons, we deliver you back to Alice Springs to your chosen accommodation and evening plans as you reminisce your four days of exploration and new friends made. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Accom:  N/A. Driving Distance: 250km (3 hours). Walking Distance: ~3km / 4km.

*Autopia Tours reserves the right to alter the route or itinerary schedule during seasonal weather fluctuations and/or during park closures due to traditional landowner ceremonies.

INCLUSIONS:

• 3 Nights Outback bush camping (Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Standley Chasm)
• Includes: 3 x breakfast, 4 x lunch, 3 x dinner
• Guided bush walks (~12km, subject to fitness level)
• Onboard drinking water (bring your own bottle)
• Australian bush swag - canvas-covered bush bed roll
• All National Park pass entry fees
• Accredited outback driver guide & host
• Comprehensive tour commentary
• Air-conditioned mini-coach travel
• Selected Alice Springs pick-ups and drop-offs only

EXCLUSIONS:

• Any meals not indicated in the itinerary
• Travel insurance is highly recommended
• Hotel transfers pre/post tour itinerary
• Personal expenses

TOUR OPTIONS:

• Sleeping bags can be hired from us onboard for $40 AUD, this includes cleaning costs. You are more than welcome to bring your own.

WHAT TO BRING:

2-3L Refillable water bottle, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses & sunscreen, beach towel & toiletries, bathers or swimwear, comfortable sturdy hiking shoes (closed shoes), all-weather clothing (extreme conditions day/night), camera, flashlight, headlamp or torch, tropical strength insect repellent, mosquito or fly net (summer months), 15kg overnight bag & small day pack, bring your own sleeping bag & pillow (optional - if staying in a swag), recharge power bank (limited access to power to charge phone or cameras) and money for snack and meals.

CHILD POLICY:

Children aged between 8 to 17 years old must be accompanied by an adult or legal guardian at all times. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under. Not suitable for infants or children 7 years and under, due to safety requirements and the level of fitness required to complete the walks.

WEATHER:

The weather in the Northern Territory can fluctuate and be extreme. It is not unheard of for temperatures to reach over 40+ degrees Celsius in the dry season and in the evening the temperature drops dramatically. Please ensure you have checked the average temperatures for the time of year you are travelling and have packed adequate clothing. In the event of rain or inclement weather, your experience will still go ahead, unless contacted by the provider.

THINGS TO KNOW:

• Mandatory passenger details required at time of booking: date of birth, dietary and phone number.
• We will try to cater to most dietary needs and/or food allergies - passengers MUST notify the tour operator of any special dietary requirements or medical conditions at the time of booking.
• A minimum moderate to advanced level of fitness is required to complete the walks. Length of walks will be between 2km to 4km each day, often over steep rocky sections and in direct sunlight and high humidity. An approximate 9.5km walk is included in this tour. Embarking on walks will be at the guide’s discretion to ensure the safety of guests. Therefore a medium/high level of fitness is required and doctor’s certificate is required for people over 70 years (30-days prior to travel). 
• Limited storage space on our vehicle, baggage kept to 1 x 15kg travel bag, 1 x 5kg day bag. Not suitable for mobility impaired travellers, wheelchairs, walkers or strollers.
• Itineraries may vary to adapt to seasonal changes and occasionally sites in the parks close or do not allow swimming. As safety is our top priority we plan accordingly to ensure our guests have the most fun and best experience possible while on tour. 
• Guests are asked to participate in the preparation of meals, clean up and vehicle unpack/loading, so everyone can relax together after a long day of touring. It’s also a great way to get to know and connect with your fellow travellers.