Alice Springs to Ormiston Gorge or Finke Gorge National Park (Palm Valley) (130kms)

On your way to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park, stop at Alice Springs Desert Park, hailed by Sir David Attenborough as one of the world’s best wildlife parks. The “West Macs” boast dramatic cliffs, chasms, gorges, tranquil waterholes, and world-class walks. Spot rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, stroll to the sheer walls of Standley Chasm, swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole, or hike Serpentine and Ormiston Gorge, perfect for birdwatching and swimming. Redbank Gorge offers a challenging yet rewarding climb to Mt Sonder, or a cool swim in the gorge. For 4WD adventures, head into Palm Valley and marvel at the ancient Red Cabbage Palms, explore Hermannsburg Historic Precinct, enjoy its tea rooms, and visit the former home of artist Albert Namatjira. End the day with a sunset over the ranges.

Glen Helen, or Palm Valley, to Kings Canyon (260kms)

Heading west to Kings Canyon, the dramatic Tnorala/Gosse Bluff rises from the plains. Formed over 140 million years ago when a 600m-wide comet struck Earth, this site is both a geological marvel and a place of deep cultural significance. Amazingly, the Western Arrernte creation story recalls an object falling from the sky and hitting the ground here. From Tnorala, journey along the remote Mereenie Loop towards Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Human presence is scarce, but you may spot brumbies, donkeys, or camels roaming the outback. At Kings Canyon, choose from camping, eco retreats, glamping, or luxury stays at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon or Kings Creek Station.

Kings Canyon to Uluru (300kms)

One of Australia's greatest walks, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk is best enjoyed in the morning. Every part of the walk reveals something spectacularly different. Begin by hiking to the rim of the canyon, climb through Priscilla's crack and into the auditorium, peer over the edge of the sheer sandstone walls, descend into the Garden of Eden and relax by her tranquil waterhole, and wander through weathered rock domes of the Lost City. This walk has it all. If you have time, or for those unable to hike up to the scenic rim of the canyon, the Kings Creek Walk is beautiful and easy, and can be enjoyed any time of day, all year round. On your way to Uluru, the nearby Kathleen Springs has an easy walk to a pretty waterhole or, for the more adventurous, an overnight trek on the Giles Track. And little further south, stop into Kings Creek Station, a working cattle station and camel farm, to enjoy some outback hospitality and learn about station life in the remote Red Centre. 

After settling into your accommodation at Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort) you should have time to drive into the nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and celebrate the legendary Uluru sunset. Make sure you take several photographs because your camera can pick up the amazing colour changes better than your eyes.