4 Day Red Centre Kings Canyon to West MacDonnell Ranges - Bush Swag [from Alice Springs]

**Day 1: Alice Springs to Uluru / Ayers Rock** 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, those arriving via Ayers Rock Airport will join the group before we head to the Red Centre's Aboriginal interpretive cultural centre. 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 it rains) 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. **Day 1 Highlights:** - Uluru (Ayers Rock) - Red Centre's Aboriginal Interpretive Cultural Centre - Sacred Rock Art Site - Mutitjulu Waterhole, Kuniya Piti (seasonal), Kantju Gorge - Sunset at Uluru lookout **Meals:** *Lunch, Dinner (*not included for guests being collected in Ayers Rock) **Camping:** Ayers Rock Coach Campground - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal bathroom facilities) **Driving Distance:** 350km **Hike Distance:** 2-3 km / 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 marvelling 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. **Day 2 Highlights:** - Spectacular Sunrise at Uluru - The Olgas - Kata Tjuta - Hike the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge - Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner. **Camping:** Kings Creek Station - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (communal campground facilities). **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, traveling off the beaten track via the Mereenie Loop Tourist Drive and heading out towards the West MacDonnell Ranges for an evening of stargazing at our bush camp. **Day 3 Highlights:** - Outback Scenery - Travel through the remote central Australian countryside from Kings Canyon on route north through Alice Springs towards our campsite for the evening at our exclusive campsite in the West MacDonnell Ranges - Kings Canyon Watarrka National Park- Engage in a guided walk and learn about the flora, fauna and geology of this very special place - Travel the unforgettable back route to Alice Springs along Red Centre Way Mereenie Loop Drive (access permitting) - Enjoy a hearty dinner and unwind with your new mates - Spectacular Stargazing in remote outback Australia **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner **Camping:** West MacDonnell Ranges - Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (private portable facilities) **Driving Distance:** 370km (4 hours) **Hike Distance:** 4-6 km / 3-4 hours

**Day 4: Standley Chasm and Tjoritja West MacDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs ** Our West MacDonnell Ranges exploration unfolds amidst the towering red walls of Ormiston Gorge. Fuel up with some breakfast while nestled within this awe-inspiring natural wonder, taking a moment to appreciate the immense geological forces that sculpted this landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife emerging with the rising sun. Next, we cool off with a refreshing dip in the Ellery Creek Bighole (Udepata in Arrernte). Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sandy Ellery Creek, this permanent waterhole offers a welcome respite in the arid outback. Continuing our journey, we arrive at Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye). This dramatic 3-meter-wide, 80-meter-high gorge provides a stunning backdrop for our exploration. Our final stop is Simpsons Gap, another remarkable feature of the Tjoritja West MacDonnells. This significant site boasts a permanent waterhole attracting diverse wildlife and holds cultural significance as the intersection of several Aboriginal dreaming trails. With hearts full of wonder and unforgettable memories, we return to Alice Springs, dropping you off at your chosen accommodation. Relive your incredible four-day exploration and connect with the new friends you've made along the way. **Day 4 Highlights:** - Tjoritja West MacDonnell - Standley Chasm - Ellery Creek Bighole - Ormiston Gorge - Simpsons Gap **Meals:** Breakfast, Lunch. **Camping:** 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._