4 Day Central Explorer

Immerse yourself in the Outback on this 4 Day Central Explorer from Intrepid Travel. Experience ancient, local Aboriginal culture with a Dot Painting Class. Enjoy breathtaking views as you watch the sunrise at Kata Tjuta, and the spectacular colour changes of Uluru at sunset.

This all inclusive camping safari also allows you the chance to ride on a camel, hike around the canyon rim at Kings Canyon and visit a well known Aboriginal artist at Hermannsburg - one of the most famous aboriginal missions.

This is a fantastic 4 day adventure that will take you beyond the famous icons and right into the heart of the Northern Territory.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Alice Springs to Yulara: Departing Alice Springs, head south stopping for a short visit at the Outback Camel Farm (rides at own expense) and then heading straight to Yulara. It's then onto the permanent campsite for lunch. The afternoon is spent exploring Uluru (Ayers Rock). Join your knowledgeable guide for a base tour of Uluru, exploring ancient caves where Aboriginal paintings can be seen, learning about the oldest culture in the world. At sunset, you will appreciate the spectacular colour changes of Uluru. Later, return to camp for a traditional Aussie meal.

Day 2 - Yulara to Kings Creek: It's an early rise for an exciting morning with breathtaking views of sunrise at Kata-Tjuta (The Olgas). Go for a walk to appreciate the beauty of the 36 magical domes and learn about unique fauna, flora and fire management of the national park. This afternoon, travel through red sand dune & desert oak country to Kings Creek Cattle Station where optional activities are abundant. Tonight, try a traditional "camp oven" dinner, cooked in the coals of the fire.

Day 3 - Wattarka National Park & Kings Canyon to Wallace Rockhole: This morning, visit breathtaking Watarrka National Park, home of Kings Canyon. There's no rush as you hike around the canyon rim viewing sites like the Lost City and the Garden of Edenť. After a picnic lunch, head off on the famous Mereenie Loop Road towards the MacDonnell Ranges. In the afternoon, stop at Hermannsburg - one of the most famous aboriginal missions and also home to well known artist Albert Namatjira. Then drive to Wallace Rockhole Aboriginal Community, the overnight camp.

Day 4 - Wallace Rockhole to Alice Springs: This morning join the local guide and visit the Rockhole to view Aboriginal rock art and to learn about the Aboriginal culture (seasonal). You'll also participate in an Aboriginal Dot Painting Class, learning and practising some of the traditional techniques used in the arts and crafts. Today you'll also explore some of the Western MacDonnell ranges highlights, including the Standley Chasm and Simpson Gap. Enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings, and do some hiking where you may see rock wallabies. Later, continue on to Alice Springs, arriving approximately 6.30pm.

Highlights

Champagne & Nibbles at Sunset at Uluru
Sunrise at Kata Tjuta
Star Gazing talk after dinner at Kings Canyon Station
Visit Historic Hermannsburg & the Heritage Museum

Inclusions

The Lost City and Garden of Eden at Kings Canyon
Hiking treks
A visit to an Aboriginal Community
Learn about aboriginal rock art & dot painting
Western Macdonnell Ranges and Standley Chasm
Accommodation in permanent tents
Applicable park entry fees
Breakfast (3)
Lunch (4)
Dinner (3)
Sleeping bags, light, towel and travel pillow

Times

Departs: 6.00am from Alice Springs & 1.00pm from Ayers Rock Airport. July - October departures are daily, November - June departures are Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday

Returns: Approximately 5.00pm

Additional Information

Children: Tour is not suitable for children 5 years and under
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, shorts, t-shirts, long pants and long sleeved shirt (for mosquito protection and extra warmth at night), swimmers, hat, towel, sunscreen, necessary medication, change of clothes, camera and spare film and torch
Luggage: Personal luggage is limited to an overnight bag and a daypack. Most Alice Springs accommodations will be happy to store any excess luggage you may have, some do charge a small fee
Operated By: Intrepid Travel