The Red Centre is a bucket list item for many. In this guide, we take you from Alice Springs to Uluru for an unforgettable journey to discover the essence of the true Red Centre of Australia. This Northern Territory road trip will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of Finke Gorge and Palm Valley to the towering cliffs of Kings Canyon. Then, continue this stunning journey through the vast savannah towards the iconic Uluru.
This road trip from Alice Springs to Uluru offers a scenic adventure and a profound connection to the ancient landscape and indigenous culture, making it a truly unique and enriching experience.
Before starting this incredible journey, explore our helpful guides to ensure a smooth and enjoyable road trip. Start with our top recommendations for navigation apps, plan delicious meals with our road-friendly meal-planning guide, and make the most of your camping experience with our essential camping gear guide.
Why Trust Road Trips Australia
With over 25 years of remote area travel, including the Red Centre and the Simpson Desert Crossing, I’ve shared this itinerary to ensure you experience the very best of Australia. This road trip featured is one I’ve explored firsthand, providing you with trusted and reliable advice for your next adventure. Count on Road Trips Australia for authentic, experience-backed road trip planning.
Journey Alice Springs to Uluru: The Red Center Australia
| Distance: | 1008 km |
| Length: | 10 Days |
| When to Visit: | May to October |
| Where to Stay: | Self-sufficient camping or RV camping. National Park bookings are required. An off-road 4×4 vehicle is suggested to access Finke Gorge. Accommodation options are also available, as mentioned in this article. |
Travel Tips for Remote Travel the Red Centre Australia:
- Gravel road conditions can vary depending on the season. Please check weather conditions before you travel on gravel roads.
- Ensure your park passes are booked via the National Parks website and check for National Park closures.
- Travel with appropriate food and water supply, with extra supplies for unforeseen circumstances.
- Travel with appropriate fuel, spare tyres, essential engine spares, tool kit and recovery equipment.
- Communication: Mobile phone coverage can be limited, so be prepared with a UHF Radio, Satellite Phone, or PLB (Personal Location Beacon).
- Carry a first aid kit, medication kit, sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Wear appropriate footwear, clothing and hat.
Alice Springs to Uluru: Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1 – While in Alice Springs, explore Australia’s central town, which the MacDonnell Ranges surround. This is an excellent opportunity to stock up on supplies and see some sights of Alice Springs. Stay at Discovery Parks Alice Springs for various accommodation options for two nights.
Things to do in Alice Springs:
- Visit the ANZAC Hill Lookout
- Alice Springs Desert Park
- Alice Springs Telegraph Station
- Museum of Central Australia
- Emily and Jessie Gaps Nature Park.
Day 3—Depart Alice Springs on this Red Centre Adventure, heading West on Larapinta Drive towards Finke Gorge National Park—138 km. Access to the park is limited to 4×4 vehicles. Camp at Palm Valley Campground for 2 nights.
Things to discover at Finke Gorge National Park:
The Finke Gorge National Park protects diverse plant species, including the Red Cabbage Palm. The Finke River runs through the National Park and is said to be one of the oldest rivers in the world. From Palm Vally Campground, explore the stunning Kalarranga Walk, which ends with spectacular rock formations and an outlook across the rugged country. Access to Plam Valley is via high Clearance 4×4 along the Finke River gorge and Cycad Valley. When arriving at Palm Valley, explore the 5 km Mpaara or the 2 km Arankaia Walk, where the Red Cabbage Palms grow.
Continue this Alice Springs to Uluru road trip through the ancient landscapes of Finke Gorge and Kings Canyon.
Day 5—Continue the journey to Kings Canyon at Watarraka National Park, 322 km. Stay two nights at Kings Canyon Resort, which offers accommodation, glamping, and campsites. Kings Canyon has facilities for everything from Grocery shops to fuel and accommodation.
Things to do at Watattaka National Park, Kings Canyon:
The ancient walls of Kings Canyon rise 100m above Kings Creek. Along the plateau is another world of ancient rocky domes of ancient sand dunes that can be discovered on the Rim Walk. The park protects a range of diverse flora and fauna while showcasing fascinating Geology that dates back 400 million years in its creation. There is a range of walking trails, from the shorter Kings Creek Walk to the highly recommended Rim Walk, exploring 6 km of the canyon plateau. Don’t miss the sunset viewing at Kings Canyon Sunset and the picnic area.
Day 7—Follow Red Centre Way to Yulara, 302 km. Yulara is a small township located just outside Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Yulara offers most facilities, from grocery shops to accommodation and fuel. Stay at Ayres Rock Campground or choose from various accommodation options available, from Sails in the Desert to Ayres Rock Resort. Stay for three nights.
Things to do at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Yulara:
Purchase your park pass online or at the National Park entrance to experience the awe-inspiring environment of this iconic part of Australia. Explore the range of walking trails, from the 10 km Base Walk to the shorter Kuniya and Mutitjulu Waterhole Walk, or view ancient rock art on the Mala Walk. You cannot miss the sunrise or sunset viewing from the designated viewing areas. Choose a ranger-guided activity or tour to gain a greater cultural understanding of the area.
Don’t miss the Kata Tjuta section of the National Park to experience the Mars-like landscape from one of the grade 4 walking trails. Take the views from Karu Lookout or walk the scenic Valley of the Winds circuit.
- Walk or bike ride around the base of Uluru.
- Experience the Uluru sunrise and sunset viewing areas.
- Uluru helicopter flight.
- Visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.
- Kata Tjuta walking trails (The Olga’s).
- Experience the Field of Light Uluru light show.
- A dining encounter under the Desert sky at Tali Wiru.
When travelling from Alice Springs to Uluru, plan to arrive at Uluru in time for sunset. The changing colours of the rock at dusk are mesmerizing and offer incredible photo opportunities!
Day 10 – Depart Yulara, heading east to Ghan and the Stuart Highway, 246 km. From here, return to Alice Springs or perhaps adventure to Lamberts’s Centre of Australia or across the Simpson Dessert.
Respect the natural environment and be respectful of Aboriginal sacred sites. Leave no trace of your visit.
As this iconic journey from Alice Springs to Uluru draws to a close, it’s clear this is more than just a scenic drive—it’s a journey into the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. From the striking MacDonnell Ranges to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Finke Gorge and the ancient cliffs of Kings Canyon, every stop offers a chance to connect with the magic of the Outback and the legendary Uluru. This journey goes beyond destinations; it’s about unforgettable experiences and connections that linger long after the adventure ends.
