Upon arrival at Adelaide airport, make your own arrangement to Adelaide Parklands Terminal to board The Ghan for your journey to Alice Springs (flights to arrive prior to 10.00am). Once you’ve settled in and the big wheels start turning, make your way to the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant carriage for a delicious lunch. Watch the rolling pastoral lands of South Australia merge into rugged Mallee scrub. Marvel as the spectacular Flinders Ranges disappear into the horizon, all the while enjoying the solitude of your cabin, then mingling with fellow travellers in the Lounge car for afternoon tea. Dinner in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant is bound to satisfy, and the selection of wines is equally outstanding. Then head back to your cabin for a good night’s sleep.
Day 2 -The Ghan – Alice Springs (B)
Wake up and witness an unforgettable outback sunrise at your morning stop in Marla in the remote reaches of South Australia. Back on board, it’s time for brunch or even a full breakfast. After a few more coffees, fresh juices and more incredible outback scenery, you’ll be arriving in iconic Alice Springs. (Transfer from The Ghan to your hotel is an additional cost.)
Travel from Alice Springs to Uluru aboard a luxury coach. Take in the rugged desert landscapes of the region, passing through the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges. While travelling through this remote country, your friendly Driver Guide will provide an informative and entertaining commentary. Learn the natural and geological history of the region, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna such as the Perentie monitor lizard, the thorny devil and the red kangaroo. Also hear about the traditional customs and beliefs of the local Aboriginal people. There is time for a stop at a local roadhouse for a quick break, then view flat-topped Atila (Mt. Conner) in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort rested, relaxed and ready to explore the amazing World Heritage listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This afternoon, visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre. Later, travel around the base of Uluru in comfort as your Driver Guide provides commentary about the numerous sacred sites and features to be found at Uluru. Learn about the native flora, fauna and intriguing culture of the traditional owners, the Anangu, and discover an array of fascinating sites. Continue by coach to the Kuniya Walk where your Driver Guide will escort you to the beautiful Mutitjulu Waterhole. In the late afternoon witness the striking colour changes of Uluru at sunset while enjoying sparkling wine. After sunset, continue to our exclusive venue, with Uluru as your backdrop, for a delicious barbecue dinner and stargazing (weather permitting).
Day 4 -Uluru & Kata Tjuta – Kings Canyon
Rise early to watch the first rays of the sun set Uluru and the Red Centre alight. Make your way to the viewing platform to see many kilometres into the distance, providing an ideal photo opportunity. Later, travel to the mystical domes of Kata Tjuta and continue to the base of Walpa Gorge. Spend time exploring the gorge and the unusual conglomerate rock formations. The walking trail through it follows the natural creek bed between two of the tallest domes of Kata Tjuta. Later, travel through the desert scenery to King Canyon Resort.
Day 5 -Kings Canyon – Alice Springs
Make the steep rocky climb to the rim of the Kings Canyon for spectacular views of Watarrka National Park. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge from a series of look-out points along the way. Time permitting, your Guide may take you to the green oasis of the 'Garden of Eden' waterhole. The rim walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. If you wish to take an easier, shorter walk instead, you will explore the boulder strewn canyon creek bed, getting up close to the native plants and birdlife that call this part of the world home. Travel on to Alice Springs.
Note: During the hotter months of the year where temperatures can reach and exceed 36° C or 97° F, the Watarrka National Park Rangers strongly advise that visitors do not take part in the Kings Canyon Rim Climb. In this drier desert climate heat exhaustion, over these hotter months, is a very high possibility and a danger in such remote regions. To ensure the safety and enjoyment of our clients we offer a guided walk along the Kings Canyon creek-bed as an alternative.
Day 6 -Depart Alice Srpings
After breakfast, free at own leisure and make your own arrangement to the airport for your flight back home.