Through the Red Heart of Australia

Australia, 6 Nights

Unlock the secrets of Australia's 'Red Heart' on this self drive tour through the Outback. After a few days exploring Alice Springs, take in the mighty Kings Canyon and the monoliths of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).
 
Day 1 - Alice Springs
On arrival meet your local guide for a journey of discovery around Alice Springs. Visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service base to see how the outback communities access essential services; stop at the Alice Springs School of the Air and see the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. This evening enjoy a genuine 'Outback Aussie Barbecue' and hear about the Aboriginal culture. Learn to throw a boomerang, watch damper being cooked in the coals of the fire, enjoy Billy Tea and marvel at the expanse of the country as you dine under the stars.

Day 2 - Alice Springs
This morning, embark on a quad bike adventure of the oldest working cattle station in the Northern Territory, Undoolya Station. Transfer to Alice Springs Desert Park, here your A&K guide will introduce you to the flora, fauna and people of the Australian desert. This afternoon enjoy a private tour of the Mbantua Galleries.

Day 3 - Alice Springs/ Kings Canyon
Collect your four-wheel drive vehicle and depart Alice Springs. Drive through the West MacDonell Ranges to some incredible sites including Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek and Ormiston Gorge. Follow the Mereenie Loop Road to Kings Canyon Resort for a two night stay.

Day 4 - Kings Canyon
A day to explore the magical sandstone formation of Kings Canyon, an enormous natural amphitheatre with amazing colours, rock formations and views.

Day 5 - Kings Canyon/Ayers Rock
Continue your drive via Kings Creek Station to Ayers Rock for your stay at Desert Gardens Resort. En route stop at Kings Creek Station. Take a private tour of the mysterious Olgas and walk the Valley of the Winds. Encounter snakes and lizards significant to the Anangu people and their creation time stories. Our expert handler reveals why these predators are not always something to fear. This evening travel out to a private dining setting in the desert. As the sun dips behind the Kata Tjuta (Olgas) and Uluru (Ayers Rock) sip champagne while listening to the soothing sounds of the didgeridoo. After dinner the lanterns will be dimmed as an astronomer takes you on a tour of the southern night skies.

Day 6 - Ayers Rock
This morning enjoy a sunrise tour of Ayers Rock including the climb or a walk around the base. This afternoon join Aboriginal artists for a 'dot painting' workshop. Experience the authenticity of learning from the artists with a chance to try your own hand. Learn about Aboriginal culture and how this is expressed in their art work. Continue on an Aboriginal guided Kuniya walk visiting cave paintings at the base of Uluru. See the beautiful Mutitjulu Waterhole and discover local bush foods while listening to tales of desert survival. This evening watch the sunset over Uluru.

Day 7 - Ayers Rock
Today you will be transferred to Ayers Rock airport for your ?onward journey.