Outback Explorer
10 Day Guided Vacation | Adelaide to Alice Springs
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Outback Explorer
10 Day Guided Vacation
| Adelaide to Alice Springs
Travel period
Outback Explorer
10 Day Guided Vacation
Adelaide to Alice Springs
This journey takes you into the very heart of Australia. The ancient and awe-inspiring Flinders Ranges and Kings Canyon provide a dramatic introduction to the rugged landscapes of the continent’s interior – and the jewels in its crown, magnificent Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). Close encounters with local people add an enriching layer to your outback experience.
Why you'll love this trip:
- It showcases the very best of South and Central Australia
- Your guide will lead you through Coober Pedy’s unique city
- Panoramic views of Wilpena Pound will mesmerise you
- Stories of Indigenous culture will give meaning to your surrounds
Outback Explorer (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2021 – 30 Sep 2022)
Local Connection
Go behind the scenes with local experts at the Adelaide Central Market, meet some traders and taste local produce.
Insider Knowledge
Explore the mining town of Coober Pedy with a locally guided tour through underground homes and its famed opal mines.
Cultural Immersion
Learn how the Rainbow Serpent gouged out the Gorges to make the Flinders Ranges, and experience Uluru’s rock art.
Sustainable Footprints
Through contributions to National Parks and Wildlife, you will be protecting Australia’s wilderness - including Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
On arrival today, explore the major sights of this picturesque city. Later, you'll join a local food expert for a guided tour of the vibrant 140-year-old Adelaide Central Market where you’ll meet the traders and sample some local culinary delights. Relax this evening at a Welcome Reception and dinner at La Boca Bar and Grill with your Travel Director and fellow travellers.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Included Meals: Dinner with Wine
Today, drive through the rolling hills of the Clare Valley for a wine-tasting at Sevenhill Cellars, the region’s oldest winery before stopping at the township of Clare for lunch. This afternoon your journey continues to Hawker, home of the Jeff Morgan Gallery where you’ll get to meet Jeff and experience his spectacular 30 metre panoramic painting of the Flinders Ranges! Your last stop for the day is at Wilpena Pound Resort, nestled in the shadows of this remarkable natural amphitheatre.
Hotel: Wilpena Pound Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Take a walk with your Travel Director this morning to the faithfully restored Hills Homestead and Wangarra Lookout which affords panoramic views over Wilpena Pound. Journey through Pichi Richi Pass and historic Quorn to Port Augusta. Visit Wadlata Outback Centre before venturing out for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Hotel: Majestic Oasis Apartments
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Visit a former rocket-testing site at Woomera before travelling through salt-lake country to isolated Coober Pedy, regarded by many as the opal capital of the world. View an opal demonstration with a local expert, who’ll then lead you through some of the town’s iconic underground buildings. Tonight, enjoy dinner at Umberto’s Restaurant.
Hotel: Desert Cave Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Cross the border into the Northern Territory and continue to Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. Enter the dual world heritage listed National Park to enjoy nibbles and sparkling wine at the Uluru sunset viewing area, 'Sunset Strip'. Get your camera ready as the sun sets over the western horizon, the evening sky brings out the many shades of colour for which Uluru is renowned.
Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
See the Red Centre set alight by the morning's first rays of sunlight. After sunrise tour the base of Uluru. You may like to take a self-guided stroll around the 11km base of ‘The Rock’ or enjoy a guided walk with your Travel Director to Mutitjulu Waterhole. You'll view Aboriginal rock paintings as your Travel Director interprets their meaning and significance. You'll also learn about the flora, fauna and cultural traditions of traditional owners, the Anangu. Visit Uluru - Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre where there is time to purchase some locally made Aboriginal art and learn more about the Western Desert region. This afternoon, visit the spectacular domes of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and walk through Walpa Gorge, following the natural creek-bed between two of the main domes. Take in a magnificent outback sunset at Kata Tjuta while you enjoy sparkling wine and nibbles.
Included Meals: Breakfast
This morning you might choose the optional extra of seeing the Field of Light at Sunrise or enjoy a sleep in. After breakfast you will travel to Kings Canyon Resort. On the way, marvel at Atila (Mt. Conner), the ‘forgotten wonder of Central Australia’ and stop for a lunch break at Kings Creek Station. Originally vacant crown land, the station now runs cattle and is the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia. Why not taste one of their famous camel burgers for lunch? You don't want to miss out! Now get ready for spectacular sightseeing. You’re off on a 6km rim walk exploration of Kings Canyon, which will reward you with marvellous views of Watarrka National Park, where you’ll be able to see as far as the horizon and get a real feel for the grand scale of this natural wonder. An easier walk along the boulder-strewn canyon floor is also available.
Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Your Outback Adventure continues today as you journey past vast cattle stations as the landscapes rises to the spectacular MacDonnell ranges that surround Alice Springs. In Alice Springs you explore the historic Telegraph Station that was established in 1872. It first served as one of 12 stations positioned along the Overland Telegraph Line that stretches between Adelaide and Darwin. Your last stop for the day is Anzac Hill for reflection and the panoramic views that give you an appreciation for Alice Springs.
Hotel: Mercure Alice Springs Resort, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
This morning you will learn about the life of the local indigenous Arrernte People before experiencing the Royal Flying Doctor Service tourist facility. Here you will learn how the facility brings first class health services to people living in the bush. This evening ‘Be My Guest’ with the Falzon family for an Australian BBQ dinner at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre. Join them as they share stories of self-sufficient living and astronomy and even lead you on a sing-a-long accompanied by the didgeridoo and guitar. It will be a night to remember!
Included Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest Dinner
Your holiday through the Outback concludes after breakfast. You’ll receive a complimentary transfer to Alice Springs Airport for your onward flight
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
Overlooking either Adelaide's historic parklands or the CBD, the superior rooms offer recently refurbished decor, with a selection of bedding configurations, large work desks, excellent lighting, flat screen colour televisions, broadband internet, variety of cable channels and in-house movies.
- Broadband Internet access
- Executive Desk
- Marble bathroom with double vanity
- In-room safe
- Communal self-catering kitchen
- Laundry/Valet service
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Coat stand
Features
Wilpena Pound Resort is spectacularly located within the Flinders Ranges National Park, South Australia. Enjoy a haven of outback hospitality, stop and stay awhile as you soak up the incredible beauty of one of the earth’s oldest landscapes.
- Ensuite
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Refrigerator
- TV
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Hairdryer
- Air-conditioning
Features
Majestic Oasis Apartments is perfectly positioned overlooking the waters of the Upper Spencer Gulf in sunny Port Augusta, only 3 hours drive North of Adelaide in South Australia. The property comprises 75 self-contained serviced apartments.
- Air-conditioning
- LCD TV
- Austar
- Wi-Fi
- Guest Laundry
- Iron / Ironing Board
- In-room safe
- Electric blankets
Features
For the best in Outback Accommodation and Tours - an experience of a lifetime. The Desert Cave Hotel allows you to experience dug-out style living, underground shops, bar and opal display areas - all within sandstone surrounds in the heart of Coober Pedy.
- Colour TV
- In-house movies
- Wi-Fi
- Wireless Internet access
- IDD Phones
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Refrigerator
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Room service
Features
Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel is centrally located to all resort and touring facilities and offers a range of accommodation, from shaded poolside rooms to deluxe rooms overlooking the desert.
- Air Conditioning
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Private veranda or courtyard
- Heater
- ISD/STD phone
- Mini Bar
- In-room safe
- In-house movies
- Coffee/tea making facilities
Features
Retreat to the luxury of Kings Canyon Resort after an active day of hiking through the rugged terrain of Watarrka National Park. The sensitively designed property is located in Watarrka National Park, just nine kilometres from Kings Canyon. Naturally, the Kings Canyon Resort has been built to blend in harmoniously with the surround.
- Ensuite
- Shower
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Insect screens
- Hairdryer
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Blankets
- Refrigerator
- Iron / Ironing Board
Features
Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, Mercure Alice Springs Resort offers spectacular views of the towering River Red Gum. Well-manicured lush green lawns of the hotel create a relaxing atmosphere, letting you soak in the Australian Outback charm in the Northern Territory (NT).
- Air Conditioning
- Hair Dryer
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Internet Access
- Phone
- Mini Bar
Features
Need accommodation before or after your tour?
Our special discounted rates make booking accommodation with us during your holiday both easy and affordable at selected AAT Kings hotels and resorts. Find out more
- Quality Accommodation
- Travel by luxury coach
- Experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Airport transfers (see flight information below)
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
- Warm layers in cooler months
Fitness Requirements
- Moderate level of fitness required for walks at Wilpena Pound, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon
- Walking on uneven surfaces is required to complete the walks, though there are alternate options available
Dining
- 9 Full buffet breakfasts
- 5 Dinners with wine
- 1 Be My Guest dinner
Flight Information
- Day 1 - flights to arrive prior to 12.30pm into Adelaide Airport
- Day 10 - flights to depart anytime from Alice Springs Airport
Outback Explorer
10 Day Guided Vacation
Adelaide to Alice Springs
This journey takes you into the very heart of Australia. The ancient and awe-inspiring Flinders Ranges and Kings Canyon provide a dramatic introduction to the rugged landscapes of the continent’s interior – and the jewels in its crown, magnificent Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas). Close encounters with local people add an enriching layer to your outback experience.
Why you'll love this trip:
- Explore the rugged Flinders Ranges & Wilpena Pound
- Toast the sublime Uluru sunset, sparkling wine in hand
- Don a helmet to explore Coober Pedy’s underground mines
- Enjoy dinner with the Falzon family, learn about their sanctuary
Outback Explorer (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2020 – 30 Sep 2021)
Local Connection
Go behind the scenes with local experts at the Adelaide Central Market, meet some traders and taste local produce.
Insider Knowledge
Explore the mining town of Coober Pedy with a locally guided tour through underground homes and its famed opal mines.
Cultural Immersion
Learn how the Rainbow Serpent gouged out the Gorges to make the Flinders Ranges, and experience Uluru’s rock art.
Sustainable Footprints
Through contributions to National Parks and Wildlife, you will be protecting Australia’s wilderness – including Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
On your arrival in Adelaide today, explore the major sights of the city before joining a local food expert for a guided tour of the vibrant Adelaide Central Market. Meet the traders and share the history and secrets of this 140 year-old icon. This evening, relax with your Travel Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception and dinner at La Boca Bar and Grill.
Hotel: Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Included Meals: Dinner with wine
Travel to the Clare Valley for a wine tasting at Jesuit-owned Sevenhill Cellars, the region’s oldest existing winery. Later, travel through the spectacular Flinders Ranges to Wilpena Pound, a remarkable natural amphitheatre covering nearly 8,000 hectares. As you head to the Flinders Ranges, passing the ruins of deserted pastoral leases, don’t forget to keep an eye out for mobs of emus on the plains as dusk draws near.
Hotel: Wilpena Pound Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with wine
Take a walk with your Travel Director to the faithfully-restored Hills Homestead, then enjoy panoramic views over Wilpena Pound from Wangarra Lookout. Later, journey through Pichi Richi Pass and the historic town of Quorn, known for its beautiful historic railway station, on your way to Port Augusta, a natural harbour on the Spencer Gulf. Visit Wadlata Outback Centre before dining at a local restaurant.
Hotel: Majestic Oasis Apartments
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with wine
Visit Woomera, a remote site used for testing space rockets during the 1950s and 60s. Then travel through salt-lake country and observe the transformation to a stark, barren landscape as you near the settlement of Coober Pedy, regarded by many as the opal capital of the world. Coober Pedy is also renowned for its underground shops and dwellings, called ‘dugouts’, which provide shelter from the extreme daytime heat. View an opal demonstration with a local expert, who’ll then lead you through some of the town’s iconic underground buildings, including a church and a private residence.
Hotel: Desert Cave Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with wine
Cross the border into the Northern Territory and continue to dual World Heritage listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru is sacred to the local Aboriginal inhabitants and is thought to have begun forming around 550 million years ago. Sparkling wine is served this evening as you watch the sun set behind Australia’s most recognised natural landmark and witness the spectacular phenomenon of the changing colours on the massive sandstone monolith.
Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock Resort, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
Rise early this morning to experience a majestic Uluru sunrise. After a tour of the base of Uluru, you may like to take either a self-guided stroll around its full eleven-kilometre perimeter, or a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, a pool so calm and still that it looks like glass. Your Travel Director will explain the significance of Uluru’s ancient Aboriginal rock paintings, and you’ll also learn about the area’s flora and fauna and the culture of its traditional owners, the Anangu people. This afternoon’s journey takes you to Kata Tjuta, a stunning series of thirty-six magnificent domes of red-hued sedimentary rock, where you can toast a magnificent sunset with a glass of sparkling wine.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Awe-inspiring Kings Canyon is your destination today. Stop for a lunch break at Kings Creek Station, a cattle station which is also the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia, and hear the intriguing story of owners Ian and Lynn Conway and their dedication to Aboriginal children in the region’s remote communities. Continue to Kings Canyon, a spectacular natural formation whose sheer sandstone walls soar to a height of over 100 metres. A 6km ‘rim walk’ around the canyon will reward you with marvellous views of Watarrka National Park. An easier walk along the canyon’s boulder-strewn creek bed is another option.
Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with wine
Travelling past vast cattle properties today, you’ll develop a true appreciation of the enormous magnitude of the Australian outback. On arrival in Alice Springs, visit the historic Telegraph Station established in 1872, which revolutionised communications on the island continent.
Hotel: Mercure Alice Springs Resort, 2 nights
Included Meals: Breakfast
Join a local Aboriginal guide at the Alice Springs Desert Park to learn about the culture and traditions of the local Arrernte People. Then visit the headquarters of the Royal Flying Doctor Service to see how this iconic facility provides lifesaving medical assistance in the outback. This evening, join the Falzon family at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre for a home-cooked Be My Guest barbecue dinner. You'll hear from the Falzon brothers, Tom and Danny, about the sustainable lifestyle they have established.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest barbecue dinner
Say farewell to your fellow travellers when your holiday comes to an end after breakfast.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.
Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort.
The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:
Overlooking either Adelaide's historic parklands or the CBD, the superior rooms offer recently refurbished decor, with a selection of bedding configurations, large work desks, excellent lighting, flat screen colour televisions, broadband internet, variety of cable channels and in-house movies.
- Broadband Internet access
- Executive Desk
- Marble bathroom with double vanity
- In-room safe
- Communal self-catering kitchen
- Laundry/Valet service
- Bathrobe and slippers
- Coat stand
Features
Wilpena Pound Resort is spectacularly located within the Flinders Ranges National Park, South Australia. Enjoy a haven of outback hospitality, stop and stay awhile as you soak up the incredible beauty of one of the earth’s oldest landscapes.
- Ensuite
- Shower and toilet facilities
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Refrigerator
- TV
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Hairdryer
- Air-conditioning
Features
Majestic Oasis Apartments is perfectly positioned overlooking the waters of the Upper Spencer Gulf in sunny Port Augusta, only 3 hours drive North of Adelaide in South Australia. The property comprises 75 self-contained serviced apartments.
- Air-conditioning
- LCD TV
- Austar
- Wi-Fi
- Guest Laundry
- Iron / Ironing Board
- In-room safe
- Electric blankets
Features
For the best in Outback Accommodation and Tours - an experience of a lifetime. The Desert Cave Hotel allows you to experience dug-out style living, underground shops, bar and opal display areas - all within sandstone surrounds in the heart of Coober Pedy.
- Colour TV
- In-house movies
- Wi-Fi
- Wireless Internet access
- IDD Phones
- Hairdryer
- Iron
- Mini-bar (surcharge)
- Refrigerator
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Room service
Features
Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel is centrally located to all resort and touring facilities and offers a range of accommodation, from shaded poolside rooms to deluxe rooms overlooking the desert.
- Air Conditioning
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Private veranda or courtyard
- Heater
- ISD/STD phone
- Mini Bar
- In-room safe
- In-house movies
- Coffee/tea making facilities
Features
Retreat to the luxury of Kings Canyon Resort after an active day of hiking through the rugged terrain of Watarrka National Park. The sensitively designed property is located in Watarrka National Park, just nine kilometres from Kings Canyon. Naturally, the Kings Canyon Resort has been built to blend in harmoniously with the surround.
- Ensuite
- Shower
- Air-conditioning
- Wi-Fi
- Direct Dial Telephone
- Insect screens
- Hairdryer
- Tea & Coffee Facilities
- Blankets
- Refrigerator
- Iron / Ironing Board
Features
Situated on the banks of the famous Todd River, Mercure Alice Springs Resort offers spectacular views of the towering River Red Gum. Well-manicured lush green lawns of the hotel create a relaxing atmosphere, letting you soak in the Australian Outback charm in the Northern Territory (NT).
- Air Conditioning
- Hair Dryer
- Coffee/tea making facilities
- Radio
- Iron / Ironing Board
- Internet Access
- Phone
- Mini Bar
Features
Need accommodation before or after your tour?
Our special discounted rates make booking accommodation with us during your holiday both easy and affordable at selected AAT Kings hotels and resorts. Find out more
- Quality accommodation
- Travel by luxury coach
- Experienced Travel Director and Driver Guide
- Airport transfers (see flight information below)
To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Excursions for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The excursions can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.
Adult Price: From AUD 275.00
Child Price: From AUD 220.00
Your adventure begins with the balloons being inflated just as the sun lights up the rugged MacDonnell Ranges. Whilst floating gently in the air you will appreciate the vast remoteness, scenery and wildlife of the Australian outback. The tour includes your return transfers and a light breakfast. Please note this excursion is not recommended for the elderly or a less agile person. If you are unsure, please discuss your situation directly with Outback Ballooning. A compulsary aviation insurance charge of $30.00 per person is payable direct to Outback Ballooning. Prices from:
*Please Note:
- This excursion is not recommended for the elderly or a less agile person. If you are unsure, please discuss your situation directly with Outback Ballooning.
- An aviation insurance levy of $30.00 per person is payable direct to Outback Ballooning.
- Flights do not operate when weather does not permit safe flying.
Adult Price: From AUD 240.00
Child Price: From AUD 240.00
A 40 minute, fixed wing scenic flight is a great way to take in this amazing landscape. These small plane options with extended flights that include both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Adult Price: From AUD 160.00
Child Price: From AUD 160.00
Experience a scenic helicopter flight over the Red Centre and see Uluru from the Air. Prices from:
Adult Price: From AUD 139.00
Child Price: From AUD 139.00
Enjoy the thrill of a hot lap around Uluru or even travel a little further on the back of a motorcycle. Whatever blows your hair back! Prices from:
Adult Price: AUD 138.60
Child Price: AUD 69.30
Enjoy a unique and exclusive dining experience with Uluru as your stunning backdrop. There’s sparkling wine on arrival followed by a classic barbecue of steak, lamb sausages, skewered chicken and garlic prawns. There is also a selection of fresh salads and a tasty dessert. There’s even time for stargazing.
Adult Price: AUD 67.50
Child Price: AUD 34.20
With just enough time for some background commentary on the internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro, you will arrive very excited to see his latest artistic endeavour. Arriving in complete darkness, you will be able to enjoy the 50,000 spheres of light in the desert, before making your way up the hill to the Field of Light sunrise viewing viewing area.
FIND OUT MOREAdult Price: AUD 110.00
This is the opportunity to experience Kings Canyon from the air at its most affordable level. These helicopter flights are designed to give perspective to the enormity of the area and a view into sections of the canyon not reachable by ground based touring. Prices from:
Adult Price: From AUD 186.00 Child Price: From AUD 142.00
This flight provides a fantastic view of our surrounds where you will see Wilpena Pound from the air with the resort nestled in among the River Red Gums just near the Pound Gap. You will also see the Elder Range, Edeowie Gorge, Lake Torrens, the Heysen Range and St. Mary Peak.
Adult - AUD 150.00
Child - AUD 90.00
Explore more than 800 million years of geological history in the “Corridor Through Time”. Marvel at the rugged beauty of Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges. Search for Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies and enjoy sweeping views of Bunyeroo Valley and the eastern wall of Wilpena Pound.
Optional Experiences indicated are Australian or New Zealand dollars. Please note that occasionally weather or seasonal conditions may not permit their operation. Some also depend on a minimum number of participants and suitable time being available. Please see your Travel Director for a full list of experiences.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Water bottle
- Warm layers in cooler months
Fitness Requirements
- Moderate level of fitness required for walks at Wilpena Pound, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon
- Walking on uneven surfaces is required to complete the walks, though there are alternate options available
Dining
- 9 Full buffet breakfasts
- 1 Be My Guest dinner
- 5 Dinners with wine
Flight Information
- Day 1 – Flights to arrive prior to 12.30pm into Adelaide Airport
- Day 10 – Flights to depart anytime from Alice Springs Airport
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