6 Day Adelaide to Alice Springs Tour
On this six-day journey we sleep underground, hunt for opal, explore ancient aboriginal culture, hike, trek, eat good food, meet new friends and experience a truely authenic Australia adventure.
The journey from Alice Springs to Adelaide takes us to famous sites such as Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Kings Canyon in Wattarka National Park, Flinders Ranges and the opal mining town of Coober Pedy.
- Camping in swags
- Underground hostel at Coober Pedy
- Air-conditioned Vehicle
- Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Vegetarians catered for
- Hot showers & flushing toilets
- Electric plugs for charging
- Experienced tour guide
- Camping equipment
- Uluru sunrise & sunset
- Trip length:
- 6 Days
- Group size:
- Max 21
- Start:
- Adelaide
- End:
- Alice Springs
- Vehicle:
- Airconditoned 4WD Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Camping and Hostels
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Day 1
We start our adventure travelling through the vineyards of the Clare Valley wine region, but soon enough we’re heading into the rugged Outback through the historic town of Melrose, gateway to the Flinders Ranges. We enjoy an easy stroll through the towering red sandstone cliffs in Alligator Gorge, which is sometimes bursting with wild flowers. We’ll then settle in the heart of the Southern Flinders Ranges for the night.
Day 2
Along the way to Coober Pedy – the Opal Capital of the World – you will notice the incredible changing landscapes. Wildlife, such as kangaroos, emus and eagles will scatter as the road trains thunder across a landscape that resembles Mars or the Moon. On a tour of an underground Opal Mine and Museum, you’ll learn about the history of Coober Pedy. A highlight for some is visiting Josephine’s Kangaroo Orphanage, where you can meet the rescued kangaroos and baby joeys and admire (or buy) Aboriginal art and didgeridoos. Tonight, we sleep like the locals do – underground, in bunkhouse accommodation.
Day 3
It’s a big day driving up the Stuart Highway, with several pitstops en-route. Watch the changing landscapes from Mulga woodlands, escarpments and nearby ranges. Our mission today is to reach the majestic Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) where we will camp for the night on an authentic station.
Day 4
We get up early to explore Watarrka (Kings Canyon), where you will need to stop to admire and photograph the massive sandstone walls, vast canyon floor and stunning gorges. On the Canyon Rim Walk (3-4 hours), you’ll experience the beautiful Garden of Eden and learn more about the local Aboriginal culture. After lunch, we begin our journey into Uluru (Ayers Rock). Nothing will prepare you for the sight of Uluru. We quickly set up camp before learning about the local Aboriginal History at the Uluru Kata-Tjuta Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Soon after we’ll be experiencing our first awe-inspiring Uluru sunset, taking time to absorb the beauty and majesty of this place.
Day 5
We start the day at dawn by taking a (4 hour) hike to the majestic Valley of the Winds in Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Be prepared to be blown away with the size of these ancient rock formations and the extraordinary views. Later, we relax back at our campground for a dip in the pool or join one of our Adrenalin Plus options, such as skydiving over Uluru.
Day 6
After devouring yet another scrumptious breakfast we will experience another glorious sunrise, we then walk around the base of Uluru. Hiking through the acacia woodlands and grassy clay pans, you’ll spot wildlife at waterholes, marvel at Uluru’s geological wonders and learn more about Aboriginal interpretations from your Culturally Accredited Groovy Guide. After lunch, we’ll hit the road to Alice Springs, arriving approximately at 6:30pm.
*You can also be dropped off at Ayers Rock Campground for your flight out of Ayers Rock.
Please Remember
The Ayers Rock Resort has a swimming pool, wi-fi, shopping centre, bank and laundry facilities.We may adapt our hikes in Watarrka (King’s Canyon) if it’s too hot. Some hikes involve steep climbs and requires a reasonable level of fitness.
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can drop down 5 degrees celcius
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
Passengers need to take caution during December/January period where temperaturs in Central Australia can get quite high. Its advised to prepare accordingly.
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Pillow
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sleeping bag are needed and can be hired if you don't have one.
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
- Bincolars
What is included
TRANSPORT
- 4WD - Custom-prepared airconditioned mini bus
ACCOMMODATION
- 4 nights camping in swags and 1 night in underground bunkhouse.
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- 5 breakfasts
- 6 lunches
- 5 dinners
EQUIPMENT
- Camping equipment and utensils
- Tents and/or Swags
- Sleeping Mattress
- Pillows
OTHER
- Plenty of drinking water and snacks
- Experienced and knowledgable tour guide
- Park entry fees
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. To contact us please visit our contact page here.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking a tour for more than 1 person, or if you are a single person booking multiple tours then we are happy to offer a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and its many facets. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast - although there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Cost and Fees
What does "Paid Locally" mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. It’s handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
What type of tent will I get?
Tents are generally designed to accommodate a minimum of 2 people. This means there is plenty of room to move about and store your luggage. However, most Uluru tours we try and encourage the use of swags and mattress rather than tents. This is the ideal way to camp in the centre of Australia; Around a campfire, under the stars!
What will the food be like?
Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these Uluru tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner. We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Additionally some tours have recommended accommodation and specials under the "Optional Extras" tab on the top right corner.
What form of vehicle do we use?
For our Uluru Tours we toss between a Troop Carrier 4WD Landcruise and a 4WD Mini bus. This depends on the size of the group and the amount of days we are out in the park. Each tour varies so please refer to your tour info panel on the top right hand side of the page.
Where do I meet the tour?
Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.