AAT Kings: Kings Canyon, Uluru and Kata Tjuta Short Break 24/25

Travel in comfort in our air-conditioned vehicle from Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock). 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 informative and entertaining commentary. Learn about the natural and geological history of the region, as well as the unique Australian desert flora and fauna such as the Perentie, the Thorny Devil and the Red Kangaroo. Stop at a local Roadhouse for a quick break and comfort stop then see Atila (Mt. Conner) in the distance as you travel through Curtin Springs Station before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort, rested, relaxed and ready to explore this amazing World Heritage-listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This afternoon, enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park for an afternoon of discovery. Visit the Cultural Centre where you’ll have time to explore the galleries and you may be lucky enough to see local Aboriginal Artists at work. Travel to the base of Uluru where you’ll be amazed as your local guide shares the Aboriginal Tjukurpa (creation) stories that breathe life into this giant formation. Feel the spirit of the land as your guide takes you on a walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, interpreting the meaning of the ancient Rock Art and sacred sites you’ll see along the way. With plenty of time, travel to the Uluru Sunset Viewing Area where you can relax with a sparkling wine or two while you enjoy a famous Uluru sunset. Witness the incredible changing colours as the sun sets below the horizon. You’ll arrive back at Ayers Rock Resort 30 minutes after sunset.

Staying in:

• Outback Hotel & Lodge (1 night)

This morning travel to the spectacular Kata Tjuta. On the way, enjoy panoramic views of the southern side of Kata Tjuta at a dune viewing platform before arriving at Walpa Gorge. Spend some time exploring the gorge and the unusual conglomerate rock formations. The 1.3km walking trail through Walpa Gorge follows the natural creek between two of the tallest domes of Kata Tjuta. Return to Ayers Rock Resort in time for lunch (own expense) and the afternoon is free for you to relax or you might choose add on an additional optional experience like a scenic helicopter flight, Sounds of Silence Dinner or Wintjiri Wiru (all at an additional cost).

Staying in:

• Outback Hotel & Lodge (1 night)

This morning you might choose to have a slow start to the day or to book the Sunrise Field of Light tour (own expense). Then delve into indigenous art and even get hands-on and paint your own small piece of dot art. You will be taught by a local Anangu artist (and an assisting interpreter). You’ll learn about traditional art, symbols, tools and more! Be inspired by the ancient ways of the desert and create your very own work of art to treasure. Travel through spectacular desert scenery from Ayers Rock Resort. Pass through Curtin Springs Station and view Atila (Mt. Conner). On the way to Kings Canyon your Driver Guide will provide informative commentary about the history of the surrounding cattle stations. Keep a look out for wild horses and camels. You’ll arrive at Kings Canyon Resort in time to relax before viewing a spectacular sunset. In the peak travel months drinks are available to purchase at the sunset viewing area. After dinner you'll experience the Light Towers by Artist Bruce Munro.

Staying in:

• Kings Canyon Resort (1 night)

Rise early to make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park at sunrise. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge at look-out points. Time permitting, you may choose to descend into the green oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'. The circuit walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a very good level of fitness. Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder strewn canyon floor. You will board your coach to travel to Alice Springs. Along the way stop at Erldunda, a classic Northern Territory Roadhouse located at the junction of the Stuart Highway and Lasseter Highway. Travel along the Stuart Highway before arriving in Alice Springs.