7 Day Red Centre For Families Itinerary

As your plane descends into Alice Springs over the deep red earth of the outback, you’ll realise you have arrived somewhere truly special, where adventure and discovery await. 

Nestled between the beautiful MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by gorges and stark desert plains, remote Alice Springs feels a bit like a Wild West outpost, full of friendly, colourful characters. Once you’ve settled into your comfortable accommodation, it’s time to head out, soak up the unique atmosphere, and begin exploring the town and its remarkable surroundings.

Accommodation: Alice Springs - 2 Nights

Alice Springs Desert Park is a must-visit, offering an immersive introduction to Central Australia’s deserts. In just a few hours, explore three desert habitats - Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland along easy walking trails. 

See hundreds of native plants and animals, including rare and endangered species in the nocturnal house, and witness free-flying birds of prey in the nature theatre. Experience the desert as it comes alive at night, observing elusive wildlife up close, and gain a deeper appreciation of the remarkable ecosystems that define the heart of Australia.

Today you will make your way to Kings Canyon. Watarrka National Park is best known as the home of Kings Canyon, a mighty chasm cleaving the earth to a depth of 270 metres. 

The sheer red rock face of Kings Canyon soars over 100 metres above dense forests of palms, ferns and cycads; sheltering them from the surrounding desert conditions. Derived from an Aboriginal word referring to the umbrella bush that thrives here, Watarrka National Park has been home to the Luritja people for more than 20,000 years. 

Approximate Distance: 335 km | 71 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 45 mins

Accommodation: Kings Canyon - 2 Nights

Today is a free day to explore Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Choose from walking trails, 4x4 adventures, camel tours, or a helicopter flight over the dramatic landscape. Hike the iconic 6 km Kings Canyon Rim Walk, descending into the Garden of Eden, or visit Kathleen Springs, a sacred waterhole important to local Aboriginal culture and wildlife. 

In the evening, experience Sunset Light Towers, an immersive art installation by Bruce Munro. Enjoy canapés and drinks as 69 illuminated towers shift with a celestial soundscape, creating an unforgettable red desert experience.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today you’ll journey through the desert to Ayers Rock (Uluru), a breathtaking natural wonder and sacred site of the Yankunytjatjara people. In the evening, experience the Uluru Sunset Tour, arriving at the perfect viewing area to watch the rock’s colours transform. 

Enjoy nibbles and complimentary Australian sparkling wine as the sun dips toward the horizon. Marvel at the gradual shift of Uluru’s hues in the fading light, soaking in the magic and serenity of this iconic landmark—a truly unforgettable way to end the day.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Approximate Distance: 305 km | 190 miles   Total Driving Time: 3 hours 30 mins

Accommodation: Uluru / Ayers Rock - 2 Nights

Catch the mid-morning camel train for a 45-minute journey through the desert, with Uluru and Kata Tjuta providing a stunning backdrop. Pause on a sand dune lookout for photos and take in the vast, red landscape. 

As night falls, experience Field of Light Uluru, Bruce Munro’s celebrated art installation. Over 50,000 spindles of light illuminate the desert in ochre, violet, blue, and white, creating an immersive, magical spectacle. This unforgettable combination of desert adventure and luminous artistry showcases the Red Centre’s beauty in a truly unique way.

Say farewell to Uluru today as you board your onward flight, taking with you the magical memories of a truly exceptional Northern Territory experience. 

We know you will enjoy your 7 Day Red Centre Self Drive Tour and we hope you will return soon to discover even more highlights of this incredible continent.