Journey to the “Red Centre” of the aboriginal outback & iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Australia’s “Red Centre” is at the very heart and soul of the outback, and we’ve designed this MTS exclusive trip to leave ample time for soaking up its essence. Here, iron-rich soil yields otherworldly rock formations in deep crimsons and auburns, endless plains, and towering mountain domes. At Standley Chasm in the West MacDonnell Ranges, a narrow canyon glows red under the sun’s midday rays. Learn the history and wisdom of Central Australia’s aboriginal culture and hike the terrain inhabited by Anangu ancestors since time immemorial—from Kata Tjuta’s sacred rock formations to the lush Garden of Eden at the base of arid King’s Canyon. We’ll sleep in remote still-operating cattle stations—a throwback to the time of early settlers. We’ll save the most time to contemplate Uluru, Australia’s best known wonder—also its most hallowed. Encounter the massive monolith up close and watch, at sunset, as the shifting light fills its countless crevices and gullies.

Activities

6 days moderate hiking on uneven, rocky terrain

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Australia's iconic Uluru, or Ayers Rock
• Explore stunning Standley Chasm
• Hike sections of the long distance Larapinta Trail – Mount Sonder and Ormiston
• Local MTS guides teach the history of aboriginal culture—from the first settlers to the "Stolen Generation," and modern times
• Sip champagne as the sun sets over Ayers Rock!

Duration: 7 days Start Location: Alice Springs End Location: Alice Springs

BRIEF Itinerary

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  Day 1 : Alice Springs – Curtin Springs

  Get close to some outback wildlife before traveling onto Curtin Springs

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  Day 2 : Olgas (Kata Tjuta) – Ayers Rock (Uluru)

  Vist one of Australia's most famous icons, Ayers Rock (Uluru)

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  Day 3 : Hiking at Kings Canyon

  Todays hike starts steeply upward, before skirting Kings Canyon rim then descending into the lush Garden of Eden.

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  Day 4 : West MacDonnell Ranges

  Today we leave the tourists behind and travel to the more remote West MacDonnell Ranges.
   

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  Day 5 : Climb Mount Sonder

  A major highlight today as we climb Mt. Sonder at the western end of the Larapinta Trail, accessible by 4 wheel drive only.
   

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  Day 6 : Larapinta Trail

  Our morning walk today is the Ormiston Pound Loop on the Larapinta Trail.  Our final walk will be at Standley Chasm, where sheer red walls dwarf walkers.
   

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  Day 7 : Return to Alice Springs and depart

  The holiday finishes in the Alice Springs after breakfast.
   

Properties shown are representative of the accommodations we use on this trip, may not be inclusive of all accommodations we use, and are subject to change.

Expert leadership is the key to an exciting, unforgettable experience. Our trips feature gifted leaders for whom leading trips is a true vocation. Besides showing you wonders you’d never find on your own, they make sure everything runs smoothly and safely without a hitch. They are knowledgeable about all aspects of your trip, and take great pleasure in sharing their insights with you. More than just guides, they positively elevate your experience by being teachers, companions, and the best of friends. You’ll be in good hands with them every step of the way.

photo credits: MTS Photo File