On this Adelaide to Alice Springs tour, we dare you to venture north from Adelaide into Central Australia and not be humbled by this land’s natural bounty. Witness the rainbow colours of Coober Pedy, the immensity of Wilpena Pound and the Flinders Ranges, and the 60,000 years of Indigenous history enveloping Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, its sacred and spiritual sights revealed by Aboriginal guides.
(B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Specialty Dinner Tour Code: NAA
Located in Adelaide, this hotel is within a 15-minute walk of Rundle Mall and Adelaide Casino and has 329 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and Smart televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Enjoy recreation amenities such as a fitness centre, complimentary wireless Internet access and concierge services. For dining there is Japanese cuisine at Koomo, a themed restaurant where you can enjoy drinks at the bar/lounge and dine alfresco. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe.
Located in the heart of the Flinders Ranges on Adnyamathanha Country, Wilpena Pound Resort is the perfect base to explore this vast and spectacular ancient outback landscape. Known to the Traditional Owners as Ikara meaning ‘the meeting place’, Wilpena Pound Resort offers a one-of-a-kind experience of the destination, guided by the region’s Traditional Owners, the Adnyamathanha people. The region is renowned for its geological history, ancient fossils and Aboriginal rock art. A haven of outback hospitality, with a range of dining, activities and accommodation options.
Located approximately three hours north of Adelaide in the heart of Port Augusta, Majestic Oasis Apartments are the gateway to the spectacular Flinders Rangers and Australian outback. From here you can catch the Stuart Highway and cross the outback all the way to Darwin, go South West to Port Lincoln or West across the Nullarbor to Western Australia. The property features 75 modern and well-equipped studio, one and two bedroom self-contained apartments overlooking the grassy foreshore and waters of the Upper Spencer Gulf. Try spotting the dolphins during your morning walk along the foreshore.
Since 1915 Coober Pedy has lured those who seek the elusive opal which is found in this vast Outback semi-desert area. Many of the locals live in dugouts (underground homes) where the earth gives natural temperature control. Visitors have always been fascinated by this underground way of living and this unique underground hotel offers visitors the opportunity to stay underground. Or if visitors prefer, above ground rooms are also available. Sleeping underground is a unique experience. Quiet, cool, dark and airy – the rooms are spacious with high ceilings. Most visitors say that sleeping underground gives them the best night’s sleep they have ever had. It is an experience not to miss. The Desert Cave Hotel also has underground shops, a cafe, an opal interpretive centre, and an underground bar and gaming room. The hotel offers visitors the best opportunity to experience Coober Pedy ‘dugout’ living.
Desert Gardens Hotel boasts the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort. Perched within an oasis of native gardens, the hotel’s 218 elegant guestrooms provide a relaxing retreat from a day of adventure.
Accommodation options are diverse, from deluxe rock view rooms to shady poolside rooms, each located under a canopy of towering gumtrees and garden beds dotted with native shrubs and flowers.
All of Ayers Rock Resort’s luxuries and conveniences, including numerous lookouts, Red Ochre Spa and the shops, tour & information centre and cafés located at the Resort Town Square, are within easy walking distance or accessible via the free shuttle bus.
Kings Canyon is a natural wonder located approximately between Alice Springs and Uluru – literally at the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. The canyon was forged over 400 million years and is made from layers of sandstone with hard shale between layers. Soaring 270 metres above sea level, areas of the canyon plummet to the Garden of Eden where lush, plants thrive along the line of the permanent rock pools. It is at these pools you will often see native animals coming to drink.
It is a place of serenity and contemplation and one of great significance to the original land owners who ask that you do not swim in the waters. Other than this request, you are welcome to climb, touch and explore the canyon in a manner respectful to its history and natural environment.
The Resort, Backpackers Lodge and Camp Ground offer accommodations for all travellers. And the facilities of the resort provide an oasis of convenience in the middle of an ancient, rugged landscape.
Located on the banks of the Todd River, this Hilton hotel is two kilometres from the town cent and adjacent to Alice Springs Golf Club. This places it within 10 minutes of Alice Springs Desert Park and Anzac Hill, which stands above the town.
Recreational facilities include tennis courts and a heated outdoor pool overlooking the garden, home to the resident peacock.
Adelaide is South Australia’s capital and is bursting with culture, flavours, events and entertainment. It is a pretty city, surrounded by a ring of parkland on the River Torrens and it is home to renowned museums such as the Art Gallery of South Australia, displaying expansive collections including noted Indigenous art, and the South Australian Museum, devoted to natural history. Adelaide is the gateway to some of Australia’s best wine country including the Barossa, McLaren Vale, Handorf and Adelaide Hills, and is home to Australia’s official best restaurant, hotel, wine, gin and beach!
The rugged, weathered peaks and rocky gorges of the Flinders Ranges in outback South Australia form some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the country. It’s a place rich in Aboriginal history and home to a vast array of wildlife. Following the scenic roads, 4WD tracks and walking trails that crisscross this wild countryside will take you on a remarkable adventure. The Flinders Ranges are about 500 kilometres (311 miles) north of Adelaide, or a five-hour road trip.
Port Augusta is a small city in South Australia. Formerly a seaport, it is now a road traffic and railway junction city mainly located on the east coast of the Spencer Gulf immediately south of the gulf’s head and about 322 kilometres north of the state capital, Adelaide. It is often called the “Crossroads of Australia” since it is at the intersection of the main north-south route between Adelaide and Darwin, and the east-west route between Sydney and Perth.
Coober Pedy is a small town about halfway between Adelaide and Alice Springs. The town is sometimes referred to as the “opal capital of the world” because of the quantity of precious opals that are mined there. It is also renowned for its below-ground dwellings, called “dugouts”, which are built in this fashion due to the scorching daytime heat. It features a sun-baked lunar landscape, fascinating history and a unique way of life. Descend beneath the ground and discover a labyrinth of underground houses, hotels and even shops.
Kata Tjuṯa, also known as the Olgas, is a group of large, domed rock formations or bornhardts located about 360 km southwest of Alice Springs, in the southern part of the Northern Territory. Meaning ‘many heads’, Kata Tjuta is sacred to the local Aboriginal Anangu people, who have inhabited the area for more than 22,000 years. It forms an important focus of their spiritual life. As a visitor you can join a cultural tour to learn some of the region’s sacred history and Dreamtime stories.
Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park is Aboriginal land and jointly managed by its Anangu traditional owners and Parks Australia. The park is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Area for both its natural and cultural values.
Watarrka National Park is only three hours’ drive from Uluru, and is home to the mighty Kings Canyon – a majestic destination featuring 300 metre high sandstone walls, palm-filled crevices, and views that stretch across the desert. Feel on top of the world as you walk along the towering red rock cliffs of Kings Canyon and take in views of the forest of palms below. There is an iconic Kings Canyon Rim Walk. The six-kilometre circuit showcases some iconic landmarks like the Garden of Eden, a beautiful rockhole surrounded by rare plants, before ascending to 360 degree panoramic views over the red sand dunes – however can be a challenging walk and is best done in the morning at sunrise to avoid the heat.
Alice Springs is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory, halfway between Darwin and Adelaide, it’s a popular gateway for exploring the Red Centre, the country’s interior desert region. Known to the locals as “Alice”, this town embodies the quintessential Australian spirit, from the ancient desert it sits upon to the Aboriginal culture that is woven into the very fabric of life here. In the town itself, you’ll find an impressive array of outback activities from camel rides to sunrise hot air balloons. But escaping to nature isn’t difficult either. With an array of epic day trips accessible at your fingertips, you can float in freshwater swimming holes, explore the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon or marvel at the magnificent monolith, Uluru.
The town of Clare is located in South Australia in the Mid North region, 136 km north of Adelaide. It gives its name to the Clare Valley wine and tourist region. Clare has become recognised for its ‘experiences’, including the Riesling Trail walking and cycling route which weaves past vineyards and wineries. Clare is the starting point of the Lavender Federation Trail which traverses the eastern side of the Mount Lofty Ranges past the Barossa Valley through to Murray Bridge. The Clare Valley wine region continues within the same line of hills as the famous Barossa Valley, and also produces acclaimed wine.
Hawker is a tiny settlement which describes itself ‘The Hub of the Flinders Ranges’. The reason is because it is at the junction of roads from Port Augusta, Marree, Orroroo, Blinman and Wilpena Pound. The climate is described as semi-arid. The town is driven by tourism and visitors drive through on their way to explore Wilpena Pound and the beauties of the Flinders Ranges.
Cradled by ancient mountain ranges on the edge of the desert, Wilpena Pound is the crowning jewel of the Flinders Ranges. Also known by its Adnyamathanha name of Ikara, meaning meeting place. The ancient peeks of 800-million-year-old Wilpena Pound rise up to form a huge natural amphitheatre. The interior of The Pound is 11 kilometres long by 8 kilometres wide, hemmed in by a series of peaks, the largest of which, St Mary’s, is 1171m in height.
Pichi Richi Pass occurs on the railway line from Port Augusta to Quorn. The name Pichi Richi is believed to have come from the region where pituri is grown, this is a mixture of leaves chewed as a stimulant by Australian Aboriginals. The Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society (PRRPS) is a non-profit railway preservation society and operating museum formed in 1973. The society, managed and staffed by volunteer members, operates heritage steam and diesel trains on the restored 39 kilometre section of track between Quorn and Port Augusta. The line was built in 1878 as part of the South Australian Railways’ Port Augusta & Government Gums Railway, once formed a part of the Commonwealth Railways Central Australia Railway and east–west Transcontinental line, and is the oldest remaining section of track of the former narrow gauge Ghan. It is now the only operational section of the Central Australia Railway.
In Australia’s Red Centre lies the spectacular Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Home to many ancient wonders, the park is most famous for the enormous monoliths it’s named after. Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the earth in all their red glory just 30 kilometres (18.6 miles) from each other. Measuring 348 metres (1140 feet) high and 9.4 kilometres (5.8 miles) in circumference, Uluru is the largest sandstone monolith in the world, while Kata Tjuta is made up of 36 giant domes spread over more than 20 kilometres (12.4 miles). Both sites remain deeply spiritual and sacred to the local Anangu people, who have lived here for more 22,000 years. Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park is Aboriginal land and jointly managed by its Anangu traditional owners and Parks Australia. The park is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Area for both its natural and cultural values.
Experience the iconic Adelaide Central Market with a 45 minute tour showcasing the Market, the stall holders and the amazing produce available. On Wednesdays the Market is a little quieter. So, it’s a great time to meet the stall holders and hear their stories.
A local specialist will host you and show you the best stalls and offer some delicious foods to try. Think artisan cheeses, gourmet meats, seasonal fruits and sweet treats! After the tour there will be time to revisit the stalls and take advantage of some tour special discounts.
Note: a medium level of fitness required. Guests will be required to walk 20 minutes from Central Market back to hotel at the end of tour.
You don’t have to travel far from Adelaide to be surrounded by vines. In fact, just 1.5 hours north lies the Clare Valley, and therein one of Australia’s most awarded wineries. Knappstein Enterprise Winery’s roots reach back to 1878, which yields extremely tasty drops, as you’ll discover at the cellar door. Built on a rich heritage, it is one of the most recognisable and popular Clare Valley wineries. Located in an historic building, the Cellar Door is a must-see when you visit Clare. The original nineteenth century Enterprise Brewery is a National Trust building and a landmark of the Clare township. Wander inside and enjoy a tasting of their premium range of wines. Knappstein’s medal winning wines reflect the true nature of the region, showcasing quality fruit at its purest and most vibrant.
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. You won’t forget your experience at the Jeff Morgan Gallery. Housed across several large enclosures are Jeff’s huge displays that transport you to a different and place. They include painted panoramas, rock collections, model cars and memorabilia.
Also known by its Adnyamathanha name of Ikara, meaning “meeting place”, Wilpena Pound is a natural amphitheatre of mountains located 429 kilometres (267 mi) north of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia in the heart of the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. It is accessible via a sealed road which continues on to the northern Flinders Ranges town of Blinman and to the south, Hawker. This 6km hike will be suitable for most guests. The Tour Director will offer guest an option to book shuttle bus for part of the trip. Experience Hills Homestead and Wangarra Lookout which affords panoramic views over Wilpena Pound. An easy to medium level of fitness is required.
The iconic hike to the top of Kings Canyon is known as the spellbinding Rim Walk. The Rim Walk will take you on a 6 kilometre circuit transcending down into the Garden of Eden and back to the top to wonder at the 360 views. Depending on what pace you take to absorb the humbling scenery, the walk can take around 3-4 hours.
The start of the walk is the most difficult, with around 500 steep steps to climb. Once you are up there it will be one of the most magical experiences of your life. After you take in the views from the top of the stairs, continue your journey through Priscilla’s Crack made famous by the classic Australian movie Priscilla Queen of the Desert and to the first lookout across the canyon. From there you will see the marvelous sandstone domes (a mini-Purnululu) known as the Lost City due to it resembling an ancient city.
Next up is your choice to continue exploring the top or take the stairs down to the picturesque Garden of Eden filled with lush greenery where you can cross a secured bridge over the sacred watering hole. Once you have captured this iconic moment take the stairs back up to the south side of the canyon.
This 6km hike requires a high level of fitness so it’s not suitable for all travellers. The first 30-minute incline is considered “Difficult”. The Tour Director will offer an easier alternative along the creek walk for those that are unable.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility is an exciting attraction in Darwin that brings to life two iconic Australian stories. Both iconic stories are retold using state of the art technology. Enjoy Virtual Reality headsets, hologram movies, audio-visuals and touch screen TVs as well as the fascinating story boards.
The first story is the Royal Flying Doctor Service, affectionately known as the RFDS. Founded in 1928 by Reverend John Flynn, it began its aero-medical operations in the Northern Territory in 1939. The second story is the Bombing of Darwin on 19th February 1942. The bombing raids by the Japanese, brought destruction to the city of Darwin and many of the events that happened that day are featured.
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