This unforgettable three-day Kings Canyon tour takes you deep into the breathtaking landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Perfect for travellers eager to experience some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks while embracing adventure, this immersive 4WD outback journey showcases dramatic desert scenery and authentic camping under the stars.
Travelling along the legendary Mereenie Loop Track on the Red Centre Way, you’ll discover a fresh perspective on the heart of Central Australia, including unforgettable views of Uluru and Kings Canyon.
Ticket prices are the same for adults and children. Solo travellers booking the Safari Twin Share Tent may be paired with another guest (same-gender pairing preferred but not guaranteed). Children must be at least 8 years old and travel with a parent or legal guardian.
Departing from Yulara / Ayers Rock, your adventure begins as you travel toward the spectacular Kings Canyon region. Journey through Central Australia’s ancient desert landscapes, where vast open plains and rugged formations set the tone for an unforgettable outback experience.
Upon arrival at Kings Creek Station, settle into camp and enjoy a hearty campfire dinner. As darkness falls, take in the silence of the remote outback and admire a brilliant display of stars in the clear desert sky — far from city lights.
Highlights:
• Explore the striking landscapes surrounding Kings Canyon
• Relax at a private, remote campground
• Experience incredible outback stargazing
Meals: Dinner (*Lunch not included for guests joining at Yulara Airport)
Accommodation: Kings Creek Station – Permanent Safari Tents or Bush Swags (shared amenities)
Driving Distance: 406 km (approx. 4.5 hours)
Hike Distance: 2–6 km (weather permitting)
Rise early to explore Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park), a place of deep cultural significance to the Ulpanyali and Lilla peoples. Walk among towering red sandstone cliffs and ancient rock formations as your guide shares insights into the canyon’s geology, flora, fauna, and cultural stories.
After your canyon walk, travel along the scenic Mereenie Loop Red Centre Way toward the breathtaking West MacDonnell Ranges. This remote route offers expansive desert views rarely seen on standard tours.
Arrive at your private safari camp within the West MacDonnell region and unwind beneath another vast canopy of stars.
Highlights:
• Guided walk through Kings Canyon – Watarrka National Park
• Scenic drive along the Mereenie Loop
• Remote camping in the West MacDonnell Ranges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: West MacDonnell Ranges – Permanent Tents or Bush Swags (private portable facilities)
Driving Distance: 370 km (approx. 4 hours)
Hike Distance: 4–6 km
Enjoy a peaceful morning as wildlife awakens in the cool desert air. Begin your day at Standley Chasm (Angkerle Atwatye), a sacred cultural site known as the “Gap of Water,” where dramatic rock walls glow in the shifting light.
Continue to Ormiston Gorge, surrounded by towering red cliffs, before cooling off at Ellery Creek Big Hole (Udepata), a permanent waterhole framed by rugged granite formations.
Your final stop is Simpsons Gap, a culturally significant site with a tranquil waterhole and important Dreaming stories. The journey concludes in Alice Springs, where you’ll reflect on three unforgettable days of exploration and connection.
Highlights:
• Tjoritja – West MacDonnell Ranges
• Ormiston Gorge
• Ellery Creek Big Hole
• Standley Chasm
• Simpsons Gap
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Driving Distance: 250 km (approx. 3 hours)
Walking Distance: approx. 3–4 km
This exciting 3-day adventure takes you along the rugged Mereenie Loop Track, where vast desert panoramas and ancient geological formations stretch as far as the eye can see. Designed as a true outback camping experience, your days will be filled with exploration and scenic walks, while evenings are spent unwinding beneath a dazzling canopy of stars.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the beautiful hikes and natural attractions. Expect classic Red Centre conditions — warm days, cool nights, and wide-open skies — all adding to the magic of this quintessential outback escape.
Across three unforgettable days, you’ll explore Kings Canyon, travel remote desert tracks, and experience the untamed beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges. This journey offers a rare opportunity to see Australia’s most celebrated landscapes from unique and less-travelled routes.
Your experienced local guide will bring the region to life with fascinating stories, cultural insights, and hidden highlights along the way. Choose between the comfort of twin safari tents for added privacy and weather protection, or embrace the authentic outback tradition of sleeping in a canvas-covered swag beneath the desert sky.
Whether you opt for comfort or simplicity, this tour reveals the Red Centre in a way that feels immersive, adventurous, and truly unforgettable.
Please be aware that the Red Centre is renowned for its ever-changing conditions, including weather patterns and cultural access issues. As a result, your itinerary may change during your trip. To ensure the best and safest experience possible, your guide will modify the itinerary as needed.
Main meeting time: 12:00 pm at Ayers Rock Resort (Yulara)
Please arrive 5–10 minutes early to avoid missing your pickup.
Bush Swag: Shared shower & toilet facilities; unpowered site. Includes canvas swag with mattress.
Safari Tent Twin Share: Permanent twin tents with single beds, mattress, pillow, pillowcase, fitted sheets; shared bathroom amenities.
Bush Swag: Remote campsite with portable toilets; unpowered wilderness setting.
Safari Tent Twin Share: Permanent safari tents with twin beds, mattresses, pillows, fitted sheets; protected from the elements.
Basic Single Swag (sleeps 1): Priced per person for both adults and children. The swag is a fully self-contained canvas bedroll with an integrated camp mattress, ideal for travellers who want to sleep outdoors under the stars and enjoy a traditional outback experience.
Twin Share Safari Tent (sleeps 2): Also priced per person for adults and children. Permanent safari tents include twin single beds, mattresses, fitted and top sheets, and provide added shelter and comfort. Sleeping bags can be provided during cooler evenings. Solo travellers booking a Twin Share may be paired with another guest (same-gender pairing preferred but not guaranteed). All children must be supervised and accompanied by an adult.
All permanent campgrounds include communal restrooms with showers and toilets. Power access is limited or solar-only, so guests should bring a personal rechargeable power bank for phones and cameras.
Children aged 8 to 17 may participate when accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The tour is not suitable for infants or children under 7 due to safety concerns and the physical nature of the walks.
Guests must arrive the day before and stay overnight, as the tour departs from Yulara/Ayers Rock at 12:00 pm. Pickup will be arranged once your Ayers Rock Resort accommodation is confirmed. Airport-to-resort transfers are not included before or after the tour.
A moderate to advanced fitness level is required. Daily walks range from 2 to 6 km over uneven terrain, often under strong sun exposure. Total walking distance across the tour is approximately 9–11 km. For safety reasons, guides may assess participant suitability. Travellers aged 70+ must provide a medical clearance certificate at least 30 days prior to departure.
Vehicle storage is limited. Please bring only small personal items and a soft overnight bag. Larger or hard-shell luggage should be left at your accommodation. Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, or strollers cannot be accommodated.
Yes. Please notify us of any dietary requirements or medical concerns at the time of booking (or at least several days prior to travel) so arrangements can be made in advance.
Most meals are simple, hearty camping-style dishes prepared by your guide. Occasionally, campsite hosts may assist with meals. Guests are encouraged to participate in meal preparation, cleanup, and vehicle pack-down as part of the shared outback experience.
Yes. Your tour includes admission to the 3-Day Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park Pass via Parks Australia. These passes cannot be purchased independently by non-tour guests.
Tours operate in custom-built 4×4 eco-tour vehicles designed for rugged outback terrain. Vehicles typically carry 15–21 passengers, with a minimum of 8 guests required for departure. Fleet models include Isuzu N Series NPS300 vehicles. Alternative vehicles may be used if necessary.
The outback environment includes harsh weather, rugged landscapes, and wildlife hazards. While guides are fully trained in safety protocols, outdoor travel carries inherent risks. Australia Tours is not liable for injuries or damages sustained during the tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult and meet minimum age requirements (6+ for day tours, 8+ for overnight tours in the NT). Sunscreen, hats, and appropriate footwear must always be worn.
Yes. Travel insurance is strongly recommended due to the remote locations and limited medical access. Please consult your insurer or travel agent for suitable coverage.
Weather conditions in the NT can vary significantly. During the dry season, daytime temperatures may exceed 40°C, while nights can be cool. Guests should check seasonal averages before travel and pack accordingly. Tours generally operate in most weather conditions unless officially cancelled.
Full vaccination is no longer required under current regulations; however, vaccination is recommended for health and wellbeing.
Australia Tours is committed to protecting the flora and fauna of this World Heritage-listed region. We aim to minimise environmental impact and encourage all travellers to show respect for Traditional Owners and their cultural heritage.
We actively promote sustainable travel practices, wildlife protection, and environmental awareness throughout every journey.
Visit https://www.ecotourism.org.au/ to learn more about ecotourism.
Australia Tours acknowledges and respects the Wurundjeri people as Traditional Custodians of the land. Guests are encouraged to honour Indigenous cultural sensitivities and the enduring spiritual connection to Country.
Please observe wildlife quietly and from a safe distance. Avoid sudden movements, loud noises, or attempts to feed or handle animals. Human interaction can cause stress, illness, or behavioural changes in wildlife.
If you observe injured or distressed wildlife, notify your guide, a National Park Ranger, or Visitor Centre staff immediately.
Remain on designated tracks, follow all signage, and adhere to your guide’s instructions. Leaving marked paths can damage fragile ecosystems and increase safety risks. Natural materials such as rocks, leaves, flowers, and dead wood must not be removed.
Please use vehicle bins for all rubbish. Do not discard organic waste (fruit peels, bread, scraps), as it can harm wildlife and attract pests. Bringing a reusable water bottle is strongly recommended to reduce single-use plastic waste.
All guides hold Level 2 First Aid certification. Inform your guide immediately if you feel unwell or are injured. Guests with pre-existing medical conditions should notify their guide at the beginning of the tour and carry required medication.
Smoking is prohibited inside vehicles and accommodations. Guests may smoke only in designated areas and must dispose of cigarette waste responsibly.
SWAG BUSH (ONE PERSON)
Enjoy a traditional outback sleep in a canvas-covered swag under the open desert sky. Sleeping bags are available for hire at an additional cost.
TWIN SHARE ECO TENT (SAFARI TENT)
Upgrade for added comfort and protection. Permanent safari tents include twin beds, mattresses, pillows, and full linen. Solo travellers may be paired with another single guest (same-gender pairing preferred but not guaranteed).
Permanent outback tent stays.
Hearty group outback meals.
Extensive guided nature walks.
Free refills; bring your bottle.
All entry fees covered.
Certified expert local guide.
In-depth desert stories shared.
Rugged air-conditioned desert travel.
Traditional canvas bedroll provided.
Full mattress and linens.
Flexible regional departure points.
Self-provided lunch before boarding.
Optional bag hire extra.
Extra dining not included.
Personal snacks highly recommended.
Pre/post-tour transfers excluded.
Individual coverage highly advised.
Personal spending not included.
The walks include rocky, uneven, and occasionally steep sections, particularly at Kings Canyon. They range in length from small 2 km strolls to longer 6 km trails. To comfortably complete the schedule, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. For safety reasons, visitors aged 70 or older must obtain medical clearance 30 days prior to departure.
For those seeking greater comfort and weather protection, this tour offers Twin-Share Safari Tents, while Bush Swags provide a genuine sleep-under-the-stars experience. Every campsite features unpowered tents, limited or solar-powered power, and communal restrooms. It is crucial to pack a portable power bank because there are few charging options.
Indeed. Although the operator can accommodate typical dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free options, the selection may be more limited due to the remote locations they travel to. If you have special dietary needs or allergies, please bring additional food and share this information when making your reservation or a few days prior to departure.
Conditions at the Red Centre can be harsh and change quickly. Temperatures can rise beyond 40°C during the day and drop sharply at night. Sturdy closed-toe shoes, swimsuits, a 3-litre water bottle, sun protection, bug repellent, thermal layers, and clothes for hot and cold nights should all be packed. To aid your preparation, the tour details include a comprehensive packing list.
Indeed. The cost of your excursion includes all necessary National Park admission passes to the West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon (Watarrka), and Uluru–Kata Tjuta. The operator arranges these fees, so they don’t need to be bought separately.
