Tour Overview
Embark on the "Outback Contrasts" adventure tour and discover the heart of Australia's Red Centre. Begin your journey in Alice Springs, exploring its vibrant culture and history, including a unique Aboriginal bush tucker tasting. Travel in luxury by coach to Kings Canyon, where you'll enjoy a Local Dining Experience under the stars. Witness the breathtaking sunrise at Uluru's Field of Light and explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Kata Tjuta and Walpa Gorge. Learn about the spiritual connection of the Luritja and Pertame people at the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience. Conclude your adventure with a bush BBQ Celebration Dinner under the Southern Hemisphere's Milky Way. Enjoy premium accommodations and the expertise of local specialists throughout this unforgettable small group tour. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Alice Springs
Location: Alice Springs
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters
Meals Included: Dinner
Explore the vibrant culture and rich history of Alice Springs with a tailored itinerary that promises unforgettable experiences. Begin by meeting your insightful Journey Director, who will provide a unique perspective on life in this remote town. Explore the history of the region at the iconic Overland Telegraph Station, then delve into the world of indigenous culture with an exclusive experience led by Rayleen Brown. Rayleen will share her knowledge of Aboriginal bush tucker, accompanied by a tantalizing tasting of native-flavoured foods. Join your fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception at Tali Restaurant, where you will dine on local cuisine and reflect on the day's discoveries.
...more ...less
Day 2: Alice Springs - Kings Canyon
Location: Alice Springs, Kings Canyon
Accommodation Name: Kings Canyon Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
We head off along the 4WD Giles Track, crossing dry riverbeds and outback landscapes, to Kings Canyon Resort. The flickering glow of this evening's fire, dancing under the canopy of a starry Southern Hemisphere sky, is the perfect accompaniment to your Local Dining Experience Under a Desert Moon. This degustation menu with matching wines is the perfect end to the day. Sit back and listen to the sounds of the outback come alive at night in the company of new friends.
Day 3: Kings Canyon - Uluru
Location: Kings Canyon, Uluru
Accommodation Name: Sails in the Desert Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Gaze across the deep chasm at the edge of Kings Canyon as you embark on the spellbinding 6km sunrise Rim Walk, past the sandstone domes of the 'Lost City' and down the stairs to the lush 'Garden of Eden'. Or you can opt for a gentler stroll along the canyon creek bed, treading in the footsteps of the Luritja people who once found sanctuary amidst the Itara trees at the canyon's base. Then head off towards Uluru, visiting the local Wanmarra Community to learn about the Luritja and Pertame people's spiritual connection to the land, at the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience. Discover bush food and medicine used for spirituality and healing. Now you'll journey across desert landscapes to Curtin Springs Station, a vast farming property, for lunch. Feel the stirring of something bigger than you as you arrive at Australia's spiritual heart, Uluru. Uncover the foundations of Anangu culture and the important creation stories of Uluru, as you spend time wandering through the Cultural Centre before returning to the resort. This evening dinner is at Ilkari Restaurant.
Day 4: Uluru & Kata Tjuta
Location: Uluru, Kata Tjuta
Accommodation Name: Sails in the Desert Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with the breathtaking Sunrise Field of Light experience by Artist Bruce Munro. Immerse yourself in the mesmerising art installation and enjoy the desert awakening as the sun rises over Uluru. After sunrise return to the hotel for breakfast. Then, venture to Kata Tjuta for a morning of exploration and awe-inspiring landscapes as you wander through Walpa Gorge. Enjoy some free time for lunch, before embarking on a tour at the base of Uluru, delving into the rich cultural significance of this sacred site. Cap off your day with sunset drinks, soaking in the vibrant colours of the Outback and the changing colours of Uluru as the sun sets. The evening is yours to unwind and enjoy at leisure.
Day 5: Uluru - Alice Springs
Location: Uluru, Alice Springs
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters
Meals Included: Breakfast
Traverse the mesmerising outback landscapes, before turning the corner at Erldunda. Pause for a break at Stuart Wells, a classic outback roadhouse. Before arriving at Alice Springs, you’ll divert to the West MacDonnell Ranges to explore the rugged beauty of spectacular Simpsons Gap. As evening approaches, delve into the heart of the East MacDonnell Ranges at your open-air bush BBQ Celebration Dinner. Indulge in savory dishes and refreshing drinks while enjoying the tunes of a bush balladeer, who will regale you with tales of outback life beneath the vast expanse of the Southern Hemisphere's Milky Way. It's an authentic outback experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Day 6: Farewell from Alice Springs
Location: Alice Springs
Meals Included: Breakfast
Relax this morning as your journey comes to an end. You might choose to take a hot air balloon ride (own expense) to experience the scenic landscapes of the outback before your journey comes to an end.
What's Included
-
Small Group Tour
Enjoy a small group experience with an average of 16 guests.
-
Specialist Driver Guide
Travel with a highly experienced Driver Guide with specialist accreditation at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Watarrka National Park.
-
Local Specialists
Benefit from the knowledge of local specialists at key locations.
-
Luxury Coach Travel
Travel comfortably by luxury coach, crossing dry riverbeds and outback landscapes.
-
Cultural Experiences
Experience unique Aboriginal bush tucker tasting and learn about the Luritja and Pertame people's spiritual connection to the land.
-
Field of Light Experience
Witness the breathtaking Sunrise Field of Light experience by Artist Bruce Munro at Uluru.
-
Rim Walk at Kings Canyon
Embark on the 6km sunrise Rim Walk at Kings Canyon, exploring the 'Lost City' and 'Garden of Eden'.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities like hot air balloon rides are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
-
Fitness Requirements
Certain activities, such as the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, require a high level of fitness and may not be suitable for all guests.
Mode of Transport
Travel comfortably by luxury coach, crossing dry riverbeds and outback landscapes, with a specialist highly experienced Driver Guide and local specialists at key locations.
Accommodation
Stay in premium and authentic accommodations including Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, Kings Canyon Resort, and Sails in the Desert Hotel, offering modern spacious rooms with private balconies and stunning views.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 5 Breakfast (B)
- 2 Lunch (L)
Explore
- Enter Walpa Gorge, an ancient temple crafted by nature. Discover the scenic wonders of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
- Enter Walpa Gorge, an ancient temple crafted by nature, and discover the scenic wonders of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Fitness Requirement
- Fitness Level: Moderate Minimum Age: 12 Kings Canyon Rim Walk: High level of fitness required. This 6km hike will not be suitable for all guests. The first 30-minute incline is considered 'Difficult'. The Journey Director will offer guest an easier alternative walk along the creek bed for those unable to hike to the rim.
Flight information
- Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 12.00 noon into Alice Springs AirportDay 6 – flights to depart anytime from Alice Springs Airport Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price.
Hotels
- Alice Springs: The hotel offers 205 guest rooms in addition to a great variety of facilities and amenities including the beautiful resort pool, spa and sauna, state of the art Fitness Centre, casual dining in Tali a la carte restaurant and access to a variety of food and beverage options within the Lasseters casino including the Goat & Bucket, the Juicy Rump, Tempo, Casbah and the Juicy Sports lounge.
Immerse
- Experience true outback life as you enjoy lunch on Peter Severin’s million acre property in the heart of the Red Centre.
- Experience true outback life at lunch on Peter Severin's Curtin Springs Station, a million acre property in the heart of the Red Centre.
Indulge
- Bask in the glow of the campfire as you indulge in a 5 course degustation with matching wines in the beautiful Kings Canyon Resort
- Bask in the glow of the campfire as you indulge in a five course degustation at Kings Canyon Resort.
Relax
- Nestled in the rugged bush, unwind in your modern spacious room at Kings Canyon Resort, with a private balcony overlooking a beautiful rock escarpment.
- Nestled in the rugged bush, unwind in your Deluxe Room, with a private balcony overlooking a beautiful rock escarpment, at Kings Canyon Resort.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat Warm layers in cooler months and for evenings Camera A sense of adventure A maximum of one piece of luggage per passenger (medium sized), as the stowing capacity of the coach has limited space
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of dining experiences can I expect on the Outback Contrasts tour?
You can expect a variety of dining experiences including a Local Dining Experience Under a Desert Moon at Kings Canyon Resort, a Welcome Reception at Tali Restaurant in Alice Springs, and a bush BBQ Celebration Dinner in the East MacDonnell Ranges. The tour also includes a degustation menu with matching wines at Kings Canyon Resort. ...more ...less
-
What is the fitness requirement for the Kings Canyon Rim Walk?
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk requires a high level of fitness. It is a 6km hike with the first 30-minute incline considered 'Difficult'. For those unable to hike to the rim, an easier alternative walk along the creek bed is offered.
-
What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several cultural experiences such as an Aboriginal bush tucker tasting led by Rayleen Brown in Alice Springs, a visit to the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience to learn about the Luritja and Pertame people's spiritual connection to the land, and a tour at the base of Uluru to delve into its rich cultural significance. ...more ...less
-
What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides premium and authentic accommodations including Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, Kings Canyon Resort, and Sails in the Desert Hotel. These accommodations offer modern spacious rooms with private balconies and stunning views.
-
What is the transportation like on the tour?
Transportation is provided by a luxury coach, allowing you to travel comfortably across dry riverbeds and outback landscapes. The tour is guided by a specialist highly experienced Driver Guide and local specialists at key locations.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there is an optional hot air balloon ride available on the last day of the tour, which is at your own expense.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It is important to adhere to departure times while on tour for the comfort of everyone on-board, and to make sure no one misses out on the planned experiences. The coach will not be able to wait for you, and in some instances, if you miss a departure time you will need to make your own way to the next destination to re-join the tour.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays have competitive single supplement rates available if you prefer to confirm your own room. Or we can match you to share with a guest of the same gender at no extra cost. If we fail to match you, we will accommodate you in a single room at no extra cost.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Over 100 years
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
We will email your documents to you approximately four weeks before your departure date provided you have completed your pre trip registration using the My Travel Portal. If you’ve booked through a travel agent, your documents will be emailed directly to your agent.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
AAT Kings requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aat kings charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Outback Contrasts
6 Days Starting and ending in Alice Springs, Australia
Visiting: Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru, Kata Tjuta
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CRAAF25
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
12-99
