Red Centre Way is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips. From rosé-coloured sunsets to hidden water holes, here’s how to do it right.
Imagine watching the shadows fall on ancient cliffs, while the sun sets revealing a sky overflowing with stars. You’ve just driven across a beautifully arid Red Centre Way to arrive at a cold and crisp watering hole that invites you to cool down beneath its shimmery depths. You can’t top this; you think to yourself as the stars glisten on the water’s edge. But then you smile because you know that tomorrow will be even better.
Here’s everything you’ll ever need to know about this five-day itinerary. Start from either end in Alice or Uluṟu, or take it as a full loop (if you do the latter, make extra time for the Mereenie Loop, but only if you have a 4WD). But starting in Uluru gives you plenty of time to explore the heart of Australia, all from comfort at one of several accommodation options at Ayers Rock Resort.
Go on a scenic drive along the arid Red Centre Way.
Getting to Uluṟu
There are direct flights from most Australian capital cities into Ayers Rock Connellan Airport is located just a few kilometres north of Uluṟu in the small town of Yulara. Here, you’ll want to pick up a rental car, with several options operating at the airport. Handily, most providers allow guests to pick up and return to either Alice or Ayers Rock Airport, meaning you can start and stop at whichever end you choose.
To fully enjoy this iconic road trip, you’ll need three things: a swimming costume and a sense of adventure. While some side adventures require a 4WD, you can absolutely complete the loop in a two-wheel drive (just allow extra time).
However, no matter the vehicle, the experience of Australia’s heartland is the same – epic beauty, dramatic landscapes and ancient culture.
While you’re there
Begin your journey in Uluṟu. This ultimate guide has everything you need to know about accommodation options, tours, sights and cultural explorations.
From the unique cultural storytelling experience of the Wintijiri Wiru Sunset Dinner to unbeatable dining experiences like Tali Wiru, a four-course open-air dining experience paired with a didgeridoo serenade and stories of the universe, find it all in our guide.
Sit down to dinner before enjoying Wintijiri Wiru light display.
Day 1: Uluṟu to Kings Canyon via Mt Conner
Today you’ll end the day overlooking a canyon after leaving Australia’s most recognisable silhouette. Pass ‘Fooluru’, also known as Mt Conner (stop for a cheeky photo at the Mt Connor lookout), as you head away from Australia’s spiritual heart. Then get back in the saddle and drive along Luritja Road and Lasseter Highway to Kings Canyon.
Don’t be fooled on the way to Mt. Connor. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)
Day 2: Hiking Kings Canyon
Leave the car behind and lace up for a day of exploring Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon). Over 1000 metres long, with walls reaching 150 metres high in some sections, Kings Canyon is hard to take in. The sheer beauty of the cliff edges, the multi-hued red of the rock and the proportions of this canyon are silence-inducing. The self-guided Rim Walk is popular for a reason; it’ll lead you across cliff tops, valley floors and hidden crevices filled with palms over three scenic hours. Stock up on water and snacks as there are no facilities in this part of the national park and keep children away from the drop-off cliff ledges! In the evening, take in the immersive sound and light experience of artist Bruce Munro’s Light-Towers as the moon rises and the sun sets on your awesome day.
Stretch your legs along the towering Kings Canyon. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Day 3: Kings Canyon to Glen Helen
Rise and shine early, take a quick stop at Ginty’s Lookout for views over Kings Canyon (FYI alcohol isn’t permitted on this route). There are no services or fuel stops today, so pack accordingly. Look out for wild brumbies, camels and dingos, as well as colourful wildflowers along the way. Grab a picnic lunch and drive 20km to the beautiful Redbank Gorge. Framed by red cliffs, cobalt skies and the base of Mt Sonder, a swim in this cooling watering hole will wake you up instantly. Before the sun heats the day, travel along the Mereenie Loop, an unsealed section of Red Centre Way linking Kings Canyon and Alice Springs. You’ll need a permit from the nearby Hermannsburg general store, but it’s worth the organisation.
Leave the car to walk along stunning red sandstone. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Day 4: Glen Helen to Alice Springs
Pop by Glen Helen Gorge for one last swim in the permanent watering hole, before starting the day’s journey. Head down the road to Standley Chasm – Angkerle Atwatye with its striking geological formations and interesting Indigenous history, before grabbing some homemade scones (recommended!) at the on-site cafe. Next up is Simpsons Gap, known as Rungutjirpa to the Arrernte Aboriginal people. If you arrive early enough, you might spot a Black-footed rock wallaby in among the sheer cliffs. Have a dip here in the deep cool waters, enjoy a short bush walk or relax in the cool shadows by the shore. Leave Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park in your rearview mirror as you head into Alice Springs.
Begin at Simpsons Gap with cool waters and sheer cliffs. (Image: Tourism Australia)
Day 5: Alice Springs
There are direct flights from most Australian capital cities out of Alice Springs, where your road trip will end, making it easy to get back home (or do the full round circle and head out again for Uluṟu.
Interested? Find out more about planning your Uluṟu road trip at ayersrockresort.com.au.
