From the Southern Ocean to Alice Springs and the MacDonnell Ranges, this is the driest of Australia's regions. Among the Red Centre's vast scrubland lies Uluru/Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta/The Olgas, whose colours change with the shifting desert light.
Get the most out of Central & Outback Australia
The nearby desert outpost of Alice Springs is an important stop for the Ghan Railway on its journey across the continent, a centre for the Flying Doctor Service and a vital supply point for the scattered residents who call this region home.
To ensure you get the most out of Uluru and Kata Tjuta we use Aboriginal guides to explain the landscape's spiritual significance, and further the experience by meeting the Aboriginal community of Gunya Titjikala, south of Alice Springs. Take the Larapinta Trail to explore the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. Or try the little-visited but spectacular Gawler and Flinders ranges, the strange opal-mining town of Coober Pedy and the vast Outback stations.
Central & Outback Australia itinerary ideas
Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.
View All Tours in AustraliaOur Central & Outback highlights of Australia
Admire the views of Alice Springs from Anzac Hill
Spend some time exploring the interesting Outback town of Alice Springs, perhaps admire the views from the top of Anzac Hill or pay a visit to the highly informative Flying Doctors Museum.
Climb to the top of Kings Canyon
Climb to the top of Kings Canyon and enjoy a leisurely guided walk around the rim. The views and the scenery, including the Garden of Eden and Amphitheatre, are spectacular.
Walk through Kata Tjuta — 'the Olgas'
The Valley of the Winds Walk is a spectacular walking trail taking you through the heart of the fascinating dome like structures of Kata Tjuta.
Travel to Mount Conner
A visit to Mount Conner offers a superb opportunity to view native wildlife, ancient salt lakes and an appreciation for Australia's rugged Outback, away from the more populated tourist sites of the Red Centre.
Some of our favourite places in Central & Outback Australia
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Home to the geological icons of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, this national park is a place to gain an understanding of aboriginal culture and to experience the raw desert landscape through walks, alfresco dining experiences, and even a contemporary art installation.
Flinders Ranges
Spectacular gorges, abundant wildlife and Aboriginal art — the Flinders Ranges shelter some of the world’s oldest landscapes and capture the essence of Australia.
The MacDonnell Ranges
The impressive MacDonnell Ranges tower over the plain, a natural barrier broken by gorges, cliffs and natural pools. Running east and west of Alice Springs they are easily accessible on either a day visit from the town or as a detour on the drive to Kings Canyon.
Great places to stay in Central & Outback Australia
El Questro Homestead
El Questro Wilderness Park
Desert Gardens Hotel
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Emma Gorge Resort
El Questro Wilderness Park
Discovery Resorts - Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon & Watarrka National Park
Longitude 131°
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Bullo River Station
Bullo River Station
Arkaba Conservancy
Flinders Ranges
Rawnsley Park Station
Flinders Ranges
Sails in the Desert
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
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