What's the driving distance and time from Alice Springs to major attractions?

The Red Centre's major landmarks require significant travel time from Alice Springs. Uluru lies 350km south (4.5 hours) Kings Canyon sits 470km away (5.5 hours) and the West MacDonnell Ranges are 230km distant (3 hours). To make these journeys more manageable tour operators include rest stops at outback stations like Erldunda Roadhouse and Curtin Springs. A TourRadar traveler noted: "There was a lot more driving than expected but our guide Donk made stops at viewpoints and when we saw animals to break it up."

What's the typical length of tours starting in Alice Springs to explore Uluru and Kings Canyon?

Tours from Alice Springs generally run between 3 to 6 days with 4-day itineraries being the most practical choice for seeing key sites. These trips cover essential destinations like Uluru Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Accommodations range from the DoubleTree by Hilton in Alice Springs to the Kings Canyon Resort. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable and capable prioritizing safety while letting us explore these amazing locations at a comfortable pace."

When is the best time to start tours from Alice Springs to explore the Red Centre?

Tours typically depart Alice Springs at 6:00 AM to take advantage of milder temperatures and better light for photography. These early departures let visitors catch dramatic sunrises at Uluru and Kings Canyon. Weather conditions are extreme with summer temperatures rising above 40°C and winter nights falling below freezing. A TourRadar traveler noted: "Early morning wake ups at 4am and 3am to beat the heat were quite understandable and worth it because it gets hot around 9am."

What unique cultural experiences can I expect starting from Alice Springs?

The Red Centre offers deep connections to Aboriginal culture through visits to ancient rock art sites and traditional food demonstrations. Tours often start at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station and include time at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre near Uluru. The Royal Flying Doctor Service museum provides context about healthcare in remote Australia. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Sue made the tour phenomenal providing endless facts on geological history outback fauna and flora as well as the Aboriginal significance of sacred sites."

What accommodation options are available when starting from Alice Springs?

Accommodations span from upscale hotels like Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters to distinctive outback stays at Kings Canyon Resort and Desert Gardens Hotel near Uluru. For those seeking closer contact with nature permanent safari tents and traditional swag camping are available. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The accommodations in tents were good the permanent tented campsites had access to communal facilities and were perfect for groups couples or individuals not heavily experienced in outdoor activities."

What hiking opportunities are available from Alice Springs?

The region offers well-marked trails including the Kings Canyon Rim Walk (6km) Uluru Base Walk (10km) and paths through the West MacDonnell Ranges. Tour guides evaluate group fitness and provide alternative routes when necessary. A TourRadar traveler noted: "The walls and views were astonishing. Madi was an amazing tour guide who ensured every member could enjoy their time at their own pace."

Uluru / Ayers Rock Tours from Alice Springs

An adventure starting in Alice Springs is a great way to see Uluru / Ayers Rock. We have 23 tours that range from 3 days up to 8 days. The most popular time for tours from Alice Springs is June, which has the most tour departures.

10 best Uluru / Ayers Rock tours from Alice Springs

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Explorer
Central Australia Camping Adventure - 4 days
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Yulara, Uluru,Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Kings Canyon,Watarrka National Park+3 more
Age Range
Ages 8+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
On The Go Tours
From
US$1,230per person
Price based on Private Double Room
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Explorer
Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure
4.3 (3 traveler reviews)
"It was fabulous to see Uluru and I was amazed at the height and size of it. Aboriginal art is stunning and the people are friendly."
Ben, traveled in March
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
From
US$1,240per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon (from Alice Springs to Uluru)
4.0 (2 traveler reviews)
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
From
US$2,225per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Best of Northern Territory
Duration
8 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru, Yulara,Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Darwin+2 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
From
US$5,890per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Red Centre & Uluru Explorer (7 destinations)
4.9 (4 traveler reviews)
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Uluru, Yulara,Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Kings Canyon+2 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
From
US$2,395per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Outback Contrasts (Small Group)
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Age Range
All Ages Welcome
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
AAT Kings
10% Off
From $3,475
US$3,128per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Camping adventure in the Red Center
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Uluru, Kings Canyon
Age Range
Ages 8+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
DERTOUR
10% Off
From
US$638per person
Price based on Private Double Room
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Explorer
Red Center up close
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
DERTOUR
10% Off
From
US$1,866per person
Price based on Private Double Room
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Explorer
Canadian Winter Dreams, Northern Lights and Railroad Romance
Duration
7 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Uluru, Kings Canyon
Age Range
Ages 18+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
DERTOUR
10% Off
From
US$1,989per person
Price based on Private Single Room
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Explorer
Red Center up close
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
MEIERS WELTREISEN
10% Off
From
US$1,866per person
Price based on Private Double Room
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Our most booked and loved tours
Best Seller
Explorer
3 Day Uluru Kata-Tjuta Kings Canyon (Camping) - From Alice Springs
4.7 (30 traveler reviews)
"The swag sleeping was a new experience for us and it was a bit nerve wracking for the first night, but I would definitely do it again."
Emma, traveled in November
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Yulara, Uluru,Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Kings Canyon,Watarrka National Park+3 more
Age Range
Ages 8+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Autopia Tours
20% Off
From $770
US$616per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Our most booked and loved tours
Best Seller
Explorer
3 Day Uluru Adventure
4.5 (41 traveler reviews)
"Very organized and educated. Such a lovely guide who really like to tell all the history he knows."
Beatrice, traveled in September
Duration
3 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Uluru, Watarrka National Park
Age Range
Ages 8+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Adventure Tours Australia
20% Off
From
US$666per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Red Centre & Uluru Explorer (10 destinations)
4.9 (4 traveler reviews)
"The scenery is dramatic and so different. King's Canyon and Uluru are at the top of my 'like' list. They are just beautiful."
Anne, traveled in August
Duration
6 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Yulara, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Uluru,Watarrka National Park,Kings Canyon,Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park+4 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
20% Off
From
US$2,290per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Outback Camping Adventure
4.3 (6 traveler reviews)
"It was an excellent tour if your looking for a hands-on camping experience. the activities were numerous with walks, swimming, abseiling."
Jan, traveled in July
Duration
5 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Yulara, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park,Uluru,Kings Canyon,Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park+3 more
Age Range
Ages 12+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Adventure Tours Australia
20% Off
From
US$1,034per person
Price based on Shared Room
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Explorer
Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon
4.0 (2 traveler reviews)
"He is very conscientious and attentive. Number 1!"
Terry, traveled in February
Duration
4 days
Destinations
Alice Springs, Kings Canyon,Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park+1 more
Age Range
Ages 15+
Regions
Uluru / Ayers RockAustralia Northern TerritoryCentral AustraliaAustralian OutbackRed Centre+4 more
Operated in
English
Operator
Intrepid Travel
20% Off
From
US$2,415per person
Price based on Shared Room
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