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3 Easy to Follow Road Trips for Future Aussie Nomads

30 Mar 2023

Skipping winter but not quite ready for your ‘Big Lap’ of Oz?Australian road trip banner

Before you commit to a full year (or more) on the road, it makes sense to test-drive your camper or caravan on a bite-size trip.

While hitting the road full-time is enticing, ease yourself into the caravan and camping lifestyle by tackling a two or three-week adventure first.

By following one of these well-known itineraries, you’ll thank yourself for the experience; laugh at your early mistakes, and be ready to take on the big lap sooner than you think.

3 EASY TO FOLLOW ROAD TRIP ITINERARIES FOR FUTURE AUSSIE NOMADS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Australian road trip itineraries banner4

  • The Classic East Coast - Sydney to Townsville

- Sydney - Barrington Coast - Coffs Coast - North Coast - Fraser Coast - Capricorn - Whitsundays - Great Barrier Reef

  • The Savannah Way - Cairns to Darwin

- Cairns - Atherton Tablelands - Mount Surprise - Cobold - Mount Isa - Katherine - Darwin

  • The Red Centre - Alice to Uluru 

- Alice Springs - West MacDonnell Ranges - Kings Canyon - Uluru - Kata Tjuta

Before you go!

These three easy-to-follow road trip itineraries take in some of Australia’s favourite destinations.

We’ve included tips on where to stay, what to do, and even where to grab your morning coffee and a bite to eat! 

Australian road trip itineraries camping and caravan lifestyle

Before you set off, it goes without saying that you should always slow down on the road. While we agree that the early bird catches the worm, the second mouse always gets the cheese.

You'll note that we’ve included suggested times for each journey, but just be sure to balance time on the road with time spent enjoying everything Australia has to offer.

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The Classic East Coast

Sydney to Townsville

via Barrington Coast - Coffs Coast - North Coast - Fraser Coast - Capricorn - Whitsundays - Great Barrier Reef

Distance: 2,226 km

Suggested Time: 21 days

Australian road trip itineraries byron bay

As with all three of these road trips - especially as the weather cools off down south - the Pacific Highway trip is a must-do for future and current Aussie nomads. With stunning coastlines, incredible national parks and so many friendly towns to visit, you might not want to leave. 

Because of its popularity, you won’t be alone on this classic journey, meaning new friends and plenty of free caravanning advice. Don’t worry, though, we’re all about serenity too, and there are plenty of places to find that - just look at stop 1!

Stop 1: Forster and Harrington Beach, Barrington Coast

Distance from Sydney: 350 km

Australian road trip itineraries forster fishing

We know there are several places worth stopping at before you reach the Mid-North Coast, but we think this 3-4 hour trip to Forster or Harrington puts just enough space between you and the hustle of the city.

Only a short drive north of the Great Lakes region and about an hour south of Port Macquarie, both Forster and Harrington Beach have grown in popularity over the last several years.

5 things not to miss near Harrington and Forster 

Road trip itinerary harrington bannerCredit: MidCoast Councile - Cattai Wetlands, Visit NSW, The Sandy Feet

Close to Crowdy Bay National Park, this natural wonderland provides a perfect coastal getaway with lots to see and do. 

Diamond Head inside the park is a must-see, while Cattai Wetlands is an interesting escape only short drive from here. Much like the entire east coast, all around you are popular surf breaks that have long been a mecca for visitors from all over the world. 

The Great Lakes Food Trail is not to be missed, and features the very best local producers of food, wine, beer - you name it. 

Stop 2: Coffs Harbour, Coffs Coast

Distance from Harrington Beach: 215 km

Australian road trip itineraries dorrigo national park

The road from Harrington Beach to Coffs Harbour is breathtaking, with more pristine beaches, national parks and lakes to discover.

Nestled between the beach and the bush, Discovery Parks - Emerald Beach offers beachfront accommodation on Emerald Beach and superb access to excursions in nature. 

5 things not to miss near Coffs Harbour

Road trip itinerary coffs harbour bannerCredit: Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery, Surf St Cafe, Waterfall Way, Visit NSW

Considered one of the most scenic short drives in the world, the Waterfall Way inside the Gondwana rainforest of Dorrigo National Park is well worth the journey from the nearby town of Bellingen.

Adventure seekers love Nymboi-Binderay National Park for white-water rafting and kayaking, while Sealy Lookout at Niigi Niigi offers amazing views up and down the coast

If you’re into art and history, the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery and Museum is a must, and for your morning coffee stroll, we love hanging out with our neighbours at Surf Street Cafe. Go check them out!

Stop 3: Byron Bay, NSW North Coast

Distance from Coffs Harbour: 232 km

Australian road trip itineraries byron bay lighthouse

The popular tourist village of Byron Bay is your last stop in New South Wales before crossing the border into Queensland.

Known for beautiful surf beaches, an eclectic atmosphere and spectacular scenery, nature lovers enjoy the lush hinterland that surrounds the town, as well as the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales on a regular basis.

5 things not to miss near Byron Bay

Road trip itinerary byron bay bannerCredit: Visit NSW, NSW Government National Parks

Byron Bay is famous for its cafes, galleries and enthusiastic nightlife, which includes a vibrant bar and restaurant scene. 

Nearby towns worth discovering include Ballina, Brunswick Heads and Mullumbimby, all within easy reach of Discovery Parks - Byron Bay.

Cape Byron Lighthouse is the ideal out and back for your morning walk, along a foreshore with loads of excellent cafes to choose from. Home to over 1,000 fascinating marine species, Julian Rocks is situated within the Cape Byron Marine Park and is a great dive spot for scuba enthusiasts.

Stop 4: Hervey Bay, Fraser Coast

Distance from Byron Bay: 450 km

10823 tasman venture whale watching experience

Welcome to Queensland! 

While we don’t have anything against the Gold Coast, Brisbane or the Sunshine Coast, we think you won’t miss them once you're relaxing along the Fraser Coast at Hervey Bay, far away from the hustle of these busier ports.

5 things not to miss near Hervey Bay

Road trip itinerary hervey bay bannerCredit: Tourism Australia, Enzos on the Beach, Discover Hervery Bay

As one of Queensland’s best natural holiday destinations, opportunities for adventure and relaxation are massive here. Famous for being one of the best places in the world to spot a whale, booking a boat tour here is a must.

Fraser Island (K’gari) is a must-do. With a multitude of tours available to get you across the world’s biggest sand island, K’gari is a bucket-list experience for every Aussie traveller.

Reefworld Aquarium is a great place to acquaint yourself with the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef - without getting wet - and the Hervey Bay Botanical Gardens are a relaxing way to start or end your day. For coffee with a sea view, Enzo’s on the Beach is one of our favourite breakfast pit stops.

Stop 5: Yeppoon, Capricorn Coast

Distance from Hervey Bay: 420 km

Australian road trip itineraries capricorn cave

An exciting and diverse region, Yeppoon puts you on the doorstep of the Southern Great Barrier Reef and within spitting distance of the Keppel Islands. 

With wildlife sanctuaries to explore, tropical bushland to hike and secluded accommodation options at Discovery Parks - Coolwaters Yeppoon, happiness is easy to find here.

5 things not to miss near Coolwaters Yeppoon

road-trip-itinerary-coolwaters-bannerCredit: Koorana Crocodile Farm, Keppel Bay Marina, G'day - Capricorn Caves, Tourism and Events Queensland

Hop on any number of day trips to the Keppel Islands collection of private coves, coral reefs and aqua-blue beaches - you will not be disappointed.

The ancient limestone formations of the Capricorn Caves are worth a look, while Koorana Crocodile Park is one of many unique wildlife experiences nearby. 

For incredible views of Keppel Bay Marina, you don’t want to miss the Bluff Point Walking Track. If walking is definitely your thing, and you don’t mind making it a bit more challenging, book a round at Yeppoon Golf Club - if it’s quiet during the week, you and the kangaroos will have it all to yourself!

Stop 6: Airlie Beach, Whitsunday Islands

Distance from Yeppoon: 506 km

Australian road trip itineraries whitehaven beach

Known as the gateway to the incredible Whitsundays, the list of things to do at Airlie Beach is almost endless.

Located close to the national park and with a real resort vibe, Discovery Parks - Airlie Beach has a sensational outdoor swimming pool with spas you can laze about in all day. Once the lure of white sand beaches and palm tree-lined streets become too great, ask our friendly staff to point you in the right direction.

5 things not to miss near Airlie Beach

Road trip itinerary airlie beach bannerCredit: Experience OZ, The State of Queensland, Get Your Guide

As one of the world’s most photographed locations, Whitehaven Beach is famous for its stunning white sand and clear blue water.

You can get close to the Great Barrier Reef from Airlie, with all manner of scuba diving and ocean-rafting opportunities on your doorstep. Take to the sky on scenic flights you won’t forget or explore day trip opportunities to Hamilton or Daydream Island.

Conway National Park covers around 22,500 hectares and offers incredible interactions with local wildlife, and local markets that happen throughout the year are a relaxing way to meet the local community and grab a coffee on the sand.

Stop 7: Townsville, The Great Barrier Reef

Distance from Airlie Beach: 270 km

Australian road trip itineraries great barrier reef

Your final stop along this classic east coast road trip is Townsville. Located in the dry tropics of Far North Queensland, Townsville is more cosmopolitan than you might think. 

Discovery Parks - Townsville is on the edge of town, putting it within easy reach of several great attractions, including the ferry to Magnetic Island.

5 things not to miss near Townsville

road-trip-itinerary-townsville-bannerCredit: Tourism and Events Queensland, Experience OZ, Reef HQ Aquarium, The State of Queensland

Conclude your northern adventure with a Magnetic Island day trip, explore Paluma Range National Park and get up close with Australia’s favourite furries at Billabong Sanctuary.

Reef HQ Aquarium lets you experience the Great Barrier reef without getting wet, but more than likely you’ll want to book any number of tours around one of the most famous natural wonders in the world.

Savannah Way 

Cairns to Darwin 

via The Atherton Tablelands - Mount Surprise - Mount Isa - Katherine 

Distance: 3,260 km

Suggested Time: 21 days

Australian road trip Millaa Millaa Falls

The Savannah Way is a spectacular outback road trip that traverses the sparsely populated northern belt of Australia from Cairns to Broome. 

Only suitable for travellers with access to a reliable 4WD or at least a sturdy 2WD vehicle, the range of terrain, landscape and climate in this part of Australia has to be seen to be believed.

Linking approximately 20 national parks and two states, you can explore tropical rainforests, volcanic lava tubes, ancient hot springs and World Heritage sites as you wind your way from coast to coast through red desert, dry tropical rainforest and savannah hinterland.

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Cairns, Far North Queensland

Although the Savannah Way begins in Cairns, you’ll regret it if you don’t spend at least a few days here. 

Australian road trip cairns

As a base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef, there are few better locations than the tropical city of Cairns.

With so much nature on its doorstep, from the incredible Kuranda rainforest region to the World Heritage Site of the Great Barrier Reef itself, travellers here are spoilt for choice.

5 things not to miss near Cairns

road-trip-itinerary-cairns-bannerCredit: Fitzroy Island, Get Your Guide, G'day - Ultimate Wildlife Experience Cruise, Cairns & Great Barroer Reef

The Daintree Rainforest is a must-see natural phenomenon near Cairns with epic walks and wildlife experiences not to be missed. 

Fitzroy Island is easily reachable and a great way to get a taste of the world’s largest reef system, as is its near neighbour Green Island.

You can discover colourful sea creatures at the Cairns Aquarium before snorkelling with them on a Great Barrier Reef cruise.

After that why not soar over the rainforest on the Kuranda Skyrail or Kuranda Scenic Railway

Stop 1: Atherton Tablelands

Distance from Cairns: 90 km

Australian road trip lake barrine

You could easily spend two weeks exploring this part of Far North Queensland, and because of its perfect temperate climate, you can comfortably visit all year round.

Any drive will showcase lush tropical rainforests, volcanic lakes, waterfalls, national parks, and abundant local history and World Heritage-listed sites.

5 things not to miss near the Atherton Tablelands

road-trip-itinerary-athelton-tablelands-bannerCredit: Aquarius Traveller - Millaa Millaa Falls, Museums & Galleries Queensland, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, Lake Barrine

The Millaa Millaa Waterfall Circuit is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most picturesque drives, including the well-known Millaa Millaa, Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls. Not far away you can visit the volcanic lakes of Lake Barrine, Lake Eacham or Lake Tinaroo.

A little further along the road is Millstream Falls, one of the widest single-drop waterfalls in Australia. Enjoy the views from the walking track and don’t forget your camera!

One of the other must-see attractions in Atherton Tablelands includes the Chinatown and Hou Wang Miau Chinese Temple in Atherton, which will provide an insight into the essential role Chinese settlers played in North Queensland.

Stop 2: Mount Surprise, Undara

Distance from Atherton Tablelands: 200 km

What is undara queensland outback lave tubes

As you transition from lush tropical rainforest to outback tablelands, this part of Queensland throws up so many potential adventures.

At Discovery Parks - Mount Surprise, a range of tours and experiences can be arranged. Full of references to the region’s rail and mining history, this popular park includes 75 drive-through powered sites and 35 air-conditioned cabins, each nestled below a generous canopy of hinterland forest.

5 things not to miss near Mount Surprise

road-trip-itinerary-mount- suprise-bannerCredit: Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, Tourism and Events Queensland, Escape, We Seek Travel 

Home to the Undara Volcanic National Park, Mount Surprise is one of the Savannah Ways must-sees destinations. However, before you arrive, be sure to stop at Innot Hot Springs, one of North West Queensland’s best-kept secrets.

Well known for its incredible lava tubes, created some 190,000 years ago, a number of guided tours are available via a network of trained Savannah guides. 

Not far away are the Talaroo Hot Springs, set in the heart of Gulf Savannah country. First established in 1864, the area’s railway and mining history is a fascinating peek into Queensland’s pioneering history.

Stop 3: Cobbold Gorge, Outback Queensland

Distance from Mount Surprise: 175 km

Australian road trip cobbold gorge

The next leg of your outback adventure west should include a stop at the deep, narrow Cobbold Gorge

Available by guided tour only, this hidden oasis is just over an hour's drive from the tiny country town of Forsayth. Breathtaking from every angle, you can swim, paddleboard, kayak or fly above this amazing piece of geology. 

Stop 4: Normanton, Outback Queensland

Distance from Cobbold Gorge: 385 km

Australian road trip gulflander

Once you leave Cobbold via Georgetown, you start to leave the dusty red desert behind you.

Most famous for its Gold Rush heritage, you can still ride the heritage Gulflander train, which was originally built to connect the town to the rich gold fields of Croydon.

Stop at the ‘Purple Pub’ here for refreshments before continuing on to the laid-back town Karumba, located right on the Gulf of Carpenteria, often included on lists of Queensland’s top fishing spots.

Stop 5: Cloncurry and Mount Isa, Outback Queensland

Distance from Normanton: 382 km

Rediscover queensland road trip julia creek festival

After briefly touching the coast at Karumba, it’s time to venture back into the heart of the Queensland outback!

Cloncurry and Mount Isa are about ninety minutes apart, but both contain some of Australia’s most authentic mining and outback heritage.

5 things not to miss near Mount Isa and Cloncurry

road-trip-itinerary-mount-isa-bannerCredit: Isa Rodeo, Mount Isa Water Board, Riversleigh Fossil Discovery Centre, Discovery Mount Isa

Renowned as the rodeo capital of Australia, the annual Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo is a fast and furious community event that brings the region together.

Nearby Lake Moondarra is a popular spot for swimming, boating and fishing and also home to a wide variety of native wildlife. 

On the way to Mount Isa, the John Flynn Place Museum is a must-see insight into the founding of the Royal Flying Doctors Service, and for anyone with an interest in what's under the ground, the Riversleigh Fossil Centre has something for everyone.

Outback Park features a central lagoon with a bridge and lush native plants, while the Isa Experience Gallery is another fascinating insight into the development and history of the culturally diverse community.

REMEMBER!

There’s not much between Mount Isa and your next stop. Be sure to stop in town and stock up on all your essentials including water, fuel and food. Always let people know where you are too.

Australian road trip itineraries road sign

Stop 6: Tennant Creek, Northern Territory

Distance from Mount Isa: 661 km

Australian road trip desert harmony festival 2023

With not much to see before you start hitting some of the NT’s remote outposts, a big day behind the wheel will get you over the border to the Northern Territory. 

Tennant Creek sits about halfway between Katherine and Alice Springs and makes a convenient stopping point before you begin your approach to Darwin.

Approximately half the population of the town is of Indigenous descent, which makes it a great place to absorb as much Aboriginal culture as possible. 

5 things not to miss near Tennant Creek

road-trip-itinerary-tennant-creek-bannerCredit: Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre, Northern Territory Government, Northern Territory Tourism NT

The Nyinkka Nyunyu Arts and Cultural Centre is an exhibition in five parts and includes the story of how the Traditional Owners reclaimed their land here. 

If you’re travelling in July or August, the annual five-day Desert Harmony Festival is the region’s platform for a culturally diverse population and showcases a wide range of talented local artists.

The Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles) are a fascinating diversion, you can swim and relax at Lake Mary Ann and travel back in time at the Tennant Creek Telegraph Station

Stop 7: Katherine, Northern Territory

Distance from Katherine: 675 km

Australian road trip edith falls

Often described as where the outback meets the tropics, a few days in Katherine is bound to leave you breathless. 

Arriving here will also feel like you’ve returned to the ‘big smoke’ after the last two epic drives. Considered a large town in these parts, Katherine is a great place from which to explore some of the NT’s most iconic attractions.

At Discovery Parks - Katherine, you’ll also find a comfortable and welcoming home with everything you need to unwind and plan the next steps of your journey.

5 things not to miss near Katherine

Road trip itinerary katherine bannerCredit: Northern Territory Tourism NT, Northern Territory Government, Katherine Visitor Centre

Home to the famous Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge, there is a long list of attractions to discover around both of these locations.

Katherine Hot Springs is a natural thermal spring on the banks of the Katherine River, ka is a popular swimming hole you have to see, and an underground walking tour of the Cutta Cutta Caves are a fascinating addition to your time in Katherine.

Stop 8: Darwin

Distance from Katherine: 320 km

Australian road trip mindil beach nt

You’ve made it!

After over 3,000 km across Queensland and the Northern Territory, you’re finally in the tropical oasis of Darwin. Boasting year-round temperatures of about 32 degrees, all you’ll probably want to do by now is relax by the pool for a few days.

A stay at Discovery Parks - Darwin lets you do this and is your chance to kick back in the lush tropical oasis that surrounds the park.

With a unique charm and a cast of characters you won't meet in any other Australian city, Darwin offers relaxation and adventure in equal parts. It’s also close to two of Australia’s favourite and well-known national parks - Kakadu and Litchfield.

5 things not to miss near Darwin

Road trip itinerary darwin bannerCredit: Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Northern Territory Tourism NT, Viator Inc

There’s no shortage of things to see and do near Darwin.

Close to the city, Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are a must-do. Litchfield National Park is the locals favourite for waterholes and wildlife, while the Darwin Waterfront has some of Australia’s most unique bars and restaurants.

Kakadu is a day trip experience you don’t want to miss, and there are some Darwin Harbour Sunset Cruises that showcase the very best of the Northern Territory’s food and hospitality.

Red Centre Way 

Alice Springs to Uluru

via West MacDonnell Ranges - Kings Canyon - Kata Tjuta

Distance: 692 km 

Suggested Time: 15 days

Although it’s most famous for Uluru, first-timers might not know that there’s so much more to the Red Centre than the world’s biggest rock.

An iconic region of Australia known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich Indigenous culture and unique experiences, here are five must-sees on any Red Centre road trip.

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Alice Springs (Mparntwe)

Central to many of the Northern Territory’s most significant natural attractions, Alice Springs is the ideal base from which to explore the Red Centre.

Things to do in the red centre alice springs desert park

An important hub for tourism and commerce, it marks the beginning of the Red Centre Way, a 700 km loop that will take you to Uluru and back.

Enriched by both a pioneering spirit and Indigenous ancestry, ‘Alice’ is very much at the beating heart of Australian cultural identity.

5 things not to miss in Alice Springs

Road trip itinerary alice springs bannerCredit: Northern Territory Tourism NT, Araluen Arts Centre, Alice Springs Telegraph Station

Part adventure safari park and part natural history museum, Alice Springs Desert Park is your chance to get face-to-face with red desert kangaroos, emus and other native wildlife. 

The beautifully restored Alice Springs Telegraph Station is where the town of Alice Springs started and happens to be the location of the real-life ‘spring’ in Alice Springs, and the Araleun Cultural Precinct is an opportunity to engage with world-class visual and performing art projects. 

If that doesn't satisfy the need for adventure, an Alice Springs Camel Ride is an outback activity not to be missed, or you can float above Alice on an awe-inspiring ballooning adventure.

DID YOU KNOW?

Every year Alice Springs lights up at one of the most incredible outdoor light shows in the world.

Things to do in the red centre parrtjima festival of light

Engaging with local and international artists, Parrtjima: A Festival of Light is a free community event held over ten days to capture the imagination of guests from all over the world. 

With rotating themes around connection and country, Parrtjima is an annual festival of light, sound, music and culture that every Aussie should see.

West MacDonnell Ranges (Tjoritja) - Glen Helen

Distance from Alice Springs: 133 km

Things to do in the red centre ormiston gorge

The first series of stops on your Red Centre road trip is the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Beginning at around 130 km due west of Alice Springs, the West MacDonnell Ranges is a significant mountain range of about 200 km in length that is popular with hikers, walkers and adventure seekers.

Featuring a number of attractions of cultural importance and home to the Arrente Indigenous people for tens of thousands of years, single and multi-day hikes along the Larapinta Trail are a popular reason to arrive in this part of Australia.

As the only accommodation inside the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja), Discovery Parks - Glen Helen makes for an ideal base camp. 

5 things not to miss in the West MacDonnell Ranges

Road trip itinerary west mcdonnell ranges bannerCredit: Northern Territory Tourism NT, Travel Outback Australia

Next to a towering sandstone cliff, Gelen Helen Gorge is a great spot to take a refreshing dip. Another great place to cool off is Ormiston Gorge the most well-known gorge along the ‘West Mac’ ranges. 

Ellery Creek Big Hole is one of the most popular picnic and swimming spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Simpsons Gap is one of the most prominent gaps and there are several short walks to discover.

Standley Chasm is equally well regarded. Take the chance here to learn more about the local Indigenous culture via bush tucker tours, art workshops and language classes. 

Kings Canyon (Watarrka)

Distance from Glen Helen: 226 km

30985 things to see and do kings canyon red centre rim walk

Over 400 million years in the making, the rugged sandstone peaks of Watarrka (Kings Canyon) are at the halfway point of your Alice Springs to Uluru journey. 

The spellbinding Kings Canyon Rim Walk is very much at the heart of the Kings Canyon experience, and is often referred to as ‘Australia’s Grand Canyon.’

Although not as well known as its more famous cousin at Uluru, the 6-kilometre walk around Kings Canyon it is a must-do. Take the opportunity to discover features with names like ‘Lost City,’ ‘Priscilla’s Crack’ (where scenes from the legendary Australian movie ‘Priscilla: Queen of the Desert’ were filmed) and the ‘Garden of Eden.’

5 things not to miss in Kings Canyon

Road trip itinerary kings canyon ranges bannerCredit: Northern Territory Tourism NT, Trip Advisor 

Rediscover wonder on the iconic  Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Book a guide and go deep on the history of its formation and the significance of its unique geology.

Learn more about the local Indigenous community and their ancient culture through the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience. This fascinating hour-long workshop will take you through weapons, musical instruments, bush tucker, medicines and the evolution of local languages.

Dining Under a Desert Moon is an outback dining delight only available at Discovery Resorts - Kings Canyon. Start the evening with canapes on the lawn and progress to a unique dinner at a secret location under the stars.

Light Towers at Discovery Resorts - Kings Canyon is a brand new experience in the heart of the Red Centre. Awaken your senses to the mystery of the outback and immerse yourself in the magic of light, sound and landscape at scale.

Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Distance from Kings Canyon: 326 km

Things to do in the red centre uluru

There is nowhere else in the world like Uluru, previously known as Ayers Rock. 

Located inside the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, this Australian icon is a bare sandstone rock that stands 348 metres high and measures 9.4 km (5.8 miles) around.Changing colours with the position of the sun, Uluru offers up a painter's palette of reds, browns, oranges and purples no photo can ever do justice.

Walking tracks will get you around the entire circumference of Uluru, and it's highly recommended you walk with a local Anangu guide to learn about the Dreaming associated with the most famous Australian landmark.

5 things not to miss near Uluru

Road trip itinerary uluru bannerCredit: Experience OZ, Get Your Guide

Uluru's famous sunsets are not to be missed. Treat yourself by booking a sunset tour and travel in comfort to the designated sunset viewing area for wine, nibbles and dinner. 

The Field of Light at Uluru is an acclaimed installation. See the rock like never before and find out what the fuss is all about. To fully comprehend the scale of the rock you can book a scenic flight or why not have some fun on an Uluru Segway Tour!

You can also discover the beauty of Uluru as the sun comes up. Uluru Morning Guided Base walks are bookable with breakfast.

Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)

Distance from Uluru: 60km

Things to do in the red centre stargazing

Just an hours drive away from the base of Uluru, Kata Tjuta is another must-do Red Centre experience.

Meaning ‘many heads’ in the language of the Anangu Aboriginals (pronounced ‘arn-ung-oo’), who have lived in the region for 40,000 years, the 36 unique domes of Kata Tjuta are estimated to be over 500 million years old.

Originally named the Olgas after Queen Olga of Wurttemberg in 1872, the Indigenous name was formally adopted in 1993 and has been in much wider use ever since.

5 things not to miss near Kata Tjuta

Road trip itinerary Kata Tjuta bannerCredit: Experience Oz, Uluru Astro Tours, Back Packer Deals, Northern Territory Tourism NT

The Valley of the Winds walk is a popular activity in Kata Tjuta. Allow about 4 hours for the full 7.4 km circuit and be prepared for steep and rocky terrain.

You can book a guided tour with one of the Anangu Indigenous guides and learn about the history and cultural significance of these epic structures.

For a truly breathtaking experience, consider a helicopter tour. This will provide you with a unique perspective on this truly stunning landscape.

Kata Tjuta is also a great opportunity for stargazing. Join a stargazing tour or explore the skies on your own!

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