7 Days National Parks Explorer
Highlights   • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park • Learn about Aboriginal Culture

Day 1: Alice Springs
On arrival transfer to your hotel (flights into Alice Springs prior to 1.00pm). Your afternoon Alice Springs town tour includes a visit to the historic Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air, the Alice Springs Reptile Centre and panoramic views from Anzac Hill. Accommodation: Heavitree Gap Resort (L) Alice Springs Resort Standard (R) Alice Springs Resort Deluxe (F) (S) - 3 nights.

Day 2: West MacDonnell Ranges
Travel west from Alice Springs following the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges. Pass the John Flynn Memorial (founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service). Stop at Simpsons Gap with its lovely river red gum scenery. Continue on to magical Angkerle (Standley Chasm). Walk into the Chasm along the stony watercourse lined with cycads, ghost gums, acacias and cypress pines. Travel to Ellery Creek Big Hole, before arriving at Ormiston Gorge. We travel on to Glen Helen Gorge, a semi permanent waterhole. Lunch is included today and depending on the time of the year a refreshing swim may be possible at one of the waterholes visited. At Glen Helen Homestead you have the opportunity to take in the spectacular views by helicopter (own expense). Nearby is the Mt Sonder lookout. This beautiful mountain was the subject of many paintings by the famed Aboriginal artist and Arnada tribesman, the late Albert Namatjira. We travel past the famous twin ghost gums on our way back to Alice Springs. (L)

Day 3: Palm Valley
Today travel by 4WD through rugged countryside to the historical township of Hermannsburg. Continue along the rocky and sandy course of the Finke River into Palm Valley, where you will see a unique desert oasis. (L)

Day 4: Ayers Rock - The Olgas
Travelling south, stop at a camel farm and later view Mt. Conner before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort. Afternoon visit to the Olgas (Kata Tjuta) before witnessing sunset over Ayers Rock (Uluru) while enjoying a complimentary glass of wine. Accommodation: Ayers Rock Resort.

Day 5: Ayers Rock - Kings Canyon
Early start for those who wish to view sunrise over Ayers Rock (tea and coffee included). The climb to the summit is available for the energetic. After exploring the base, stop at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre. Time at leisure before travelling to Kings Canyon Resort. Accommodation: Kings Canyon Resort - Rangeview Rooms or Travellers in Lodge Rooms

Day 6: Kings Canyon - Alice Springs
The rocky climb to the rim of the Canyon is for the energetic. Alternatively, you may wish to explore the boulder-strewn Canyon floor. Return to Alice Springs in the early evening. Accommodation: Heavitree Gap Resort (L) Alice Springs Resort Standard (R) Alice Springs Resort Deluxe (F) (S)

Day 7: Alice Springs Desert Park
This morning you will be greeted by your local Aboriginal Guide, who will introduce you to the life and traditions of the Arrente People. You will learn of life and survival in the Desert. You will be introduced to the notion of Kinship and the part that it played in the Arrente people's survival. This will be followed by a visit to the renowned Desert Park, where your guide will take you through the Nocturnal House. You will also enjoy a demonstration at the Nature Theatre as well as having some free time to explore the park at leisure. Our final stop this morning is at the Alice Springs Cultural Precinct. Here you can view the paintings in the Albert Namatjira Gallery and wander through the Museum of Central Australia, which follows the evolution of the local landscape and the creatures that inhabit it.

Departs:   Tue, Fri, Sat & Sun (Jun - Oct) Tue, Thur, Fri ,Sat, Sun (Nov - May) from Alice Springs
Returns:   12.30pm to Alice Springs

Tour Code YA45

Single traveller will be required to pay a single supplement.
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