Venture into the arid regions of outback Australia, exploring and photographing our unique icons. With an emphasis on the flora, fauna, Aboriginal culture and great photography, you will learn about the total ecological picture of Australia’s Red Centre.
Features
- Simpson Desert
- Alice Springs
- Uluru
- Kata Tjuta
- Aboriginal art
- Camping out
Availability
Advance bookings essential. Minimum of three passengers to operate
14 Day tour
Dates:- 5th to 18th June 2011
(Subject to minimum three passengers booked)
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Meeting Time
8am Pickup
16 days
Starts and finishes Alice Springs
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What to Bring
- Comfortable Walking Shoes
- Camera, Hat and Sunscreen
- Sense of Adventure
- Personal Items
- Clothing for travel
More Information
Day 1 (B, L)
Day 2 (B, L, D)
Day 3 (B, L, D)
making camp, the evening is yours to explore this amazing area at your leisure.
Days 4 and 5 (B, L, D)
Day 6 (B, L, D)
Today we return to the bitumen, heading for Kings Canyon in the Watarrka National Park, in Central Australia. Arriving late in the afternoon, there may be time for a short walk.
Day 7 (B, L, D)
The morning is spent climbing and explore Kings Canyon, viewing such impressive and scenic areas as the “Lost City”, Garden of Eden and the north and south walls of the amphitheatre. From the top of the 300 metre high walls, the view is spectacular. The Watarrka National Park is home to a large variety of flora and fauna, and lizards such as the ringtail dragon and the Perentie, Australia’s largest goanna, can often be seen.
Departing Kings Canyon in the afternoon, we pass Mt Connor and ephemeral salt lakes on our journey to Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Undoubtedly symbolic of the true outback, these two fantastic geological features also have immense cultural and religious significance to the traditional landowners. Finish off the day as you witness the ever-changing colours of sunset on Ayers Rock.
Day 9 (B, L, D)
After glimpsing the sunrise across the massive monolith of Ayers Rock, you will enjoy an early morning walk around the base of the Rock. Here you will experience the culture of the local people as you learn about the Dreamtime through an interpretive study of the rock art and related ecosystems around Uluru. An opportunity to climb Ayers Rock is an option, as is a scenic flight (at own expense) over the region. A visit to the Mutijulu Cultural Centre will provide a fascinating insight into the lives and culture of the traditional landowners of Uluru.
The afternoon includes a visit to the incredible domes of Kata Tjuta (which, literally translated, means “Many Heads”). Enjoy an interpretive walk through the Valley of the Winds. Sunset will be viewed from here, unless optimum conditions were not available at Ayers Rock previously.
Day 10 (B, L, D)
Departing Uluru, we rejoin the Stuart highway for our trek up to Alice Springs, in the heart of the Red centre.
Day 11 (B, L, D)
This morning you will visit the Territory Desert Park, home to a large collection of native flora and fauna. You will also have the opportunity to see some of the rarer marsupials and native rodents, as they will still be active in the Nocturnal House. (The majority of Australian marsupials are only active in the early part of the night, so this is a great way to see them). Millions of years of geology will also be displayed, ensuring you gain a comprehensive understanding of the local landforms and ecology. A fantastic window transforms into a giant movie screen, bringing to life the evolution of the outback.
An afternoon tour of the cultural precinct will give some insight into the pioneering settlers of the region. Explore the Transport Museum and the Araluen Art Gallery, with works of art by Aboriginal artists and others. There is also a comprehensive display of Professor Ted Strehlow’s study of the central Australian Aboriginal people, allowing a greater understanding of these tribal people and their culture. We cap off the afternoon with a tour to scenic Anzac Hill, overlooking Alice Springs.
Day 12 (B, L, D)
Today we explore the striking West MacDonnell Ranges. Dissected with narrow fissures and gorges, you will trek into some of the more famous ones, including Standley Chasm, Ormiston Gorge and cross sections of the newly completed Larapinta Trail. First stop is Simpsons Gap, where the red rock walls contrast sharply with the white barked River Red Gums. Rock-wallabies can sometimes be seen in the morning, if we are lucky. Today you will be inspired with the West MacDonnell Ranges, just as many artists have been in the past. The whole region evokes the sacred nature of the local indigenous culture.
Day 13 (B)
A short drive to the airport today as you depart the Red Centre for home, carrying with you beautiful memories of your journey. (Airfare is additional to tour price).
Things you should know.
Transport is in a late model 4WD. Camping is at Caravan/ camping parks, or in remote areas. The above itinerary may be varied due to road and weather conditions experienced in the outback. All camping is in safari tents, based on shared arrangements. Single use is available, at an additional surcharge.
Your driver and guides/cooks appreciate and expect your assistance with the camping and cooking. All meals are supplied as per the itinerary, and vegetarians and gluten intolerant people can be catered for. Any person with other special dietary needs may have to supply their own food items.
Your guides have extensive knowledge of Aboriginal culture, Australian plants, birds and reptiles. They are also expert, award winning photographers with intimate knowledge of the areas you will be visiting, and can assist you with getting the best photographs while on tour.
Your suitcase should be lightweight. Roads can be dusty and rough. There is time for washing your clothes, so only bring a few changes of clothes. Remember that the days can be warm or cool in the Centre.
Banks and other financial institutions are few and far between, as are chemists. It is recommended that you carry sufficient cash for your personal needs, as well as an adequate supply of any personal medication.
Your tour does not include the following:
You may bring a blanket if desired, for cool nights. Please bring your own pillow. Entry is included into the venues listed within the itinerary. However, any additional sightseeing is at your own expense.
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Australian Photographic Safaris and Camping Tours - Photo Safari - Central Australia, Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta, MacDonnell Ranges 14 Days
