The natural wonders & ancient culture of Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Watarrka National Parks will be sure to make your Red Centre adventure a memorable one. Preferably you should pick up your van in Darwin then drive down South via Stuart Highway, Adelaide River, Dorat Road (Hot Springs), Pine Creek, Catherine, Edith Falls, and eventually, you will arrive at Tenant Creek (The Devils’ marbles), then Alice Springs. Visit the cultural centre in Uluru and discover a world of walking trails, guided tours, and cultural activities for more information on where to go and what to do.
If you plan to stay and explore the Red Centre for only up to 7 days in your own vehicle, this itinerary will help you make the most out of your Alice Springs adventure! It is not only the cultural but also spiritual centre of Australia and a must-do on your bucket list!
Drive the 1135km loop from Alice Springs and explore the vast and diverse landscapes of the Red Centre. Discover icons of the Australian continent, from Uluru and Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon, Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Travel through red desert sands, spinifex and mulga forest, lush valleys and towering gorges. Watch the red giants of the Outback change colour at sunset. Find out about the ancient living culture of the traditional aboriginal land owners and lose yourself as you wander through valleys home to countless rare plants, birds and animals.
A thriving, spirited outback centre, Alice Springs is as famous for the personality of its locals and contemporary and traditional art as the natural wonders, including the stunning Larapinta Trail and the MacDonnell Ranges, which surround it.
Suggested itinerary
| Day | Destination | Distance |
| Day 1 | Alice Springs to Glen Helen | 130km |
| Day 2 | Glen Helen to Kings Canyon | 260km |
| Day 3 | Explore Kings Canyon | |
| Day 4 | Kings Canyon to Uluru | 300km |
| Day 5 | Uluru and Kata Tjuta | |
| Day 6 | Uluru to Alice Springs | 445km |
For campsites and/or cottages/hostels to stay in, please visit the Caravan & Campgrounds Alice Springs and Surrounds website here).
MUST-DO’s:
Ochre and art
Take some time to explore the renowned galleries of Alice Springs, the Indigenous art capital of the country before driving west to the gorges, waterholes and ochre pits of the West MacDonnell National Park.
Above and below
Kick off the day with a dip in the Redbank Gorge pools near Glen Helen. Travel on to Finke Gorge National Park to get a glimpse of the Red Centre’s ancient past at lush Palm Valley. Walk along the soaring red cliffs of Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park or head down to traverse the dense forest of palms, ferns and cycads on the canyon floor below.
Red rocks
Next stop is Australia’s most famous natural landmark. Standing 348m high, Uluru towers over the surrounding landscape. Take a camel ride around the base of the rock, jump in a helicopter to get an aerial view, or explore the surprising local flora and fauna on foot. Drive on for panoramic views over the desert plains on the Valley of the Winds walk, or settle in to watch the sun set over the 32 red domes of Kata Tjuta.
Explore other popular road trips around Alice Springs
Check out some of our other popular road trips from Alice Springs
Looking for more? Check out other Darwin road trips. Find a huge range of different routes and road trip itineraries across Australia.
FAQs about Red Centre road trip
The Red Centre is a 1135km area that starts at Alice Springs and spans the vast, stunning landscape of the Red Centre. If you drive continuously, the loop will take you around 14 to 16 hours, and that’s the short loop. This also doesn’t factor in stops and detours.
Apart from the mesmerising landscape, the Red Centre also has numerous other attractions that you should check out. Start by visiting the Redbank Gorge pools near Glen Helen. As you travel around the centre, stop at Australia’s natural landmark, the Uluru towers that stand 349m high above the landscape.
Unfortunately, no pick-up or drop-off facilities are along the Red Centre route. Our collection and drop-off facilities are in Brisbane, Cairns, Melbourne, Perth, Darwin, and Sydney.
The cooler months, May to September, are ideal for a trip around the Red Centre. The weather during this time is milder and comfortable, and there is minimal rainfall, giving you the opportunity to really explore.
Yes, booking a campervan in advance is cheaper. You’ll likely come across a sale when you book during the off-season. That, and booking a campervan early, ensures you get one before the season gets busy.
No, there are no toll roads on the Red Centre Route.
SEE OUR CAMPERVANSAbout the Author
Bastian Graf
Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.
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