Journey Beyond: Red Centre Spectacular

Not a formal Off Train Experience as such, but an added bonus that we like to include if we can! While you may not have heard of the outback town Marla before, it is fair to say it is worth the early start just to see the sunrise over this South Australian desert landscape. Located closer to Alice Springs than Adelaide, Marla is just shy of 1000 kilometres into the journey. The train arrives in the dark and guests are welcome to step off to stretch their legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback and start their day with a steaming mug of coffee and bacon and egg roll. Take a moment to enjoy the stillness on this short 45 minute stop with the promise of the day stretching before you. Re-board the train and brunch will be served from 10am.

Your eight-day Red Centre Explorer tour commences on arrival at the Alice Springs Rail Terminal. Here, you will be met by the passionate Outback Spirit crew, who will be guiding you as you take in all the Red Centre has to offer over the next eight days.
Check-in at DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, where you'll stay for the first two nights. In the evening, the group will meet for welcome drinks and a short briefing on what you can expect during your tour. Tonight's dinner is at the hotel.

Today, explore Alice Springs and its surrounds, taking in natural rock formations that are truly spectacular. After breakfast, venture to the West MacDonnell Ranges and enjoy a walk to Simpsons Gap. Known as 'Rungutjirpa' by the Arrernte people, Simpsons Gap is an important spiritual site and home to dozens of rare plants and a host of native wildlife. Next, visit Standley Chasm – Angkerle Atwatye – a cultural icon of Central Australia, which is 100% owned and operated by the Arrernte community. Break for morning tea before departing the West MacDonnell Ranges to visit the Alice Springs Desert Park. Here, enjoy a guided tour that will challenge your perception of the desert, leaving you with an understanding that the desert is full of life.
This evening, enjoy a classic-style outdoor BBQ and show under the incredible night sky.

Today, say goodbye to Alice Springs and head deeper into the outback. First up is a visit to Ellery Creek for a short walk and morning tea, then travel to Ormiston Gorge to see its towering red cliffs. Stop for lunch before journeying to the mighty Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park. Drive through the outback along the scenic Mereenie Loop 4WD track through the West MacDonnell Ranges, arriving at Kings Canyon Resort, where the next two nights will be spent.

Tonight, dinner is at Carmichael’s, a relaxed restaurant situated in Kings Canyon Resort, surrounded by native trees and bushlands. If lucky, an inquisitive dingo may be spotted wandering through the grounds.

This morning, depart early to experience the beauty of Kings Canyon. Two walks are available, including the spectacular 6km rim walk, which features breathtaking views of Watarrka National Park before descending into the 'Garden of Eden'. For those who wish to save energy, a more relaxed walk is available along the creek on the canyon floor (2.6km).

There is also the opportunity to take a 15-minute helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park (at own expense).

After the morning's activities, return to Kings Canyon Resort for lunch and to rest and refresh. For those taking the optional helicopter flight, this afternoon offers time to enjoy Kings Canyon from the air (at own expense), or a relaxing afternoon at leisure.

As afternoon turns to evening, enjoy sunset drinks and canapés at Light-Towers, an immersive sound and light installation by acclaimed artist Bruce Munro. Tonight, dinner is at the newly renovated Kings Canyon Bar & Grill, a perfect opportunity to recall the day's adventures.

This morning, depart early to experience the beauty of Kings Canyon. Two walks are available, including the spectacular 6km rim walk, which features 

Today is special. This morning, visit Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience and Tours, an indigenous owned and operated cultural tour. In the Aranda language, Karrke is the Aboriginal name for the western Bowerbird, which is native to Central Australia, and the guide will teach about bush tucker and bush medicines used for spiritual and physical healing.

Then depart Karrke for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, passing through Kings Creek Station to enjoy lunch at Curtin Springs, a million-acre cattle station. In the early afternoon, arrive at the award-winning Sails in the Desert Hotel, part of the Ayers Rock Resort.

This evening, transfer to the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner, a breathtaking cultural storytelling experience through choreographed drones, lasers, and projections illuminating the night sky. After a short journey from the resort, venture to an open-air theatre set upon a dune top. Enjoy cocktails infused with native ingredients while taking in the incredible views of Uluru. As darkness descends, enjoy a gourmet dinner hamper where native ingredients are combined with modern techniques to create a balanced and flavourful palette as the night sky lights up. Witness the ancient Mala story re-told and feel a powerful connection to country while listening to a traditional Inma soundtrack and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language.

After breakfast, depart to discover Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge, an ancient temple crafted by nature. Take in the cultural centre and join a guided tour around the base of Uluru, which stands 348 metres above the desert plains. Learn about traditional Anangu culture and why Uluru, one of the largest monoliths in the world, is such a sacred site.

In the afternoon, tour the Gallery of Central Australia followed by free time to relax by the pool or, alternatively, take the complimentary shuttle to explore the Resort and activities on offer.

Departing the resort before sunset, head to an exclusive dune-top location with majestic views of Uluru. Enjoy drinks and canapés as artist Bruce Munro's global phenomenon Field of Light gently illuminates. Aptly named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku (looking at lots of beautiful lights), Field of Light features 50,000 slender stems, crowned with radiant, frosted-glass spheres, spread across an area the size of seven football fields. After your host provides insight into this remarkable installation, explore the stunning display via dedicated pathways.

This evening, return to the hotel for dinner. 

Early risers can experience the sun rising over Uluru this morning and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. Breakfast is at the hotel, before departing for the Mala Walk. Admire the fine examples of rock art along this walk before arriving at Kantju Gorge, a place of profound peacefulness surrounded by sheer vertical walls.

This afternoon is at your leisure. Choose to explore the Town Square, arrange a scenic flight (own cost), or relax in the comfort of the hotel.

This evening, enjoy the unique Sounds of Silence dining experience under the stars. Offering the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours, the evening begins with canapés and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of the didgeridoo and enjoy a premium bush tucker–inspired buffet incorporating native bush ingredients.

Afterwards, settle back and listen to the resident star talker decode the southern night sky.

After this incredible experience, return to Sails in the Desert for the final night.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before making the journey by road from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to the Alice Springs Rail Terminal where your Red Centre Explorer tour comes to an end.

Re-join The Ghan and as the train heads north, enjoy watching the beautiful scenery pass by your window as you relax with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge

The landscapes continue to transform as you head towards Katherine, where you’ll embark on an Off Train Experience exploring natural wonders that you’ll never forget. A few hours later, you’ll arrive in Darwin, completing your journey through the Red Centre.

Step off The Ghan and tailor your journey with these exciting off-train adventures in Katherine:

Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise: Journey through Nitmiluk Gorge on a scenic cruise, feeling the ancient landscape come alive. Witness dramatic cliffs sculpted by time and water, and hear the cicadas echo through the towering walls. Your expert guide navigates the First and Second Gorges, revealing the unique flora and fauna while sharing stories of the Jawoyn people's deep connection to this sacred place. (Moderate fitness required, 2km walk on uneven terrain. Ask about modified experiences for lower mobility.) Dress for the weather: enclosed shoes, sunscreen, hat, long pants, and sleeves are recommended.

Nitmiluk Rock Art Cruise: Explore ancient secrets on the Nitmiluk Rock Art Cruise. Drift down the First Gorge, marveling at towering cliffs and listening to Dreamtime stories of the Jawoyn people. Disembark for a short walk to a breathtaking rock art site, a testament to their enduring culture. Witness art thousands of years old, defying the elements. (Moderate fitness required: 2km walk & 28 steps.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!