3-Day Uluru-Kata Tjuta Kings Canyon Tour from Alice Springs

Sunrise at Uluru, the Valley of the Winds, a rim walk above 100-meter cliffs, and two nights under the outback sky.

A 3-day guided tour from Alice Springs takes you through Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Kings Canyon with two nights at exclusive outback campsites, an accredited guide, national park entry, and bush walks ranging from 6–8 km. You choose between a safari tent with bed linen or a traditional swag (canvas-covered bedroll). The tour includes a base walk around Uluru, a sunrise at the rock, either the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta, and the Rim Walk above Kings Canyon, with return to Alice Springs or optional shuttle to Yulara by late afternoon on day three.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Alice Springs to Uluru and Cultural Walk

• Depart early from Alice Springs
• Stop at Mount Connor viewpoint
• Continue to Uluru for lunch
• Check in at campsite and lunch
• Visit Aboriginal Cultural Centre
• Guided walk around Uluru base
• Learn about rock art and waterholes
• Walk to Kantju Gorge and watch sunset

Day 2 — Uluru-Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon

• Pre-dawn sunrise at Uluru-Kata Tjuta
• Travel to Kata Tjuta rock formations
• Walk Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge
• Return to camp for meal
• Travel to Kings Canyon region
• Enjoy outback sunset and campfire dinner

Day 3 — Kings Canyon Rim Walk and Return

• Early start to Kings Canyon cliffs
• Hike the Kings Canyon Rim Walk
• Return journey to Alice Springs or Yulara
• Drop off at final destination

The Experience

The tour departs early from Alice Springs toward Uluru, with a stop at Mount Connor (called "False Uluru" for its resemblance) and a break at Curtin Springs before you reach the campsite. After dropping bags and lunch, you visit the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to learn the stories and history of the land, then walk the base of Uluru itself. Your guide shares the Aboriginal narratives behind the rock art, sacred waterholes like Mutitjulu, and the stories of Kuniya the python and Liru the venomous snake. The walk continues to Kantju Gorge, where Central Australia's tallest waterfall appears seasonally, and to sacred caves once used as a natural pantry. You finish day one watching the sunset over Uluru.

Day two starts before dawn for a sunrise over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, then moves to Kata Tjuta—a collection of dome-shaped rock formations. You walk either the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge, both offering panoramic views. After a meal at camp, you travel to Kings Canyon, arriving in time for another outback sunset and a traditional campfire dinner. Day three begins early at Kings Canyon, where the Rim Walk showcases dramatic 100-meter cliffs and sandstone formations. Your guide explains the canyon's geological history, flora and fauna. On the return to Alice Springs, the route may follow the main highway or, conditions permitting, the scenic Mereenie Loop or Ernest Giles Road, with arrival between 6:00 pm and 6:30 pm. If you've arranged a shuttle to Yulara instead, it departs around 4:30–5:00 pm.

You stay at two exclusive private campsites with shared showers, toilets and solar-powered kitchen areas. Choose between a twin share eco tent with bed linen, mattress and pillow, or a traditional swag. Guests help with meal preparation, cleanup and vehicle loading—a way to connect with fellow travellers after long days of walking. The tour requires a moderate to advanced fitness level; the walks are 6–8 km and subject to fitness. Children aged 8–17 must be accompanied by an adult; children under 8 are not suitable due to safety and fitness demands. A doctor's certificate is required for travellers over 75. Notify the operator of any medical conditions or dietary needs at booking, as the remote location limits food sourcing once the tour begins.

What’s included

• Two nights at exclusive private outback campsites with shared facilities and solar-powered kitchen areas.
• accredited outback driver guide with comprehensive tour commentary.
• entry to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks.
• bed linen, mattress and pillow (safari tent option).
• guided bush walks totalling 6–8 km across the three days.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Autopia Tours

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you're comfortable with moderate to advanced fitness demands and want to walk the base of Uluru, see Kata Tjuta's rock formations, and hike the Rim Walk above Kings Canyon—all in one trip. The two-night campsite stays and shared meal preparation are part of how the tour connects small groups; if you prefer hotels and restaurant meals, a different itinerary may suit you better. Children from age 8 can join with an adult; younger children are not suitable due to safety and fitness requirements.

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Top questions

What is the Rim Walk at Kings Canyon like, and how long does it take?

The Rim Walk at Watarrka National Park is the highlight of day three, offering panoramic views above dramatic 100-meter cliffs and sandstone formations. Your guide provides insights into the canyon's ancient geological history, unique flora and fauna, and other notable features. The walk is part of the 6–8 km of guided bush walking across the three days, subject to your fitness level.

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag, or is one provided?

Bed linen, mattress and pillow are provided with the safari tent option. If you choose the traditional swag, you can hire a sleeping bag from the operator for $40 AUD, which includes cleaning costs. Advise your preference at the time of booking.

What happens on the second day at Kata Tjuta?

Day two includes a pre-dawn wake-up to witness sunrise at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, then travel to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a striking collection of dome-shaped rock formations. You walk either the Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge, both offering spectacular panoramic views. After a meal at camp, you continue to Kings Canyon, arriving in time for an outback sunset and a traditional campfire dinner.

Can I return to Yulara instead of Alice Springs on day three?

Yes, you can arrange a shuttle transfer from Kings Canyon back to Yulara (Ayers Rock), arriving around 4:30–5:00 pm. Shuttle availability is limited, so you must advise this at the time of booking.

What does the Uluru base walk include?

The guided walk around the base of Uluru on day one covers sacred sites including Mutitjulu waterhole, Kantju Gorge (home to Central Australia's tallest seasonal waterfall), and sacred caves. Your guide shares Aboriginal stories of Kuniya the python and Liru the venomous snake, and explains the ancient rock art. The walk concludes with a sunset over Uluru.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour includes two nights at exclusive outback campsites (Uluru and Kings Canyon); an accredited guide with comprehensive commentary; Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks entry; bed linen, mattress and pillow (safari tent option); and all guided bush walks. Meals are not included, and you're asked to help with meal preparation, cleanup and vehicle loading. Travel insurance, sleeping bag hire ($40 AUD), and personal expenses are not included.