Tours Desert Springs

UNTAMED MOMENTS

• Watch sunrise set Kata Tjuta’s domes ablaze
• Walk the full base of Uluru and feel its immense presence at ground level
• Stand high on the rim of Kings Canyon above endless desert country
• Descend into Coober Pedy’s underground opal fields, carved deep from stone
• Spot iconic Australian wildlife across vast desert plains and ancient ranges
• Swap red dirt for cool-climate Clare Valley wines
• Travel the long, horizon-stretching roads that define the continent’s interior
• Elevate the experience by adding Field of Light or a scenic flight over Uluru (OE)

INCLUSIONS

• Accommodation 

o   5 x nights twin-share room 

o   1 x night multi-share dorm

• All activities and experiences 
• All national park and entrance fees 
• Storyteller Guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle 

TOUR ITINERARY

Day 1 | Alice Springs, Yulara & Uluru

For those departing from Alice Springs, the day begins early, heading south through expansive desert country. Pause at Erldunda, a remote outback crossroads in the heart of the Northern Territory, before continuing deeper into the Red Centre.

Onwards to Yulara, gateway to Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park, a dual World Heritage–listed landscape recognised for both natural power and cultural depth. After collecting those joining in Yulara, the scale begins to build. Then it happens.

Uluru rises from the desert. The horizon shifts. Australia’s heart asserts itself against the sky.

Enter the national park and visit the Uluru–Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, where exhibitions shaped by Aṉangu voices provide a deeper understanding of this sacred land, time to listen, learn and absorb the context that gives meaning to everything that follows.

As evening approaches, head to the sunset viewing area. Uluru transforms in the fading light. Deep reds intensify, shadows stretch long, and the desert air cools, a powerful introduction to the Red Centre.

Accommodation: Outback Hotel | Twin-share ensuite
Distance: Approx. 510 km

Day 2 | Kata Tjuta & Uluru

First light at Kata Tjuta is unforgettable. Thirty-six domes glow in burnt orange and deep crimson as dawn moves across the desert. The scale is immense. The silence is profound.

Set out on a guided walk through the Valley of the Winds. The track weaves between towering formations sculpted over millions of years, revealing narrow corridors, shifting light, and expansive desert vistas. The full circuit is approximately 8 km, with shorter turnaround points available.

Late morning, return to Yulara and choose one of many complimentary cultural activities at Ayers Rock Resort. Bush food experiences, bush yarns or guided garden walks offer further insight into desert knowledge and living culture.

To elevate the experience even further, optional helicopter flights offer views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta from above, highlighting the immense scale of the Red Centre. In the evening, consider Wintjiri Wiru, an immersive outdoor experience combining storytelling, light and sound beneath the desert sky.

Accommodation: Outback Hotel | Twin-share ensuite
Distance: Approx. 100 km

Day 3 | Uluru to Kings Canyon

Sunrise at Uluru offers a final quiet moment with Australia’s spiritual heart. As light moves across the rock, rust turns to burnished gold against a vast open sky. Set out on the 10.6 km Uluru Base Walk. At ground level, caves, waterholes and ancient rock art reveal stories embedded in the land. The terrain is mostly flat and steady. Shorter sections are available for those who prefer a reduced distance while still experiencing the scale and presence of this extraordinary place.

After lunch in Yulara, the road leads west toward Watarrka National Park. The desert opens wide once more. Arrive at Kings Canyon late afternoon and walk the Creek Trail, a gentler introduction beneath towering sandstone walls and river red gums. A contrasting perspective to tomorrow’s rim.

Accommodation: Kings Canyon Resort | Twin-share room
Distance: Approx. 430 km

Day 4 | Kings Canyon to Erldunda

Rise early for the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. One of Central Australia’s most striking landscapes. The 6 km loop climbs steadily to vast sandstone walls, deep gorges and the weathered domes of the “Lost City.” Pause at the Garden of Eden, a rare pocket of green hidden within the canyon walls. 

Late morning returns to the resort before continuing south. Long desert roads stretch toward the horizon once more. Arrive at Erldunda Desert Oaks Resort mid-afternoon. A remote outpost at the crossroads of the Red Centre—time to settle in and watch light soften across red earth and open sky.

Accommodation: Erldunda Desert Oaks Resort | Twin-share ensuite
Distance: Approx. 310 km

Day 5 | Erldunda to Coober Pedy

Cross from the Northern Territory into South Australia, travelling through vast, open desert country. Pause at Marla before continuing to Kanku–Breakaways Conservation Park. Here, ancient mesas rise abruptly from the flat desert in layered bands of ochre, cream and rust — dramatic, powerful and culturally significant on Antakirinja Matu-Yankunytjatjara Country.

By afternoon, arrive in Coober Pedy, the underground opal capital of the world. Descend into the Old Timers Mine, where hand-dug tunnels and original tools reveal the resilience behind the opal fields. A raw glimpse into life carved from unforgiving terrain.

Visit Josephine’s Gallery and Kangaroo Orphanage, showcasing significant Aboriginal artworks alongside rescued joeys cared for by passionate locals.

Settle into underground accommodation carved deep into the earth. Cool, quiet and distinctly Coober Pedy.

Accommodation: Coober Pedy Experience Motel (or similar) | Underground twin-share ensuite
Distance: Approx. 590 km

Day 6 | Coober Pedy to Quorn

Continue south across wide outback plains as the landscape slowly shifts from flat horizons to distant ranges. Stop at Glendambo and Pimba before arriving at the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden near Port Augusta. This living collection showcases how native species survive in some of Australia’s harshest conditions. Resilience written in leaf and bark.

By late afternoon, reach Quorn, framed by the rugged southern Flinders Ranges. A historic railway town with wide streets and heritage stone buildings, classic outback character with time to explore.

Accommodation: Great Northern Lodge Quorn | Twin-share ensuite
Distance: Approx. 590 km

Day 7 | Quorn to Adelaide via Clare Valley

Morning light in Warren Gorge reveals ochre cliffs and prime habitat for the once nearly extinct Yellow-footed Rock Wallaby. A short, guided walk to Smoko’s Lookout offers panoramic views and one last immersion in wild country.

Travel south to Wirrabara to view one of South Australia’s striking silo art murals, where bold local storytelling is painted large across grain silos.

Continue into the Clare Valley, where vineyards replace red dirt. Reflect on your incredible adventure during a wine tasting with newfound friends at Skillogalee Winery. A refined contrast to the desert landscapes travelled in the days before.

Arrive back in Adelaide early evening. Seven days across Australia’s vast interior are complete. Distance travelled, landscapes shifted, stories carried forward. This is living untamed. 

Distance: Approx. 390 km

KNOW BEFORE YOU BOOK

General Information

• Tour timing: This tour starts in Alice Springs at approximately 7 am and will meet passengers joining in Yulara at 2 pm. The tour finishes on Day 7 in Adelaide around 6 pm. 
• Luggage limits: Each guest is allowed one soft travel bag or backpack (max 15 kg) plus a small daypack or piece of hand luggage.
• Minimum numbers: This tour requires a minimum of four travellers to run. If we need to cancel due to low numbers, we'll offer a transfer to a future date or a full refund.
• Before you book: Please read the information below and our full Booking Terms & Conditions to ensure this experience is right for you.

Meals & Food Options

This tour does not include meals, giving you flexibility to choose where and what you’d like to eat. Across the Explorers Way route, dining options range from country cafés and classic outback roadhouses to resort restaurants and casual takeaway venues.

While some locations are remote and choices may be limited, your Storyteller Guide will provide daily recommendations and timing guidance. Supermarkets are available in select towns (including Coober Pedy and Yulara) for those wishing to purchase snacks or supplies.

Meal costs vary depending on personal preference, but guests should allow approximately $15–$35 for breakfast or lunch and $25–$50 for dinner in most locations.

Accommodation

Accommodation Style:
This is a comfortable, budget-conscious, accommodated tour featuring motel-style twin-share rooms with private ensuites, plus one night in a mixed shared quad room at Kings Canyon Resort (shared bathroom facilities).

Room Sharing:
Solo travellers are paired in twin-share rooms. We aim to room guests thoughtfully and respectfully. If you have specific preferences or requirements, please let our team know at the time of booking.

Single Room Upgrade:
Prefer your own space? A Single Room Upgrade is available at checkout for an additional $615 per person (subject to availability).

Fitness & Mobility

The 7-Day Explorers Way tour is best suited to travellers who enjoy time outdoors, meaningful walks and shared group experiences across diverse landscapes.

To get the most from your experience, please consider the following:

• Fitness requirements: An easy to moderate level of fitness is recommended. Walks range between 3–10 km and may include uneven terrain, steps and warm conditions. Key hikes such as Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta are rewarding but manageable, and shorter options are available where possible.
• Medical conditions: If you have any pre-existing health conditions, we strongly recommend speaking with your doctor before booking. Please also inform our Customer Service Team and Guides of any relevant conditions prior to travel, so we can offer the right support.
• Fit for Travel declaration: All travellers must complete an online check-in, including a mandatory 'Fit for Travel' declaration, at least 24 hours before departure. This confirms you are free from illness and physically able to join the tour.

If you're unsure whether this trip is the right fit for you, please reach out, we're here to help.

Itinerary Changes

At Untamed Escapes, your safety and experience are our top priorities. Our guides are trained to adapt plans when needed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Please keep the following in mind:

• Experienced guidance: Our storyteller guides continuously assess local conditions such as weather and traffic to deliver the best possible experience.
• Dynamic weather: The Australian outback is known for sudden and dramatic weather changes. Our team remains informed and responsive to these conditions.
• Adjustments for safety and comfort:

o   Itinerary changes may occur to improve the overall experience or respond to unexpected circumstances.

o   For example, during the hotter months (October to April), hike times may be adjusted to earlier in the day to avoid high temperatures.

• Clear communication: Any itinerary changes will be communicated to the group in advance whenever possible.

Meal Guide 

As this tour does not include meals, guests have the flexibility to choose where and what they would like to eat. While some locations are remote, there are dining options available each day. Below is a general guide to where meals are typically purchased along the route:

Day 1 – Alice Springs to Uluru (Yulara)

Lunch: Yulara or Erldunda (depending on travel timing)
Dinner: Yulara – multiple dining options available within Ayers Rock Resort

Day 2 – Yulara (Uluru / Kata Tjuta)

All meals in Yulara. Ayers Rock Resort offers a variety of cafés, casual dining, BBQ options and restaurant experiences. A supermarket is also available for groceries and snacks.

Day 3 – Yulara to Kings Canyon

Breakfast: Early start – self-prepared (items purchased prior)
Lunch: Snack stop during travel
Dinner: Kings Canyon Bar & Grill

Day 4 – Kings Canyon to Erldunda

Breakfast: Kings Canyon Resort
Lunch: Kings Creek Station
Dinner: Erldunda Roadhouse

Day 5 – Erldunda to Coober Pedy

Breakfast: Erldunda

Lunch: Coober Pedy or Marla Roadhouse (purchase on arrival / after check-in)
Dinner: Coober Pedy – Big Win 360 or John’s Pizza
Supermarket (IGA) available in Coober Pedy for snacks and supplies

Day 6 – Coober Pedy to Quorn

Breakfast: Coober Pedy (early departure, own preparation)

Morning coffee: Australian Arid Lands Botanic Garden Café (Port Augusta)
Lunch: Pimba – Spud’s Roadhouse
Dinner: Quorn – local hotel and pub dining options available

Day 7 – Quorn to Adelaide (via Clare Valley)

Breakfast: Quorn

Lunch: Wirrabara – Julia’s Kitchen (café-style dining)

Estimated Meal Costs

Costs vary depending on personal preference, but guests generally allow:

• Hotel Breakfast: $15–$30
• Lunch: $15–$35
• Dinner: $25–$50

Dining in remote locations can be slightly higher than in major cities due to freight and location. However, you can also save money by shopping at supermarkets when available.