Did you know that 4.5 million people visited Australia the past 12 months? And many of those peeps flew hours to see our iconic, far-flung attractions and landmarks. It makes you wonder why we ever leave our shores, especially if you’re travelling to seek a different kind of holiday: it’s right here, in our epic Red Centre!
Forget costly long-haul flights and zombie-like jetlag; there’s no need to head overseas when the Red Centre awaits! Truly different in every sense, the region is chock-full of bucket list experiences that leave our overseas visitors (and now you) speechless.
Don’t believe it’s a destination unlike any other? Check out these top 10 Red Centre experiences.
#10 A different kind of dinner
A destination far beyond the norm, Uluru is one of the country’s most visited attractions. While there’s plenty to do from sunrise onwards, at dinnertime, Uluru goes above and beyond with exceptional dining experiences that tantalise more than just your tastebuds.
Like the Field of Light Dinner, where sunset canapes precede dinner in the silhouette of Uluru. The sumptuous meal with native ingredients tastes incredible under the starry night sky, and it‘s followed with an amble through the spectacular Field of Lights art installation.
There’s also Sounds of Silence, Tali Wiru, and AAT Kings’ sunset BBQ dinner. Plus, the newly launched meal offerings during the new Wintjiri Wiru drone show!
#9 A different kind of wake-up call
Did you think you needed to go to the Middle East for a camel ride? Not so!
For a sunrise with a difference, book an early tour with Uluru Camel Tours. The gentle pace atop these quirky-looking ungulates starts your day perfectly! Watching Uluru awaken with the sun, accompanied by fascinating camel facts, is our kind of different!
#8 A different kind of hike
Hiking Uluru has long been off the cards, however, it’s permissible to walk the ancient domes of nearby Kata Tjuta. Take a guided tour to learn the ancient stories of Kata Tjuta.
One hour will get you to the Karu lookout, walk for 2.5 hours to reach the Karingana Lookout, and allow 3-4 hours for the complete Valley of the Winds circuit.
#7 A different kind of view
The allure of Uluru is so strong that a one-and-done quick visit will never suffice. Best experienced from every angle – including up close and from the dedicated lookouts – soaring overhead in a helicopter reveals the magnitude of this incredible 550-million-year-old rock formation!
Choose from a 15-minute Uluru-only flight, the 25-minute Uluru and Kata Tjuta trip, or go all in to include Kings Canyon on a 2-hour extravaganza!
#6 A different kind of perspective
Kings Canyon is an outdoor lover’s dream, with hiking the best way to experience its rich-red landscape and contrasting flora and fauna. For the fit and healthy, walk the 6-kilometre Kings Canyon Rim Walk. The Garden of Eden and 360-degree views at the crater’s rim are worth the effort.
For a gentler walk (no 500 steps!) take the 2.6-kilometre trail to feel minuscule amid the canyon’s towering walls.
#5 A different way to connect
Experiencing local customs at a new destination adds more depth and meaning to the place. That is especially true when you’re talking to the ancestors of the Central Desert region who have called it home for over 30,000 years!
On the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience near Kings Canyon, you’ll meet members of the local 10-person community. Discover how they connect to the land for food, medicine, and even to bedazzle their outfits.
#4 A different kind of flight
The most magical sunrise experience in Alice Springs is in a wicker basket soaring alongside the West MacDonnell Ranges! Way gentler than caffeine as a wake-up call!
Outback Ballooning offer 30- and 60-minute sunrise balloon flights, allowing you incredible views of the vast Australian Outback before bubbles and snacks once you’re back on terra firma.
#3 A different kind of legend
Head 15 kilometres out of Alice to spend time with some “aww” time with ‘roos and joeys at the Kangaroo Sanctuary.
This 76-hectare wildlife sanctuary rescues baby and adult kangaroos from across Central Australia. If you’ve seen Nat Geo’s Kangaroo Dundee, you may even fangirl over some residents! Book a sunset tour to see the kangaroos at their most lively.
#2 A different kind of night sky
Whether you know your plough from your big dipper, a trip to Earth Sanctuary outside Alice Springs is a must-do stop on any Red Centre trip. With a perfect location for stargazing, a giant telescope, and a passionate family, the recipe is just right for an idyllic experience under the stars.
Book their Dark Sky talk or sign up to camp overnight to witness the planets and stars slowly journey across the night sky.
#1 A different kind of flop-and-drop
Did you know you can flop-and-drop in the Red Centre? It’s true! Find it at Ormiston Gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Laze on the sandy beach after enjoying a refreshing (croc-free) dip in the gorgeous watering hole.
Pack a picnic and plan to spend a leisurely day at the gorge – it’s a totally unexpected Outback vibe!
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Find more incredible Red Centre attractions here. For resources and info, visit Tourism NT’s trade website.
If you missed the launch of the new Red Centre Light Trail, catch up here.
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