5-Day Central Australia Camping Itinerary
Only have a few days but want to see it all?
Here is a possible itinerary for a 5-day camping trip, focusing on the iconic highlights and the beauty Central Australia. This itinerary assumes you'll have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for maximum flexibility and access to the best spots. Visit our website blog for the detailed itinerary.
Day 1: Alice Springs to the West MacDonnell Ranges
Morning: Start your adventure by leaving Alice Springs. Your first stop is Simpsons Gap, a stunning waterhole and the home of the Black-footed Rock-wallaby. Enjoy a short, easy walk and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
Midday: Continue west to Ellery Creek Big Hole, a beautiful, permanent waterhole. This is a great spot for a swim to cool off, a picnic lunch, and a relaxing break.
Afternoon: Drive to Ormiston Gorge. This is a major highlight with a spectacular geological landscape. Take on the Ormiston Pound Walk for incredible views of the gorge and the surrounding ranges.
Evening: Settle in at the Ormiston Gorge Campground. The campground offers toilets and some other facilities. Set up your camp, enjoy a campfire dinner, and soak in the peace of the outback as the stars begin to appear.
Day 2: The West Macs and the Journey to Kings Canyon
Morning: Have a quick breakfast and pack up camp. Choose your own adventure, choose between Glen Helen, 2 Mile Campground or head to Redbank Gorge. This requires a 4WD, but the reward is a beautiful, narrow chasm you can explore.
Midday: Drive south towards Kings Canyon, a long but incredibly scenic drive. This is a day for embracing the outback landscape from the comfort of your vehicle. Stop for a lunch break at a scenic lookout or a designated rest area.
Afternoon: Arrive at Kings Canyon, located in Watarrka National Park. Set up camp at Kings Canyon Campground or a nearby station, such as Kings Creek Station.
Evening: Relax and prepare for an early start tomorrow. Take in the dramatic scenery of the Watarrka landscape and enjoy another night under the brilliant outback sky.
Day 3: Kings Canyon to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Region
Morning: Rise early to beat the heat and embark on the iconic Kings Canyon Rim Walk. This 6km loop is a must-do, with breathtaking views of the sheer canyon walls, the Garden of Eden, and the unique "Lost City" sandstone domes.
Midday: After the walk, refuel with a well-deserved breakfast or brunch. Pack up and begin the drive to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park area.
Afternoon: Arrive at the Ayers Rock Campground in Yulara. Set up your campsite. It's a great base with amenities like showers and a camp kitchen. Head to the Uluru sunset viewing area to watch the rock's colours change in the fading light—an absolutely stunning and unforgettable experience.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and the incredible atmosphere of the resort area. There are often cultural events or art galleries to explore. Consider a stargazing tour to see the night sky in a new way.
Day 4: Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Morning: Get up before dawn and drive to the Uluru sunrise viewing area to watch the magnificent sunrise over the monolith. Afterward, take the Uluru Base Walk (10.6km circuit). This allows you to appreciate its immense size and learn about its cultural significance from the Anangu people.
Midday: Drive to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Have a picnic lunch and prepare for the next hike.
Afternoon: Take on the Valley of the Winds walk at Kata Tjuta. The name is no joke, but the views are spectacular. This walk takes you between the towering, ancient domes.
Evening: Enjoy a final outback dinner at your campsite. This is a perfect night to reflect on the immense beauty you've seen over the last few days.
Day 5: Return to Alice Springs
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up camp for the last time. Drive back towards Alice Springs. The drive is approximately 4-5 hours, so you have plenty of time.
Midday: Stop at a roadhouse like Erldunda for a break and to refuel.
Afternoon: Arrive back in Alice Springs. You can either stay in a caravan park or hotel in town to clean up and enjoy a nice final meal, or prepare for your onward journey.
This itinerary balances iconic sights with the time it takes to travel the distances in the outback. Remember to book your camping sites and national park passes in advance, especially during the popular spring season. Safe travels!
