Really experience the desert by travelling on dirt roads, staying at remote private camps complete with permanent safari tents and swags, eating quality food cooked over a campfire and sleeping under millions of southern stars.
We'll visit all the best attractions; Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and Kings Canyon in Wattarka National Park. All the while, travelling in small groups and creating some amazing memories and new friends.
Days
- 3 days, 2 nights
Group size
- Max 21
Start / finish
- Alice Springs or Uluru / Alice Springs or Yulara
- Alice Springs 5:30-6pm, Yulara around 5pm
Return
- Alice Springs 5:30-6pm, Yulara around 5pm
Accommodation
- 2 nights camping — Ayers Rock Coach Campground, then Kings Canyon Campground. Choose a bush swag or a pop-up safari tent with camp beds. Hot showers and flushing toilets.
Transport
- Air-conditioned minibus with an experienced guide, with power points for charging. Early morning pick-up from Alice Springs hotels, or join at Yulara.
Meals
- All meals from day 1 lunch to day 3 lunch — 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners, including a campfire dinner on day 2. Vegetarians catered for.
Route
Included experiences
- Uluru — base walk with sacred rock art and the Kuniya and Liru stories
- Mutitjulu Waterhole — on the Uluru base walk
- Kuniya Piti — sacred site on the base walk
- Kantju Gorge — elders cave and Central Australia's highest waterfall
- Uluru — sunset with dinner cooked for you
- Uluru — sunrise on day 2
- Kata Tjuta — Valley of the Winds or Walpa Gorge hike
- Kings Canyon — Watarrka National Park canyon walk
- Mount Conner — false Uluru lookout
- Cultural centre — Red Centre indigenous interpretive centre
Reviews
4.9
Based on 122 reviews
Verified from
Real reviews from travellers who've done this tour, gathered from around the web and paraphrased.
AI summary of 122 reviews
Travellers consistently praise their guides, who are repeatedly described as knowledgeable about geology, Aboriginal culture and dreaming stories, wildlife and plants, while also driving, cooking and looking after the group. Reviewers highlight the well-organised itinerary that times visits to Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon for sunrises and sunsets and to avoid heat and crowds, along with the good food, the hands-on group cooking and camping, and sleeping in swags under the stars. Many note the sense of connection formed within small, mixed-nationality groups and the beauty of the landscapes, and some mention encounters with wildlife such as camels. The most common caveats concern the very early starts, challenging hikes, heat and flies, and the basic camping conditions. A number of reviewers also mention crowded or ageing vehicles and average or modest food, and some suggest clearer advance information about the itinerary, difficulty and tent options.
How we collect and publish reviews
Where they come from. Our reviews are gathered from independent review sites and from guests who share feedback with us directly after their trip. They come from people who have actually travelled on the tour.
Why some are edited. Many of our guests travel in their second or third language. Where a review is hard to read, we lightly edit spelling, grammar and punctuation, or paraphrase a sentence for clarity. We never change the rating, the meaning or the sentiment, and we never write a review on a guest's behalf.
Reading the originals. Reviews sourced from public review sites appear there in their original form, and can be read in full at their original source at any time.
Had a wonderful trip with guide Daragh, who was passionate, knowledgeable and worked hard to make sure everyone enjoyed themselves, even surprising us with little treats along the way. The landscapes of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon were breathtaking - I'd have loved a bit more time at some stops, but the schedule made sense for a group tour. A memorable journey thanks to Daragh.
Thoroughly enjoyed this trip to Uluru and Kings Canyon with guides Libby and Taylor, who were fantastic. Their knowledge was outstanding, and the camping, food and stops along the way made for great hospitality. Highly recommend.
We did the 3-day, 2-night camping tour to Uluru and Kings Canyon. Our host Maya did a remarkable job looking after 20 people - a great, unique way to see these sites. The camping and food aren't five-star, but that's part of what makes it great; the tour itself is beyond five stars and the company is highly organised. Thanks Maya.
Libby made this trip from Uluru to Kings Canyon a great and unforgettable experience. The hikes were beautiful and easy enough for everyone, the campsites were great, and Libby shared such vast knowledge along the way. An amazing time.
I did the three-day tour from Alice Springs to Uluru with Johnny and enjoyed it very much. He was lovely to us and shared as many stories of the local Indigenous people as he could, as well as explaining how the landscapes formed.
This 3-day Uluru tour was one of the most unforgettable journeys of my life - breathtaking landscapes and amazing experiences every day. Staying at the peaceful Kings Canyon campsite was a favourite. A special thanks to our guide Maya - friendly, professional, attentive and great fun, keeping the group entertained. Highly recommend it for the magic of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon.
I did the three-day tour of Uluru and Kings Canyon and it was amazing, with absolutely stunning views. Maya and Taylor were wonderful guides - knowledgeable, kind and enthusiastic - and thanks to them our group of 21 strangers grew close. They were also very accommodating with my being vegetarian, and the food was amazing.
Just finished the 3-day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon trip and had an incredible time. The red centre is spectacular and this itinerary covers all the highlights — accommodation and food are basic but perfectly fine. Libby guided us brilliantly, striking just the right balance of engagement and information on this active, epic adventure.
“Outback-memories packed in every backpack”
An amazing guided trip. Our guide Sophie was kind, friendly and hugely knowledgeable, sharing insights into Aboriginal life, the Outback plants and much more. We visited unforgettable places like Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon and spent wonderful nights at the campsites. Highly recommend.
A really great trip that packed a lot of fantastic places into a short time. Guide Libby was excellent, with an answer to seemingly every question about the region, big or small.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Well organised, with an itinerary that was full but never rushed, so there was time to take it all in. The food was great, especially the barbecue on the first night, and the sights were so unreal my friends joked I was standing in front of a green screen. Our guide Betty was awesome, knowledgeable and full of respect for the Indigenous people and their land, kind and caring, and the reason for the five stars.
We were there during heavy rains, so everything was lush and green with lots of waterfalls and pools. It was lovely. Shoes you can get wet and a fly net came in handy, and CJ was the best guide.
Our three-day camping trip to Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon was spectacular throughout. Guide Maya ran everything from setting up camp to cooking, drove the bus, led our hikes and shared deep knowledge of the region's culture, geology and history, with a well-judged group size. Damien joined as an extra guide on the final leg and was equally knowledgeable about Alice Springs - five stars, worth every cent.
“Desert days and nights”
Our 3-day, 2-night trip to Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta was fantastic. We'd first considered hiring a car from Alice Springs, but once we added up the costs a friend steered us to Autopia and we're so glad. Our friendly, hard-working guide Sonnae taught us a huge amount, cooked well and made sure we hit each site at the best times to avoid heat and crowds. We slept in swags around the fire under a brilliant starry sky. Highly recommended.
“A trip never to be forgotten.”
I can't recommend this tour enough. The comfortable bus, easy travel, wonderful food and sleeping in swags under the stars all made it special. Our guide Sonnae had so much knowledge of and love for the environment, culture, wildlife and even the stars that we hung on her every word. She made this a trip to remember.
“Johnny and Betty”
Our guides Betty and Johnny greeted us cheerfully for the 5am start. Johnny was actually a trainee, which we'd never have guessed given how well informed he was on the geology, biology, history and culture of the region, always happy to answer questions. The hikes were sometimes demanding but never overwhelming, and personal needs were carefully accommodated, including a vegan option for us. I hope everyone who books gets these two.
The 3 Day Red Centre Uluru Kings Canyon swag tour was fantastic - every stop was spectacular. Adam was a fantastic guide, friendly and packed with knowledge on the geology, history and culture of the area, and everything was really well run. Sleeping in a swag under the stars was a real highlight of three unforgettable days.
We did the 3 day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon tour in early March, and it was really amazing. Mikki was an exceptional guide, organised and full of interesting information, starting our walks early so we avoided the worst of the heat. The colours of the landscape were stunning, and camping under the stars was a real treat.
I did the 3 day Red Centre tour with Jordan as our guide. He looked after us well, checking in during the hikes, and was knowledgeable with a great sense of humour. Thanks Jordan.
The 3 Day Red Centre Uluru and Kings Canyon tour was a trip of a lifetime. Niall went above and beyond throughout, even stopping the vehicle so we could see wild horses and camels, and the group-to-guide ratio felt just right. We did three hikes at Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, with sunset at Uluru over wine and cheese and the Kings Canyon walk as standout moments - only gripe was the bed linen could use an update.
Thank you Mikki! We had a magical three-day trek from Uluru to Alice Springs. Mikki, our guide, shared this part of the world with real passion and skill, and made sure we were comfortable each day, both in our tent and at mealtimes.
“Raw & Phenomenal”
A favourite experience of my time in Australia as a solo traveller. It's rich in Aboriginal history, the views are stunning, and camping under the stars makes it feel wonderfully raw. It's great for solo travellers as you bond with the group over three full days. Mikki was an amazing guide, looking after everyone and full of knowledge and positivity. Just be ready for the bugs and flies if you sleep out.
“3 unforgettable days”
Perfect from start to finish. The organisation was flawless, and our guide Adriano was efficient, kind and attentive, sharing all the information we needed. The meals were varied and hearty, and the scenery was simply amazing. I was a little apprehensive about camping, but the tents were clean and comfortable with proper facilities. One of the best parts of my trip.
“An Unforgettable 3 Day Outback Adventure”
An incredible 3-day Outback tour, easily a highlight of my trip. Our guide Adam was outstanding: knowledgeable, resourceful and always a step ahead, keeping everything running smoothly and adapting the pace for a mixed group. Uluru on day one, Kata Tjuta on day two and Kings Canyon to finish, each day better than the last. A big shout-out too to camp host Taylor, a master of the grill. An experience that stays with you.
A very well organised trip with guide Jordan happy to cater to individual requests. He was very knowledgeable and taught us a lot about Aboriginal culture and the geology of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, and answered detailed questions well.
“The NT leaves you in awe”
A wonderful time with our guide Mikki, who is passionate and always shared the most captivating commentary during our various hikes. Her stamina was truly impressive. There's no better way to get to know or rediscover the NT. Thank you.
“Donk was great!”
We had a great time on our tour with amazing sights and a lovely group. Our guide Donk (Matt) was fantastic, hilarious and hugely enjoyable while staying really informative and making sure we had everything we needed. A great few days!
We spent an incredible few days exploring the red centre with guide Mikki, who was knowledgeable, energetic and clearly passionate about the region. She paced things well and looked after everyone in the group. The landscapes and culture from Uluru through to Alice Springs will stay with me — swimming in the waterholes was fantastic. Camping was better than expected, sleeping in a swag was unforgettable, and the stars were incredible. Food was simple but good, and the air-conditioned van was a nice touch. Thank you, Mikki, for a wonderful family trip.
Amazing three-day, two-night trip with guide Ewel doing it all - driving, cooking, planning and hiking for a group of over 20. He was efficient and kept us safe and well looked after the whole way, sharing great information on the outback and Aboriginal community along with plenty of fun. Thanks Ewel for such a valuable experience.
“Proper Aussie Outback Experience”
We'd only been in Australia four days and this was one of the big trips we'd booked to start our travels. CJ was absolutely brilliant, so passionate, knowledgeable and friendly. My partner and I felt we learned a lot and got a taste of the real Australia. Thank you for making the start of our trip so special. Highly recommend.
We did the three-day, two-night tour covering Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon — a genuinely amazing outback adventure with scenic hikes and swimming. Pick-up, transfers and the tour itself were all perfectly organised. An unforgettable trip.
Our three-day tour through Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon made for a fantastic, unforgettable trip, with gorgeous scenery including a rainbow over Uluru. So glad I chose Autopia — the guide was knowledgeable and personable, and I met lovely fellow travellers along the way.
Our three-day camping trip with Autopia was fantastic - the variety of experiences at Kings Canyon and the McDonnell Ranges was exceptional. Our guide Aaron was first class, always upbeat and a lot of fun. Highly recommend.
“A once in a lifetime outback adventure!”
The Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon tour was just everything! Our guide CJ was the best: very informative, hugely entertaining and full of character, making the whole trip unforgettable. Five stars, thank you!
“Amazing and informative”
An amazing tour, made extra special by our guide Adam. His enthusiasm, hard work and knowledge of everything from geology and birdlife to Indigenous cultures were outstanding, and we learned so much. We were also lucky with the weather. Thank you Adam.
“A great Red Centre experience”
Our guide Aaron was an enthusiastic, empathetic leader who looked out for everyone and engaged with us individually and as a group, staying positive and responsive throughout. The trip took us to remarkable places rich in cultural and natural value, from canyons and ranges to waterholes and ever-changing landscapes. The camping was great fun and, with Aaron's infectious spirit, brought the group together. Highly recommended.
“Breathtaking landscapes and unfogettable authentic experience”
Saying goodbye to our guide Adam almost brought my wife and me to tears. The tour has a smart, complete schedule, with the toughest hikes early in the morning to beat the heat and gentler activities in the afternoon. Both camping nights were beautifully organised, and even as first-time campers we slept and ate well. Add the astonishing views and Adam's insights and, of all the things we did across 20 days in Australia, this is the one I'd recommend above all.
Our three-day Red Centre trip was amazing thanks to guide Lea, who organised the itinerary perfectly and gave us time to really take in each place. Her deep passion for and understanding of Aboriginal culture, plus her respect for the land and its people, made a lasting impression. The Autopia office staff were also great before departure.
Our 3 day, 2 night Uluru and Kings Canyon trip was fantastic. Guide Damian was well prepared on every topic, friendly with the whole group, and even cooked us delicious meals. Everywhere we went on this tour was wonderful — definitely recommend it.
“The Magical 3 Day Tour of Uluru”
An amazing 3-day tour with our guide Misty, who was full of heartfelt knowledge about the area and the history of its people. I had magical moments at Uluru and Kings Canyon, such special sacred places. I'll always remember this trip. Thank you Misty.
“Magic!”
A great experience. Our guide Damien is a real character: kind, a good cook, full of stories and history, and considerate. The Kings Canyon hike is magic. Forget a little comfort for a few days and you'll gain a wonderful human experience.
“Unforgettable Tour”
We took the 3-day, 2-night Uluru, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta tour with our guide Damian, and it was perfectly organised. He took excellent care of everyone, whether driving, giving commentary, serving champagne at sunset by Uluru, or preparing meals. These three days will stay with us. Karin and Wolfgang, Germany.
“Exceeded our expectations”
Damian led this tour superbly. It was full of information and real respect for Indigenous culture and knowledge, plus insights into the geology and flora, all of which added so much to seeing and walking at Uluru and Kata Tjuta and exploring Kings Canyon. The second night's camping was unique. Exceeded our expectations.
Thank you for such an amazing trip — every moment was perfect, from sunset and sunrise to meals and walks. The group was fantastic, and I'd recommend Autopia's 3 Day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon tour. The tent is comfier, but the swag's amazing too.
Joined the 3 day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon camping tour and it was the best trip of my life. The landscapes felt otherworldly, and the group bonded really well throughout. Our guide James made it all possible - knowledgeable, respectful of the land and Aboriginal culture, and funny too. Sleeping in a swag under a sky full of stars is a must-try.
“heart-warming experiences with joe”
Our campfire trip with guide Joe was truly wonderful. Professional and friendly, he led us from Uluru's rocky landscapes to the cliffs of Kings Canyon, and we even tasted kangaroo. The best part was getting hands-on, collecting firewood, lighting the fire and cooking together. When I forgot to bring water, Joe was so kind and thoughtful in helping, making it one of the warmest experiences I've had in Australia.
“Beautiful views and tunes”
A fantastic trip from Alice to see Uluru and Kata Tjuta, finishing with a beautiful hike at Kings Canyon. Well organised and superbly hosted by Rachel, with a great soundtrack adding to the atmosphere.
“Outback adventure”
If you want a challenging Outback adventure and the 'real' Australia away from luxury hotels, this is it. The three highlights, Kata Tjuta, Uluru and Kings Canyon, plus the swag nights around the campfire and the sunrises and sunsets, were wonderful. Special mention to our guide Rachel, who was there for us around the clock and impressed us with her knowledge, humour, approachability and organisation. If only there were ten stars.
“Incredible”
Rachel is the most incredible guide, so knowledgeable and fun that she made the experience unforgettable and I never wanted it to end. Sleeping in the swag was beautiful, and seeing the Milky Way at night was truly life-changing. Thank you for the most amazing time.
“Laid-back Outback Adventure with Rachel the best guide”
We joined a 3-day tour from Uluru and Kata Tjuta to Kings Canyon and it was a pleasure having Rachel as our guide. She was authentic and organised, made everything feel easy and relaxed, and took great care of the whole group. From the breathtaking Uluru sunrise to camping in the desert, a first for us, we enjoyed every moment. The laid-back vibe made it even more special. Highly recommend Rachel.
“Amazing experience Uluru - Thank you Rachel”
A breathtaking sunrise over Uluru, followed by a hike through a striking sacred place. A night in the desert with a campfire, starry skies and wild horses. A unique, simple and unforgettable experience. Thank you Rachel.
“Great recommendation to experience the center”
A great tour. We were picked up in Alice Springs and our group of 14 saw Uluru, the Cultural Centre and sunset at the rock, then slept in swags under the stars. Day two brought sunrise at Kata Tjuta and Uluru before hiking and another night at a real Outback camp, and we finished with a hike in Kings Canyon. The organisation was great, there was plenty of food, and our guide Rachel was fantastic, with an energy that carried everyone along. Recommended for anyone wanting to experience the centre in a short time.
“Fantastic”
Such a fun and well-organised trip. The scenery is of course beautiful, but our guide Joe also did everything to make the adventure a success. You can tell he runs these tours with real passion and wants the best for everyone. A guide who becomes part of the memory.
“Australian Outback”
What an amazing experience, I really had the best time. It was an awesome trip through beautiful country and I'd definitely recommend it. Our guide Rachel was the best, making the experience even more enjoyable and sharing all her knowledge with us. Thank you Rachel!
We just got back from a wonderful three day, two night camping trip to Uluru and Kings Canyon. Our guide Damien was knowledgeable, patient and great fun, and we really enjoyed being in his care. Our 10-year-old loved learning about the history and environment and easily kept up with the walking.
A wonderful 3 day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon adventure with a small group of 21 and our experienced guide Jordan. He stayed upbeat and resourceful even when weather forced last-minute changes, checked in with everyone, and even helped cook and clean after long driving days. I learned so much about local Anangu culture and the landscape - will definitely recommend Autopia to friends and family.
“An excellent trip and we were lucky to have Damien as our…”
We were based in Alice and wanted to combine Uluru with a proper Outback experience, and this trip delivered exactly that. Highlights included the Uluru base walk, sunset over Uluru, sunrise at Kata Tjuta, the Valley of the Winds and, best of all, the Kings Canyon rim walk; we even changed a tyre on a dirt track for the full experience. It's well scheduled, with regular stops, and Damian's commentary kept us entertained and informed. This isn't a trip for those needing creature comforts, as the camps are basic and you pitch in at mealtimes, but the permanent tents were more comfortable than we expected. Early 5am starts are a shock but necessary, and the wood-fired shower at Kings Canyon is unforgettable. Autopia's email communication before the trip was superb too.
“Enjoying the Red Centre”
We did this three-day tour and thoroughly enjoyed all the beautiful places we visited, as well as the wonderful guidance from Rachel, who was driver, guide and cook in one and always in a good mood. We had a wonderful time. Thank you Rachel. Vincent and Marjan.
“Outback authentic and adventurous”
We did the 3-day, 2-night Red Centre tour in swags. It was great, with two extra hikes on top of the must-sees that took us deeper into the Outback. Our guide Damien was excellent and funny, and looked after every little thing, whether cold, an insect bite or anything else.
Our group of 24 had an amazing time on the 3-day Red Centre tour with guides Nacho and Sanne. Everything was so well run - the touring, commentary, driving, food and camping were all handled brilliantly. Everyone in our group made lasting memories and learned so much about the landscape, Indigenous culture and respect for country. Truly life-changing.
Our 3-day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and King's Canyon tour with Damien was terrific - professional, knowledgeable and friendly throughout. Definitely recommend.
Booked the 3 Day Red Centre Uluru and Kings Canyon tour with great customer service throughout. Our guide Lorrie was friendly and adaptable, moving us to a better camp when rain hit the first night. The second night at Karrke Camp was a highlight -- campfire dinner, incredible stars, and dingoes calling in the distance. Good food, comfortable camps, and thoughtful Aboriginal culture insights. As a solo female traveller I felt completely safe throughout.
We did the Red Centre tour from 7 to 9 May and enjoyed every part of it, with a good mix of walking, exploring and bus time. Camping was basic but fun, and those who slept in swags loved it despite the dingos howling nearby. Our guide Jim was fantastic, full of knowledge and real respect for local Indigenous communities. The only downside was heavy flies after recent rain, so bring a fly net.
“Wonderful experience with spectacular sights and a…”
The 3-day tour led by Jim (Jemena) was absolutely fabulous, a wonderfully active trip where we all pitched in. The sights were amazing, and Jim made sure we reached each spot at the perfect time, kept us well fed and got everyone involved in the prep, which really helped the group gel. The Kings Canyon camp was spectacular and remote, with beautiful starry skies and eco-friendly showers, and the permanent tents were comfortable. The Indigenous stories connected to the sites, the sunset sparkling wine by Uluru, the food and the logistics were all great. Jim's passion for the land, people and guiding shone through. Thank you!
Great 3-day camping tour of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon with guide Lorrie, who drove, cooked and shared her huge knowledge throughout. Sunset and sunrise at Uluru were beautiful, plus a close-up look at rock art and caves. We hiked Kings Canyon at sunrise on day three and spotted a snake, wild horses, donkeys, a camel and a wallaby. Recommend this one if you like camping and hiking despite the long drives - Lorrie made it special.
This 3-day tour covering Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon gave us a real outback experience - worth every cent. Our guide Jim was one of the best I've had, always in control and ready with an answer. Huge thanks to Jim.
“An outstanding experience.”
Five stars for an outstanding Red Centre experience. Our guides Damian and Leah delivered a safe, highly professional and fully catered 3-day, 2-night tour. Having lived in Australia for 67 years, I finally got to experience this amazing landscape, made all the more memorable by their in-depth knowledge of the ecology and the Aboriginal significance of the landforms. Cannot recommend highly enough.
“Amazing trip with very experienced and friendly guides!”
A clear highlight of our three-month Australia holiday. The safari is the best way to really feel this country: an excellently organised tour that always had us first at each sunrise and sunset, delicious food in a small group of 11, and the amazing experience of sleeping in a tent or swag under the Milky Way. Our guides Casper and Adam shared so much detail about the Indigenous country, wildlife (we saw wild camels!) and plants. A very happy family from Germany.
“Camping and touring the Red Centre of Australia”
Tristan from Autopia put on an excellent 3-day camping and hiking tour of the Red Centre. It was full of beautiful sites, early rises for sunrises and hikes, good food, plenty of laughs, campfire stories and lots of interesting facts about the region. Thoroughly enjoyable even for us over-65s. What a beautiful place, go!
“Desert adventure”
An unforgettable tour. Our guide Jim was fantastic: knowledgeable, warm and genuinely passionate about the land and its stories, and her insights into the local culture and environment added real depth. She also had a great sense of humour and created a relaxed, fun vibe in the group. The perfect mix of adventure, culture and connection. Highly recommended.
Just finished the 3-day Uluru and Kings Canyon Safari and had an amazing time. Thanks to Lorrie for being such a great guide and friend on the trip.
“Magnificent Times From Alice Springs to the Outbacks!”
We had an amazing time taking in the many beautiful views with our guide and group. Our guide Lorrie was informative, efficient and helpful, explaining the culture and history of each area and answering our questions. She made sure we reached the sunrise and sunset spots in time for front-row seats and kept the group together. A remarkable time with Lorrie and the team, and remarkable memories.
“Great experience”
We did the 3-day trip, combined with the 4-day group, and our guide Jim (Jemima) was great. All the sights were fantastic and the hikes are enjoyable and doable for most people. We chose the tent option, which was basic but comfortable on a raised platform, and the weather was pleasant day and night. There were campfires and good food, and everyone is expected to chip in with cooking and clean-up. The van can be cramped and the bathrooms are a walk from camp, but there are regular stops on the long drives. Overall a great trip and experience.
“Great time in the Outback”
I don't often write reviews, usually only for tours that are really bad or really good, and I'm glad to say this was fantastic. The format, sights, food and camps were all a great experience, but our guide Lorrie was more than great: expert, hard-working, professional, humorous and knowledgeable, making sure everyone had a wonderful time. Come ready to enjoy yourself, meet new people, work together and do some great hiking. My highest recommendation.
Despite the summer heat, the tour was great, with beautiful scenery, captivating Aboriginal culture and a knowledgeable guide in Michy, who drove, cooked, led the hikes and looked after everyone. The hikes were a bit challenging but my daughter loved them, and the very early starts were worthwhile for the sunrises.
A good trip with a knowledgeable guide. It felt a little rushed at times, and clearer daily itineraries in advance would have helped, as would more interaction with local people, perhaps at the cultural centre, to better understand Aboriginal culture.
“Experience of a lifetime”
What an experience! I loved the small group, the beautiful and diverse scenery, the challenging hikes with plenty of time to relax, and the conscientious, knowledgeable and fun guides. Jim and Silvia were awesome: passionate about the land and culture, focused on safety, organised and efficient, and both compassionate and supportive with a great sense of humour. They made a once-in-a-lifetime experience truly special. Susan, WI, USA.
A great way to discover the Red Centre, and better than I expected for a camping trip. It's not for everyone, but if you've an adventurous spirit this is the way to go. Our guide Adam went above and beyond, knowing everything, showing us all the places and wildlife, and sharing stories, legends and local folklore. He turned this into something truly unforgettable and magical.
This 3-day Uluru to Alice Springs camping tour with our guide Mitch was one of my best experiences in Australia. Despite being nervous about camping with strangers, Mitch made everyone feel safe and looked after, sharing his knowledge of the area's history, culture and geology at a pace that suited the whole group. The cooking, including a memorable veggie curry, was great, and sleeping in a swag under the stars beat any hotel. Early starts and long drives aside, the campfire stories and camaraderie made it unforgettable.
“Great experience with super nice guide Jim (Gemma)”
A very nice experience, and our guide Jim (Gemma) was really great and enthusiastic. She took care of everything and told us a lot about the history and wildlife, we had beautiful walks and our group was lovely. My only note is that some of the foam mattresses at the campgrounds could do with replacing. Our top rating is for Jim and the walks. Bianca and Marlie.
We just finished the 3 Day Uluru Red Centre Kings Canyon camping tour and would recommend it to anyone. Our guide Alex handled every challenge with humour and warmth as our group became friends hiking the full Kata Tjuta loop and Kings Canyon. The camping setup, buses and trailers were well equipped, the food was great, and everyone at Autopia was friendly. A fantastic start to my time in Australia.
This was such a magical trip. We hiked the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, watched sunset and sunrise over Uluru, ate great food, saw the Milky Way, and even slept on a new campground on Indigenous land. Our guide Alex made the whole experience fantastic - truly once in a lifetime.
Ben was an incredibly gracious, kind and friendly host who made us all feel safe and helped the whole group bond and connect. The dinners were lovely and the bonfire at Kings Creek was the best night. I walked away with many new friends and highly recommend this tour and Ben.
This was a breathtaking, unforgettable trip through Alice Springs, Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. It was well organised, with memorable activities and food that catered well to dietary needs. Our group mixed all ages and got along brilliantly, aside from one disrespectful older couple. Our guide Alex was fantastic, handling the bus, running the camp, and sharing deep knowledge of Indigenous culture and local botany, while keeping us ahead of the crowds at toilets, lookouts and hikes.
We booked the 3 day, 2 night Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon tour, and it was amazing. Deon, our guide, was the best - this had been top of my Australia bucket list, and it turned out to be the highlight of my five-week trip. He connected brilliantly with the whole group, kept the energy right, shared loads of interesting stories, and regularly checked in on everyone. Everything ran smoothly - definitely recommend.
The places were fantastic, well worth the long distances - around 1200 km over three days - and the early starts. Joey was the perfect guide to the sights and Outback Australia generally, including Aboriginal culture and history.
Our family did this outback camping trip over three days with our kids, aged 9 and 6. Some of the walks were tough going for our youngest, but Rhett was considerate of that. He was a great organiser, cook, and guitarist — evenings by the campfire roasting marshmallows while he played and talked about the stars were a real highlight. We loved the trip and the new friends we made.
Our group of 20, from all over the world, spent three wonderful days camping, hiking and sightseeing at Uluru, Kata Tjuṭa and Kings Canyon. Everything was well run — comfortable transport, decent tents, engaging walks and generous meals. Ben, our guide, was outstanding: knowledgeable, calm, and happy to accommodate every request with a smile. A fantastic trip that we'd happily recommend, and Ben deserves real credit for the great group atmosphere.
Our three-day safari to Uluru was amazing — well organised, delicious meals, and well-positioned campgrounds. Rhett, our guide, was wonderful and generous with his knowledge, teaching us so much about Aboriginal culture and the Australian landscape. He elevated the whole experience — genuinely the best guide we've had.
“Unique and fascinating experience with our guide Rhett”
We were lucky to have Rhett as our guide: very experienced, with a great sense of humour and deep knowledge, and constantly showing his creativity. He made our trip wonderful. An excellent tour with stunning spots to discover, nice treks and amazing nature. Highly recommended. Sylvianne.
“Amazing camping and hiking tour.”
What an amazing camping and hiking tour, thanks to our guide Rhett. Perfect organisation, delicious food and everything spotless, with Rhett always active and a real pro. He has great knowledge of and respect for Aboriginal people, their culture, history and way of life, as well as botany and astronomy, not to mention his musical talents, with fantastic guitar playing and singing around the campfire. Thank you for making these three days so incredible.
Three incredible days at Uluru with Damian as our excellent guide. The scenery, sunsets and sunrises were fantastic, and evenings round the campfire were memorable. Damian was hugely knowledgeable about the local plants and wildlife, attentive to everyone, with great support from Andy too. Highly recommend.
This safari tour exceeded expectations by a long way. Guide Elliot brought real wealth of knowledge and passion for Aboriginal history and culture that truly opened my eyes, and he was a great guy on top of that.
Sanne was an excellent guide who handled a challenging trip efficiently and cheerfully. She was very knowledgeable about local culture, plants and animals, which really enhanced the experience. Starting early worked well and we saw Uluru at sunset and Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta at sunrise. A great experience that we'd never have matched hiring a car ourselves.
“Fabulous, gorgeous, Fantastic”
Shearna was our hard-working, energetic guide, full of fabulous information on the geology, plants and wildlife, with a sharp sense of humour. The whole group helped each other out and enjoyed the company. The second night's camp near Kings Canyon was extra special, with our own private campground, a wood-fired boiler for hot showers and a lovely sunset spot. The hikes grew progressively more challenging and each day was spectacular. Highly recommend.
“Amazing experience in the Outback”
What an incredible trip to the Red Centre with a diverse, international group. Our wonderful and enthusiastic guide Shearna taught us about Aboriginal culture and dreaming stories, led us on breathtaking hikes and kept us groaning at her endless puns. We camped in gorgeous locations, watched the sunrises and sunsets, shared stories around the campfire and even saw wild camels. An amazing experience that left us with lasting memories.
I was hesitant about the cost at first, but the 3-day tour was worth every cent and something I'll remember forever. We visited Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon on the third day, camped out under the stars in swags, and had a warm, knowledgeable guide the whole way. Waking at 5am for sunrise after a night by the campfire was magical. Big thanks to Autopia and especially our guide Hunter.
The 3 Day Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon safari tent tour was a great experience. Guide Damien was extremely nice and the camp accommodation was good both nights. The camp hosts were welcoming, with delicious rice and chicken from Andy the first night and well-cooked pasta from Connie the second.
Went on the 3 day Uluru and Kings Canyon trip and had an amazing time. Guide Jordan was incredible, knowledgeable and friendly. I ticked visiting Uluru off my bucket list, but the Kings Canyon walk was even better. Highly recommend Autopia.
“Unforgettable tout!”
An absolutely amazing tour. We really enjoyed our visit and safari around Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Our guide Tristan made it so fun and enjoyable and brought lots of information to the trip too. Thank you Tristan for an awesome three days!
“Rhett, you are a legend!”
My girlfriend and I did the 3-day, 2-night trip to the Red Centre and it was unforgettable. Everything was very well organised, from the punctual pickup at Ayers Rock Resort to the magical Uluru sunset, the Valley of the Winds hike at Kata Tjuta and the stunning Kings Canyon rim walk. The campsites were comfortable and the food very good; as we travelled in winter it got close to freezing at night, so I'd recommend swags for warmth and the incredible night sky, plus warm clothes for mornings and evenings. The highlight was our guide Rhett, whose enthusiasm and passion were top-notch. He went above and beyond, entertaining us with guitar and singing around the campfire and sharing his knowledge of astronomy. The best guide we've ever had; thank you Rhett, you're a legend!
“Awesome experience”
An amazing trip I'd 100% recommend. Our guide Rhett was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, with a real passion for the history of Uluru and Aboriginal culture. The campsites were great, in scenic spots where you really feel part of nature, and all three days were a blast. Thanks Rhett!
“Excellent Trip!! ”
We camped for two nights and three days, taking in Uluru and Kings Canyon, on July9,10,and 11th, leaving from Alice Springs at 6am. Our guide was Suzi. She was excellent. I think we all enjoyed it and I felt it came up to my expectations although at the beginning we felt that Suzi could be a bit more available to explain more and answer questions. I know she had taken on a lot- all driving and a lot of the cooking and general responsibility!
Best experience ever!
“Great Experience (but tiring!)”
We had a great time on this full-on budget tour with our excellent guide Monty. Packing in all the main sights was an unforgettable experience but as they're all very far apart takes a LOT of travelling - expect to be up at sunrise every day. The under-the-stars camping experience is surprisingly comfortable and well worth it. Monty was a brilliant guide and could not have done a better job. He worked incredibly hard to make sure we were all involved, looked after and well fed with plenty of good food. He was also very knowledgeable about the sites and brought local culture to life - a real asset to the company!
“The trip itself was very nice.”
The trip itself was very nice.
A point of feedback that you should report on your website that sleeping in a tent is possible (for free). It’s guaranteed you have a swag, but still in a full group everyone but 7 people slept in a tent. And there were still free beds in some tents. Me and my friend slept in a swag just for experience anyways, but I think it’s important to let the people know sleeping in a safari tent is possible for free.
“Crikey! It's back to basics with a fantastic tour leader ”
Crikey! It's back to basics with a fantastic tour leader and amazing sites!
A once in a lifetime opportunity to visit some of the 'biggest' sites in the NT with a fantastic tour leader.
Highlights for me:
*Sleeping in a swag under the stars - the clearest night sky I've ever seen
*The tour of Uluru with Anangu woman, Bessie, who generously shared her stories in language illustrating the stories in the sand
*Swimming in waterholes
*Sunrise and sunset views with amazing colours, terrain, animals and plants
*Random, real deal outback service station stops complete with baby camels, emus and goannas
I was a solo Aussie travelling in a very diverse group of mixed nationalities and ages and our tour guide did a great job of answering everybody's questions, explaining cultural sensitivities and managing the schedule to avoid the worst of the heat and flies! It's not an easy job that's for sure. Madi was an absolute gun and her knowledge of the area is off the charts (especially if you are really into geology!)
If you are going on a tour like this, it's really important you're aware that everyone's coming from different places and points of view so perhaps don't mention Brexit to the Brit at the dinner table and try not to tell off colour jokes that belong in the 1950s. If a traditional owner doesn't want their photo taken please respect their wishes. This advice was included in our trip notes but some of our tour group obviously missed the memo!
I knew it was going to be hot and hard going because I did some research before booking the trip but I'm not sure others on the tour were aware how challenging it might be. If you think you will struggle with hiking in the heat with flies, visit in winter. It's absolutely worth it.
This is definitely a very back to basics tour which was what I was after, the food was good, the beds comfy but you are definitely roughing it in the outback so be prepared.
Hot tips: drink water, take a chill pill, focus on what you're there to see, bring a fly net, have a chat with your fellow travellers, be open, be sensitive to the local owners/community and swim in the waterholes!
“Oh what a night - well two actually, under the stars and three d”
Donk was our guide. He took the time to explain what we wanted and needed to know. He ensured we were safe at all times and ensured we knew exactly what was expected so we could all get the best out of the trip. He even showed us how to sleep in our swags so we could get the most out of sleeping under the stars. (the swags had a great mattress and Donk swept the area so we would have a comfortable sleep without any stray sticks or rocks in our backs)
We only had a small group of 10 from mixed countries, Donk helped us to get to know each other. By the end of day one we were like a little family.
The tour was well thought out and Donk customized it according to the groups wishes. eg. Day two, we were meant to go to Kata Tjuta however due to fires the walk we were meant to do was closed by the park rangers. He was very open and transparent with the group about the situation - let's face it, we didn't want to get caught in a fire anyway. We, as a group were allowed some freedom in choosing what we wanted to do.
Donk ensured we were on time without being over the top. He ensured we were well fed - there was lots of food with meat eaters and vegetarians both being catered for.
For me it was the little things that meant a lot. I like birds, Donk carried with him a little bird chart on the Rim walk so we could identify them. He showed us a book that talked about the history and making of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. He had plenty of positive reinforcement about all of the things we were doing right.
Donk even organised a dinner at Uncles at the end of the trip so we could say our last good byes. Everyone was dropped off at their accommodation, freshened up and made their own way to dinner. Everyone attended. I put this down to Donk's way of getting the group to work and come together.
All in all we had a wonderful time. Yes it was hot, yes there were flies (lots of them) however we loved every second of it especially sleeping under the stars.
“lost in australia was very nice and well organized”
lost in australia was very nice and well organized, but the tent was too hot ;-) I would advice to stay in and hotel near Uluru and do the excursions from there...
I hope you are find.
Here everything is perfect, kids are more and more happy.
Cheers
“I like the trip in Australia”
I like the trip in Australia. The guider is very good and the trip is very fantastic.
“Gorgeous places, old bus, nice guide”
Uluru and Kata Tjuta were really worth seeing. Kings canyon was OK but the journey there and back to Alice Spring was very tedious given an old battered out-of-order bus which was only capable of doing some 60 km/hour. James was great, we were lucky to have him as a guide.
“An incredible experience”
This tour exceeded my expectations. The guide David F. was friendly, knowledgeable, caring, clear and a just so passionate about the outback that it was contagious. He made a point to remember everyone's names and points out things that may be of interest to you. All 3 days had hiking, building to the 3rd day which was about 4 miles. Plenty of bathroom breaks and plenty of food, fruit breaks and water stops. The group works together at the campsite and David does the heavy lifting. The last night he made bread from scratch, pasta with kangaroo bolognese, potatoes au gratin and vegetables. All by the campfire. It was one of the best meals I had in Australia!!
We had a family, couples, an older couple and mostly fit people but all did well in the hikes. It helps if you are fit but most people can keep up the pace with plenty of water and guidance. Breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, ever changing landscaping throughout the drives and the tents are sturdy. Yes its hot, its the desert!! I had the pleasure of riding on the front seat most of the time, road tripping alongside my Aussie guide was part of what made the experience. Dirt roads are awesome, we played music and chatted. While others were sleeping we saw wildlife, camels, horses, cows. You may see kangaroos too. Take that seat if you can! Thank you David for a trip I will never forget.
“Authentic experience!”
We can feel that David, our guide, likes to share his bush experience and it’s a pleasure to listen to his explanations about aboriginal culture, geology, botanic and his knowledge about the life in the bush.
This tour is an participative tour and it’s perfect to understand the life in the bush.
We feel safe and David is attentive to each people in the group.
We recommend this tour for those who have not too much time to discover this part of Australia.
It was a beautiful experience!!
Claire & Véronique
“Amazing three day tour!”
We booked this tour a little bit afraid. We usually do everything on our own and never in group. We were not disappointed! Our guide was James and he was amazing. Great knowledge of everything and always around to help out with anything. It was a shame we got 5% of the annual 20% of rain on our trip. But on the other hand we did got to see waterfalls at Kata Tjuta/Valley of the winds. The kings canyon rim walk was incredible. The only thing I disliked was the time we had to get up, 4:30 should be illegal. Heart attack hill was hard but worth it. Halfway through the walk James gave us all apples and cookies. I can’t believe he dragged that weight up that hill!
It was my thirtieth birthday on our second day and they gave me a day I will remember forever. We made a cake and Damper but a dessert version. Everyone sang for me while I blew out the candles. We decorated the campsite with lights, balloons and a banner.
The first night it rained like hell so we slept in a tent, it was more than I expected, clean good beds. The second night we slept in a swag underneath the stars. It’s supposed to get better the more you do it, I highly doubt that but it was an incredible experience. I recommend doing it if you get the chance!!
I loved the food, the all hands on approach worked really well with our group.
So in a nutshell, do not hesitate and book this tour. You will not be disappointed!! Only make sure you carry a jumper and a raincoat, we had neither and where surprised with the rain and the semi cold at night.
“Best way to experience the Australian Outback”
We went on the wonderful 3 day tour, guided by Phil who did a fantastic job of introducing us to the Australian Outback. The tour of Uluru with the native guide, watching the sunrise above Uluru, talking with Phil in the front of the bus, camping in the outback with no one around for miles, getting up early to hike through the King's Canyon and Phil's enthousiastic explanation of the geological events which formed it all, were our personal favorites.
Phil, we hope you're having an equally great time exploring South America as we had exploring the outback with you, enjoy!
“A genuine adventure”
We joined the 3 day tour covering Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Our guide Susie was a pleasure and made the experience a delight. The highlight was the visit to Kings Canyon - do not let anyone talk you out of the rim walk, it is tough, there are a lot of steps, but you will never see anything like it again. The camp site at Kings Canyon was magnificent and watching sunset over the valley was also a highlight. The food was acceptable, but nothing special, and a single bottle of wine between 6 a little on the light side. The huts at the camping spots were basic but functional (although I suspect the pillows pre-dated everyone on the trip).
“Great time sleeping in Swags ”
We had good walks and talks, a good campfire sleeping in swags, average food (lacking some hygiene in preparation but... it's camping). The only thing we didn't like (despite of having a very nice group) was the fact that every seat was taken in the Truck-Bus and that's too crowded (19 people). We got some extra space on the last day when 2 people came to sit in the truck cabin with the guide/drive (great place to be when driving). The truck's chairs and construction were old (and surely unsafe in case if an accident) but our guide was a good driver with, every day again, a high sense of responsibility. Wayoutback, give that man a better truck and make sure a 19 people truck will never have more than 15 people... that's full enough.
“Must do!!”
I’d never expected it to be so nice!! It was definitely freezing at night in our swags but it was still worth it. If you’re going to Australia you have to do this!! The food was great, our guide (Rohan) was amazing and so much fun, the places you see are simply unique. My favorite moment was our second night when we were looking at the stars, I’ve never seen such beautiful stars in my life. The kangaroo pasta Rohan (and I) prepared was also quite yummy!! I would definitely do it again (and bring warmer clothes).
“Must visit places in Central Australia”
An excellent short break from Alice springs 3-Day tour of Ayers Rock, sunset with colours of Uluru, Alice-springs, Kata Tjuta National Park and Kings Canyon Camping. The Adventure travels make the trip memorable one with their on-time, excellent customer service.
“3 Day Camping - Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon and Olgas”
Madi was a great tour guide, was also had an aboriginal tour guide for the Ayers Rock that made this a more interesting experience. The hike up Kings Canyon was intents but worth it. This whole trip was a dream come true. Highly recommend this for everyone!!
“Becoming one with the nature”
A fantastic experience that i will never forget i love that there sometimes are some challenges so that you don't feel like it is a 5 star hotel. I recommend sleeping in the tweat because you fall asleep looking at the sky filled with stars
“The trip was amazing ”
The trip was amazing and our guide Matt was such an informative and outstanding guide! I loved everything about the trip and will recommend it to everyone I know! I would give the trip a 5!
“We really loved our 3 Day Uluru Safari ”
We really loved our 3 Day Uluru Safari with WayOutback/Lost in Australia & would give it a score of 5/5 :-) Our group of 15 was an ideal number & mix of nationalities, personalities & age differences did not matter in the least. We were especially grateful to have a Team Leader named Rhett who was just so knowledgeable on so many facets of the tour - the geology, the indigenous culture & dreamtime stories, the flora (especially the bush tucker), the constellations, the organisation of feeding this many people for 3 meals a day but still getting everyone to the allocated scenic locations on time without having to hassle & the best 'morning alarm' ever with his guitar playing of 'Here comes the sun' - what a way to wake up!
We would certainly recommend this tour as long as all the Tour Guides as a great as Rhett!
