7 Day Alice Springs to Melbourne
This tour is no long running.
- Small Group Adventure
- Camping in Swags/Tents
- Hostel Accommodation
- Air-Conditioned Vehicle
- Hot showers & flushing toilets
- Electric plugs for charging
- Knowledgable & Experienced Guide
- Camping equipment
- All Transport
- Vegetarians OK
- Meals ( as indicated )
- Fees & Taxes
- Trip length:
- 7 Days
- Group size:
- Max 21
- Start:
- Alice Springs & Uluru
- End:
- Melbourne
- Vehicle:
- Airconditoned 4WD Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Camping and Hostels
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Day 1: Kings Canyon
You will be picked up from your accommodation at 5:30am, first destination Kings Canyon. Enjoy a guided 3 hour hike through the sandstone domes of the Lost City. Visit the many Amphitheatres, North & South Walls and the beautiful Garden of Eden. Next stop, Curtin Springs where we have a quick wash and toilet stop before setting up our Bush Camp. Your guide will prepare a healthy camp-oven dinner. Relax around the fire then curl up in your cozy swag under a million stars. (Meals - L, D)
Day 2: Kata Tjuta & Uluru Sunset
We leave Bush Camp just after Sunrise and head to Ayers Rock Campground for a quick shower and toilet stop before heading off to The Olgas. Feel the spiritual significance on your guided walk through to the Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta. Be shown bush tucker along the hike before heading to the Aboriginal Cultural Centre in the afternoon where you can listen to tales from the 'Tjukurpa' Dreamtime. We spend the evening enjoying dinner at the spectacular Sunset over Uluru. Witness the awesome sight of Uluru changing colour. We spend this night at the Ayers Rock Campground with toilets and showers. (Meals - B, L, D)
Day 3: Uluru Sunrise
We leave the Ayers Rock Campground before sunrise and take in a memorable Uluru Sunrise over the World’s Largest Rock. You then have time to complete an Uluru Base Walk around Uluru. You will see beautiful sites such as the Mala Walk, Mutijulu Waterhole and Aboriginal Cave Paintings. We stop on the way home for an optional Camel Ride at the Camel Farm. You will arrive back in Alice Springs at approximately 5:30pm. Back to civilization, get cleaned up and we meet later with your Guide for dinner and a couple of beers at The Rock Bar. (Meals - B,L)
Day 4-5: Alice Springs to Adelaide
Easy day today as we catch the Greyhound bus directly down to Adelaide. Starting in the afternoon we arrive the following day at around 1pm where we check into our accommodation.
Day 6 - Adelaide to Grampians National Park
Start the day with beautifull views as we travel by Australia’s longest river Enjoy some complimentry morning tea at Tolmer Creek. Look around the township of Horsham. Learn the history and culture of the local jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung Tribes. Take a stroll along the lake’s shore and breathe in fresh mountain air. This ever popular walking and picknicking spot is just a short drive from Hall’s Gap. Bunjil, the almighty Grampians creator, was the leading figure in spiritual life of local Abroginal people. The only known rock art painting of Bunjil, is found on the way to Stawell. A pleasant walk to see the beautiful McKenzie Falls or the Silverband Falls. Experience breathtaking mountain views from Boroka Lookout point or cool down at Venus Baths. Spend time in the beautiful Halls Gap, the heart of the Grampians National Park. Spot some kangaroo’s and enjoy a delicious dinner. (D)
Day 7 - Great Ocean Road to Melbourne
Visit a 30 000 year old extinct volcano. Start the Great ocean road off with a bang! London Bridge has fallen down….BUT it still makes a stunning photo opportunity and has a great story behind it. A beautiful vista of towerng cliffs, a sparkling blue-green sea with a small sandy beach. This gorge derives its name from one of Victoria’s most tragic shipwrecks more then 120 years ago. View the beautiful limestone stacks that form the mighty Twelve Apostles. Treat yourself to an optional helicopter flight for an extra $100 (Weather & Time permitting). Take a guided bushwalk through this very rare, ancient and cool temperate rainforest. You’ll feel dwarfed as you stroll past some of the tallest trees in the world. Go for a swim or look around the cute seaside town. See how many Koalas you can find at Kennett River. Get amongst beautiful bird: King Parrots, Crimson rosellas and look out for the famous Kookaburra Take some pictures at the historic Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch. Feel the small town coastal vibe as we cruise through this picturesque seaside village. (B)
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can drop down 5 degrees celcius
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
Passengers need to take caution during December/January period where temperaturs in Central Australia can get quite high. Its advised to prepare accordingly.
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Pillow
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sleeping bag are needed and can be hired if you don't have one.
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
What is included
TRANSPORT
- 4WD - Custom-prepared airconditioned mini bus
- Transport to and from Kangaroo Island
ACCOMMODATION
- Hostel acommodation
- Outback campfire and swags
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- Meals as indicated in itinerary
EQUIPMENT
- Camping equipment and utensils
- Tents and/or Swags
- Sleeping Mattress
- Pillows
OTHER
- Plenty of drinking water and snacks
- Experienced and knowledgable tour guide
- Park entry fees
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Do I need to take any medical supplies?
It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour will carry an first aid box and our guides are all certified in First Aid.
How much luggage can I take?
We don't have an exact policy when it comes to luggage though we just ask our customers to be mindful that we have limited space. Generally we recommend people to bring a large backpack/suitcase with all their gear and another smaller backpack to keep on the bus and hold their daily items ( phone, water bottle, towel, sunscreen etc ) and which they used to take on walks etc.
If you have a lot of luggage is best to leave the things you don't need at your hotel/hostel where they will store it for free.
Where can I store my luggage whilst on tour?
During the tour your main luggage will be stored in our trailer. This trailer is always locked however we cannot guarantee the complete safety of your gear from theft or damage. This is why it is so important to purchase a good travel insurance.
If you need to store your luggage whilst away on tour, this can be done through your accommodation. Most hostel and hotels will store your luggage safely free of charge.
Will I be able to do any laundry whilst on tour?
For camping tours there will be no time to do laundry.
However, for longer cross country tours involving hostel or hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to wash your clothes.
Do I need a sleeping bag?
For all camping tours require you to have a sleeping bag.
If you don't have one they may be available for hire via the "join tour" button.
How fit do I need to be?
Our tours are made to be fun, informative and active and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking/walking up to 5km each day.
Do I need travel insurance?
Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended.
Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.
Can I get online whilst travelling?
For tours incorporating hostel/hotel style accommodation you may have the opportunity to use wireless internet or use of nearby internet cafe. If you have a mobile plan with internet then that should be ok except for more remote regions.
This will vary from tour to tour so please contact us directly for more accurate information.
Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?
You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
If your looking for a private tour based of one of our trips please contact us directly and we may be able to help.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
How do I know when a tour is available?
You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.
Can I just do a section of this tour and not the whole trip?
Unfortunately it is not possible to only do a part of the tour. Passengers generally need to stay with the tour from start to finish.
However, drop off locations at the end of the tour made me negotiated.
Does the tour price include flights?
No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself.
If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
As a rule of thumb we generally say AT LEAST 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible.
Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.
If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?
Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of different ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 49, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore and share the experience with likeminded travellers. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on group experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast. There may be some long drives and passengers should expect to help out when setting up camp or cooking food - this is a group adventure. However, there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?
We have many travellers jumping onboard our tours by themselves. Those travelling by themselves are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that will last a life time.
Those who do travel by themselves will probably be sharing a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room, you won't be charged extra. For camping tours, generally there are enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.
For more information please contact us directly.
How many people will be on tour?
Group sizes vary from tour to tour. You can find the size of your group by checking out information at the top right hand corner of the tour page. Group sizes range of 5 - 24 people.
Is there an age limit?
We get a large range of travellers from all over the world and from a very large age range. We get people of all ages joining these trips; generally our travellers vary between 21 - 45 though we also get many happy travellers in their 60s and 70s. Some tours however have a restriction on children under the age of 16 - 18. This will depend on the destination so please email us for more info.
Do I need to be able to swim?
If you aren't able to swim then you don't need to go into the water. In many cases there may be shallow areas when you can still get wet without having to actually swim. Please contact us for more information as this may vary for different itineraries.
Cost and Fees
What does "Paid Locally" mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. Its handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
What type of tent will I get?
Tents are generally designed to accommodate a minimum of 2 people. This means there is plenty of room to move about and store your luggage. However, most Uluru tours we try and encourage the use of swags and mattress rather than tents. This is the ideal way to camp in the centre of Australia; Around a campfire, under the stars!
What will the food be like?
Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve picnic sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner - This can vary between pastas, bbqs, rices and other hearty food to keep you energized! We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.
What form of vehicle do we use?
For our Uluru Tours we toss between a Troop Carrier 4WD Landcruise and a 4WD Mini bus. This depends on the size of the group and the amount of days we are out in the park. Each tour varies so please refer to your tour info panel on the top right hand side of the page.
Are there days where we travel for a long time?
During the first day we usually do a couple of hours driving to get out of the city and into the country side. However, once in the national parks, trips between attractions usually take between 30minutes to an hour.
For tours heading up to Darwin or down to Adelaide, expect periods where we drive for a few hours at a time. Australia is enormous and the distance between towns and attractions can be quite large. But don't worry, we take plenty of breaks so your able to stretch and move about.
For more accurate information please see tour itineraries.
What will the weather be like?
Between the months of April and August Central Australia is quite cold so be sure to bring warm clothing. Temperatures range from about 20c during the day right down to 2c at night.
Between October and March temperature are warm, so light clothing during the day is ok. However, night times can still be quite cool so its wise to bring light winter clothing for extra warm.
Where do I meet the tour?
For pick up times and locations, please check out the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary. Here we list everywhere we can pick up from and their respective times.
There is a lot of information here to help you plan your flights and arrival.
Please review careful as these can vary from tour to tour.
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