Hidden gorges, desert landscapes transformed by rain, ancient stories shared on Country and roads that lead somewhere quieter, deeper and less expected. This is the Red Centre in full - rich with contrast, alive with culture and best experienced as a journey, not a stop. Head for the Heart.
Be sure to check out some of these lesser-known spots alongside our icons on your next trip. You might get the whole place to yourself.
These itineraries are designed for travellers who want to see the highlights and everything beyond them.
Hike through the striking gorges, dive into desert waterholes and follow winding roads framed by ancient ranges. Take the long way - It's worth it.
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Vast skies, historic sites and powerful desert stories await beyond the usual route. Ideal for travellers who prefer places that still feel undiscovered.
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Connect Uluru, Kings Canyon and remote desert stops in one unforgettable drive. Iconic moments balanced with the freedom to explore beyond
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Go beyond sealed roads to remote landscapes, dramatic scenery and the kind of space that stays with you long after you return home.
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The Northern Territory is vast. Occupying about one sixth of Australia's total land mass, its boundaries encompass a variety of contrasting landscapes and experiences, best tackled by exploring a few key destinations – each with their own distinct personality, we urge you to experience the wonders of our region.
Click the map to explore the Red Centre regions >Framed by the MacDonnell Ranges and desert landscape your outback adventure begins here in Alice Springs. Mparntwe is the Arrernte word for Alice Springs. The Arrernte people who are the traditional custodians of Alice Springs have a strong connection with the land. According to the Dreamtime the town of Alice Springs and the MacDonnell Ranges were created by the actions of several ancestral figures including the caterpillar beings Ayepe-arenye, Ntyarlke and Utnerrengatye.
Explore RegionThe West MacDonnell Ranges have been justifiably described as the jewel in the crown of Central Australia. The ancient landscape, sculptured over time by climatic change and made famous by the art of Western Arrernte artist Albert Namatjira, is on display in the West MacDonnell Ranges. You can find evidence of a bygone tropical forest at many of the cool scenic gorges that act as a refuge for an assortment of plants and animals.
Explore RegionThe East MacDonnell Ranges could be considered the 'hidden gems' of Central Australia. Much of the East MacDonnell Ranges depict the Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal Yeperenye Dreaming. At Emily and Jessie Gaps you will see rock art, red ochre and white lime paintings, as well as flocks of native budgerigars drinking from waterholes. Figs hug gorge walls, bloodwoods hang with bush coconuts and bush passionfruit grow from the sand. You will think this land is unyielding but you will be pleasantly surprised.
Explore RegionThe World Heritage-listed and one of Australia’s most iconic symbols, Uluru is approximately 460 kilometres or a six hour drive southwest of Alice Springs. Right in the heart of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Uluru is a place that speaks of timeless folklore, rich indigenous culture and great spirituality.
Explore RegionThis scenic landscape of rugged ranges, ancient sandstone walls rising hundreds of metres to a plateau of rocky domes, rock holes and gorges in the Watarrka National Park is breathtaking.
Explore RegionLocated 500 kilometres north of Alice Springs and 1000 kilometres south of Darwin, with Tennant Creek at its golden heart, is the Barkly. Its large cattle stations, fascinating wayside inns, historic stock routes, gold mining history, Aboriginal culture, interesting flora and fauna and the iconic Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles make up this beautiful outback region of the Red Centre.
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Spot rare species soaring above ancient ranges. From waterholes to desert woodlands, the Red Centre is a birdwatcher’s dream.
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Dive into hidden waterholes framed by soaring cliffs. Discover the Red Centre’s most refreshing wild swimming spots and reconnect with nature.
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Beneath endless desert skies, millions of stars shine brighter than ever. Experience world‑class stargazing in the heart of Central Australia.
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Sleep under a canopy of stars in luxury. Experience glamping that blends outback adventure with comfort at Kings Canyon.
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Wander through vivid desert blooms as Central Australia comes alive with wildflowers. Discover nature’s most colourful secret waiting beyond red dunes.
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See the world wake up. As the sun rises over the MacDonnell Ranges, the vastness of the Red Centre reveals itself in the most unforgettable way.
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Small detour. Major mood shift. The Mereenie Loop winds through ancient landscapes and remote country rewarding those who venture a little further.
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Where will the trails take you? From towering gorges to desert waterholes, the Red Centre’s national parks invite you to explore deeper.
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Dive into the desert. Hidden among rugged ranges, the Red Centre’s waterholes are perfect places to pause, swim and reconnect with nature.
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Stay longer and experience the magic after sunset. Camping near Uluru lets you wake with the desert and sleep under endless stars.
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Totally in your element. Explore the Kings Canyon Rim walk with towering sandstone walls, ancient landscapes and breathtaking views await.
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