Australia’s golden coastline is a tempting tourist destination, but for the more adventurous, the Australian Outback has more to offer. If you want to see the great Australian outback, then the Northern Territory is the destination for you. Take a road trip across the vast landscape and see some of the most famous landmarks in the world, including Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, and Kings Canyon. While you’re on the road, features of natural Australia such desert landscape and wildlife make for great in-car sightseeing.
Planning your itinerary
Road trips are fun, but the perfect road trip requires a lot of planning. Before you start to look for air tickets and make the route, make sure you get a visa first. Australia requires visa for short tourism reasons. Usually you can obtain the visa online and it is valid for 1 year with multiple entries.
After the visa is done, you can start to make your route. This involves deciding which natural attractions you will visit along the way. This route includes stops at Ayers Rock, Alice Springs, and Kings Canyon. Each of these is a celebrated part of Australia.
Alice Springs
Alice Springs, also known as “Alice”, is the third largest town in the Northern Territory. The area has maintained its natural landscape and the recreational activities will let you see the region in its natural state. There are many ways in which to explore the outback. If you want to get down and dirty, you might want to explore on foot on a hiking trail. The terrain is easy, so beginner hikers need not feel intimidated. You should start your walk at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve, the original site of the first European settlement in the town. End your hike by exploring the Olive Pink Botanic Gardens. If you enjoy observing wildlife then try your luck at bird watching.
Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon is situated inside Watarrka National Park. It is a five-hour drive from Alice Springs, so you would definitely be able to make it. An area of the gorge is a sacred Aboriginal site, so it is an important part of Australian heritage and well worth a visit. Further, the area is home to more than 600 species of plants and animals. King’s Canyon is known for the spectacular sunset and sunrise view.
The Garden of Eden, a permanent waterhole, is another beautiful natural formation in the area. The peculiar rock formations you will see here is known as The Lost City. Kings Canyon is a tribute to the Australian outback. Make sure it is included in your trip.
Ayers Rock
Ayers Rock is a six and a half hour drive from Alice Springs and three hours from Kings Canyon. Traditionally known as Uluru, Ayers Rock was officially renamed “Uluru / Ayers Rock” in 2002 to reflect its Aboriginal and English names. Ayers Rock is without a doubt the main attraction of the Northern Territory and easily accessible form most major towns. To fully experience the Rock, you should walk the full six-mile Uluru Base walk around it. It takes around three hours and you will be escorted by tour guides who will explain the area’s flora, fauna, wildlife, and rock paintings. If you prefer not to walk, there are camel tour options available.
Time to end your trip
Once you have seen all that the Northern Territory has to offer, head back to Alice Springs.
Australia is a huge land. You will find that the most beautiful natural landscape can be found in the Northern Territory. It’s very easy to get completely lost in the wild, but don’t forget to share your happy moments with your friends and family. Make sure you take your mobile phone or tablet along with you and snap some photos of the Australian outback.
