16 Iconic Things To Do In Central Australia (Beyond Uluru)

Central Australia is not only about Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park… There’s SO much more to explore beyond that iconic landmark!

There are heaps of other attractions in Central Australia that will show you just as good (and far less crowded) a time!

From the rugged gorges of the West MacDonnell Ranges to the rich Aboriginal history embedded in places like Alice Springs and Kings Canyon, this region is brimming with adventures that will take you off the beaten path.

We’ll dive into all the epic things to do in this region beyond Uluru, including the hidden gems and must-see spots that make this part of the outback truly unforgettable.

Note: We won’t talk about Uluru-Katja Tjuta in this blog post, but here’s a complete guide where we do a deep dive into this incredible place in case you want to visit it!

16 Epic things to do in Central Australia

We recognise the traditional owners of this land, which include the Pitjantjatjara, Arrernte, Luritja, and the Warlpiri peoples.

1) Kings Canyon (Watarrka National Park)

Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park is a must-see, it’s often considered the “Grand Canyon of Australia.”

Just here there are several things to do, like the Kings Canyon rim walk. It’s a 6 km loop that offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Red Centre. The walk begins with a steep climb but rewards you with panoramic views of the canyon.

Don’t miss the Garden of Eden, a serene waterhole surrounded by ancient cycads. For those short on time or energy, the Kings Creek Walk is a less strenuous option that still offers stunning views of the canyon walls.

We wrote a full guide on what to do at Kings Canyon, check it out here!

2) Alice Springs

Alice Springs is the gateway to the Red Centre and a vibrant town rich in Aboriginal culture, history, and art. It’s not just a stopover or a base from which to explore the region, it’s a destination in its own right.

There, you can explore the Alice Springs Desert Park, where you can learn about the unique flora, fauna, and Aboriginal culture of the region.

The Araluen Cultural Precinct is near Alice Springs town centre. It offers insights into local art and history, while the Alice Springs Telegraph Station provides a glimpse into the town’s colonial past.

For a bit of adventure, take an open-door helicopter ride over the MacDonnell Ranges or a sunrise hot air balloon flight over the desert!

Here’s our full guide on things to do in Alice Springs!

3) Drive The Red Centre Way

The Red Centre Way is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, as you’ll be on a journey through the heart of the Outback.

This route connects many of the region’s top attractions, including Kings Canyon, Uluru, and the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Plan for at least five to seven days to do this Red Centre road trip! Along the way, you can hike, camp, and explore the stunning landscapes.

4) Simpsons Gap

Simpsons Gap is one of the first stops along the West MacDonnell Ranges. It’s a quick, easy walk from the car park to the gap, where towering cliffs create a stunning backdrop.

The area is home to black-footed rock wallabies, so keep an eye out!

It’s worth spending a bit more time and taking the 1-hour return Cassia Hill walk, up onto the schist escarpment (once part of the floor of a massive inland sea) and look down on the Gap.

You’ll be rewarded by wildflowers, classic Central Australian scenery, and a staggering 360º view… of which Simpsons Gap is a very small part!

5) Standley Chasm

The Standley Chasm is a natural wonder, with its 80-metre-high sheer rock walls that glow a fiery orange at midday when the sun is directly overhead.

It’s a spiritual place for the local Aboriginal people and offers a striking contrast to the surrounding desert landscape.

This place is best visited around midday, when the sunlight floods the chasm and illuminates the steep walls!

The chasm is an easy 1.2 km walk from the car park. There’s also a small café near the entrance where you can grab a coffee or light meal before or after your walk.

It has an entry fee and make sure to check the opening hours before going. They also offer guided Aboriginal tours! Check all the information on their website, here.

6) Ormiston Gorge

Ormiston Gorge is the jewel of the West MacDonnell Ranges. It’s a deep waterhole, surrounded by high red cliffs, perfect for swimming and relaxation.

And it’s the BEST base from which to expore the West MacDonnell Ranges!

A sealed road leads to the campground, which has more facilities than other campsites – toilets, showers, and even a kiosk.

There are also a few walks that start from there, like the Ormiston Pound Walk, a 7 km loop that takes you through a variety of landscapes, including the flat floor of the pound, before descending into the gorge.

The water can be extremely cold even in summer, so be prepared for a brisk dip.

7) The Ochre Pits

The Ochre Pits are a significant cultural site where Aboriginal people have sourced ochre for thousands of years for their ceremonies.

The vibrant layers of red, yellow, and white ochre in the cliffs are fascinating. The colours are so vivid and contrast beautifully against the blue sky.

The interpretive signs along the path explain the cultural importance of ochre and its use in ceremonies and artwork.

The walk is short and easy from the car park. Just respect the cultural significance of the site by not removing any ochre!

8) Ellery Creek Big Hole

This is one of the most popular swimming spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges. The waterhole is framed by towering red cliffs and sandy beaches, creating a picturesque and relaxing environment.

Plus, there’s a nice campground and the surrounding area is perfect for picnicking, with plenty of shaded spots under the gum trees.

There’s also a 3 km Dolomite Walk that offers insights into the area’s geology and ancient history.

9) N’Dhala Gorge

N’Dhala Gorge is a gem in the East MacDonnell Ranges, known for its extensive collection of ancient petroglyphs (rock carvings). This site is like an open-air museum of Aboriginal art and history!

The walk into the gorge is relatively easy, and along the way, you’ll see hundreds of petroglyphs etched into the rocks. Each carving tells a story, and interpretive signs help you understand their meaning and significance.

The road to N’Dhala Gorge is unsealed, so you’ll need a 4WD to get there. Visit during the cooler parts of the day, and bring plenty of water as there are no facilities on-site.

10) Ruby Gap

Ruby Gap is one of the most remote and beautiful spots in the East MacDonnell Ranges. Once thought to be rich in rubies (which turned out to be garnets), the area is now known for its stunning scenery and challenging 4WD tracks.

The journey to Ruby Gap is an adventure in itself, requiring a 4WD to navigate the rough and rocky track.

Once there, you can explore the sandy riverbed, hike through the gorge, or simply enjoy the solitude and beauty of the landscape.

The area is perfect for bush camping, with the chance to spot wildlife such as dingoes and kangaroos.

It’s quite remote though, so be well-prepared with supplies, water, and a reliable vehicle. The track can be challenging, especially after rain, so check the conditions before you go.

11) Arltunga Historical Reserve

Arltunga was the first town in Central Australia, established during a gold rush in the late 19th century.

It’s now a historic reserve with well-preserved ruins of buildings, mine shafts, and cemeteries. There’s a visitor centre with displays and information about the history of Arltunga, and self-guided tours allow you to wander at your own pace.

The reserve also offers walking tracks that take you through the surrounding bushland, providing a sense of the isolation and challenges faced by the early inhabitants.

It’s about 110 km east of Alice Springs, with the last section of the road being unsealed, so you’ll need a 4WD to get there. Bring plenty of water and food, as there are no facilities once you arrive.

12) Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles)

Karlu Karlu, also known as the Devil’s Marbles, is a collection of MASSIVE granite boulders scattered across a wide valley. These boulders are sacred to the local Aboriginal people, and their formation has been the subject of many Dreamtime stories.

It’s a bit of a trek from Alice Springs (~4 hours north), but so worth the visit. Especially if you’re there at sunset, or sunrise! This is not a problem, as you can stay at the local campground.

Aboriginal Dreamtime legend and scientific explanation both offer theories about the spheres’ formation. But in this region with its strong colours, harsh climate and stark beauty, the Indigenous theory seems more appropriate.

It’s easy to see why this is a sacred site and also a ceremonial and trade meeting place for four different Aboriginal language groups.

Keep reading: Why should you visit Devil’s Marbles?

13) Palm Valley

Palm Valley is a unique oasis in the middle of the desert, home to the rare red cabbage palm. These ancient palms are remnants of a time when Central Australia was much wetter, making Palm Valley a living fossil!

It’s located within Finke Gorge National Park, so a 4WD is essential.

Once in Palm Valley, you can explore it on foot via the Arankaia Walk (2.5 km) or the longer Mpulungkinya Walk (5 km), both of which offer stunning views of the palms and the surrounding red cliffs.

14) Rainbow Valley

Rainbow Valley is renowned for its striking sandstone bluffs and cliffs that change colour dramatically during sunrise and sunset! Thankfully, it’s easy to access from a short track from the visitors car park.

They’re most impressive at sunrise or sunset, which is why you should try and stay at the Rainbow Valley Campground!

The area is only accessible by 4WD, but be careful because it can become impassable after rain. Check weather conditions before going!

15) Tnorala (Gosse Bluff) Conservation Reserve

Tnorala, also known as Gosse Bluff, is the remnant of a massive meteorite impact crater, estimated to be 142 million years old.

This site is not only geologically fascinating but also holds deep spiritual significance for the Arrernte people.

You can explore the crater’s interior on foot! There are also walking trails that offer views of the rugged landscape, with interpretive signs explaining the crater’s geological history and its cultural importance.

It’s only accessible via 4WD and there are limited facilities (toilets and picnics), no camping is allowed.

16) Corroboree Rock

This is a striking and unusual rock formation in the East MacDonnell Ranges and is sacred to the local Arrernte people.

There’s a short and easy walk around the rock that takes you through a landscape dotted with ancient trees and fascinating rock formations. It also has information about the significance of the site and its geological features.

When is the best time to visit central Australia?

The best time to visit Central Australia is during the cooler months, from April to September.

Not only because of the comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the outdoors without getting roasted by the intense summer heat.

But because most attractions will be open! Some close during the wet season because of flooding, and others may not be accessible after heavy rains.

How many days to stay in Central Australia?

We recommend staying for 5-7 days, up to 10 if you also want to visit Uluru.

Central Australia is big, and there’s a lot of driving between the major attractions. If you’ve only got a few days, you’ll be spending most of your time on the road.

But with a week or more, you can slow down, enjoy the hikes, take in the sunsets, and hit some of the spots mentioned above.

If you’re really short on time, 4-5 days could work, but you’ll need to prioritize what you want to see. But honestly, give yourself those extra days if you can.

Top Tips

Plan your itinerary and check which places need park passes. You have to purchase them online as there’s no way to pay for them on-site! More info on NT park passes here.

Always top your petrol tank whenever you can, more so if you’re not staying for the most part of your trip. Distances between fuel stations are long, some close early or might run out of fuel, so don’t take any chances.

Central Australia is rich in Aboriginal heritage, and many sites are sacred. Always stick to the paths and obey signs, especially ones that ask you not to photograph or climb certain areas. Take the time to learn about the culture – it’s a big part of what makes this region special.

As for wildlife, kangaroos, emus, and other wildlife are often on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk. Avoid driving at those times, it can be very dangerous.

Finally, be prepared for LOTS of dust. It’s part of the experience, but be prepared. Keep your camera and other sensitive gear protected. Also, pack baby wipes – they’re a lifesaver for a quick clean-up when water is limited.

Did you know?

One of the most famous Dreamtime stories is about Tnorala (Gosse Bluff). According to the Western Arrernte people, the crater was formed when a group of celestial women, the Sky People, were dancing in the Milky Way.

One of the women dropped her baby, and it crashed to Earth, creating the massive crater we see today.

This story highlights the deep spiritual connection between the land and the Aboriginal people, where every rock, river, and tree has a story.

Rainbow Valley isn’t just known for its stunning sandstone cliffs, it’s also a paleontologist’s dream! The area around Rainbow Valley contains some of the oldest fossils in the world, dating back over 800 million years.

These fossils provide a glimpse into life on Earth before the rise of complex organisms, making Central Australia not only a geological wonderland but also a key location for understanding the history of life on our planet.

FAQs

The bottom line

Central Australia might seem like just a stretch of desert and dust, but it’s packed with unique experiences that you won’t want to miss!

From the breathtaking Kings Canyon to the unforgettable road trip along the Red Centre Way, this region offers adventures that go beyond the ordinary.

Whether you’re hiking through the rugged beauty of Ormiston Gorge, marvelling at the ancient rock art in N’Dhala Gorge, or capturing the vibrant hues of Rainbow Valley at sunset, there’s something here for every traveller.

So, next time you’re planning an outback adventure, don’t overlook Central Australia. There’s more to discover there than you could ever imagine!