Head on the ultimate road trip in the Red Centre

The Red Centre’s unique landscapes, rich cultural history, beautiful camping spots and endless four-wheel drive tracks make it one of Australia’s must-visit bucket list outback region.

For centuries, explorers have been attracted to the rich and rugged Red Centre of Australia. Fortunately, adventurers of today have far more sophisticated gear and equipment available to them than the camels, compasses and telescopes upon which our early explorers relied.

Central Australia continues to lure travellers from all over the country and beyond with its unique landscapes, rich Aboriginal cultural history and experiences, multi-day hikes, four-wheel drive tracks, stunning camping spots and one-of-a-kind events. The Red Centre also has a rich history of gold mining, the iconic Australian Overland Telegraph Line and an abundance of nature to explore.

There’s something for everyone in Central Australia — no matter your age, interest or ability. From 4WD enthusiasts who love seeking out the next challenge on a remote desert track through to grey nomads and families in their campers and caravans who are heading to the region to tick off some bucket list destinations by heading on a road trip to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Kings Canyon and the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges.

Central Australia is a huge and beautiful region and boasts endless opportunities — and the stunning Red Centre sunsets will put all others to shame.

Uluru viewing area

What to see

If you're a nature lover who enjoys exploring unique landscapes and unusual attractions, then Central Australia is for you. Once you’ve ticked off the biggest and most popular spot — Uluru — head over to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and marvel at the 36 large domed rocks. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) is another great spot; this is another sacred site of the Traditional Owners the Warumungu people and the ancient — often gravity defying — boulders are a site to behold. Best yet, there’s camper trailer-friendly bush camping available nearby at Karlu Karlu / Devils Marbles Conservation Reserve.

If the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges are the jewel in the Central Australian crown, then the East MacDonnell Ranges are the hidden gem. Some of the best sights to add to your travel plans are Yeperenye / Emily and Jessie Gaps and Corroboree Rock Conservation Reserve, both of which feature ancient rock art and white lime paintings.

While you’re in the East MacDonnell Ranges don’t miss visiting Trephina Gorge with its sheer quartzite cliffs and towering trees. There’s a campground available (bookings required), so you can park your camper, marvel at the 300-year-old ghost gum on the banks of the gorge and take your time exploring the five walking trails around the gorge. If you have a high clearance 4WD the John Hayes Rockhole is worth the 9km detour.

The East MacDonnell Ranges are an important part of the Dreaming for Eastern Arrernte Aboriginal people, so the region is culturally significant. However, it is not just natural beauty and rich culture that make these formations so meaningful. There’s a rich history to this area, as Arltunga was the site of early European gold mining and is considered to be the first town in the Northern Territory.

Other unique Central Australia attractions include the School of the Air and the Royal Flying Doctor Tourist Facility (both in Alice Springs), unique wildlife experiences and tours and visiting the many historic Telegraph Stations dotted throughout the region.

And then there’s the many exciting events that take place throughout the year, but more on this later.

Kings Canyon

Where to stay

There’s no shortage of places to park your camper or RV when exploring the remote areas of Central Australia. Whether it’s off-grid bush camps, campsites with basic facilities or caravan parks with everything you need, you can find what you need here.

One of the region’s hidden gems is Gemtree Caravan Park. Located 140km northeast of Alice Springs along the Plenty Highway, this caravan park has the outback touch and is perfect for a night or three enjoying the serenity. For the full unique experience, join one of the Gemtree tag-along tours to go fossicking for gems such as garnets and zircon (bookings are a must).

What’s on

Red Centre NATS (30 Aug – 1 Sept 2024): Celebrate everything on wheels over four action-packed days that showcase the very best in street machines, elite show cars, hot rods, classics and exotics.

Desert Mob (5 Sept – 20 Oct 2024): One of the nation’s most significant Aboriginal art events, Desert Mob 2024 is an unmissable opportunity to share in the art, stories, cultural connection and vitality of hundreds of artists from more than 30 Art Centres across the Red Centre.

Desert Song Festival (17–22 Sept 2024): Held every September, experience something special as singers, musicians, choirs and audiences from this vibrant multi-cultural community and beyond come together to present a series of events celebrating the singer, the song, the instrument, the land and its people.

Desert Festival (27–29 Sept 2024): Held annually in Alice Springs, Desert Festival is an award-winning arts and cultural festival, featuring an exciting program of local and visiting artists. Embrace the diversity and creativity of the Red Centre and enjoy music, dance, installations, workshops and much more.

Ellery Creek waterhole

When to visit

The best time of year to visit this area is between April and September. During these months you can enjoy warm and sunny days and cooler nights, which make the overall weather much milder than during the hot summer months.

Find out more

For help planning your trip drop into the visitor information centres in Alice Springs, Tennant Creek or Yulara where the friendly and knowledgeable staff can help with all your travel enquiries. Click here for useful information, including the Red Centre Drive Guide, or call 1800 645 199.

Related articles:

Red Centre Essentials Checklist

Exploring Kakadu National Park

A guide to Litchfield National Park, Northern Territory

Adventures on the Nullarbor Plain