Kings Canyon

Few experiences capture the grandeur, mystery, and raw beauty of the Outback quite like hiking one of the Red Centre’s rock formations—first and foremost, Kings Canyon, located between Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs. With cliffs that tower almost 1,000 feet above Kings Creek and the canyon bed, the canyon offers a special aerial vantage point. Like most worthwhile things in life, this view calls for some effort: it’s a 500-step climb to the summit, where you are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of Watarrka National Park. After taking in the initial views, circle the canyon rim and descend to the “Garden of Eden,” a green oasis on the valley floor. The Rim Walk takes around 3.5 hours and is recommended for active travelers in good health—to capitalize on the most comfortable (and photo-worthy) conditions, time your climb for either sunrise or sunset.

Located in Kings Canyon among the Wanmarra Community, Karrke encourages travelers to really get involved in indigenous life through a variety of experiences. Its one-hour tour packs in a host of Aboriginal need-to-knows, from understanding the symbology in dot paintings and making traditional objects like music sticks and seeded necklaces to learning about local flora and fauna and bush medicine—used for both physical and spiritual healing.