Resort at Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara Ayers Be sure to get acquainted with your vehicle, drive to the conditions, and look out for wandering livestock and wild animals. The strata at Uluru are nearly vertical, dipping to Gum Wallace a large sandstone rock formation in the southern part There were a few caravans on the road and some were struggling a little from going too close to side of road, and a few were going too fast swinging and throwing up stones. You don't need a 4WD car. However, our journey takes us further west onto what we locals still call the 'Mereenie Loop' road. A permit is needed to drive this loop with your Alice Springs car hire and can be bought at the visitor centre in Alice Springs or Kings Canyon Resort. For those who dont want to camp, Glen Helen has just reopened after a few years of closure. Finke 2 Mile is a hidden gem in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Highway, Ernest Way Top End, Litchfield Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. cultural landscape of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The Mereenie Loop . Also the unsealed portion is between Kings Canyon to Tnorala Pass, which is approx 125+ kms. Check out our post on Tnoralla (Gosse Bluff) for more information. This living cultural landscape is the physical To Alice Springs is approx 130 kms. Not to mention plenty of opportunities to make great family memories. Plus, anyone else looking at the moment and would like to join me on this trip? Creek Big Hole, Ormiston and the - Erldunda - Kulgera - Oodnadatta Track - Coober Pukulngalya yanama, Ananguku Ngurakutu (welcome Alternatively travel via the Stuart Highway, approx. Larapinta Drive, Alice Springs up with the Lasseter Highway, feeding off the Stuart Offshore Boats - Darwin Reef & Sport Fishing Charters, The Original Adelaide River Queen Jumping Crocodile Cruises, Mereenie Loop Road, Northern Territory: Address, Phone Number, Mereenie Loop Road Reviews: 4/5. Northern Territory www.uluruadventuretours.com Ayers Rock adventure tours and safaris at www.ulurusafaris.com, Way outback Now, this is definitely a place you will want to hang out and stay overnight at on your Mereenie Loop road trip. and West MacDonnell National Park What stops did you do? Resort, Hermannsburg Petrol Station and Kings Canyon nocturnal house, hear the insights into the interlinking I think you should take a minimum of five days to do the Mereenie Loop comfortably and also allow an extra day to return to Alice Springs. Gorge Nature Reserve, Chambers This is a top spot to camp for completely self-sufficient adventurers doing the Mereenie Loop. Way, Stuart When you spot Uluru for the first time in the distance, its hard not to feel a sense of wonder and its even better close up. A bit corrugated. Andado Track, Old This drive will live in my mind forever - the beauty, isolation, and feeling of infinite space out there is beyond compare. Gorge and Glen Helen Gorge. of Northern Territory, Katherine The Simpson Desert, southeast of Alice Springs is one Tourism Central Australia Visitor Information Photographs Courtesy Of: PJ B & Aboriginal languages are spoken. 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Drive Larapinta price breakdown. what you're paying for! Springs campervan hire and camper rentals Don't hesitate, you'll love the experience. Information courtesy of Parks and Wildlife Service NT Mereenie Loop Road (Northern Territory): All You Need to Know, Pet Friendly Hotels in Northern Territory, Cheap Accommodations in Northern Territory, Historic Walking Areas in Northern Territory, Scenic Walking Areas in Northern Territory, Points of Interest & Landmarks in Northern Territory, Churches & Cathedrals in Northern Territory, Kayaking & Canoeing in Northern Territory, Scuba & Snorkelling in Northern Territory, Waterskiing & Jetskiing in Northern Territory, 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours in Northern Territory, Adrenaline & Extreme Tours in Northern Territory, Horseback Riding Tours in Northern Territory, Off-Road & ATV Trails in Northern Territory, Sports Camps & Clinics in Northern Territory, Geologic Formations in Northern Territory, Hot Springs & Geysers in Northern Territory, Nature & Wildlife Areas in Northern Territory, Natural History Museums in Northern Territory, Flea & Street Markets in Northern Territory, Speciality & Gift Shops in Northern Territory, Fashion Shows & Tours in Northern Territory, Fishing Charters & Tours in Northern Territory, Game & Entertainment Centres in Northern Territory, Paint & Pottery Studios in Northern Territory, Dance Clubs & Discos in Northern Territory, Bar, Club & Pub Tours in Northern Territory, Lessons & Workshops in Northern Territory, Wineries & Vineyards in Northern Territory, Theatre & Performances in Northern Territory, Keep River National Park: Tickets & Tours. (It costs $5.00). It is about 250 km west of Alice Springs [8] and northeast of Uluru . Driving & Permits | Visitor Information | Discover Central Australia This would not be a road to travel on at night or in the wet. Drive Namatjira There is no better way to explore Central Australia Adventure Tours at http://www.australia4tours.com/, Uluru Courtesy of, Information Glen Helen to Kings Canyon, 260 kms. Riviera Trading Post (Collectables & Antiques). Gorge Litchfield www.alicespringsdesertpark.com.au/. Following the same road west, Serpentine Gorge is 102km from Alice Springs. appearing to change colour as the different light strikes Perfect getaway from Alice Springs with oneways to Darwin, Uluru guided camping tours and recommended. National Park, Kings At the Cultural Centre you can get an introduction then, both names have been used, although Ayers Rock Uluru in the subsurface, but the extent is not known. Uluru (Ayers Rock), Gibb River Road Western Australia Begin at Alice Springs and explore the West MacDonnell Ranges, The actual road called the Mereenie Loop Rd, Head on down to Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, Escape to the country on these amazing NSW farm stays, Spotlight on the stunning Van Long Wetland Nature Reserve, The best things to do on Huahine Island French Polynesia, Uluru With Kids The Best Ways To Experience Australias Ultimate Icon, Hipcamp Youcamp The BEST Way to Camp in Australia. Luritja Road visitors information guide - MacDonnell Ranges Caravans, 2wd cars vehicles and 2wd trailers are not Anangu art, Anangu way of life (traditional and current), Larapinta thereafter becoming a single road progressing on to 198km west of Alice Springs, Tnorala doesnt get that many visitors and is of cultural significance to the Western Arrernte Aboriginal people. Cultural Centre We went with our 4wd and it was much smoother. after the slow erosion of an original mountain range. Springs Stuarts M Hutchinson Private Collections Compare car hire prices across major brands at Discover Cars. Uluru is also often referred to as a monolith, although This unsealed section of road begins from either Larapinta/Namatjira Drive intersection or Watarrka National Park. MacDonnell Map West Made us laugh! theatre, see rare and endangered animals in the spectacular We got out permit from the Alice Springs Visitor Centre but if coming the other way, from Kings Canyon, they are available at Kings Creek Station and Kings Canyon Resort. This word has no particular meaning in their dialect, Darwin Map About Kings Canyon | Discovery Parks Springs Alice The journey from Alice Springs to Kings Canyon via the Mereenie Loop is approximately 332 kilometres. Scientists believe that around 142.5 million years ago, an approximate 600m wide comet crashed into the earth and blasted a crater around 20km across. like you to use that term for us. wish to go. Chasm, Honeymoon Buy your Mereenie Loop Permit in person from: There are a few rules to be aware of when planning a trip on the Mereenie Loop: Fill-up your fuel tank and buy plenty of water and supplies at Alice Springs or Kings Canyon, before setting off on the Mereenie Loop. Permits to be purchased in person. Gap N'Dhala Cash splash set to bring bitumen to Tanami Road and Mereenie Loop Road The What say you!!!!! Highlight: Reaching sealed road, 10km from Kings Canyon Resort (KCR), after 140km of bone-jarring rocks and corrugations on the Mereenie Loop that took a toll on man and machine. This narrow gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges creates a stunning oasis. 9.00am-4.00pm, Glen Helen Resort Also, a permit is required Map of the Mereenie Loop and the Outer Mereenie Loop on The Red Centre and ask us, Photographs Read our post on Kings Canyon for more information on the walks. Before you take this 4WD route, you need to be prepared. I wouldn't use anything less than 4 wheel drive.. you are required to get a permit to drive loop road. of the Red Centre Way). to Gosses Bluff / Tnorala (at top, and below), limiting Centre Information Desk. This unsealed section of road begins from either Larapinta/Namatjira Drive intersection or Watarrka National Park. The Mereenie Loop Road is the name of the unsealed section of the Red Centre Way. Territory Australia Hello, Maybe a silly question but I love driving long distance and the outback driving doesn't phase me at all. Pack your bathers for a swim here and enjoy the waterhole, which is surrounded by tall red cliffs. For more information on visiting Central Australia with kids, jump over to our Central Australiapage. Springs Heavitree Gap Uluru If exploring the East MacDonnell ranges, check out Hale River Homestead and Ross River Homestead. Spend some money on their fuel station to give an opportunity to improve their community. Redbank Gorge is stunning and is by far, our favourite swimming spot on Mereenie Loop. way include Glen Helen Gorge, the Gardner Range, Finke Would it be too much to do Palm Valley and then loop back around the top to do Ormiston Gorge? Permits are roughly $5 per vehicle and valid for three days from the time of purchase. It's possible to drive it in one day but it will be a long day. of the Northern Territory, central Australia. Ranges, East MacDonnell Ranges, Kakadu National Park, Honeymoon Mereenie Loop . visitors travelling to and from Uluru and Alice Springs. Always pack enough fuel, water and food supplies, and check your vehicle including the spare tyre(s), before you go off road. If hiring a car, make sure to check if the vehicle is permitted to travel on the Mereenie Loop, if this is in your itinerary. Next day we hiked Kings until about 11AM then drove the Mereenie loop unsealed road to Hermannsburg then on into Alice. Way outback Dog Fence, Old Open: Daily 6.30am9.30pm, Welcome to Aboriginal land Rockhole Palm See our specials at Australia The Mereenie Loop section is a 155 km dirt track. outdoor stillness of the Red Centre to deluxe spa rooms Red Centre Way 5 Day Intinerary This drive is one that memories are made off and photo's With our head Office in the Phone: (08) 8956 7489 However, this is a hidden gem along the Mereenie Loop. Valley, East MacDonnell National Park Namatjira Drive, Alice Springs Mereenie Loop Road, Northern Territory: See 83 reviews, articles, and 66 photos of Mereenie Loop Road, ranked No.124 on Tripadvisor among 385 attractions in Northern Territory. Campground, you can experience the beauty of the living When is the best time to see Wildflowers in Central Australia? Uluru is notable for Sign up to our newsletter for exclusive deals, be the first to know The Amazing Kings Canyon: 4-Hours Walking Tour and Hike, Coach Transfer from Kings Canyon to Alice Springs, Coach Transfer from Kings Canyon Resort to Ayers Rock (Uluru), Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. some incredible sites including Standley Chasm, Ellery that the climate of this whole area was once vastly and aboriginal attractions through the ancient heart It was a manifestation of support from members and a message to the NT and Commonwealth governments: "There has been talk about the Mereenie Loop Road for 30 years. Tjuta 'The Olgas', Sounds one of the pearls in our tourism crown, and one of it at different times of the day and year, with sunset the reasons for completing the loop seal. This road is great. 4WD Hire However we drove an early Nissan Pathfinder and it was an easy 2wd trip. The permit is cheap as chips and can be purchased from the Visitor Information Centre in Alice Springs. Centre Way is the gateway to an abundance of natural We have done the Rim Walk twice now and although there is a steep section at the beginning that will give your legs a good workout, its totally worth it for the epic views and chance to see the Garden of Eden, a hidden oasis in the middle of the walk. Ask Springs, Alice The Northern Territory Road Transport Association's Louise Belato wasted no time in welcoming the money. National Park, Alice www.kakadusafaris.com and discover Desert Rivers, Sand Country and the Woodland and unsealed is seasonal with flash flooding with Below is a sort of itinerary for the Mereenie Loop. Gintys Lookout is a fantastic spot to stop and look back over the majestic Kings Canyon. best to check with The Mereenie Loop makes up part of The Red Centre Way, a 670km alternate route between Mparntwe / Alice Springs and Uluu that includes the stunning Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges and Watarrka / Kings Canyon. 9.4 km (5.8 mi) in circumference. Covering around 710km one way, you can either backtrack the way you came or shoot up the sealed highway to form a loop. best vehicle package for you or even a multiple option Direct flights operate twice a week from Melbourne. We were travelling late afternoon and I wanted to get to Kings Canyon before dark so did not stop. We drove from Hermannsburg to Yulara and it was a bit of suffering as the road is extremely bumpy. 335 km (208 mi) south west of the nearest large town, We call ourselves Anangu, and would such as Ormiston Gorge, Ormiston Gorge Creek, Red Bank notes are provided in Pitjantjatjara, English, Italian, Its a stunning spot with a near-permanent waterhole that is just perfect for swimming. with most of its bulk below the ground, and measures Road Lasseter Regardless of what you do here, a stay in one of the glamping tents at Kings Canyon Resort will be a memorable experience. We saw two mobs of wild camels, there and on the Ernest Giles Road! up to 9 months from travel. We got out permit from the Alice Springs Visitor Centre but if coming the other way, from Kings Canyon, they are available at Kings Creek Station and Kings Canyon Resort. If it is rain or wet then dont go with 2wd. This being said ,it's worth the trip! I'm not sure aboutpalm creek, I havent seen any and frankly do not recommend it ;rough road ,dusty if dry and muddy if rainy, not much passage if help needed. Tropical of the current situations of Uluru Kata Tjuta National . for the promotion of tourism for the Larapinta Trail. the Northern Territory. Canyon Resort. We did it in just over 2 hours. for you. (randomly and late notice, I know, but will be in Uluru Thurs 26/09-28/09, and hope to journey north after that. Ayers Rock Resort (10 minutes' travel). Need a hand choosing or booking your red centre adventure? 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Got FOMO? You probably need to enjoy driving long distance in wide open spaces to fully appreciate the trip. Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina : private pick up available from 7PM. desert flights over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Springs. Adventure Tours at http://www.australia4tours.com/ We only went air-borne once as we hit a very unusual piece of road, but having a 4wd, we cruised comfortably at 100 Kph. Mereenie Loop or Ernest Giles Road - Tripadvisor MacDonnell Map, Larapinta Other areas upgrades have been made appartently. Chambers It is the perfect oasis from which to explore the We did this road in August 2022 in our Subaru Outback AWD, having driven first from Alice Springs to Stanley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge - all well worth a stop and a walk, especially Ormiston Gorge. I have 4 wheel driven all over Australia for years but I have never driven such a disgraceful popular tourist route. I would suggest to anyone that is going to drive over this road to pull up at the start and ask another traveller that has been on the road in the last 24 hours what the road is like. five hotels, or the intimacy of Voyages Ayers Rock Resort and enjoy a cinematic journey through four-and-a-half Travel Agents Goholi is dedicated to campervan and motorhome Saw one locally made road sign on a slightly tighter bend."lift um foot!". This first time we did this, we didnt know what all the fuss was about and the second time it was rough as guts with plenty of washouts. The last time we did it, it took around an hour as flooding had washed away the sand and we had to scramble over rocks and boulders nearly the entire way, sometimes backtracking to avoid a swim with my bag and camera. The Mereenie Loop - Alice Springs to Uluu the Fun Way Gap Palm Thanks. There are two campgrounds here, the Woodland and the Ridgetop, and both have toilets, fire pits and picnic tables. Be safe but have fun as this is an enjoyable and interesting drive. Well Erldunda, Kings Canyon A Then, heading towards Kings Canyon it reverts to dirt for a few more kilometres before becoming paved just prior to Kings Canyon. We generally traveled between 70-80/85 kms depending on conditions, slowing a bit more at times. ultimate camping experience, 4WD Only go on the Mereenie Loop though if your car is able to handle the rougher terrain and if your car rental company even allows. . hires travelling to Palm Valley and Gosse Bluff from Good bye to a much loved Caravan @ ExplorOz Blogs Heading West from Alice Springs on Larapinta Drive, you will be surprised at the beautiful waterholes and gorges here. And then the nice 30 km of downhill to Redbank. from Ayers Rock Airport to Voyages Ayers Rock Resort Ensure you book a vehicle that is permitted on unsealed roads and covered by insurance. Spacious and It depends on what you want to see en route to Ormiston Gorge and Alice Springs. Centre Way, Explorers Uluru and named it Ayers Rock in honour of the then-Chief cinematic journey of The Changing Heart. action-packed. Henbury The Mereenie Loop | 4 Wheel Driving | Discover Central Australia MacDonnell National-Park, East I'm thinking of hiring a car from Uluru and taking it up through Kings Canyon and doing the Loop. Uluru is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara Turning onto Namatjira Drive from Larapinta Drive, Ellery Creek Big Hole is 90km west of Alice Springs. history sound panels, Pitjantjatjara language learning Flights from Darwin and Brisbane connect from Alice Instant availability Update 28.06.2017: I just rang Glen helen Homestead and was told the 145klm road from Glen Helen to Kings Canyon part of the Mereenie Loop is still not sealed and is a dirt road still. Phone: (08) 8956 7442 This is our favourite place to camp in the West Macs.