Rising like a mirage from a dusty red desert, Alice Springs is the spirited capital of Australia’s vast bone-dry outback. The staggeringly remote settlement sits near the country’s geographic center, about halfway between Adelaide and Darwin, NT.
Vibrant indigenous art centers, intriguing museums, and worthwhile wildlife parks enhance the allure of this iconic outback town. But it’s the surrounding sun-scorched landscapes that capture the imagination. From sacred Uluru to regal Kings Canyon and the dramatic MacDonnell Ranges, the Red Center is awash with mind-blowing natural treasures.
The magic of the outback and a strategic central location make Alice a thriving RV destination for long-distance travelers and short-term vacationers alike. As a result, you’ll find excellent RV infrastructure around the region, including dump stations, water refills, and scenic campsites.
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Most campervan rentals in Alice Springs cost between AUD $70 to $350 per day (most fees included).
Rental rates can vary depending on:
Rental companies offer three main camper types in Alice Springs:
The budget-friendly campervan has a fold-out couch and a slide-out kitchen for self-catering. Fancier models might have toilets or a high roof to stand inside.
The 4WD camper lets you explore rugged off-the-beaten-track locales like Palm Valley and the Mereenie Loop. On the downside, you’ll have to contend with limited space and basic amenities.
A motorhome refers to a larger, more luxurious vehicle with most of the amenities of a home. Expect an indoor kitchen, a spacious lounge room, and an ensuite with a hot water shower.
The prices for renting a campervan in Alice Springs are steady throughout the year. However, May and June usually have slightly cheaper rates compared to the rest of the year.
A 4WD is not required to explore the wonders of the great outback. In fact, 95% of the Northern Territory's attractions are accessible by 2WD vehicles, such as motorhomes and campervans, because of the extensive network of sealed highways. Motorhomes and campervans must strictly adhere to driving only on sealed roads.
If you are new to campervanning, visiting Alice for the first time or travelling with family, we recommend using a motorhome or campervan. Getting around this way provides more flexibility.
Generally, 4WD campers can only be driven on recognised sealed tracks. However, it is possible to request exceptions be made for some areas. Permission must be granted in advance, especially for any off-road areas.
In addition to unsealed roads, companies may restrict certain roads or trails with a reputation for being rough or rugged. If you take your vehicle into a restricted area, you will be liable for all damages and, in some cases, will also have to pay a fine.
If unsure about a particular area, it’s best to contact the rental company in advance.
For 4WD vehicles, a daily mileage allowance usually applies (around 300 km). After that, additional fees will apply.
The comparison tool will show which vehicles have unlimited kilometres and limited free mileage. Consult the rental agreement of the supplier for further details.
Some 4WD campers are equipped with a roof tent and self-inflating sleeping mats. This means that the vehicle doesn't have sleeping space inside. Instead, a tent is mounted on top of the campervan, which then can be set up for overnight camping.
For example the Britz Safari 4WD Camper (based on a Toyota Landcruiser) is mounted with a double-bed rooftop tent. The tent also has an annex with space for up to three more persons.
Other 4x4 campervan rental models have a pop up roof (pop-top campers) allowing for beds to located within the motorhome itself.
While there are no campervan rentals directly at the terminal at Alice Springs Airport, there are several campervan rental companies within 2–19 km (1–12 miles).
The depots are easily accessible by taxi or public transport.
Renting a camper in Alice Springs is the most convenient and cost-effective way to explore the Red Centre.
Here’s why you should hire a motorhome for your upcoming outback adventure:
Affordable: While hotel rooms cost a fortune in outback Australia, a camper lets you roll your transport and accommodation expenses into one.
Convenient: A camper lets you easily access all your essentials. You can also minimise drive times by pulling up at a nearby campsite instead of returning to your hotel.
Flexibility: A motorhome lets you explore the Red Centre on your own terms. No need to construct rigid itineraries—you’re free to bounce around the outback on a whim.
A closer connection with nature: Stop overnight in scenic campsites and drift off to sleep while gazing at the stars. A kitted-out camper brings you closer to nature than a hotel ever could.
Amenities: From fresh food to clean clothes (and maybe even a hot shower), all the amenities you need are right there in the vehicle with you.
When embarking on a motorhome holiday, remember these essentials when driving in the Northern Territory:
Renting a campervan in Alice Springs will save you stacks of cash compared to the traditional hotel / hire car combo.
A thrifty outback traveller can reduce expenses even further with the following money-saving tips:
Find early-bird specials: The early bird gets the discounted worm. Most rental agencies offer cut-price deals for travellers who book well in advance.
Compare prices: A comparison tool like Camper Champ lets you weigh up your options and find cheaper rates.
Avoid peak season: Demand outstrips supply in peak season. Snag a favourable rate by travelling outside the school holidays.
Go small: While a massive motorhome offers next-level luxury, it’ll cost substantially more to rent and refuel. Many travellers find a budget-friendly campervan sufficient for a quick Red Centre trip.
Ask about added extras: The best companies include camping chairs and cooking utensils. These add-ons mean you won’t have to purchase any last-minute camping gear.
Extend your stay: Some companies offer discounts for long stays of a week or more. Extra time lets you minimise your daily expenses and explore the region in more depth.
FIFO: Making the 3,000 km return trip from Darwin or Adelaide will cost you a fortune in fuel and waste 30+ hours of your life. Instead, fly in / fly out of Alice Springs and hire a camper from there.
Weigh up one-way rentals: A one-way rental from Alice Springs to Yulara (Uluru) is generally not available for campervan rentals, or may involve a hefty one-way fee. Many travellers find it’s worth returning their vehicle to Alice Springs.
Reduce backtracking: Vast distances and astronomic petrol prices make refuelling a considerable expense. Plan a rough route that minimises backtracking to save at the bowser. The exception is the Mereenie Loop, where you’ll have no choice but to backtrack a long way (unless you’ve got a 4WD).
Refuel strategically: Fuel costs a fortune in the outback, and not all service stations offer similar rates. Use a comparison tool like PetrolSpy to compare prices in real-time.
Free camp: Free campsites lie peppered along lonely outback highways.
Self-cater: Restaurants don’t come cheap in this isolated, inhospitable part of Australia. Load up on fresh groceries in Alice Springs and cook your meals to keep the budget on track.
Bushwalk: Helicopter, ATV, and Segway tours are also quite pricey in the outback. Aside from your national park pass, hiking is 100% free, and you’ll see the same scenery.
The Red Centre has a harsh, variable climate with cold winters and sweltering hot summers.
The best time to visit is during the mildest months of late autumn (April-May) and late winter / early spring (August-September). Warm daytime temperatures and pleasant nights ensure optimal comfort. Expect average highs and lows of 23C / 8C in May and 23C / 6C in August.
Winter is another great time to visit, but bring plenty of warm clothes because the early mornings frequently dip below zero. July, for example, has average daily highs and lows of 20C / 4C.
A Red Centre summer is—as you can probably imagine—horrendously hot. January averages hover around 36C / 21C, with midday temperatures regularly exceeding 40C. If you decide to hike in summer, pack plenty of water and leave before sunrise.
Domestic tourists visit the Red Centre from all corners of the country, so school holidays can be tricky to avoid (most Australian states have different term dates). Overall, however, expect to encounter more holidaymaking families during late April, late June, late September, and the Christmas / New Years period.
Worthwhile Red Centre events include Parrtjima – a Festival in Light (April), Wide Open Spaces (April), the Alice Springs Cup Day (April), the FabALICE Festival (March), the Alice Springs Beanie Festival (June), and the Finke Desert Race (June).
The ideal length for a motorhome adventure around Alice Springs is five to ten days.
It’ll only take you a day or two to check out the galleries and other attractions in Alice Springs.
Avid hikers will want to spend at least five days trampling around the top MacDonnell Ranges trails. Add more time to tackle a few Larapinta sections (the full route takes about two weeks) or any remote 4WD tracks.
Allow at least four full days for a round trip visiting Kings Canyon and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park—don’t underestimate the drive times.
Home to just 25,000 inhabitants, Alice Springs is a small city with plenty of places to park.
The Alice Springs Town Council operates numerous car parks and parking bays throughout the city, almost all of which are free. Many are spacious enough to accommodate large motorhomes. If you’re struggling to find space for a big rig, try the ANZAC Oval or Stuart Memorial Park.
To safeguard against theft, avoid parking your camper in an isolated area for an extended period, even during the day.
Sleeping in a vehicle outside of a designated campsite is actively discouraged in the Northern Territory.
Furthermore, while Alice Springs is relatively safe during the day, the town has a reputation for being dangerous at night. Prolific after-dark crime should be enough to discourage you from free camping on a random street—or leaving your vehicle unattended for multiple days.
Thankfully, Alice Springs has a wide selection of secure caravan parks in and around the city. Some popular options include Temple Bar, G’day Mate Tourist Park, and Discovery Parks. Nightly rates range from $18 to $57 per night (Temple Bar is the cheapest in town).
There are no free camps within the city. The closest heading north is the Tropic of Capricorn Rest Area (30km) and the Mount Polhil Rest Area (59km) going south. The nearest free camp to Uluru is Sandy View Roadside Rest Area (51km).
You’ll find an impressive selection of spectacular campsites scattered around the region, both free and paid. Some of our favourite Red Centre free camps include:
Point Howard Lookout
Neil Hargrave Lookout
Ginty’s Lookout Camp
Salt Creek Rest Area
Kernot Range Rest Area
Curtain Springs
Desert Oaks Rest Area
Nestled in the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Alice Springs is a gateway to some of the country's most striking and varied national parks. Whether you're a seasoned globe-trotter or simply yearning for an escape from the city's hustle, these national parks promise to enchant and inspire you with their captivating natural wonders.
Here are some top national parks to explore around Alice Springs:
Uluru-Kata Tjuta: This park is home to the legendary Uluru, or Ayers Rock, which encapsulates the spirit of Australia's arid desert. Held sacred by the local Anangu people, visitors can pay their respects and admire this incredible sandstone monolith by strolling around its base.
Watarrka: A hidden treasure often overlooked, Watarrka boasts the magnificent Kings Canyon, a sight that leaves visitors speechless. This park is like an oasis in the desert, with majestic red rock formations, lush greenery, and pristine pools that invite a refreshing dip.
West MacDonnell: Stretching over 140 km west of Alice Springs, this park is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. From the enchanting Standley Chasm to the soothing waterholes of Ormiston Gorge, West MacDonnell National Park should be on every Outback adventurer's itinerary.
Nitmiluk: Also known as Katherine Gorge, this park features a series of breathtaking gorges sculpted by the Katherine River over eons. Visitors can choose to cruise along the river at a leisurely pace, soar above the gorges on a scenic flight, or navigate the awe-inspiring rock formations by foot.
You’ll need a Parks Pass to enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and a separate permit should you visit Kakadu. All other national parks in the state are free. The Northern Territory has no state-wide annual or holiday pass for its two paid national parks.
A three-day pass for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park costs $38 per adult. Children and teens under 18 get in free. Three days is long enough for most people, but if you’d like to extend, the annual pass only costs slightly more at $50 per adult.
Purchase your park pass online to save time. Alternatively, grab one at the entry station en route to Uluru. The pass comes with a digital QR code, which you must scan at the barcode reader by the entry station.
The Northern Territory Parks and Wildlife Commission operates countless spectacular campsites within its national parks. Fees vary depending on the campground category—i.e., its location and amenities. Expect to pay $6, $12, or $20 per adult per night and half that rate for each child. Family discounts are available.
Book your national park campsites online, as many don’t accept in-person payments.
Uluru is located around 450 km from Alice Springs. This means the drive from Alice Springs to Uluru will usually take around five hours depending on the route you decide to take. There are plenty of campsites in the area which gives you the opportunity to spend a few days exploring the area.
Most people like to visit in the cooler months between May and September, when the average temperature is around 25 degrees and there is little rain. August and September also provide the opportunity to see colourful wildflowers in bloom.
In the warmer months (October to March), the daytime temperatures can exceed 35°C with frequent storms making it a much less pleasant experience. If visiting during summer be sure to read in advance the conditions and prepare accordingly.
Despite its intense isolation, Alice Springs offers all the trappings of a miniature modern city, plus a slew of exciting attractions.
You don’t have to be an art enthusiast to appreciate the colourful creations of indigenous painters.
The government-run Araluen Cultural Precinct is Alice’s premiere arts space with galleries, a 500-seat theatre, and rotating exhibits. A vibrant ensemble of privately-run art centres, including the famous Yubu Napa Art Gallery, operates around town. The Todd Mall Markets is a top spot to purchase indigenous works straight from the creators.
To get up to speed on Red Centre geology, pop into the Museum of Central Australia. Alternatively, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility explains how this aeronautical ambulance operates in remote regions. If you’d rather gawk at life-sized models of enormous, long-extinct animals, check out Megafauna Central instead.
Straddling the Todd River lies the Olive Pink Botanic Garden, a charming parkland showcasing the region’s drought-resistant flora and birdlife. Pay a visit to the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve to learn more about the town’s foundation. Next, drive up to the top of ANZAC Hill for a layout of the land.
Plane spotters will love the Central Australian Aviation Museum, while the National Road Transport Hall of Fame explains the challenges of moving freight in this far-flung locale.
There’s no need to conquer sweltering hot hikes to meet the outback’s hardy wildlife. The Alice Springs Desert Park houses an eclectic collection of nocturnal mammals and fierce birds of prey. Alternatively, check out the Alice Springs Reptile Centre for scaly, slithering critters.
Alice Springs serves as a convenient base to explore the ochre-red wonders of outback Australia.
Spanning 644km, the rugged MacDonnell Ranges slice through the centre of Alice Springs. The western end boasts the best roads and most iconic sites—albeit with thicker crowds.
Start your West Macs adventure with a wander down Standley Chasm, a striking ochre-hued gorge near a popular outback café. Heading west, Ellery Creek Big Hole is a top spot to cool off with a dip. Serpentine Gorge has a panoramic lookout accessible via a steep 30-minute walk. Next, stop by the Ochre Pits to see how the First Nations People once mined for art supplies.
Heading further west leads you to the iconic Ormiston Gorge. Treat yourself to a refreshing swim after the long, rugged hike through a dramatic ravine. Nearby, Glen Helen Gorge is another scenic spot to hike, swim, and soak up the views.
Energetic bushwalkers can conquer the summit at Mount Sonder—it looks especially spectacular at sunrise. Hit the lesser-visited Redbank Gorge to rock hop through a dry creek bed before reaching a deep red ravine with a pristine swimming hole.
To the south, on Larapinta Drive, Hermannsburg is an atmospheric aboriginal community with historic sites and art museums. Nearby, Finke Gorge National Park hosts the striking landscapes of Palm Valley (you’ll need a 4WD drive here).
Fit, well-prepared long-distance hikers can explore the West MacDonnell Ranges via the world-famous Larapinta Trail. The 230 km route showcases Central Australia’s unique arid landscapes and attracts adventurers from all over the world.
The East MacDonnell Ranges host a smaller yet entirely worthwhile selection of sites.
First up is Emily and Jessie Gaps, an impressive nature park with indigenous rock art and a short hiking trail. Next, Corroboree Rock is a geological oddity and a traditional indigenous meeting place. The big-ticket East Macs attraction is Trephina Gorge, where you’ll find fabulous campsites, rugged 4WD routes, and scenic hiking trails.
History buffs could venture further east towards the dilapidated old gold mines at Arltunga. Nearby, the Ross River Resort offers scenic campsites by a characterful historic homestead.
More often than not, you’ll need a capable 4WD to tackle the rugged and worn-out Meerine Loop (Larapinta Drive) towards Kings Canyon. If the road is open to 2WDs, check whether your hire company is happy with you heading that way and pre-purchase the compulsory $5 permit.
Most travellers double back to Alice, then head south down the Stuart Highway and turn onto the Lasseter Hwy at Ghan. The 3.5-hour outback drive will be well worth it upon arriving at Kings Canyon, a striking red rock ravine with 300-metre-high sandstone walls.
Explore the canyon via the 6km Rim Walk, which meanders through the paradisical Garden of Eden and weathered Lost City domes. The initial ascent is tough—especially in the outback heat—but the spectacular 360-degree panoramas make it entirely worthwhile.
No trip to the Red Centre would be complete without marvelling at the majestic Uluru(Ayer’s Rock). As the world’s largest single-rock monolith, this recognisable sandstone slab is the poster child of the Australian outback. And upon gazing at its golden, sunlit glow, it’s easy to see why Uluru is so sacred to indigenous Australians.
Hiking over the top is no longer permitted. Instead, stroll the 10km Base Walk (or jump on a Segway tour) to see the monolith from multiple angles. Numerous lookouts lie peppered around the region, including sunrise and sunset viewing areas.
A quick drive west leads you to Kata Tjuta (or The Olgas), a string of steep domes with wildflowers and narrow shady ravines. The 7.4 km Valley of the Winds trail snakes through the spectacular sandstone terrain—it’s one of the Red Centre’s most scenic short walks.
Wondering where to go on your Red Centre campervan adventure?
We’re covering the region’s ten most unmissable outback attractions.
Alice Springs—the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Over the next seven days, we'll take you on a journey through this beautiful region, showcasing some of the best experiences and activities available in this vibrant desert town.
MORE: 7-Day Alice Springs ItineraryTo get the most out of your trip across the country, we’ve put together a 9-day itinerary that absorbs a mix of world-famous landmarks and secret hidden gems. This campervan journey from the Northern Territory to South Australia is a must for any wannabe explorer.
MORE: Alice Springs to Adelaide ItinerarySnake along the Stuart Highway as you traverse between the NT’s two main towns. See Katherine, Kings Canyon and even Uluru before reaching the quirky town of Alice Springs in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre.
MORE: Alice Springs to Darwin ItineraryAussie travellers need a valid, full Class C (car) license to rent a camper in Alice Springs—no Ls, Ps, or probationary licenses allowed. Foreigners will need an International Drivers Permit (IDP) or an English translation of a comparable license. You’ll need to be 21 or older, regardless of nationality, to rent a camper in Alice Springs. Drivers under 25 must pay a young driver surcharge. Most rental companies don’t want you taking their vehicles on rugged, unsealed roads. Always confirm the policy before venturing off the tarmac.
Yes, it’s standard for most RV rental companies to allow an additional driver. This driver and any others must be named on the rental agreement and there may be a nominal fee.
Additional drivers must also hold an appropriate driver’s license and must meet driver age requirements.
Yes, many options are available. Some popular choices include Ayers Rock Campground (close to Uluru), Alice Springs Tourist Park, and the BIG4 MacDonnell Range.
Most campervan rental companies in Australia require the driver to be 21 years of age or older to rent from their full range of vehicles.
Some companies will rent to drivers between 18-21, but only certain models may be available. A couple of companies have higher age requirements - 23 (Leisure Rent) and 24 (Captain Billy’s). Enter the driver’s age into our search tool and we will filter available vehicles to match.
For young drivers, additional insurance may be required and special conditions may apply.
When renting a vehicle, it is standard to be charged a bond (security deposit), also known as ‘excess’, which is the amount the renter is liable to cover in the event of an accident or damage to the vehicle. The bond amount fluctuates based on the insurance package selected at the time of rental and is charged and debited on the renters’ credit or debit card.
Terms and conditions vary by rental company, however, most companies do not charge a fee if the cancellation is made 3 months prior to pick up (including Maui, Britz, Apollo, Cheapa Campa, Star RV, Hippie, & Mighty). The closer the date to picking up the vehicle, the higher the cancellation fee will generally be.
Deposit amounts may not be refundable.
With the COVID-19 outbreak affecting many travelers plans in 2020, many suppliers have updated their cancellation policies.
To cancel a booking contact our friendly support team via the Support Page.
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