Frequently Asked Questions about Wayoutback's Ayers Rock / Uluru Tours and Central Australian Safaris

How cold does it get at night

In our summer months (October-April) it is quite warm at night, around 15-20°C.
In our winter months (May-September) it is a bit colder, usually below 10°C. In June and July it can get very cold, often below zero.

How hot does it get during the day

In our summer months (October-April) temperatures are usually over 30°C. During the peak of summer temperatures can reach 40°C (or more!).
In winter daytime temperatures are pleasant, usually around 20-25°C.

Do I need a sleeping bag

In winter you will definitely need a good sleeping bag. If you don't have one of your own, you can hire one from us ($15).

In summer we still recommend that you bring a sleeping bag with you. Not all nights are warm!

I've heard the flies are bad in summer. Is this true

In the warmer months there are quite a lot of flies around in Central Australia. A lot of people find these to be quite annoying. It is advisable that you bring along a fly net so these little guys don't drive you crazy! Wayoutback stock fly nets which can be purchased on the morning of departure before you set off on your safari.

What clothes do I need

In summer shorts and a shirt is all that is needed, plus a jumper if it happens to get a bit chilly at night. Swimwear for a refreshing dip in the Garden of Eden at Kings Canyon is a must - don't forget a towel!

In winter most of the time you can still wear shorts and a shirt during the day. However, you will need to bring warm clothes because it does get cold at night. Long pants, a good jumper, a beanie to keep your head warm and gloves are advisable.

Regardless of the time of year that you are travelling you will need to bring a hat, preferably wide-brimmed.

What else do I need to bring

Sunscreen, torch, camera (plus lots of extra film!), mosquito repellent (summer), towel, toiletries, any medication required, water bottle (1.5 litre is best). Water bottles can be purchased from your Wayoutback Tour Guide on the morning of departure from Alice Springs.

What will I be sleeping in

You will be sleeping in a swag under the brilliant stars of Central Australia. If you haven't used a swag before, don't worry. Our experienced guides will show you all you need to know to get one of the best night's sleep you've ever had! Click Swags for more information.

Do I need to bring lots of water

No. All you need to bring is a water bottle (or you can purchase one from your Wayoutback Tour Guide on the morning of departure from Alice Springs). We will be carrying large containers of chilled water that you can fill at the commencement and conclusion of all walks. Most walks have water replenishing facilities close by with the exception of Kings Canyon. An additional 1 litre of water is recommended for this walk, particularly during summer months.

Do I bring all my luggage with me

We have limited space in our vehicles and ask that you bring only one small bag per person with the things you will need for the duration of your safari. You should be able to store your excess baggage at your accommodation while you are away.

We do make exceptions for people that book the one way journey from Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort / Airport) to Alice Springs, however, this needs to be discussed with us prior to booking.

How physically fit do I have to be

Our safaris are true outback camping adventures that include a fair amount of walking, hiking and swimming as we explore the wonders of Central Australia. We walk an average of about 6 km each day so a reasonable level of fitness is required, particularly in the summer months with high temperature levels. While we don't expressly set any age restrictions, it is adventure camping rather than soft camping and so good health is important but ultimately, it is an open and positive attitude that matters.

I'm vegetarian. Will that be a problem

Our menu is designed to cater for both carnivores and vegetarians. Please let us know at the time of booking if you have any special dietary requirements.

How many people will be on each tour

Wayoutback is a genuine small group operator. All our vehicles are air-conditioned 4WDs, carrying a maximum of 16 people. The number of people on each tour depends on bookings but does not exceed 16.

Where will I be picked up from

We will pick you up from your place of accommodation on the first morning of the tour.

Can I be picked up from Yulara

We can pick you up from either the Resort at Yulara (Ayers Rock) or the airport at 1 PM but you will need to make an enquiry with us first as there are a number of factors that you will need to consider.

Please note that if you are being picked up in Yulara then the tour must conclude in Alice Springs.

Can I finish the tour at Yulara

No, all our tours depart from Alice Springs and head directly to the Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park on day one where Yulara Resort is located and so must conclude in Alice Springs.

Will I have to help out on the tour

In order for the tour to run smoothly and to get the maximum amount of time at the attractions it is important for everyone to lend a hand. Collecting firewood, preparing food and washing dishes is the ideal opportunity to get to know everyone.