Journey to Uluru Getaway
With ACH Group’s getaways, you discover the very best of South Australia and beyond. These social experiences offer the chance to explore picturesque wine regions, charming seaside townships, and breathtaking outback landscapes, all while making new friends and creating lasting memories.
The Journey to Uluru getaway takes travellers to the heart of Australia, with stops in Port Augusta, Coober Pedy, and Yulara, before arriving at the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. This bucket list itinerary includes unforgettable moments such as canapés at sunset over Uluru, dinner under the stars, and an early morning visit to Bruce Munro’s enchanting “Field of Light” art installation.
Highlights of the journey
- Coober Pedy Town Tour & Umoona Opal Mine
- Northern Territory border crossing
- Maruku Arts Dot Painting Workshop
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre
- Yarta Purtli Gallery
- Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens
This 7-day/6-night adventure includes door-to-door transport, luxury coach travel, comfortable accommodation, daily breakfasts and dinners, and all entry and tour fees. It’s a journey that promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.
ACH Group’s Social Group Planner Anthea shares her travel diary, a reflection on the memorable experiences shared by all who ventured into the heart of Australia. Here’s a glimpse of the Journey to Uluru Getaway.
Anthea’s Travel Diary: Journey to Uluru
It was a cold Monday morning in July. The Adelaide bus station was buzzing with excitement as customers arrived, ready to set off on the much-anticipated Journey to Uluru.
Our coach, led by Gary, was filled with chatter and enthusiasm as we began the early morning departure. Gary, with his vast knowledge of the region, kept us entertained with stories and insights as we passed familiar and hidden gems along the way.
A warm welcome at Wadlata
Our first stop was the Wadlata Outback Centre in Port Augusta, where a lunch of homemade soup and damper hit the spot. Afterwards, we toured the Tunnel of Time exhibit and explored the town before settling in for a relaxed evening. It was just the start of the adventures that awaited us.
Opal mines and history in Coober Pedy, onward to Uluru
Day two had us up early for the drive to Coober Pedy. We paused at Lake Hart for a group photo, and as we arrived in Coober Pedy, the quirky charm of the town came to life.
Our local guide on the Umoona Mine tour shared fascinating tales about the town’s history, and a spontaneous visit to the Serbian Orthodox Church became an unexpected highlight.
As the sun rose over Coober Pedy, the ghostly mullock heaps stretching into the distance made for a mesmerizing scene. The excitement built as we crossed the SA/NT border, complete with a group photo to mark the occasion. Then, Uluru appeared on the horizon — a sight that stirred awe in all of us, whether it was our first time seeing it or a return visit.
Unveiling Aboriginal artistry at a workshop with Elder Miriam
Once settled at Desert Gardens Hotel, we enjoyed some free time to explore the resort before diving into one of the trip’s most memorable experiences: the Maruku Dot Painting workshop. Led by Aboriginal Elder Miriam, we learned the art of dot painting and how to interpret the symbols, creating our own stories through this ancient form of expression. Sharing our stories with the group was both fun and profound.
An Uluru evening of culinary delights and stargazing magic
The day ended with an unforgettable evening of canapés at sunset, a BBQ dinner, and stargazing under a brilliantly clear sky. Many of us managed to capture the constellations on our phones—an unexpected bonus to a magical night.
Witnessing the sunrise over Uluru
The highlight of the entire trip was the Field of Light experience at dawn. Despite the early hour and chilly temperatures, we were rewarded with the breathtaking sight of Uluru and the Field of Lights coming alive as the sun rose. Watching the landscape transform from darkness to the vibrant red of the outback was an awe-inspiring moment, making the early wake-up and freezing temperatures well worth it.
Returning from Uluru with hearts full of memories and new friendships
As we began our journey back to Adelaide, the coach was a little quieter, with everyone reflecting on the incredible experience. Stories were shared, friendships deepened, and many of us began dreaming about our next ACH Group adventure. The memories of this trip to Uluru will stay with us for a long time, and I have no doubt some of us will reunite on future getaways.
ACH Group Social Experiences
ACH Group provides a range of social experiences where you can meet new people, learn new skills or revitalise past ones.
- Led by experienced professionals, whether it’s one-on-one or in a group, we have a class or event that will suit your interests and needs.
- No experience or prior knowledge is required to get involved – it’s all about trying something new and engaging with your community to live a good life.
- Our team are trained in supporting people who are living with memory loss, and practical assistance is provided as required from qualified facilitators.
Find an experience that suits you through the Discover & Explore Guide.
Unsure if you’re eligible for government subsidy, or want to find out more?
Contact us and we can help.
Call 1300 22 44 77 or email [email protected], or via contact us form.
