FAQ’s
Here you will find the answers to our most frequently asked questions.
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Campfires are generally permitted only in designated campfire pits. Some bush camping areas allow campfires within designated areas.
The NT does not have seasonal fire bans, but stay informed throughout your trip as fire bans may be implemented without notice. We recommend downloading the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) app to stay up-to-date.
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Camping is only permitted in designated national park camping areas and permitted roadside stops. Camping fees apply so make sure to plan ahead. Ask us where the best spots are!
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Climbing Uluru is now prohibited, however there are many other ways to see Uluru from its base. We can provide you with our top recommendations.
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This is one of the most common questions we are asked. We are pleased to say that there are NO crocodiles in our waterholes anywhere in Central Australia. Crocodiles do however frequent waterholes in the ‘Top End’ from Katherine to the coastline. If you are travelling up towards Katherine please let us know and we will provide you with the appropriate croc safety information.
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The tap water in Central Australia is perfectly fine to drink unless the waters source is marked as “re-claimed” or similar. Some national parks also offer rain water, however this must be either boiled or treated before drinking.
We recommend hiring a 20L water can from us, especially when camping in the Eastern and Western MacDonnell Ranges. -
Please do not feed the wildlife. Human food can be harmful to wildlife and feeding the wildlife promotes aggressive behaviour towards people.
There are a number of nocturnal animals in the region so make sure to keep food and rubbish packed away at night or it may be gone in the morning. -
In the warmer months, particularly throughout dry summer periods, there can be quite a lot of flies in Central Australia. Flies are most active during sunrise and sunset - the two times of the day you want to be focusing on getting that perfect photo! We recommend getting yourself a personal fly net that will stop the flies from getting to your face.
Fly nets can be purchased at checkout.
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Mosquito numbers are generally minimal throughout the year. However if we get enough summer rains the mosquito numbers grow very quickly. To ensure a good nights sleep we recommend hiring one of our mosquito mesh tents to place your swag into. Also, make sure you have a good personal protectant spray with a high “DEET” content to guard against mosquitoes.
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For information on national park fees, click here.
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We do not offer one-way hire at this time. All equipment must be collected and returned to Alice Springs.
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For information on permits, visit our plan page by clicking here.
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Phone service is available in some major towns of Central Australia, including Alice Springs, Hermannsburg, Ayers Rock Resort and Erldunda. Some roadhouses also have small cell phone towers and public phones are located at most places where fuel is available.
We recommend you check with your phone company before you leave.
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For local road condition reports, click here.
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Many species of snakes live in Central Australia. Always be conscious of snakes on marked paths and in your campsite, avoid walking through long grass and wear protective clothing including enclosed shoes.
If you see a snake, do not try to catch or kill the snake. Walk away slowly and keep an eye on it from a safe distance. Keep away from the snake and it will usually continue on its way.
Snakes are protected in Australia.
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In Australia, one of the most common ways to sleep under the stars is in a swag. A swag is essentially a canvas bed rolled up with all your bedding inside. To use; simply un-roll out on the ground. Bedding includes; a dense foam mattress, sleeping bag, pillow and linen, plus a wool blanket during winter months for that extra insurance against the frosty desert nights. There are full length zippers down both sides and a canvas flap to go over your head.
Unlike a tent, you get to gaze up at the stars while staying cosy inside your bed, which makes that nomadic camping adventure in the outback all the more authentic!
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Camping equipment is bulky, so careful pre-planning is imperative when deciding on the type of vehicle you may hire. Consider vehicle space not only for camping equipment, but also for your luggage and food.
Speak to us directly to discuss what equipment you may have room for.
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Many of the popular locations to visit in Central Australia can be accessed with any type of vehicle. However, a 4WD vehicle will give you access to so many more places!
Contact us for advice on what type of vehicle is best for you.
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Central Australia has very hot summers and very cold winter nights. For general weather information click here.