The Outback is a huge attraction for backpackers in Australia – but it covers such an immense area that it would be impossible to explore fully, even on extended travels.

Many of the leading Outback attractions can be explored on a road trip along the famous Stuart Highway, or “Explorer’s Way”, which stretches from north to south over almost 1,800 miles, from Darwin in the Northern Territory to Port Augusta in South Australia, near Adelaide.

If you have very limited time but want a taste of the Australian Outback, one of the best places to head to is the large yet remote town of Alice Springs. Situated about half way between Darwin and Adelaide in the real heart of Australia, Alice Springs is regarded as the ‘Capital of the Outback’, and is surrounded by a whole host of superb bush landscapes and exciting attractions.

It would be easy to base yourself in Alice Springs for several weeks to enjoy all the sights, but you need at least four days to see just the top five attractions:

1. Uluru

About 208 miles southwest of Alice Springs (which is nothing in distance when you’re in Australia!), Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is one of Australia’s most famous tourist attractions – and its most instantly recognisable natural icon. This large sandstone rock formation is sacred to the Aṉangu, the Aboriginal people of the area, and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site – surrounded by springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient Aboriginal paintings.

2. Kings Canyon

About 200 miles southwest of Alice Springs, Kings Canyon is a huge gorge that is home to two popular walks. The longer Kings Canyon Rim Walk of just under 4 miles takes around 3-4 hours, starting with a steep climb up “Heartbreak Hill” to the top of the canyon for amazing views of the gorge below and the surrounding landscape.

3. Alice Springs Desert Park

Set at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges, this park packs in three different desert landscapes and offers an insight into Aboriginal culture – offering the whole Outback experience on a plate. With an audio guide, shows and presentations, visitors can learn heaps about the bush, its wildlife and Aboriginal history as they explore the park. You need a whole day to see the park properly.

4. West MacDonnell National Park

Full of gorgeous scenery, including gorges, waterholes and interesting wildflowers, this park starts just west of Alice Springs, and offers some great hiking trails and swimming spots. The first stop from town is Simpsons Gap, just 11 miles away, and from there you pass a string of attractions including Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek Big Hole, Serpentine Gorge, The Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge.

5. Chambers Pillar

This tucked away gem, 100 miles from Alice Springs, is a dramatic yellow and red-toned sandstone column, surrounded by walking trails and a rough bush camp site where you can experience a night under the stars in the Outback.