Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Arguably Australia's most renowned landmark, Uluru is located a 5-hour drive southwest of Alice Springs. Rising up out of the red dirt, this is the world's largest monolith. The traditional owners of the land, the Anangu, have long requested that visitors do not climb the rock, and as of 2019, climbing has been permanently closed.
There's still plenty to do in the national park, including partaking in cultural experiences, hiking, cycling, camel-riding, and sky-diving. We recommend spending two or three days here to see both Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), another beautiful rock formation. There are lots of accommodation, dining, and tour options nearby.
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Kings Canyon
A 3-hour drive from Uluru, Watarrka National Park features another red rock landmark that is just as impressive. Here, visitors can survey the surrounding landscape from the 300-foot high canyon walls of Kings Canyon, a location made famous by the classic Australian film "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert."
The 3.7-mile Rim Walk is a great (although relatively strenuous) option, with stunning views across the rugged desert and the green valley below. You'll also find more hiking trails, camel tours, and accommodation within the park.