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Road Genius makes it easy to find great rental car deals in Alice Springs and around Australia. Compare prices and make bookings in one place. Simple. A rental car is pretty much essential for visiting the Red Center, from Uluru to the West MacDonnell Ranges. We'll help you compare vehicles and find a convenient pickup spot at the airport or in town.
| Location | 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Alice Springs Airport (ASP) |
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| Alice Springs Town |
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| One-Way Rentals to/from Uluru |
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Rental Company Notes: Alice Springs Airport has Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, Enterprise/Alamo, Europcar/Sixt and several others.
On average, car rentals in Alice Springs cost around AUD $116 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals available from AUD $69 per day.
Time your trip right: For the popular winter season (June-Aug), book a few months ahead. For a better deal, try the "shoulder seasons" like April or May when the weather is still great but prices are often lower.
Compare town vs. airport pickup: Picking up your car in Alice Springs town can help you dodge airport surcharges. Just weigh that against the ~$40 taxi fare to get to the depot from the airport.
Plan a round trip if you can: Be aware that one-way rentals between Alice Springs and Uluru come with very high fees (often $500+). Starting and finishing in the same spot will usually save you a heap.
Stick to a basic car for the main sights: The highway to Uluru is sealed, so a simple economy car saves money on both the rental and on fuel. Only upgrade if you're sure you need a 4WD for a specific permitted route.
| Location | Parking Availability | Restrictions & Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Alice Springs Town | Abundant free spaces in most areas | Some 2-hour limits downtown. Easy to find spots except during major events. |
| Alice Springs Airport | Short and long-term options near terminal | Moderate fees, sometimes free for first 15-30 minutes for pickups. |
| Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park | Large designated lots at all major sites | Free spaces once you pay park entry fee. Arrive early for prime spots at sunrise/sunset viewing areas. |
| Yulara (Ayers Rock Resort) | Free guest spaces at all hotels | Ample space, rarely full except during major events. |
Important Driving Regulations:
Permits & Restricted Areas:
See things tour buses miss. Public transport is rare out here, and taxis will cost you a fortune for the long distances.
Be your own boss and forget rigid tour schedules. Want to linger at a perfect sunset spot or take a random detour? You can.
Save some cash, especially for families or groups. A car rental is often cheaper than buying individual tickets for multiple expensive tours.
Pack what you need for the outback. You'll have room for extra water, snacks, and all your camera gear without having to lug it around.
Do I need a 4WD to visit Uluru from Alice Springs? No, the main highway route (Stuart Hwy to Lasseter Hwy) is fully paved and suitable for any vehicle. However, a 4WD is necessary if you want to take the scenic Mereenie Loop Road or access more remote areas like Palm Valley, subject to rental agreement terms.
How much should I budget for fuel between Alice Springs and Uluru? For a round trip in an economy car, budget approximately $150-200 AUD for fuel. Larger vehicles or 4WDs will cost more. Remember that outback fuel prices can be 30-50% higher than in major cities.
Can I use my foreign driver's license? Yes, you can drive using your foreign license if it's in English. If not, you'll need an International Driving Permit or official translation to go along side your license.
Is there a charge for additional drivers? Most companies charge around $5-$10 per day for additional drivers beyond the primary renter. Some allow spouses/partners for free.
What happens if I break down in a remote area? Contact your rental company's roadside assistance. Stay by your vehicle and wait for help. Always carry water, food and warm clothing for emergencies.
Can I return my rental outside of business hours? Most companies at Alice Springs Airport offer after-hours returns via key drop boxes. At Uluru/Ayers Rock Airport, fewer options exist. Check directly your specific provider.
What's the minimum rental period? Most companies require a minimum 24-hour rental period and charge in 24-hour blocks. Half-day rates are uncommon among major rental brands in the region. Even shorter rentals are usually billed as a full day.
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