south australian outback tours

Search by criteria:

Search by keyword:

Guided Holidays Our signature fully-guided holiday experiences

• The Red Centre, Northern Territory
• The Top End, Northern Territory
• Perth & Western Australia
• Hobart & Tasmania
• Adelaide & South Australia
• Great Barrier Reef & Queensland
• Sydney & New South Wales
• Melbourne & Victoria
• View all Australia Guided Holidays

New Zealand

• South Island
• North Island
• View all New Zealand Guided Holidays

Short Breaks 2-7 day breaks with your choice of accommodation

• View all Australia Short Breaks

Day Tours One day or half day sightseeing tours

• View all Australia Day Tours

Destinations

• The AAT Kings Difference
• The Travel Corporation
• First Nations Culture
• Booking Conditions
• Travel Alert
• Destination Management
• MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
• Solo Travel
• Special Assistance

Special Offers

• SAVE up to 15%* on NT
• Save up to 10%* on selected tours
• View All Special Offers

First Choice

Outback Adventure

15 day guided holiday | adelaide to darwin, travel period.

• 01 Apr 2024 – 30 Sep 2024

How do you condense South Australia and the Northern Territory into two weeks? With the kind of skill that comes from operating in Australia for more than a century. This epic exploration traverses record-breaking canyons and gorges, national parks and World Heritage Sites. It’s nature writ large – small wonder TV and movie directors find inspiration here, as you will, too. And then there are the cities, from multicultural Adelaide and the wine country it covets, to steamy Darwin, where sunsets are as brash as the characters that call it home.

Current season sold out CODE: NAAD

15 Day Guided Holiday | Adelaide to Darwin | Travel Period: 1 Apr 2024 – 30 Sep 2024

Trip Details

Accommodation, optional experiences, what's included.

• • Specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver that are accredited with Uluru and Kakadu National Parks • 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park • Centrally located premium hotels • Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park and Kakadu National Park entrance fees • Private Arrival and Departure Transfers
• • 8 Dinners with Wine
• • 15 Full Breakfasts
• • 1 Be My Guest Dinner
• • 1 Farewell Dinner
• • 1 Lunch
• • 1 Dinner

Flight Information

• Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 12.30pm into Adelaide Airport Day 15 – flights to depart anytime from Darwin Airport Flights are not included in the holiday price Return airport to hotel transfers are included in the holiday price

What to Bring

• • Warm layers in cooler months
• • Camera
• • Comfortable walking shoes
• • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
• • Water bottle

Fitness Requirements

Low level of fitness required.

Kings Canyon Rim Walk: High level of fitness required. Other options available to those with lower fitness levels. 

Itinerary Generating PDF... Print Itinerary

Outback Adventure (Travel Period: 01 Apr 2024 – 30 Sep 2024)

Day 1 Welcome to Adelaide

At once cultured yet cool, Adelaide attracts foodies, historians and art aficionados in equal measure. Explore at your leisure, before meeting a local gourmand to tour the city’s legendary Central Market. This place has been selling cheese, green ant gin and artisan bread for 140-plus years, before joining your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner.

Outback Pioneer Hotel (Budget), Desert Gardens Hotel (Standard) or Sails in the Desert Hotel (Superior), Ayers Rock Resort. (from day 1 to 3) View and select

Scenic helicopeter tour name View and select options

Day 2 Adelaide - Flinders Ranges

One of Australia’s oldest wine regions, the Clare Valley is all rounded hills, rippling vines and native forest. It’s the postcard-perfect setting for historic Knappstein Enterprise Winery, producing sweet-scented rieslings and mineral-rich reds. The route north lands you at Hawker, the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, but there are plenty of reasons to linger, including well-preserved heritage buildings and the Jeff Morgan Gallery. The best is yet to come, as you arrive at Wilpena Pound Resort in the shadows of a staggering natural amphitheatre. Know that your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visit to the resort helps by contributing towards the sustainable economic future of the Adnyamathanha who in turn work with the resort to minimize the environmental footprint and participate in the conservation of the region.

Day 3 Flinders Ranges - Port Augusta

The river red gums that envelop Hills Homestead will leave you lost for words. You get here on a leisurely walk along Wilpena Creek and continue to Wangarra Hill Lookout for views over the pound’s peaks and curves. The drama is echoed as you climb to Pichi Richi Pass and the historic town of Quorn, where with a Local Guide, you'll hear the importance of this town in the ANZAC's Gallipoli Campaign, before easing into Port Augusta.

Day 4 Port Augusta - Coober Pedy

The main attraction in Woomera is a former rocket-testing site, today stocked with disused rockets and missiles. Speaking of space, you’ll think you’ve landed on the moon as you travel through sun-baked country to Coober Pedy, known as ‘the opal capital of the world’. Things get deep as you travel underground to visit the town’s head-scratching subterranean facilities.

Day 5 Coober Pedy - Uluru

Emerge from your cave and cross the border into the Northern Territory. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has World Heritage status for a reason; under the gaze of the world’s mightiest monolith, toast the end of the day with a glass of bubbles and a camera full of sunset photos. Help protect the highlights of Australia's wilderness through your bucket list visit to Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park.

Day 6 Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta

Pre-dawn wake-up calls are worth it when you get to enjoy a Red Centre sunrise. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll encounter the iconic Uluru, or ‘The Rock,’ half a billion years old, standing 348 meters high and taller than the Eiffel Tower. Marvel at the majesty of Ulu r u as you circumnavigate its base or join a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. This landscape takes you back to the beginning of time, a sacred place among the Anangu people. More soul-salving landscapes await at Kata Tjuta, cool relief provided as you walk amid its domes to Walpa Gorge.

Day 7 Uluru - Kings Canyon

Another sunrise excursion awaits, with this morning’s optional tour to Bruce Munro's Uluru Field of Light – a blanket of 50,000 glowing bulbs. Next chance to stretch your legs is at Kings Creek Station, the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia. All your senses will be activated at Kings Canyon, 440-million years in the making.

Day 8 Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Things are bigger in the NT outback, from the cattle stations to the MacDonnell Ranges, which stretch like a dinosaur spine toward Alice Springs. Aside from its plethora of Aboriginal galleries and art stores, Alice makes Australian history for her 1872 Telegraph Station, one of 12 along the Overland Telegraph Line between Adelaide and Darwin.

Day 9 Alice Springs

Aboriginal culture is strong in Alice, as you’ll fast find on a tour revealing the history of the Arrernte people at the Alice Springs Desert Park. The other thing that’s mighty is community spirit – it’s essential when there are so few people scattered over such a vast area of land. Enter the Royal Flying Doctor Service, its base a museum that goes behind the scenes of the life-saving health services delivered to people in remote realms. One of the benefits of being this far-flung is the lack of light pollution. And at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, this equates to epic stargazing. Your Be My Guest BBQ dinner here with the Falzon family is enlightening and uplifting.

Day 10 Alice Springs - Tennant Creek

1.3 million square kilometers – that’s the eye-watering distance the School of Air’s lessons are broadcast across daily. Learn how teachers interact with children who would otherwise have no access to education. It doesn’t matter how studious you are, you might just believe in aliens when you pass Wycliffe Well, the self-proclaimed ‘UFO capital’ of Australia. It’s the devil (well, his marbles) that awaits at Karlu Karlu, where precariously balanced boulders appear superglued together.

Day 11 Tennant Creek - Katherine

Since the 1930s, the Daly Waters Historic Pub has been dishing up schnitzels, barramundi burgers and hearty steaks. The walls are lined with treasures that passers-by leave behind. ‘Land of the Never Never’ awaits at Mataranka. Visit a replica of the Elsey Homestead, used in 1982 Aussie drama We of the Never Never. Or wander palm-lined walkways to take a dip in the region’s thermal springs.

Day 12 Katherine - Kakadu

The Jawoyn have called Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge home for millennia. You can feel their presence as you cruise the waterway, home to more than a few resident crocs. They’ll make another appearance in Kakadu, when you explore Yellow Water Billabong. You don’t need binoculars to spot the sea eagles, brolgas and kingfishers; they’re everywhere you look.

Day 13 Kakadu - Darwin

Decisions, decisions: optional morning flight over Kakadu and Arnhem Land, or a sleep in. We vote for the former before you venture toward Ubirr and its ancient Aboriginal rock art. The night is yours in steamy Darwin, where the characters are as large as the shadows cast at sunset.

Day 14 Litchfield National Park

Nature rules today, your explorations into Litchfield National Park revealing magnetic termite mounds standing two metres tall. And then there are the waterfalls: Florence, for its dreamy cascades, and Wangi, where you can cool off in a crystal-clear waterhole (swimming is seasonal). See the NT capital in a new light when you venture out on a Darwin Harbour Cruise, your sparkling wine glass full to toast your last evening on this epic adventure.

Day 15 Farewell from Darwin

Time to bid adieu and head home to sort through all those photos. Even better are the memories; two weeks of wild outback adventures.

Please note: This itinerary may be subject to change.

15 Day Guided Holiday

Adelaide to Darwin

Local Connection

Discover the beauty of the Australian outback over a Be My Guest dinner at Earth Sanctuary, plus tours with the Royal Flying Doctor Service and School of the Air.

Cultural Immersion

From Uluru to Kakadu, nothing puts life in perspective quite like glimpsing 40,000-year-old rock art with an Aboriginal guide.

Sustainable Footprints

Sleep soundly at Wilpena Pound Resort knowing your stay contributes directly to the local Adnyamathanha people and regional conservation projects.

Wildlife & Nature

Ancient red rock cliffs encircle desert palms at Kings Canyon, the spectacular heart of Australia and a place that will make your pulse race.

Your Guided Holiday includes a range of quality accommodation for your comfort. The accommodation you will enjoy on this tour includes:

Day 1 - Crowne Plaza Adelaide

27 Frome St, Adelaide SA 5000

Enjoy a culturally-rich and inspiring escape at Crowne Plaza Adelaide with stunning views from the city’s tallest building in design-led rooms. Stay in the East End— Adelaide’s sweet spot— close to Lot Fourteen and Adelaide Botanic Garden with easy access to the casino, Adelaide Convention Centre and Adelaide Oval.

• Complimentary WiFi
• Porter / Bellman
• Same-Day Dry Cleaning
• Heated Outdoor Infinity Pool
• State-of-the-art Fitness Centre
• Level 10 Bar
• Restaurant and In Room Dining

Day 2 - Wilpena Pound Resort

Wilpena Road, Flinders Ranges Via Hawker, South Australia 5434

Wilpena Pound Resort is spectacularly located within the Flinders Ranges National Park, South Australia. Enjoy a haven of outback hospitality, stop and stay awhile as you soak up the incredible beauty of one of the earth’s oldest landscapes.

• Shower and toilet facilities
• Tea & Coffee Facilities
• Refrigerator
• Iron / Ironing Board
• Air-conditioning

Day 3 - Majestic Oasis Apartments

Marryatt Street, Port Augusta, South Australia 5700

Majestic Oasis Apartments is perfectly positioned overlooking the waters of the Upper Spencer Gulf in sunny Port Augusta, only 3 hours drive North of Adelaide in South Australia. The property comprises 75 self-contained serviced apartments.

• Guest Laundry
• In-room safe
• Electric blankets

Day 4 - Desert Cave Hotel

3 Hutchison Street, Coober Pedy, SA 5723

Built into a hillside, the Desert Cave Hotel is perfectly located right in the centre of town close to shops and restaurants. Experience subterranean life as you explore the hotels underground shops, bar and opal display. Some rooms are also situated underground however staying in this room type is not guaranteed.

• In-house movies
• Wireless Internet access
• Mini-bar (surcharge)
• Room service

Day 5 - Desert Gardens

Yulara Dr, Yulara, NT 0872

Voyages Desert Gardens Hotel is centrally located to all resort and touring facilities and offers a range of accommodation, from shaded poolside rooms to deluxe rooms overlooking the desert.

Please Note : Desert Gardens is undergoing refurbishments to their Garden View Rooms and restaurant area. Completion of refurbishments to their Garden View Rooms will be May 2016 and the restaurant until March 2017.

• Air Conditioning
• Private veranda or courtyard
• ISD/STD phone
• Coffee/tea making facilities

Day 7 - Kings Canyon Resort

Luritja Road, Watarrka National Park, NT 0872

Retreat to the luxury of Kings Canyon Resort after an active day of hiking through the rugged terrain of Watarrka National Park. The sensitively designed property is located in Watarrka National Park, just nine kilometres from Kings Canyon. Naturally, the Kings Canyon Resort has been built to blend in harmoniously with the surround.

• Direct Dial Telephone
• Insect screens

Day 8 - Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs

82 Barrett Dr, Alice Springs NT 0870

Experience eco-friendly luxury and enjoy stunning views of the majestic MacDonnell Mountain Ranges when you stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alice Springs. Conveniently located just off of Stuart Highway, the hotel is only 15 minutes’ drive from Alice Springs Airport and within walking distance of downtown. Enjoy easy access to many businesses, government offices and attractions such as Simpsons Gap, Desert Park and Anzac Hill. Ideal for both corporate and leisure guests, this Alice Springs hotel offers fantastic business and recreational facilities and friendly service from our dedicated staff.

Day 10 - Bluestone Motor Inn

1 Paterson St, Tennant Creek, NT 0860

The Bluestone Motor Inn is the perfect base from which to explore the diverse nature and culture of the Australian outback. Bluestone is the perfect place to stay at the halfway mark along the track from Alice Springs to Darwin and back, or coming west from Mt. Isa.

• Internet Access
• Swimming Pool

Day 11 - Contour Hotel Katherine

9 Cyprus St, Katherine East NT 0850

Contour Hotel Katherine is situated near Katharine town centre, and offers affordable, comfortable accommodation for intrepid travellers.

• Satellite/cable colour TV
• Barbecue facilities
• Wi-Fi (additional cost)
• Gym facilities

Day 12 - Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

1 Flinders St, Jabiru, NT 0886

The indigenous owned luxury accommodation is uniquely shaped to represent Kakadu's most famous inhabitant, the saltwater crocodile. Relax in the recently refurbished rooms, unwind in your private courtyard, by the shaded outdoor pool or take in the landscaped interior garden view from the balcony.

• Bathtub and shower
• Broadband Internet access

Day 13 - Hilton Garden Inn Darwin

122 Esplanade, Darwin, NT 0800

Overlooking the Darwin Esplanade and Darwin Harbour, Garden Inn Darwin is 2 km from Mindil Beach, 3 km from Darwin Convention Centre and 12 km from Darwin International Airport.

Please note, prices for Optional Experiences are subject to change.

To ensure your holiday is filled with memorable experiences, we have included a range of quality Optional Experiences for you to choose from and partake in, if you wish, during your holiday. The experiences can be booked on tour through your Travel Director.

Field of Light Sunrise (Ayers Rock)

Adult Price: AUD 105.00 Child Price: AUD 75.00

With just enough time for some background commentary on the internationally renowned artist Bruce Munro, you will arrive very excited to see his latest artistic endeavour. Arriving in complete darkness, you will be able to enjoy the 50,000 spheres of light in the desert, before making your way up the hill to the Field of Light sunrise viewing area.

Kakadu Air Scenic Flights (Kakadu)

Adult Price: AUD 159.00   (30 Minute) Child Price:  AUD 130.00 (30 Minute)

One of the best ways to experience Kakadu is by a scenic fixed wing flight which allows you to see the amazing escarpments, waterways and wetlands. You will be amazed by the vastness and varied landscape that can be best experienced from the air. An experience not to be missed.

Outback Hot Air Ballooning (Alice Springs)

Adult Price: From AUD 350.00 Child Price: From AUD 297.50.00

Your adventure begins with the balloons being inflated just as the sun lights up the rugged MacDonnell Ranges. Whilst floating gently in the air you will appreciate the vast remoteness, scenery and wildlife of the Australian outback. The tour includes your return transfers and a light breakfast.

Please note this excursion is not recommended for the elderly or a less agile person. If you are unsure, please discuss your situation directly with Outback Ballooning. A compulsory aviation insurance charge of $30.00 per person is included in the cost.

Uluru Barbecue Dinner (Ayers Rock)

Adult Price: AUD 195.00 Child Price: AUD 135.00

Enjoy a sparkling wine on arrival at this unique and exclusive dining experience with Uluru as your stunning backdrop. Enjoy wine and beer with a classic barbecue of beef steak, lamb sausages, skewered chicken and garlic prawns, as well as a selection of fresh salads and a tasty dessert. There’s even time for stargazing.

Uluru Scenic Flights (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $145.00

Child: 145.00

A 20 minute, fixed wing scenic flight is a great way to take in the amazing landscape of Uluru. This small plane operator offer extended flights that include both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Wilpena Pound Half Day 4WD Tour (Flinders Ranges)

Adult - AUD 175.00

Child - AUD 125.00

Explore more than 800 million years of geological history in the “Corridor Through Time”. Marvel at the rugged beauty of Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges. Search for Yellow Footed Rock Wallabies and enjoy sweeping views of Bunyeroo Valley and the eastern wall of Wilpena Pound.

Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Experience (Darwin)

Adult Price:   From  AUD 439.00 Child Price:  From AUD 309.00.00

Enjoy an Aboriginal cultural experience on the Tiwi Islands. You will travel to and from the Island by ferry. Once there you will learn about the Tiwi people’s unique and rich culture as they introduce you to their traditional art displays and ceremonies. Enjoy lunch with your local guide and the local community as they teach you more about their culture and rituals. To partake in this experience you will require an additional post tour night accommodation or a flight that departs after 8pm on the day of the tour.

Uluru Helicopter Scenic Flight (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $315.00 AUD Child: $315.00 AUD

Experience a unique view with a scenic helicopter flight over the Red Centre and see Uluru from the Air. You might choose the 15 minute flight to appreciate Uluru from the air or the recommended longer flight to witness Uluru as well as the extraordinary Kata Tjuta.

Wintijiri Wiru After Dark Show (Uluru (Ayers Rock))

Adult: $190.00 AUD Child: $95.00 AUD

Wintjiri Wiru, which in the local Pitjantjatjara language means ‘beautiful view out to the horizon’. This breathtaking sound and light show brings to life the ancient Mala story of the Anangu people, a story passed on for thousands of generations. With the use of ground-breaking technology, choreographed drones, lasers and projections illuminate the night sky. Wintjiri Wiru takes place at Ayers Rock Resort, in the spiritual heart of Australia and is an immersion into Anangu culture. The experience begins with a transfer from Resort hotels to a sustainably-built platform where you will take a seat in the intimate amphitheatre.

Kings Canyon Light Towers by Night (Kings Canyon)

Adult: $30.00 AUD Child $25.00 AUD

Kings Canyon Light Towers at Sunrise (Kings Canyon)

Adult: $45.00 Child: $30.00

Start your day immersed in magic. Awaken your senses to the mystery of the outback as you wander among the Light Towers maze of sound and light. Enjoy coffee and pastry at the Luritja Lookout once the sun is up.  From the butterfly mind of internationally renowned light and sound artist Bruce Munro, ‘Light Towers at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon’ will immerse you in the pure magic of light, sound and landscape in this iconic location. Consisting of 69 two-metre towers of light, which change colour in response to a celestial soundscape by Orlando Gough, guests are invited to wander amongst the maze of Light Towers.A local guide will greet and introduce guests to the Light Towers at Lurijta Lookout where you will receive a session wristband, before following a lit path into the field of red earth where the Light Towers experience takes place. STARTS: This experience commences 30 mins before sunrise. Meet at the Luritja Lookout 5 minutes before your ticketed session start time. EXPERIENCE INCLUDES: Introduction to the Light Towers by a local guide. Post sunrise coffee and pastry on the Luritja Lookout.

20 Minute Scenic Flight - Wilpena Pound (Flinders Ranges)

Adult Price: From AUD 235.00   Child Price:  From AUD 180.00

This flight provides a fantastic view of our surrounds where you will see Wilpena Pound from the air with the resort nestled in among the River Red Gums just near the Pound Gap. You will also see the Elder Range, Edeowie Gorge, Lake Torrens, the Heysen Range and St. Mary Peak.

Overall Trip Rating

Available dates and prices.

Prices are per person in . Child prices are available on request. Trip details, itineraries, prices and departure date status may be subject to change.

Your Trip summary

* Conditions Apply

Trip Summary Change

Adelaide, South Australia(AU)

Darwin, Northern Territory(AU)

Twin share room

   - or -   

Single room

Prices are per person in . Deposit may be required at time of checkout.

Secure your trip with a deposit

15 DAY 23 Included Experiences

Departure dates.

Definite Departures highlighted in red.

For prices, additional departure dates, flight Information, latest deals and year-round offers including past guest offers, grooup booking discounts for 9+ guests and multi-trip savings, visit aatkings.com/NAAD or contact your local travel agent.

A limited number of single rooms are also available.

• 14 Full Breakfasts B
• 8 Dinners with Wine DW
• 1 Farewell Dinner FD
• 1 Be My Guest Dinner BGD

1 Welcome to Adelaide

At once cultured yet cool, Adelaide attracts foodies, historians and art aficionados in equal measure. Explore at your leisure, before meeting a local gourmand to tour the city’s legendary Central Market. This place has been selling cheese, green ant gin and artisan bread for 140-plus years, before joining your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Adelaide. DW

2 Adelaide - Flinders Ranges

One of Australia’s oldest wine regions, the Clare Valley is all rounded hills, rippling vines and native forest. It’s the postcard-perfect setting for historic Knappstein Enterprise Winery, producing sweet-scented rieslings and mineral-rich reds. The route north lands you at Hawker, the gateway to the Flinders Ranges, but there are plenty of reasons to linger, including well-preserved heritage buildings and the Jeff Morgan Gallery. The best is yet to come, as you arrive at Wilpena Pound Resort in the shadows of a staggering natural amphitheatre. Know that your MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience visit to the resort helps by contributing towards the sustainable economic future of the Adnyamathanha who in turn work with the resort to minimize the environmental footprint and participate in the conservation of the region. Hotel: Wilpena Pound Resort. B DW

3 Flinders Ranges - Port Augusta

The river red gums that envelop Hills Homestead will leave you lost for words. You get here on a leisurely walk along Wilpena Creek and continue to Wangarra Hill Lookout for views over the pound’s peaks and curves. The drama is echoed as you climb to Pichi Richi Pass and the historic town of Quorn, where with a Local Guide, you'll hear the importance of this town in the ANZAC's Gallipoli Campaign, before easing into Port Augusta. Hotel: Majestic Oasis Apartments. B DW

4 Port Augusta - Coober Pedy

The main attraction in Woomera is a former rocket-testing site, today stocked with disused rockets and missiles. Speaking of space, you’ll think you’ve landed on the moon as you travel through sun-baked country to Coober Pedy, known as ‘the opal capital of the world’. Things get deep as you travel underground to visit the town’s head-scratching subterranean facilities. Hotel: Desert Cave Hotel. B DW

5 Coober Pedy - Uluru

Emerge from your cave and cross the border into the Northern Territory. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has World Heritage status for a reason; under the gaze of the world’s mightiest monolith, toast the end of the day with a glass of bubbles and a camera full of sunset photos. Help protect the highlights of Australia's wilderness through your bucket list visit to Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Hotel: Desert Gardens. B

6 Uluru Sunrise & Kata Tjuta

Pre-dawn wake-up calls are worth it when you get to enjoy a Red Centre sunrise. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience you’ll encounter the iconic Uluru, or ‘The Rock,’ half a billion years old, standing 348 meters high and taller than the Eiffel Tower. Marvel at the majesty of Uluru as you circumnavigate its base or join a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. This landscape takes you back to the beginning of time, a sacred place among the Anangu people. More soul-salving landscapes await at Kata Tjuta, cool relief provided as you walk amid its domes to Walpa Gorge. Hotel: Desert Gardens. B

7 Uluru - Kings Canyon

Another sunrise excursion awaits, with this morning’s optional tour to Bruce Munro's Uluru Field of Light – a blanket of 50,000 glowing bulbs. Next chance to stretch your legs is at Kings Creek Station, the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia. All your senses will be activated at Kings Canyon, 440-million years in the making. Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort. B DW

8 Kings Canyon - Alice Springs

Things are bigger in the NT outback, from the cattle stations to the MacDonnell Ranges, which stretch like a dinosaur spine toward Alice Springs. Aside from its plethora of Aboriginal galleries and art stores, Alice makes Australian history for her 1872 Telegraph Station, one of 12 along the Overland Telegraph Line between Adelaide and Darwin. Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs. B

9 Alice Springs

Aboriginal culture is strong in Alice, as you’ll fast find on a tour revealing the history of the Arrernte people at the Alice Springs Desert Park. The other thing that’s mighty is community spirit – it’s essential when there are so few people scattered over such a vast area of land. Enter the Royal Flying Doctor Service, its base a museum that goes behind the scenes of the life-saving health services delivered to people in remote realms. One of the benefits of being this far-flung is the lack of light pollution. And at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre, this equates to epic stargazing. Your Be My Guest BBQ dinner here with the Falzon family is enlightening and uplifting. Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs. B BGD

10 Alice Springs - Tennant Creek

1.3 million square kilometers – that’s the eye-watering distance the School of Air’s lessons are broadcast across daily. Learn how teachers interact with children who would otherwise have no access to education. It doesn’tmatter how studious you are, you might just believe in aliens when you pass Wycliffe Well, the self-proclaimed ‘UFO capital’ of Australia. It’s the devil (well, his marbles) that awaits at Karlu Karlu, where precariously balanced boulders appear superglued together. Hotel: Bluestone Motor Inn. B DW

11 Tennant Creek - Katherine

Since the 1930s, the Daly Waters Historic Pub has been dishing up schnitzels, barramundi burgers and hearty steaks. The walls are lined with treasures that passers-by leave behind. ‘Land of the Never Never’ awaits at Mataranka. Visit a replica of the Elsey Homestead, used in 1982 Aussie drama We of the Never Never. Or wander palm-lined walkways to take a dip in the region’s thermal springs. Hotel: Contour Hotel Katherine. B DW

12 Katherine - Kakadu

The Jawoyn have called Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge home for millennia. You can feel their presence as you cruise the waterway, home to more than a few resident crocs. They’ll make another appearance in Kakadu, when you explore Yellow Water Billabong. You don’t need binoculars to spot the sea eagles, brolgas and kingfishers; they’re everywhere you look. Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. B DW

13 Kakadu - Darwin

Decisions, decisions: optional morning flight over Kakadu and Arnhem Land, or a sleep in. We vote for the former before you venture toward Ubirr and its ancient Aboriginal rock art. The night is yours in steamy Darwin, where the characters are as large as the shadows cast at sunset. Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Darwin. B

14 Litchfield National Park

Nature rules today, your explorations into Litchfield National Park revealing magnetic termite mounds standing two metres tall. And then there are the waterfalls: Florence, for its dreamy cascades, and Wangi, where youcan cool off in a crystal-clear waterhole (swimming is seasonal). See the NT capital in a new light when you venture out on a Darwin Harbour Cruise, your sparkling wine glass full to toast your last evening on this epic adventure. Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Darwin. B FD

15 Farewell from Darwin

Time to bid adieu and head home to sort through all those photos. Even better are the memories; two weeks of wild outback adventures. B

CREATE YOUR WISH LIST

Tell us where to send your custom brochure

Please enter your first name

Please enter your last name, please enter a valid email address, please choose a different image, please agree to our privacy policy, outback adventure added to brochure, please note.

We're experiencing a high volume of enquiries via our email and call centre.

Have a question? Why not head to our website's Frequently Asked Questions section to find what you're looking for, or email [email protected] and we will respond to you as soon as possible.

Need to check your Day Tour's hotel pick-up time? Click below for Day Tour departure information.

We have numerous new measures to elevate our hygiene standards and protocols.

Click "My Brochure" to build a custom made brochure with trips selected by you!

Add tours or remove tours from your list

The maximum number of tours has been reached for your custom brochure.

South Australia Outback Adventure

Wine tasting and wildlife in the outback.

Spend 10 days exploring the best of South Australia’s Outback in on a culturally rich and deliciously different small group adventure. From Adelaide, visit the opal capital of Australia, see Silo Art and watch stars sparkling above Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park as you hear traditional stories of the Adnyamathanha people. You will also immerse yourself in the beauty of Arkaroola, a 610 sqm wildlife sanctuary, and taste fine wines in the Clare Valley. With First Nations experiences, comfortable accommodation, a knowledgeable leader and numerous included activities, this Outback adventure is the whole package.

Why you’ll love this trip

• Watch the night sky come alive as you enjoy a campfire dinner and learn about the stories and traditions of the First Nations Adnyamathanha people who are the traditional custodians of the Flinders Ranges.
• Enjoy a subterranean stay in Coober Pedy, the opal capital of Australia, in underground accommodation which is cool, comfortable and unique to this part of the South Australian outback.
• Soak up the scenic beauty of the Clare Valley, one of Australia’s most famous wine regions, and sample Rieslings and other fine wines.
• Drive into the remote South Australian Outback and bounce along the famous Oodnadatta Track to William Creek where you can enjoy a cold beer and check out the unique “museum” of memorabilia across the street.

Is this trip right for you?

• Just as a heads up before you book: this trip is new to our range this year. And while we have thoroughly researched every detail of the logistics, new destinations can sometimes throw us some unexpected surprises. More often than not, it’ll be a great surprise. But every now and again there might be a hiccup. We like to think that’s what puts the ‘adventure’ in ‘adventure travel’.
• This trip includes time spent travelling in a private vehicle with your group. Extra space can be tight, and conditions may feel a little cramped. It’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.

What's Included

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

Private vehicle

Accommodation

Motel (1 night), Underground hotel (2 nights), Hotel (2 nights), Permanent tented camp (2 nights), Resort (2 nights)

Included activities

Woomera, Coober Pedy, Marree, Stuarts Creek, Lake Eyre, Iga Warta, Farina, Arkaroola, Wilpena Pound, Auburn

Daily itinerary

Day 1: adelaide / port pirie / port augusta.

Your adventure begins in Adelaide (Tandanya in the language of The Kaurna people, who are the traditional owners of the land on which Adelaide is now located). Your tour starts at 8:00 am with a group meeting at our start point hotel. Then head out of town towards Port Augusta. Stop at pretty pink Lake Bumbunga on the way to Snowtown. After a look around Fourth St and Railway Terrace, continue your journey to Port Pirie for a tour and lunch, hopefully at Solomontown Beach if the weather is good. On arrival at Port Augusta, you may like to enjoy an optional visit to the Wadlata Outback Centre or the Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens. This evening, enjoy a relaxing night in Port Augusta.

• Motel (1 night)

Optional Activities

• Port Augusta – Australian Arid Lands Botanic Gardens guided tour – Free
• Port Augusta – Wadlata Outback Centre ‘Tunnel of Time’ – AUD23

Meals Included

There are no meals included on this day.

Special Information

It’s very important that you meet the group at 8 am this morning in the hotel lobby to begin your tour. Find more details in the ‘Joining Point Instructions’ section of your Essential Trip Information. We recommend spending a night before your tour begins in Adelaide. If so, we’ll be happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability). Total drive time today is approximately 4.5 hours.

Day 2: Woomera / Coober Pedy

• Underground Hotel (1 night)

Included Activities

• Woomera – Lake Hart Rest Area
• Woomera – Heritage Museum & Visitor Centre

Total driving time today is around 6 hours. Temperatures in this part of Australia can reach extreme highs between November and March. Please bring appropriate clothing, use sun protection and drink plenty of water.

Day 3: Coober Pedy

• Coober Pedy – Josephine’s Gallery & Kangaroo Orphanage
• Coober Pedy – Underground Home, Church & Historic Mine Visit

Day 4: Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park / William Creek

• Hotel (1 night)
• Coober Pedy – Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park & Dingo Fence

Total driving time today is around 3 hours. Please note that today’s drive is on an unsurfaced gravel road. Some sections are corrugated so it may be a bumpy ride.

Day 5: Oodnadatta Track / Marree

• Marree – Leader-led Local History Walk
• Stuarts Creek – Wabma Kadarbu Mound Spring Conservation Park
• Lake Eyre – Picnic Lunch
• Coward Springs – Museum & Natural Spa – AUD2

Total driving time today is around 2.5 hours.

Day 6: Farina / Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park / Iga Warta

• Permanent tented camp (1 night)
• Iga Warta – Cultural Cookout Dinner & Campfire
• Iga Warta – Adnyamathanha Cultural Activities
• Farina – Restoration Project

Please note that depending on the group size rooming in Iga Warta for the next two nights will be twin or triple share cabins or safari tents. Due to the isolated nature of Iga Warta, there is no phone service and WiFi is only available at reception, although unreliable. Tap water here is not drinkable, so we recommended bringing some with you or purchasing on-site, and insect repellent is a must to combat year-round mosquitoes. Timekeeping isn’t a top priority in these parts, so be prepared to go with the flow. Also, please note that participating in kitchen duties will be highly appreciated by your hosts and provides for some great local interaction.

Day 7: Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park / Iga Warta

• Arkaroola – Bushwalk & Picnic Lunch

High temperatures can be expected in this region between November and March, meaning the walks planned over the coming days may need to be changed to adapt to the conditions.

Day 8: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound

• Resort (1 night)
• Wilpena Pound – Welcome to Country by Adnyamathanha Local
• Wilpena Pound – Bushwalk

Total driving time today is around 3 hours. Please note that today’s Welcome to Country at the Resort depends on the availability of a local Adnyamathanha person to perform the ceremony and can therefore not be guaranteed.

Day 9: Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound

• Wilpena Pound – Sunset Spectacular Tour – AUD60
• Wilpena Pound – Mountain Bike Hire (half day) – AUD35
• Wilpena Pound – Time Travel & Gorgeous Gorges 4WD Tour – AUD150
• Wilpena Pound – Yura Udnyu ‘Our Culture, Your Culture’ Tour – AUD45
• Wilpena Pound – Sacred Canyon Yura Mulka Cultural Walk – AUD85

Day 10: Clare Valley / Adelaide

After breakfast, depart for the Clare Valley wine region. Stop for a wine tasting at and grab lunch from a local eatery. See the Silo Art at Farrell Flat and Owen before continuing to Adelaide where your journey will come to an end.

• Auburn – Wine Tasting

Total driving time today is around 5 hours. Your arrival back into Adelaide this afternoon will be at around 5 pm. Please take this into consideration when planning your onward travels.

Departure Dates, Prices and Availability

Need help booking this tour, our top pick day tours to consider.

West Coast & Karijini Overland Adventure

Broome to Darwin Overland Adventure

Walk South Australia’s Flinders Ranges

People who loved this tour also viewed.

Jetty Splendour Guest Bedroom BnB with en-suite bathroom

Villa Vivante Private With Amazing Ocean Views

Sea la Vie 2 Luxury Apartment Coffs Harbour Jetty, Pool, Views, Near Beach

Why book with australian.com, travel experts.

We’re not just experts, we’re travellers and we’re here to help you.

Real Locals

We are an Australian team which means you’re dealing with a local.

Hand-picked

Each Holiday Package is hand-picked and tested by our expert team.

Get the lowest prices on the best accommodation, tours & activities

Full Support

Before, during and after your Holiday, we’re with you all the way.

Plan & Book

Choose one of our packages, and our team will build and book you a detailed itinerary.

Freedom & Flexibility

Our Packages are totally flexible. Change what you want whenever you want.

No Booking Fees

There’s no booking fees when you choose an Australian.com Holiday Package.

Sit back & relax

You'll get an interactive itinerary with everything you need for your holiday.

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

Short note to thank you for a terrific itinerary and choice of accommodations. We got back from Australia having had the best 'real' holiday in years. Loved it! The order of the trip was perfect and all the hotel bookings worked seamlessly.

We had a wonderful time! We so appreciate your arranging everything for us. It all went very smoothly. We just had to show up where and when you told us to. It took away any stress to this leg of our journey.

At long last & very overdue, we wish to thank you very much for all the bookings you made on our behalf for our adventure. We were pleased with all the accommodation bookings you made, we particularly noted we got what we asked for, walk in showers, twin beds & all clean & tidy. Thanks Madi, well done!!

Just wanted to say a big thank you!!! We have now returned from our holiday & it was fantastic. We would really like to thank you for how well everything was organised. Accommodation & tours were fabulous. We really loved how well organised our trip was and this is a credit to you!!! Thanks again, will be recommending you to friends and family.

OUR TRUSTED PARTNERS AND ASSOCIATIONS

Get in touch

Follow us on instagram.

South Australian Outback Adventure | 8 Day Guided Holiday

The South Australian countryside dials up natural drama, whether glimpsed from the sky atop prehistoric escarpments, or studied below ground, where opals gleam. The landscapes of the Flinders Ranges are ancient, and reveal history through endemic flora and fauna as well as some of the most dramatic geological landscapes imaginable.

LET’S STAY IN TOUCH

Sign up for our newsletter and get top stories, exclusive offers, events and free travel inspiration straight to your inbox!

ADD TO TRIP

Go to trip planner to manage your trips.

This page relies on JavaScript to function. Please enable it. Thank You! 🚀

Tell us about your SA Eco Tours experience and win great prizes!

“we offer our valued customers authentic encounters, maximum freedom, and assure personal attention, respect for the environment, nature and local people. always.”, discover some of the world’s oldest untouched landscapes.

Whether it’s Lake Eyre, Coober Pedy, the Flinders Ranges or Yorke Peninsula, come and experience the beauty of the South Australian outback on an SA Eco Tours 4WD Eco Safari . We’ll show you the true Australian outback, up close and personal, on our small group tours through some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery.

Travel the outback in 4WD air-conditioned comfort and cross some things off your bucket list! Fancy a scenic flight over Lake Eyre, a 4WD Arkaroola ridge-top tour, a Coober Pedy mine tour or a visit to the amazing Wilpena Pound? Experience all these and more.

Our tour guides are qualified, professional bushmen with a passion and respect for the outback. With tours leaving every week, and a range of destinations and activities, we’re sure you’ll love your SA Eco Tours experience.

UPCOMING TOURS & CURRENT SPECIALS

Limited special, book a standard or superior accommodation option on our 4-day lake eyre & flinders ranges 4wd outback tour including a 6-hour scenic flight departing adelaide on monday 20th november 2023 and get a $500 discount , limited places available, call mick direct on 0417 830 533 to grab this deal now.

This tour is also available without the desert flight at a lower price (activity replaced with bushwalking instead).

“Just a quick note to say what a fabulous trip we had to the outback. From the sandy hills, mesas and desert to the lush green of Wilpena Pound. Steve was a great tour guide and driver. He kept us entertained with his bush stories and his knowledge of local areas. We went to some interesting old pubs and met some interesting locals along the way, who also had a story to tell. Thank you so much for the opportunity to see this part of Australia.” ~ J & N

Book a Standard or Superior accommodation option on our 3-day Flinders Ranges & Outback 4WD outback tour departing Adelaide on Friday 27th October 2023 and get a $200 DISCOUNT !

Book a standard or superior accommodation option on our 5-day flinders ranges & outback 4wd outback tour departing adelaide on friday 27th october 2023 and get a $200 discount , book a standard or superior accommodation option on our 4-day lake eyre & flinders ranges 4wd outback tour including a 6-hour scenic flight departing adelaide on monday 15th may 2023 and get a $500 discount .

The tour is also available without the scenic flight: Standard Motel, double/twin share: $2,495 pp Standard Motel, single: $2,660 pp Superior Motel, double/twin share: $3,060 pp Superior Motel, single: $3,195 pp (yes, take an extra $500 off these prices!)

Book direct with SA ECO TOURS .

Email sa eco tours at [email protected], or call us on 0417 830 533 for all details..

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

4 Day Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre tour.

This is normally a small group tour, but I was the sole participant on the trip – the fact Mick took me, is a testament to his commitment to the role. So I got the personal attention and flexibility needed to work around the winter weather.

The tour was full of wonderful experiences. The scenery was breathtakingly beautiful. Mick made sure I saw unique spots, rare animals, learnt about the culture, and enjoyed the Australiana that was around every corner. There were plenty of “ah” moments. My favourite place in the Flinders Ranges was Brachna Gorge with its unique landforms, fossils and yellow footed wallabies (yes, Mick made sure I saw this rare animal, in two places).

The tour included a scenic flight over Lake Torrens and Lake Eyre. This was stunning!

The whole tour was well paced and enjoyable. Mick catered for my every need. He was informative, courteous, friendly and had such great stories to tell me. He made the tour so much fun!

I have travelled to 70 countries world-wide and this tour was up there with “the best” I’ve enjoyed. Wilpena Pound is a good central location for this tour and offers lots of options for hikers, walkers, or a senior like me, who enjoys touring. Good value for money too. Thanks for enriching my awareness of our “wide brown land”.

7 Day Flinders Ranges, Lake Eyre, Coober Pedy tour.

What an exciting way to see the Flinders ranges and the outback in a private four-wheel-drive for 7 days with 3 solo guests and our driver, we went places you couldn’t go on a large tour, our driver Steve was very knowledgeable and a very skilled driver, showed us the Flinders ranges and the outback towns in-depth , this was the real Australia, If you really want to see the real outback this is the only way to do it, the experience of a lifetime, the vista’s were incredible!

3 Day Flinders Ranges tour.

I was picked up near where I was staying and the driver/guide was friendly and one felt one was going to get on with him and enjoy the tour. Due to a previous accident we were not able to use the stock 4WD but the modern rented van did not alter plans.

We were in for a long drive but time passed agreeably and our first stop was at an interesting township for lunch at a characterful pub. From then on we were in the wonderful countryside of the Flinders for our trip.

The trip was full of interesting stops, with chances to photograph and learn. We stayed at Wilpena Pound. One could use all the facilities and the included meals (choices available) were really good. Prebooked sleeping arrangements included motel room, cabin or tent.

Two interesting morning walks, which if you are not fully mobile, could be a problem (6Ks woodland and 2K mostly rocky and up/downhill).

Every effort is made to enable one to see animals and this is great trip for those wanting an experience in the outback.

5 Day Flinders Ranges tour.

Just finished the 5 days Flinders Ranges & Outback tour and it was perfect. Travelling in a small group was awesome. Beautiful landscapes, good meals and accommodation. Our guide Beno was next level and we had a lot of fun ;-). I highly recommend this company!

If you are in Adelaide and looking for a true outback experience in a breathtaking mountainous landscape, this is the Tour for you. The small group setting made for an intimate and unique experience which made the trip seem very personalized and private. For 3 days you will be inundated with European settlement sites, sightseeing walks and drives, animals, aboriginal culture, and ancient history of the flinders ranges. We saw plenty of kangaroos, emus, yellow footed rock wallabies, kookaburras, and other wild animals. Shane the tour guide was absolutely fantastic. He was so knowledgeable and full of entertaining stories.

Definitely one of the best tours I’ve ever been on. As a solo traveler, I chose the tent option which made for a very immersive experience under the stars. When you wake up in the morning you will find yourself among kangaroos, birds and maybe even a wild goat or two! I elected to take a 20 minute morning scenic flight around the Wilpena Pound and it did not disappoint.

Been traveling in Australia, but almost merely in the majot cities, so it was time to see in someway the real Australia, the OUTBACK…and Flinders Range was on the meny.

I had a wonderful time with a gentlemen Mick, who had organised for me an spectacular 3 days…his knowledge about the histories of aboriginal and Australia was awesome, but the informations about the different plans, trees etc blew me away. We had so much fun during the trip weather we having lunch in the bush, driving the whole Skytrek, or just joking about different things.

This was a start for me with SA Eco Tours, and I will use the company in my future trips to Down under. I sincerely recommend this company.

Kiitos Mick and Ben.

Kindest regards, Ken (from the land of Santa Claus, and NO, it is not in Sweden 😁)

YORKE PENINSULA ACCOMMODATION

Southern yorke peninsula holiday holiday house, “dolphin view” 40 min. drive from innes national park book online at airbnb.

Email: [email protected]    •  Call: 0417 830 533 for details.

Flinders Ranges and Outback ECO Safaris and Tours

Touring the Flinders Ranges and the outback since 1989, we are proudly South Australian owned and operated. It is our pleasure to take international and local travellers into rarely-visited desert regions, so that passengers can truly say they have been introduced to Aboriginal culture and experienced the real Australian outback.

SA Eco Tours is an accredited tourism business and is proud to be a member of EcoTourism Australia and Responsible Travel. The company is recognised as setting some of the highest standards in outback safety.

“OUR PERSONALISED SMALL GROUP ECO TOURS, ARE DESIGNED TO GIVE YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL AREAS THE WORLD HAS TO OFFER.”

Accommodation and activities around adelaide.

Looking for more to do around Adelaide? Try KAYAK’s Adelaide Travel Guide .

Contact SA ECO Tours

Phone: 0417 830 533

Email: [email protected]

Quick Links

• Flinders Ranges 4WD Tours
• Flinders and Beyond
• Australian Private Tours and Charters
• Key Safety points.
• Terms and Conditions

• Website by John 2.0 - hosted by Inveress Web Development

Our guide to Outback South Australia

• Getting there
• Tours and packages

Embark on an unforgettable road trip in Outback South Australia, driving through the Flinders Ranges , marvelling at Wilpena Pound  and visiting the quirky town of Coober Pedy .

Here’s our pick of the best things to see and do in Outback South Australia.

Getting to Outback South Australia

Getting to Outback South Australia is part of the journey with a quintessential Australian road trip. From Adelaide, drive approximately 5 hours to Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges to start your Outback South Australia experience. Alternatively, Regional Express  flies regularly between Adelaide and Coober Pedy. Greyhound Australia  offers regular coach transfers between Adelaide and most Outback South Australia major centres.

Top Things to do in Outback South Australia

featured post

Everything you need to know about South Australia’s bright pink lakes

Hidden away in the South Australian outback are some of the most spectacular, naturally pink lakes you’ll see. Someho...

Bring your sense of adventure for camping in Outback South Australia. One of the best spots to camp in South Australia is Wilpena Pound offering powered and unpowered campsites as well as luxury safari tents. Climb the ridge in the early morning and late afternoon and watch the sun rising and setting over the pound, a magnificent natural amphitheatre and the centrepiece of the Flinders Ranges National Park. Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary also offers powered and unpowered sites alongside the incredible Astronomical Observatory.

Conservation Park

One of the best things to do in Coober Pedy is visit the Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park approximately 30km north of Coober Pedy. The Conservation Park takes in some of the most spectacular landscape in Outback South Australia with the best views from the main lookout or along the Dog Fence Scenic Tourist Drive Road.

Also check out South Australia’s incredible pink lakes while you’re touring the Outback.

Umoona Opal Mine and Museum

Coober Pedy is a quirky town not to be missed! Originally an opal mine, Umoona has been converted into the town’s largest single underground tourist attraction in Coober Pedy. A visit to Umoona includes a walk through the Museum, which details Aboriginal and European settlement of the area. Take a guided tour and see an underground living display home, learn about “The Story of Opal” an award-winning documentary and visit

The Arkaba walk that “rewilds your spirit”

Once farmland stripped bare, South Australia’s Arkaba is now a thriving outback wilderness where emus wander and wildflowers gro...

The top places you should stop along the Nullarbor

The Nullarbor crossing is infamous among road trippers, with legends of how monotonous the 1256-kilometre route across southern Au...

Wilpena Pound: Australia’s unknown icon

How can something as marvellously grand as the Flinders Ranges' Wilpena Pound fly under the radar for so long?, asks Steve Madgwic...

Play the world’s longest Golf Course on the Nullarbor Plain

Not satisfied with cricket matches that take five days to complete? There is now a golf course that takes four days and 1365km ...

The essential guide to visiting the Flinders Ranges

There are great rafts of information published about the Flinders Rangers. Here’s our distilled guide to the essential Flinders ...

13 reasons Coober Pedy is delightfully strange

Opal mining town enigma Coober Pedy is very special place. Very special. Here are 13 reasons why this is Australia’s most deligh...

Seeing Lake Eyre – the where, what, when and how

The often dry Lake Eyre is an outback enigma, famous for its rare and beautiful floodscapes. A scenic flight over Australia’s la...

Best Places to Stay in Outback South Australia

Whether you’re planning a family holiday road trip or adventurous couples getaway you’ll find the perfect Eyre Peninsula accommodation to suit your style and budget from Outback South Australia caravan parks and motels to glamping and luxury accommodation.

Luxury Accommodation

Be amazed by the spectacular scenery of the Flinders Rangers from safari tent style glamping accommodation at Ikara Safari Camp at Wilpena Pound. Arkaba Conservancy invites you to experience Wild Bush Luxury in the Flinders Ranges with five luxury guestrooms in a renovated homestead, add a walking safari in your stay to fully appreciate the landscape. Rawnsley Park Station offers self-contained secluded eco villas in the Flinders Ranges with views of Wilpena Pound.

On a long road trip, a comfortable hotel is a welcoming sight. Prairie Hotel is one of Australia’s most awarded Outback hotels. Prairie Hotel offers quality room and legendary service from the Fargher family, the local station owners. In Coober Pedy there are a number of underground hotels including Desert Cave Hotel offering unique underground accommodation with the option to stay above ground and featuring resort style facilities such as outdoor swimming pool and onsite restaurant and café.

Motels are a great value option when road tripping from Adelaide to Darwin. Comfort Inn Coober Pedy Experience is a former working opal mine, transformed into an underground motel complex in the 90’s and a welcome oasis for travellers. Mud Hut Motel offers unique accommodation built of rammed earth in the style typically found in Outback Australia.

The ultimate guide to camping in the Flinders Ranges

Fresh air, starry nights and a roaring campfire: here’s everything you need to enjoy the perfect outback camping exper...

Fresh air, starry nights and a roaring campfire: here’s everything you need to enjoy the perfect outback camping experience. Th...

Where to eat in Outback South Australia

Unique cuisine, iconic pub food and local wine await in Outback South Australia. Go feral at The Prairie Hotel where you can dine on emu egg omelette and camel sausage. The infamous pit stop attracts travellers from far and wide for the ‘Feral Mixed Grill’ listed as one of the top Gourmet experiences in Australia! For more refined dining, feast in the Flinders at Arkaba Station using the finest South Australian produce to dine in style under the stars.

Tours and packages Outback South Australia

Explore Outback South Australia by air or land on an organised tour or charter. A scenic flight over Australia’s largest salt lake is near the top of the outback bucket list, so here’s everything you need to know to see Lake Eyre from the air, pardon the pun.

If you’re looking to explore Coober Pedy, Noble Tours Australia offers one of the best Coober Pedy tours and packages with 4WD Outback tours from Coober Pedy covering all the Coober Pedy highlights and attractions.

The often dry Lake Eyre is an outback enigma, famous for its rare and beautiful floodscapes. A scenic flight over Austra...

Incredible South Australia destinations to explore

• South Australia
• McLaren Vale
• Kangaroo Island
• Eyre Peninsula
• Barossa Valley

© Australian Traveller Media 2024. All rights reserved.

South Australian Outback Tours

Immerse yourself in the adventure of outback sa, one of australia’s best-kept secrets, it doesn’t get much more real than the south australian outback. we invite you to fully immerse yourself in the absolute grandeur of sa with our guided camping tours., experience a world unspoilt and raw, camping under the stars in safety, luxury and comfort with outback horizons. use one of our suggested itineraries or travel with a bespoke, private tour fully tailored to your desires. there’s something suitable for everyone – families, the seasoned travellers or those new to the camping game, the relaxers or the hikers., what to expect.

Uniquely Australian, you won’t get much closer to the outback than with our luxury 4WD camping tour.

Experience the power and passion of outback South Australia settled around the campfire amongst the stars.

A more personable experience

Knowledgeable and friendly tour guide

Comfort and care every step of the way

Safe and reliable luxury tour vehicles

Comfortable, high-quality tents and sleeping gear

A once-in-a lifetime adventure

The outback will become your ‘home away from home’, as you enjoy the cozy comforts included on our camping tours. We offer twin-share, easy-to-erect and dismantle turbo tents. The deluxe self-inflating mattresses or stretchers (available upon request) and -10°C sleeping bags offer an ultra comfortable sleep whilst being as close to nature as it gets.

Our camping tours are all-inclusive. You will receive breakfast, lunch, dinner and plenty of fresh fruit and snacks along the way. We offer a wide variety of delicious home-cooked meals prepared fresh. We think of ourselves as foodies and only offer the best possible meals to tempt your palate.

If you have any special dietary requirements (gluten free, vegetarian or other needs/allergies), we can cater menus to suit you.

Your help is welcome in setting up and packing down camp – the quicker it can be done, the sooner we can be relaxing around the campfire or travelling the road!

Witness Australia like very few ever have the chance to do.

Experience outback adventure.

Vast, red desert landscapes stretching well into the distance welcome you to the outback.

We invite you on an other-wordly adventure to the north of SA. Departing from Port Augusta, the gateway to the outback, you’ll have the chance to discover the famous Opal Fields of Coober Pedy, fly over the picturesque Lake Eyre, adventure over the towering cliffs in the Flinders Ranges and witness the astronomical phenomena in Arkaroola.

Our camping tours make for a truly memorable journey with fantastic photography opportunities at every corner.

Your journey

Outback Horizons offer the complete outback experience. Our outback camping tours blend pristine nature and exhilarating experiences to create a real sense of adventure.

We offer shared departures, using the itinerary below, or receive a personalised itinerary to your tastes. Here, we have included a sample itinerary, these encounters are a must-do.

7 Day Outback SA Discovery

Meet plenty of locals along the way and learn the country’s ancient history, millions of years in the making. Immerse yourself in the local Indigenous culture and experience breathtaking night skies, untouched by the city lights.

An accredited and experienced guide

A scenic helicopter flight (excluding Kimberley Encounter)

Home-cooked meals

A ll park and entrance fees

Tents and camping gear

Top of the range vehicles, for safety and comfort

Special thanks to the South Australian Tourism Commission for supplying imagery.

Interested in our luxury 4wd tours of south australia.

Talk to our team and receive your handcrafted tour itinerary.

• Canada and Alaska
• United States
• New Zealand
• South Pacific Islands
• Why Anderson?
• How We Travel
• Accreditations & Membership
• Company Info
• Sustainability
• Custom Group Tours
• Terms & Conditions
• Testimonials
• Online Brochure
• Covid Safety
• Toll-Free: 1-866-814-7378
• 303, 1117 1st Street SW Calgary, AB | T2R 0T9
• Travel Agent Portal

SOUTH AUSTRALIA VACATIONS

South Australia is a state renowned for its abundance of Wildlife, Outback and Wine, easily accessed from the gateway of Adelaide. A city of natural beauty and simple elegance, Adelaide appeals to many North American visitors because of relaxed lifestyle and rich cultural and culinary offerings. South Australia is home to Australia's most interactive wildlife experience, Kangaroo Island, as well as numerous world famous wine regions including the Barossa, Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and McLaren Vale. For travelers wanting to venture into the outback, Coober Pedy offers the opportunity to explore underground homes and the mystical Flinders Ranges offers iconic landscapes and hiking opportunities.

MOST POPULAR TRIPS FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA

WHAT TO SEE AND DO?

ADDITIONAL INFO

South Australia is an ever-changing, pristine wilderness with over 2300 miles of coastline. From coast to vineyards, and forest to outback, there is no shortage of inspiring and breathtaking scenery. This landscape is teeming with native wildlife: kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas, emus and more than 450 bird species.

1. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island 2. Taste the world famous Grange at Penfolds Magill Estate 3. Swim with Australian Sea Lions off the Eyre Peninsula 4. Make your own blend in the Barossa 5. Cage Dive with the Great White Shark off Port Lincoln 6. Stay underground and find an opal in Coober Pedy 7. Cuddle a Koala in the Adelaide Hills 8. Experience the grandeur of Wilpena Pound while hiking 9. Tour Australia's greatest food and wine route, the Epicurean Way 10. Watch a game of cricket or Aussie rules at the Adelaide Oval

South Australia is a state renowned for its abundance of Wildlife, Outback and Wine, easily accessed from the gateway of Adelaide. A city of natural beauty and simple elegance, Adelaide appeals to many North American visitors because of relaxed lifestyle and rich cultural and culinary offerings. South Australia is home to Australia's most interactive wildlife experience, Kangaroo Island, as well as numerous world famous wine regions including the Barossa, Adelaide Hills, Clare Valley and McLaren Vale. For travelers wanting to venture into the outback, Coober Pedy offers the opportunity to explore underground homes and the mystical Flinders Ranges offers iconic landscapes and hiking opportunities. South Australia is an ever-changing, pristine wilderness with over 2300 miles of coastline. From coast to vineyards, and forest to outback, there is no shortage of inspiring and breathtaking scenery. This landscape is teeming with native wildlife: kangaroos, koalas, wombats, echidnas, emus and more than 450 bird species. Top Regions to See: 1. Spot native wildlife on Kangaroo Island 2. Taste the world famous Grange at Penfolds Magill Estate 3. Swim with Australian Sea Lions off the Eyre Peninsula 4. Make your own blend in the Barossa 5. Cage Dive with the Great White Shark off Port Lincoln 6. Stay underground and find an opal in Coober Pedy 7. Cuddle a Koala in the Adelaide Hills 8. Experience the grandeur of Wilpena Pound while hiking 9. Tour Australia's greatest food and wine route, the Epicurean Way 10. Watch a game of cricket or Aussie rules at the Adelaide Oval

Custom Trip Inquiry

What you get with a custom trip:

CONFIRMATION

When are your vacation dates, how many are travelling, who's this custom trip for, thank you for your reservation request.

We'll connect with you shortly to discuss your custom trip

CLASSIC TOURS

• Expert Tour Leader
• Maximum 24 passengers
• 3-4 stars comfortable accommodation (when available)
• Coach transportation
• Breakfast Included Daily
• Lunch or Dinner Included on Select Days
• Most Gratuities included

TOURS OF DISTINCTION

• Maximum 18 passengers
• Variety of 'off the beaten path' experiences
• Stays at Unique Inns and Boutique Hotel (when available)
• Mini Coach and Comfortable Local Transportation
• Lunch or Dinner Included Daily
• Unique Local Restaurant Experiences
• Most Gratuities Included

INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

• Private trip on a date of your choice
• Incorporates all modes of travel (coach, RV, car, VIA Rail, Rocky Mountaineer train)
• All Attractions, Activities and Events are Customizable
• Offers levels of accommodation from budget 3-star hotels, boutique lodges, to luxury properties
• Itineraries available in all 10 Canadian Provinces and the 3 Northern Territories and Alaska
• Itineraries also available in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific
• Itineraries cover all seasons and all travel styles
• Detailed crafted itineraries designed to agent/client specifications for content and budget

CUSTOM GROUPS

• Option for Expert Tour Leader to lead group at destination
• All Attractions, Activities, and Events are Customizable
• Offers levels of accomodation from budget 3-star hotels, boutique lodges, to luxury properties
• Daily breakfasts included

Your inquiry has been sent to us successfully. Someone will contact you very soon.

South Australia Tours & Holidays

There’s more to South Australia than amazing wine...

But we must admit,  cycling through three wine regions  is one of our favourite ways to explore. With ancient peaks, blissful beaches, unique outback towns and some of the country’s best  wildlife encounters , South Australia offers a little bit of everything. Head west for an outback-meets-ocean adventure along the  Eyre Peninsula . Uncover thousands of years of Adnyamathanhan history in  Ikara (Wilpena Pound) , a natural amphitheatre of mountains. Or hop over the pond to  Kangaroo Island  to hang out with a colony of 10,000 fur seals.

Our South Australia trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

South Australia highlights

South australia tour reviews.

Filter by rating

Kangaroo Island Adventure

10 must-visit beaches in South Australia

6 of the best things to do in the Flinders Ranges

12 things to add to your Eyre Peninsula bucket list

5 things to do when you travel from Port Augusta to Adelaide

5 of the best Clare Valley restaurants

A foodie’s guide to Kangaroo Island

Raise a toast: 11 of the best Barossa Valley wineries

9 things you probably didn’t know you could do on Kangaroo Island 

Popular regions

South australia travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit South Australia?

South Australia has diverse landscapes and weather patterns. Southern regions like Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale have a Mediterranean climate with cool, wet winters and warm, dry summers. As you go further north, the weather gets hotter and drier.

Down south and along the coast, summer (December-February) is the busiest time of year thanks to warm, sunny weather and a busy festival calendar. Autumn (March-May) is the best time of year for foodies and wine lovers with all the harvest and Vintage celebrations in wine country.

Winter (June-August) is a fab time to see wildlife in Flinders Ranges National Park where wallabies, kangaroos and other native critters make the most of abundant vegetation. You can also spot humpback and southern right whales off the coast.

Spring is a great season for hiking and bushwalking as temperatures are pleasant and native wildflowers are in bloom.

What should I pack for a trip to South Australia?

Bring a trusted pair of walking shoes and a pair of thongs (flip-flops) to wear around your accommodation. Layered clothing is best, including a fleece or jumper to pop on in the evening and a rain jacket in case the weather turns. One or two smart casual outfits should be more than enough for dining out unless you plan on visiting many high-end restaurants or wineries.

How will I travel around South Australia?

Travelling around South Australia often involves a lot of time on the road. Services/amenities can be limited, so bring ample snacks and be sure to download a few podcasts for the journey.

What are some of the best beaches in South Australia?

Most people have heard about Bondi, Byron Bay and Whitehaven Beach, but South Australia's beaches are super low on the tourist radar (for now!). Some of our favourite spots include:

Maslin Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula

Glenelg Beach, Adelaide

Port Willunga, Fleurieu Peninsula

Crackalinga Beach, Fleurieu Peninsula

Vivonne Bay, Kangaroo Island

Almonta Beach, Eyre Peninsula

Cactus Beach, Penong

Perlubie Beach, Streaky Bay

Memory Cove, Eyre Peninsula

Emu Bay Beach, Kangaroo Island

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Outback Tours

Discover · explore.

The Australian outback occupies almost 70% of Australian territory, but is inhabited by only 3% of the population. Exploring the Australian outback is one of the best ways to understand our red earth. We provide 3 -8 day customised tours, which include the Flinders Ranges, Arkaroola, Lake Eyre, Coober Pedy and other inland towns and cultural locations. 

Flinders Ranges

3 Day Outback Tour

2 nights accommodation

Wedge-tail eagle, emu, kangaroo photography opportunity.

4 wheel drive on private property.

Wilpena Pound sunset viewing

Kangaroo steak/outback beef steak

​Wildlife and Star Photography small group tutorial.

Optional star photography​

Optional sunrise photography

Optional unset scenic flight.

Depart from Port Lincoln or Adelaide

Arkaroola is located 3 hours North of the Flinders Ranges. To get there we must travel on unsealed roads from the Flinders Ranges National Park. The remoteness and long journey only adds to the mystery and beauty of Arkaroola. As Arkaroola is located in the centre of the South Australian outback, it is home to an abundance of unique Flora and Fauna.  Specifically, Arkaroola offers the best opportunity to see the rare yellow-footed rock-wallabies.

Our 1-2 day Arkaroola tour is an extension of the 3 day Flinders Ranges tour. Due to the scorching hot summer weather, we only operate our Arkaroola tours in the Spring, Autumn and Winter.

Underground Opal Town Tour

Coober Pedy is a rare underground town. Due to the scorching hot summer, churches, restaurants, hotels, shops and even swimming pools are underground. This place is not only famous for the hot summers, but also the rare and beautiful opal mines. Due to the exceptional geological conditions, it also produces fossilised opal. Coober Pedy is a must-go place for people interested in paleontology. Here you can visit the operational opal mines and even try to uncover your own opal! 

This 1-2 day tour is an extension of our 3 day Flinders Ranges Tour.

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +61 413811442

      +86 18513636889

Outback South Australia

The further north you travel, the more you’ll understand that the South Australian Outback is a region of exceptional beauty, charisma, and unforgettable experiences that can't be found anywhere else in the world.

The local communities are thriving with a quirkiness that is unique to Australia. The iconic remote towns are steeped in history and culture, and the outback hospitality is unbeatable.

Breathe a little deeper, settle into outback time and feel the daily grind disappear behind you. Let the expansive scenery unfold in front of you and prepare to be delighted by the Outback's mystery, contrasts and character.

Once you hit these wide open roads, you will understand why people who love the Outback, are really in love with the Outback.

Spectacular outback scenery

The South Australian Outback is home to awe-inspiring beauty, from mountain ranges, vast open plains and stony deserts to lazy creeks and rivers, billabongs, and wetlands.

Take a scenic flight with Wrightsair to see the Anna Creek Painted Hills, the stunning rock formations in colours you would never have expected to find in Australia.

Discover an oasis in the desert in the Witjira National Park. Dalhousie Springs is the largest complex of artesian springs in Australia, where you can enjoy swimming in one-million-year-old waters at a constant 37°C.

The Innamincka Regional Reserve includes the majestic Cooper Creek. Take a sunset cruise in the pristine beauty of Channel Country, or set up camp and fish for yellowbelly. Paddle a canoe all the way along Cullyamurra Waterhole, Australia’s largest billabong and a significant and special place for the Traditional Owners, the Yandruwandha Yawarrawarrka People.

The beauty is also hidden far underground with an abundance of opal, Australia’s National Gemstone. Go noodling for your own opal at Coober Pedy or Andamooka, where you may even find rare opalised dinosaur fossils like Karkaroo, the Andamooka Plesiosaur.

Famous outback pubs

Outback towns are few and far between, but each is as welcoming as the next. The pub is usually the meeting place of choice, and the outback plays host to some of the quirkiest in Australia.

The Mungerannie Hotel halfway along the Birdsville Track is acclaimed for its collection of outback memorabilia, including hats from locals and locks of hair from its many visitors. Experience the welcoming yet outlandish Pink Roadhouse in Oodnadatta and stop by William Creek Hotel , one of the most remote pubs in the world.

Marree has a great pub , where you can also book a scenic flight to view the famous Marree Man.

Stop by the Innamincka Hotel for a beautiful pub meal and a drink in the Outamincka Bar. Catch an outdoor movie, a round of mini golf, or spend a few nights in a comfy motel room while you explore Channel Country and learn about the ill-fated expedition of Burke and Wills.

Camping in the outback

There are some great camping spots and visitor facilities at 3 O’Clock Creek, Dalhousie Springs, Purni Bore, and Mount Dare. The Mount Dare Hotel offers fuel, accommodation, some supplies and an airstrip.

If visiting the Witjira National Park and Simpson Desert Reserves for the first time, it’s recommended you travel west to east to take advantage of the gentler upslope to most dunes. You will also need to purchase a Desert Parks Pass.

There are a long list of magical places to camp in the Outback, but visitors need to be prepared. See the Aussie Travel Code for information on safe, respectful travel.

Outback accommodation

Accommodation options are as vast as the region itself.

The unique offerings include underground hotels and apartments, motels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, caravan parks, station stays, homesteads, cottages, and cabins. For the more adventurous, camping under the stars in one of the many national parks will require a desert pass from the local ranger.

How can we help?

Events in outback south australia.

Check out the vibrant events calendar that attracts thousands of revellers to unforgettable outback events.

The Outback races season kicks off with the Oodnadatta Races and Gymkhana, followed by the Marree Camel Cup and the iconic Birdsville Races.

The Big Red Bash is the world's most remote music festival, attracting 10,000 people to Birdsville and the Simpson Desert. For more fantastic performances, 500 Miles of Music visits Wombat Flat, Wilmington, Leigh Creek and William Creek.

Rallies, rodeos and marathons also run throughout the year. The usual schedule may have been impacted by COVID-19, but it takes more than a pandemic to keep the Outback down.

Events continue to run when it is safe to do so.

Highlights of the Outback

Unique Nature Experiences in the Flinders Ranges and Outback

Unique Accommodation in the Flinders Ranges and Outback

Unique Tours of the Flinders Ranges and Outback

Need more help?

Get in touch with the Visitor Information Centres located across the Outback. The friendly staff can help you with local recommendations, advise on permits and passes, and provide any other assistance you need to have a great trip.

Coober Pedy Visitor Information Centre

Roxby Downs Visitor Information Centre

Wilpena Pound Visitor Information Centre

Explore Every Corner of Our Region

Flinders Ranges

Southern Flinders Ranges

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

South Australia Outback Adventure (9 destinations)

• Partially Guided

No departure dates available

No dates, no problem! Subscribe to our newsletter to receive:

• Travel inspiration for similar adventures
• Alerts of the newest adventure deals

By submitting this form, I agree to the TourRadar T&Cs and Privacy policy .

You have successfully subscribed to our newsletter, check your inbox!

It seems you have entered this contest already! Keep an eye on your inbox for the winner.

• Introduction
• Day 1 Adelaide / Port Pirie / Port Augusta
• Day 2 Woomera / Coober Pedy
• Day 3 Coober Pedy
• Day 4 Kanku-Breakaways Conservation Park / William Creek
• Day 5 Oodnadatta Track / Marree
• Day 6 Farina / Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park / Iga Warta
• Day 7 Vulkathunha-Gammon Ranges National Park / Iga Warta
• Day 8 Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound
• Day 9 Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park / Wilpena Pound
• Day 10 Clare Valley / Adelaide

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by intrepid travel.

Back in 1989, two guys from Melbourne, Australia by the names of Darrell and Manch set off on an adventure to the other side of the world. They travelled to Africa and without air conditioning on their modified truck, they filled it with supplies, some beer, a bunch of aviator sunglasses, and some friends. On that trip, they came up with the idea that perhaps others may be interested in this style of travel too. Just like that, Intrepid was born. Intrepid has come a long way since then, now giving over 100,000 travelers a year the opportunity to experience small group travel across all 7 continents. They use local transport, sleep in local accommodation from Cambodian stilt houses to Moroccan riads, and employ 100% local leaders. With three different travel styles including basix, original and comfort, themes ranging from cycling trips to family holidays, and itineraries crafted with the perfect balance of must-see sights and free time, Intrepid caters to every type of traveller no matter their age, budget or travel style. The company has grown but their mission remains the same: to change the way people see the world through sustainable, experience-rich travel

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Animal Welfare

Supporting Destinations

Sustainability Programs

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Good 4.0
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• January 2025
• February 2025
• Thursday 2 May, 2024 Saturday 11 May, 2024 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 16 May, 2024 Saturday 25 May, 2024 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 13 Jun, 2024 Saturday 22 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 27 Jun, 2024 Saturday 6 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 11 Jul, 2024 Saturday 20 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out €2,580 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 25 Jul, 2024 Saturday 3 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out €2,580 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 8 Aug, 2024 Saturday 17 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 22 Aug, 2024 Saturday 31 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 5 Sep, 2024 Saturday 14 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 19 Sep, 2024 Saturday 28 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 3 Oct, 2024 Saturday 12 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 17 Oct, 2024 Saturday 26 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 7 Nov, 2024 Saturday 16 Nov, 2024 English Sold Out €2,580 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 5 Dec, 2024 Saturday 14 Dec, 2024 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 30 Jan, 2025 Saturday 8 Feb, 2025 English Sold Out €2,710 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 27 Feb, 2025 Saturday 8 Mar, 2025 English Sold Out €2,580 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 13 Mar, 2025 Saturday 22 Mar, 2025 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Thursday 27 Mar, 2025 Saturday 5 Apr, 2025 English Sold Out €2,460 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 17 Other Unavailable Departures

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currency $ Australian Dollar Australia

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type I.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an infected area for Australia. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Japanese B encephalitis - Recommended for Australia. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 27th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 27th June 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Intrepid Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Intrepid Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
• Morocco Tours
• Kathmandu Everest Base Camp tours
• Eastern India April 2025 tours
• Tailor-Made Private Tour of Vietnam for First…
• 10 Days Do The Philippines Adventure Tour - P…
• Cotopaxi Volcano Day Tour
• Best Time to Climb Kilimanjaro? [Month by Mon…

Keep Exploring Australia

• Australia Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 4 Week Australia Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best Explorer Tours and Trips 2024/2025
• Australia from Adelaide
• Australia Explorer
• Small group tour
• Operators in Australia/Oceania
• South Australia Outback Adventure (9 destinations) Tours in Australia
• Australia Tours
• Australia/Oceania Tours
• Explorer Tours
• Group Tours
• Partially Guided Tours
• South Australia
• Australia tours

• Science & Environment
• History & Culture
• Opinion & Analysis
• Destinations
• Activity Central
• Creature Features
• Earth Heroes
• Survival Guides
• Travel with AG
• Travel Articles
• About the Australian Geographic Society
• AG Society News
• Sponsorship
• Fundraising
• Australian Geographic Society Expeditions
• Sponsorship news
• Our Country Immersive Experience
• AG Nature Photographer of the Year
• Web Stories
• Adventure Instagram

Australian Geographic Adventure

Go beyond: the ultimate guide to outback travel

When we think ‘outback’, the iconic image is that of the red sand of Australia’s desert country. But, it also covers the remote tropical regions of Oz as well – think: Cape York, Kakadu, the NT/QLD Gulf Country and WA’s mighty north-west (encompassing the Kimberley and Pilbara regions). By themselves, Australia’s deserts account for an estimated 70 per cent of the continent’s land mass. Pretty impressive, but not half as impressive as actually getting out there and exploring and camping in one (or more) of them. Nothing beats that sense of utter remoteness offered by the combo of an endless red, sandy horizon, topped by the blue skies synonymous with this country’s desert regions. 

The attractions of outback touring go beyond that sense of isolation and remoteness and also take in the rich ties this landscape has with all Australians, whether it is the eons-old indigenous culture, or the more recent European explorers’ history. It is this sense of retracing the steps of early explorers that is one draw for visitors. This, in turn, is further enriched by the chance to experience that ‘sense of place’ so ingrained in Indigenous culture – along with the physical reminders of their long and continued residence here, in the form of reliable waterholes, petroglyphs, etc.

The other appeal is that, rather than being ‘the same thing every day’, a week or two (or longer), exploring one or more of Australia’s outback regions really brings home how unique each of them is, in terms of wildlife, Indigenous links, terrain, camping, the driving challenges and plenty more. 

Yeah, it sounds impossibly romantic; packing the 4WD and heading to points unknown, but that notion of outback escapism needs to be, firstly, backed by a whole lot of research, planning and preparation. Once that is out of the way – and the actual pre-trip prep can be more than half the fun – is when the real adventure starts. Let’s go…

Planning sure does pay

For this writer – and I am sure for most adventurers – poring over a series of maps is an integral part of the trip planning process, regardless of your destination. With a focus on remote outback travel, having access to a number of maps – and accurate ones – is key to effective trip preparation. The reasons are many and include the obvious of seeing where your destination is, in relation to where you’re starting point, along with giving you a great overall ‘visual’ of the country you will be covering in terms of access tracks, refuelling points (whether in towns, Aboriginal communities, or likely fuel drop-off/caching points), whether there are any water sources in the region, and – of course – the total distance of the route/track you will be following. 

Large area maps are your best starting point (think: Hema’s excellent Great Desert Tracks maps), and from there you can move down in map scale and also start using digital mapping (websites and/or apps and GPS units), with ExplorOz a brilliant example.

Some, but not all, of Australia’s deserts are comprised of both national parks and Aboriginal-owned land, and one of the first checks you do need to do is that based around any essential permits you may need to traverse these lands. Most states’ national parks and the various Indigenous land councils have online permit systems that are, generally, pretty easy to access and fill in. Some permits may take longer to acquire than others, though, so bear that in mind and make sure you give the relevant authorities plenty of notice of your travel dates. By doing this it allows any communication to and from regarding your trip plans to be undertaken, thus ensuring the relevant authorities know exactly where you are – and how long for. As an example: this writer had a potential Arnhem Land trip quashed years ago after gaining approval from the Traditional Owners thanks to plenty of transparency in communication, only to have it stopped by a tie-wearing office-bound bureaucrat in Darwin. Just sayin’…

Never run dry

With the distances and remoteness of Australia’s deserts, planning for a trip here involves accounting for a number of unique factors, starting with one of the essentials: fuel usage for your vehicle – and yourselves. 

Think of some of the longer desert tracks in Oz, such as the 1619km Canning Stock Route (CSR) or the 1324km Anne Beadell Highway, and you soon realise an accurate estimate of fuel consumption is crucial to a successful and safe adventure. As most know, any vehicle will use more fuel when driven on unsealed surfaces. Add in the mechanical effort needed to push a two-tonne-plus vehicle through sand and you will need to factor in far heavier consumption than ‘normal’.

This would also be a good time to check on maps and/or any online resources as to the longest distance between re-fuelling points. As an example, the distance between fuel points on the CSR is a heady 977km, necessitating the planning of a fuel drop or two. Some travellers (mostly, but not exclusively), will have the capacity to lug the required amount of fuel – usually in jerry cans, sometimes in addition to a fitted aftermarket long-range tank – but that will depend on your vehicle’s load-carrying capacity. The temptation is to put jerrys up on the roof-rack, but the additional load up high does affect vehicle handling. You will need to check not your roof-rack load capacity, but the manufacturer’s maximum permitted load for the vehicle’s roof. You might be surprised how little that burly 4WD wagon of yours is legally allowed to carry up top. An alternative to roof-stored fuel is to fit an aftermarket rear bar that incorporates twin jerry-can holders (or, a single jerry holder and spare wheel carrier).

The other liquid essential on any desert trip is water. And by this we mean not only having enough water on-board for keeping everyone hydrated, but for other essential activities, such as cooking, washing up, personal hygiene and potentially having to top-up vehicles’ radiators. Again, distance (and amount of resupply points) plays a part in estimating how much you will need, but we’d recommend at least 20 litres per day, per person. Yep, that sounds a lot, and it soon adds up in terms of weight and eating into your vehicle’s load capacity. However, in this instance, it’s best not to quibble. A further tip that applies to both water and fuel storage is to ensure your jerry cans/containers are in excellent condition and that you don’t store all the liquid in one or two containers. If the unfortunate does happen and it springs a leak, you could lose a significant portion of your water/fuel supply – something to be avoided anywhere, but especially in arid country.

Perpetual motion

Safe outback travel means having a vehicle that is set up for the conditions and in tip-top mechanical condition. This is one of the first things that needs addressing as you plan your dream escape. A full going-over by a mechanic who specialises in outback travel prep is a must; checking for suspension (and tyre) wear and tear, as well as ensuring all the hoses and fitments in the engine bay are in robust condition and that all accessories are securely – and correctly – fitted, will mean you have already significantly reduced the chances of breaking down. The next step will be for them (and you) to draw up a list of essential spare parts that you will need to carry in the event that something does break – and this may still happen regardless of how ‘new’ the fitted parts are; the desert, in particular, is unforgiving. We’re not all accomplished bush mechanics (tip from this writer: travel with one if you can!) but more basic repairs, such as how to plug a punctured tyre (yep, a puncture-repair kit is another must-pack), should be within your skill-set if you plan on spending time in remote areas. 

One near-essential is a second spare wheel/tyre; rough tracks can be murder on even the toughest tyres. Even though tyre plugs can work miracles, if you tear a tyre sidewall, the plugs don’t work; having a second spare brings additional reassurance and ups the safety factor when you are, literally, many miles from anywhere.

Driving through desert country usually means negotiating myriad dunes and these are often taller/deeper than your vehicle. Fitment of a sand flag is non-negotiable as it assists any oncoming traffic being able to see you, thus avoiding a head-on collision. Packing specialist sand-recovery gear – on top of your normal recovery kit, which should include snatch straps, shackles, ropes, gloves, tyre levers, jack, etc. – is another must.

A set (or more) of Maxtrax offers great insurance for those driving over sandy tracks. These are very robust and also very easy to use. Plus, they don’t weigh much, offering excellent recovery bang-for-bucks. The final piece of the vehicle puzzle is an effective communication setup. Not only does a reliable UHF radio (or satphone; this is more for any emergency situation, as is a Personal Location Beacon) ensure you’re never totally stranded if the worst-case scenario eventuates; being able to call on the channel occasionally to see if there is any other traffic approaching helps reduce further the chance of a vehicle-on-vehicle incident. Speaking of which, it goes without saying that at least one, but preferably more, of your expedition crew should have the latest Remote First Aid training – and a comprehensive First Aid kit should be packed.

Outback basecamp

Nothing beats pulling up in the middle of the desert in the evening, cooking up a storm and enjoying a few cold drinks as the sun sets over the dunes. That sounds like a dream scenario but, as long as you have the required remote power requirements to keep the lights glowing and the fridge cool, you’ll get to enjoy that dream-like outback dining experience every night on your outback adventure. 

It does all come down to power. To this end, it’s worth expanding your regular off-road power options, such as a dual-battery setup or portable power pack, to include portable solar panels. These are relatively cheap, reliable and pretty much a standard inclusion on outback travel equipment lists. With the outback touring season usually the time of clear days – every day – being able to set up solar panels at camp renders the question of reliable power moot. There are myriad solar panel systems available, so you will need to research what suits your particular requirements. Also worth tackling is a course on basic auto-electrical repairs – or at least having some knowledge of how your vehicle’s auxiliary power setup works in case you have to troubleshoot power-related problems. 

Travelling with a portable fridge means you will be able to keep food fresh for a decent amount of time in the desert. Making it last longer is possible by selecting a fridge/freezer combo unit , where a portion of the fridge is a dedicated freezer. Another trick to ensure fresh grub for longer is to get your local butcher/food supplier to cryo-vac your meat. By vacuuming all the air out of the container, the use-by date of meats in particular can be extended significantly. 

Don’t forget you’re on outback time

One thing often forgotten in the dreaming, researching and final planning of the big outback adventure is just how much time it can take. Driving in sand, especially, is where you need to balance momentum and patience, and also where you need to realise it will take longer to negotiate numerous dunes than it would to traverse a long, straight outback road. 

Even though the actual distance between two points may be ‘not that long’, driving in soft sand, having to perform the occasional recovery, and stopping to take in your surrounds, all takes time – and makes for the perfect excuse not to rush. There’s no reason you can’t stay at, say, Camp 15 on the Madigan Line for more than one night (and same applies to that speccy campsite at Cape York ), as you’ve spent months and lots of money planning and prepping to get yourself out to a destination few people will ever experience, so make sure you allocate enough time to soak it up properly. After all, you’ll be on ‘outback time’, in a place that has seen thousands of years of Indigenous inhabitants and a few hundred years of explorers traversing it. We’re sure it – and you – will cope with spending a little bit of time out there…

Vehicle choices

Outback travel is punishing on vehicles due to the usually rugged tracks and roads, as well as the potential for water-crossings and steep, slippery tracks that need to be negotiated carefully. This all points to a 4WD as being the only choice for those who wish to experience the more remote (and beautiful) parts of Australia.

In terms of motivation, diesel engines are still the number one choice for long-distance remote touring, due to better fuel economy than the equivalent petrol engine, and the availability of diesel in very remote areas. Then, you need to decide whether you go for a 4WD ute or a 4WD wagon, and that choice is not always straightforward…

The outback workhorse The 4WD dual-cab ute is probably the most popular option for serious and regular outback tourers. This is due to a number of reasons, starting with the fact these utility vehicles can carry a considerably heavier load than a 4WD wagon, thanks to a ute’s rear tray. That rear tray also adds always-welcome cargo storage space for travelling families: with the simple addition of a canopy (a hard shell that covers the ute tray) you gain copious storage space – far more than you will find in a wagon. Utes are built to lug heavy loads so are considerably robust, but they are longer and there are certain sacrifices you make if you opt for one. Chief among this is, even though they have improved immensely, utes do not offer as comfortable a ride for passengers as a 4WD wagon does. This is due to the firm rear suspension (usually ‘old school’ leaf-springs) that have to be quite stiff/firm so they can cope with those heavier loads.

For families, the rear seat of a dual-cab (four-door) ute is, today, a better place to spend time in, but still not as comfortable as the second-row seating in a wagon, where most second-row seating these days can be tilted back for more comfort (a ute’s second row cannot). Still, a properly set up ute, with a spacious canopy that houses a cargo-drawer system for storing all essential gear, a fridge/freezer, auxiliary power setup, all your dusty camping gear, and further (light) gear loaded up on top on a roof-rack, makes for a formidable outback touring vehicle.

Circle the wagons If you opt for a more comfortable 4WD wagon, you will have to work with less cargo space and a lower maximum payload figure (the legal amount of weight a vehicle can carry). But you will gain more security for your gear in the back, that aforementioned additional comfort for the kids, and a more supple ride overall, thanks to the use of coil spring suspension all-round (rather than the firmer leaf-spring rear suspension found on a ute). You will, as mentioned, have to pack more cleverly – and with that payload figure always in mind. As an example, most popular large 4WD wagons these days (think: Toyota’s LandCruiser or Prado; Ford Everest; Isuzu MU-X) have payload figures around the 600-650kg mark, compared to a ute’s 900-1000kg. Add a set of sturdy cargo-drawers, fridge/freezer, roof-rack, bull bar and driving lights, camping gear, food, water and yourselves to a 4WD wagon and you will soon be close to that maximum payload figure. (Some 4WD wagons do have higher payloads – the Land Rover Defender, at 850kg-plus, is an example.)

To ensure you don’t skimp on gear, look for lighter-weight equipment, i.e., instead of two heavy canvas swags or a big canvas touring tent, look at lightweight alternatives (hiking tents, for example). There’s a tendency to throw every accessory on a 4WD but this is often overkill. A good example is cargo drawer systems. These are very handy, but you can set up a similar storage system in the back using robust plastic boxes that are lighter – you just have to make sure it ‘works’ effectively in terms of being able to reach and unload essential camping gear quickly once you arrive at your destination.

Vehicle Essentials

For those contemplating an outback trip of, say, a couple of weeks or longer, there are a few accessories that will considerably enhance the overall experience. Here are our top five. Fridge/freezer.  These are brilliant. Running it off a portable power pack or an auxiliary battery system – or a portable solar panel setup at camp, means your food stays fresh and your drinks cold. If you can fit one in, a dual-compartment fridge and freezer unit (one compartment runs as the fridge, the other a freezer) is the best option. All-terrain tyres.  Nearly all 4WD wagons and utes come with road-biased tyres, due to the fact that even the most prolific outback travellers will still spend more time on the road. An all-terrain tyre features more robust construction and a chunkier tread pattern to ensure optimum traction on slippery or muddy surfaces. Plus, the thicker sidewalls increase protection against staking/puncturing. Tyre repair kit.  These are invaluable. Easy to use, a tyre repair kit can mean the difference between being stranded and getting back to civilisation. Aftermarket suspension.  For those who will spend considerable time on rough tracks, an aftermarket suspension setup is worth the price. These are designed specifically for rougher road surfaces and are stronger and more effective at providing a comfortable and safer ride.  Driver training.  Modern 4WDs are very easy to drive on the road – no different to a regular car or station wagon – but if you intend using them for what they are designed for, we thoroughly recommend a 4WD driver training course. You will learn just how your vehicle works off-road (and why), and also how to drive to challenging conditions.

An unexpected Pacific paradise

Visiting Micronesia’s islands and atolls offers an unexpected rare glimpse into remote communities steeped in centuries-old cultural traditions.

VMG Typhon E-Mountain Bike: Tested

This Aussie-designed e-MTB is a new entry into this fast-growing cycling segment. We’ve spent four months riding it, to see how it stacks up on the trails.

Twice the fun: Snowboard and hike NZ’s Queenstown region

The perfect winter combo – snowboarding and hiking – equals a memorable family adventure in Queenstown and surrounds. Here’s how it’s done.

Watch Latest Web Stories

Birds of Stewart Island / Rakiura

Endangered fairy-wrens survive Kimberley floods

Australia’s sleepiest species

Outback South Australia & Kangaroo Island 2024

Fly free plus.

• Pricing & Availability

Brochure Request

Tour highlights, view image gallery, outstanding value inclusions.

• Small Group Size - 26
• All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) included. Complimentary beverages from a selected list included at lunch and dinner (when dining at licensed venues only).
• 13 nights of hotel and lodge accommodation
• All attraction and entry fees
• Travel aboard 5-star All Terrain Mercedes Benz Coach
• Professional 2 person crew: Tour Driver and Tour Director
• Outback Spirit Explorer Pack (for first-time travellers only)

Moments of  Magic

Wilpena pound.

Explore the incredible natural amphitheatre of Wilpena Pound, a valley surrounded by a rim of mountains in the Flinders Ranges, one of the oldest mountain ranges on earth. Also visit Sacred Canyon to view ancient Aboriginal sandstone engravings.

Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, Australia's largest salt lake and the 13th largest lake in the world is one of the most spectacular sights in the outback. Fly over its vast expanse, taking in Lake Eyre North and South before passing over the Warburton Creek system.

Painted Hills

Emerging out of the flat desert, the ‘Painted Hills’ is a rocky outcrop of large and small hills, weathered over millions of years. Fly over the fragile lunar landscape and marvel at its changing colours and natural beauty.

Spectacular Marine Life

SA is host to incredible marine life, including some of Australia’s most iconic species such as the South Right Whale. Enjoy an eco-adventure cruise off Kangaroo Island to observe the prolific marine life and meet sea lions up close at Seal Bay.

Itinerary & Accommodation Snapshot

Please check your required arrival time with the office before booking your flights.

Today you will be met by your friendly and professional Tour Directors. If you are arriving into Adelaide Airport please collect your baggage and make your way to the café located at the bottom of the escalator by 11.00am.

Departing Adelaide, we make our way to Hahndorf in the Adelaide Hills. Take a stroll through this charming and picturesque village before heading down the Fleurieu Peninsula to Cape Jervis, the departure point for Kangaroo Island. Enjoy the 45 minute ferry ride across Backstairs Passage before heading around to Kingscote. We spend the next three nights at the Aurora Ozone Hotel, perfectly positioned along the foreshore with views over Nepean Bay. Meals (L.D)

This morning we visit Seal Bay Conservation Park, home to Australia’s largest colony of breeding Sea Lions. Here we'll take a guided beach walk with a local expert to observe these magnificent creatures up close and learn about how they hunt, surf, rest, interact with their pups and defend their territory. A boardwalk will lead us down through the dunes to the beach, with breathtaking views of the colony and majestic coastline. Sometimes we'll pass sea lions snoozing in the dune system, or even lying in the middle of the beach path!

Later this morning we continue our journey to the west of the island to Flinders Chase National Park. After a delicious BBQ lunch, we'll visit the huge and mystifying granite formations known as Remarkable Rocks. Then head to Cape du Couedic to visit the lighthouse and Admiral’s Arch, where on sunny afternoons the stalactites can be seen silhouetted against the deep-blue Southern Ocean. We return to Kingscote late afternoon. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning we enjoy an exceptional eco-adventure cruise with Kangaroo Island Ocean Safari. Step on board the custom vessel for an informative look at the natural biodiversity of Kangaroo Island and it’s spectacular coastline. You'll see marine life up close and spot Sea Eagles, Little Fairy Penguins, Petrels, Terns, Oyster Catchers and more!

Afterwards we'll do some local sightseeing around Kangaroo Island, including a tour to the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery. We then return to Kingscote where the remainder of the afternoon can be spent at your leisure. Meals (B.L.D)

Today we take the ferry back to the mainland and travel through the Adelaide Hills to arrive in the city early this afternoon. Enjoy a tour of Penfolds Magill Estate before checking in to the Stamford Grand Hotel overlooking the ocean in Glenelg. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning we head north to Port Augusta, known as the Gateway to the Flinders Ranges and home to the awardwinning Wadlata Outback Centre. Visitors can step back in time and learn about the early explorers and their brave expeditions into the unknown.

From Port Augusta we'll journey through to Quorn and Hawker before arriving at the Wilpena Pound Resort for our two night stay. Nestled at the entrance to Wilpena Pound, the resort stands amid stately Red Gums and Native Pines on the banks of the Wilpena Creek. Meals: (B.L.D)

Wilpena Pound is characterised by spectacular scenery and is home to nearly half of South Australia’s species of plants.

Today we enjoy a guided walk into Wilpena Pound to Hills Homestead, one of South Australia's oldest and best preserved pastoral settlements. Wander along Wilpena Creek past magnificent stands of river red gums with stunning views of the Pound wall in the distance. Longer walks are available for those who wish to explore further on foot.

This afternoon we head to Stokes Hill Lookout to enjoy 360-degree views of the Flinders Ranges. We then return to the Wilpena Pound Resort for dinner. Meals (B.L.D)

Note: This morning there is an opportunity for scenic flights to be taken over Wilpena Pound at a cost of approximately $265.00 per person for a 30 minute flight (own expense).

Travel through the picturesque Brachina and Bunyeroo Gorges to arrive at Parachilna late morning. Here we enjoy lunch at the delightful Prairie Hotel before travelling through the northern Flinders Ranges to Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Spend the night here and enjoy an intergalactic tour from Arkaroola’s accredited astronomical observatories. Meals: (B.L.D)

Today, explore some of the most spectacular and rugged country on earth! Travelling in open back 4WD vehicles with expert guides, the Ridge Top Tour is a true highlight of the Arkaroola experience and not to be missed! Later this afternoon we depart for Marree where we'll spend the next two nights at The Marree Hotel. Meals (B.L.D)

This morning it's time for our scenic flight over Lake Eyre. Our flight path takes us over Lake Eyre South before crossing over Lake Eyre North, the larger of the two lakes. Fly over Belt Bay and follow the Warburton Groove up the middle of the lake and into the Warburton Creek system. From here we follow the creek to Kalamurina Wildlife Sanctuary, landing late morning. Kalamurina is a 1.7 million-acre property owned and managed by Australian Wildlife Conservancy. This vast desert wilderness stretches from the northern shores of Kati Thanda - Lake Eyre to the southern boundary of the Simpson Desert and provides a haven for several endangered species like the Dusky Hopping Mouse, Mulgara and Ampurta.

After landing at Kalamurina we head to the banks of the Warburton Creek for a guided tour. Learn about the transformation of this country from cattle country to wildlife haven and gain an insight into AWC conservation programs. We then travel by coach down the Birdsville Track, crossing Cooper's Creek before arriving back into Marree late this afternoon. Meals (B, L, D) Note: Today the tour splits into two groups. Group 1 will take the morning flight as per the itinerary above, while Group 2 travels north to Kalamurina by coach along the Birdsville Track. Group 2 passengers then return to Marree via the scenic flight over Lake Eyre.

After breakfast this morning we depart Marree and follow the legendary Oodnadatta Track to the tiny outback settlement of William Creek. The track itself is steeped in history, natural wonders and rich cultural heritage and is regarded as one of the best outback drives in Australia. It follows a traditional Aboriginal trading route and, because of the availability of water, was chosen for the Central Australian Railway, the original route of the Old Ghan. This morning we stop off at Coward Springs siding, a fully restored and heritage-listed railway site displaying history and remnants of the ‘Old Ghan’. Arrive into William Creek for lunch at the iconic William Creek Hotel before enjoying a special one hour scenic flight over the ‘Painted Hills’. This rocky outcrop of large and small hills, which emerge suddenly out of a flat desert landscape, can only be accessed by air due to its fragility and natural beauty. This afternoon we trek on to Coober Pedy and spend the next two nights at the award-winning Desert Cave Hotel. Meals (B.L.D) Note: Underground rooms at the Desert Cave Hotel cannot be guaranteed.

Due to the heat in summer, much of Coober Pedy's population live underground. The town is known as the opal capital of the world, supplying 70% of the world’s precious opals. This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the Umoona Opal Mine, where you're also free to do some fossicking of our own. In the afternoon, head out to the Breakaways Reserve and admire the colourful low hills separated from the Stuart Range. We then return to the Desert Cave Hotel to explore its many galleries. Meals (B.L.D)

Travelling south today we head to Woomera, home to the Woomera Range Complex operated by the Royal Australian Air Force. The complex is a major Australian defence and civil aerospace facility that is both a working military airbase and a testing ground for ADF materials. Enjoy a visit to the Woomera Interactive Rocket Range Museum and view historical displays relating to the Woomera Range and closed Joint Defence Facility at Nurrungar.

This afternoon we continue on to Port Augusta where we visit the Aridlands Botanic Gardens, before checking in to the Standpipe Golf Motor Inn. Meals (B.L.D)

After breakfast we head south to the Clare Valley. Well known for its Riesling, the area also produces exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz varieties which together account for nearly half of all wine from the area. After a tour through the region, we’ll visit a local winery for a relaxed lunch and wine tastings, a great way to wind down as we approach the end of the adventure.

This afternoon, we arrive back into Adelaide and check in to the Stamford Grand Hotel in Glenelg. We enjoy our final dinner together at the hotel restaurant. Meals (B.L.D)

After a leisurely morning you will be dropped off at the airport or your CBD hotel. Meals (B)

Walks on Tour

*Note: Distances and times provided are an indication only.

Unrivalled Touring Experience

4WD Mercedes Benz coaches

Expert Drivers & Guides

Small Group Adventure

Special offers, pricing & departure dates.

Offer valid for new bookings only. Offers available until 17 May 2024 unless sold out prior. Offer includes return economy airfares and taxes up to the value of $1,500 per person. Further T&Cs apply.

Loyalty Discount

Past Passenger Loyalty Rewards

• Travelled Discount
• Once Save $200pp
• 2-3 Tours Save $300pp
• 4+ Tours Save $400pp

2024 Departure Dates

This tour operates during the following months. Please select a month to view departure dates.

More departure dates for this adventure will be released soon!

• Your Name *
• Your Phone Number *
• Email Address
• Number of Passengers *
• Address * Street Address City State Post Code Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Congo, Democratic Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czechia Côte d'Ivoire Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Macedonia Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russian Federation Rwanda Réunion Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Sweden Switzerland Syria Arab Republic Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania, the United Republic of Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Türkiye US Minor Outlying Islands Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Viet Nam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe Åland Islands Country
• Preferred time for us to call (between 8:30am & 5pm Monday to Friday) *
• Departure Date
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
• Name * First Last
• Your Email Address *
• No. of Passengers * 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 or more
• Are you a past Outback Spirit Traveller? * No Yes
• Preferred method of contact * Email Phone
• Other departure dates Please indicate any other dates you would like to be waitlisted for
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

More Adventures You Will Love

Kimberley jewels with faraway bay.

Ultimate Territory Tour – The Ghan

Arnhem Land Wilderness Adventure

Sign up to receive our latest news & exclusive offers

Sign up to receive the latest news, exclusive offers and much more from Outback Spirit.

Fill in your details below to receive a copy of our 2025 brochure, or click the link below to download the digital version.

Quick Question

We'd love to know why you haven't proceeded with your booking so we can provide the best possible experiences for our guests.

Love Exploring

23 of Australia's Most Beautiful Outback Towns

Posted: 7 June 2023 | Last updated: 7 June 2023

Rural beauty

Journey into Australia’s immense interior to experience the astonishingly diverse and startlingly beauty of its outback region and meet some of the world's most isolated communities. Driving along the long, red-dust roads you'll discover vibrant, historic towns and remote outposts that will give you an insight into life in this unique part of Australia, its rich Indigenous culture and colourful history.

Alice Springs, Northern Territory

Gateway to the barren and bewitching Red Centre and important Aboriginal cultural centre, Alice Springs is the ultimate outback town. As the closest town to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and King’s Canyon, it is a bustling desert region with plenty of places to shop, stay and eat. It's also got plenty of attractions of its own, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the world's largest classroom – the School of Air.

Cultural highlights here include seeing the central Australian Aboriginal art on display at the Araluen Arts Centre and learning about the Arrernte people at the Aboriginal Art & Culture Centre. The Riverside Walk goes along the banks of the Todd River to the old Telegraph Station, which was founded in 1871 and is the town's original European settlement.

Love this? Follow us on Facebook for travel inspiration and more

Marree, South Australia

This dusty central South Australia township is where two famous outback tracks begin, the Birdsville and Oodnadatta tracks, but it's a worthy place itself. Its charms are small but sweet – the lovely Marree Hotel is heritage-listed  and the old railway station, which opened in 1884, was a stop on the original Ghan Railway line. There are also scenic flights to see the mysterious Marree Man, a modern geoglyph of a giant man that was etched into the arid land owned by the Arabana people. No one knows who did it or why. 

Birdsville, Queensland

The 320-mile (515km) Birdsville Track from Marree reaches the frontier town of Birdsville in southwestern Queensland. The historic drover track showcases the outback scenery in all its dusty and desolate glory – the atmospheric ruins of the Carcory Homestead (pictured) are a popular stop off. Birdsville has a population of 115, and has a friendly and lively outback pub.

Stranded on the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert, with the plains of Sturt’s Stony Desert to the south and Channel Country to the north, is a hardy but welcoming community in this remote area. The billabong on the edge of town is a place to cool off with a swim, kayak or to watch the spectacular outback sunsets, while the nearby Big Red Sand Dune offers another excellent sunset view. It's the setting for an annual music festival and in September the tiny town usually teems with 6,000 race goers during the Birdsville Races, known as the Melbourne Cup of the Outback.

Leonora, Western Australia

Set in the Goldfields-Esperance region in the state's southwest, Leonora was one of WA's boom towns during the gold rush of the 1890s. Its high street retains its historic charm with wide verandas, quaint shopfronts and classic turn-of-the-century hotels. The town's heritage trail and more historic buildings in Gwalia, just to the south, teaches visitors about Australian gold rush history. The ghost town was once the site of a gold mine, which was managed by a young Herbert Hoover before he went on to become the 31st President of the US.

Discover the fascinating stories behind Australia's World Heritage Sites

Cue, Western Australia

Established in 1893, Cue is another picturesque gold rush town with plenty of well-preserved stone buildings (including an old jail and gentleman’s club) and characterful places to stay. It's also a prime spot to see the wildflowers, which spring up after the winter rains across the rust-red plains of the Gascoyne-Murchison region from July to October. But the town’s major attraction lies 30 miles (48km) to the west – Walga Rock. This huge granite monolith is of deep cultural and spiritual significance to the traditional landowners and its cave houses an extensive gallery including 10,000-year-old Aboriginal rock art.

Oodnadatta, South Australia

The Oodnadatta Track – a traditional Aboriginal trading route – begins at Marree in South Australia and travels roughly northwest for 385 miles (620km) through the tiny town of Oodnadatta before looping back to the Stuart Highway at Marla. Once a stop on the original Ghan Railway, tiny Oodnadatta has a pub (in the Transcontinental Hotel, which is owned by the local Aboriginal people), the hard-to-miss Pink Roadhouse, post office and an intriguing little museum in one of the town’s old railway station buildings.

William Creek, South Australia

Situated along the unsealed Oodnadatta Track and within the world’s largest working cattle property, Anna Creek Station, is remote outpost William Creek. It's the smallest town in the state and mostly a stop-off for people visiting Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, a vast salt lake. Beers at its beloved tin-roofed pub, the William Creek Hotel, is a popular pastime. There are also scenic flights from the township over the lake and beyond to Wilpena Pound.

Lightning Ridge, New South Wales

Visitors usually go down into a working opal mine to try fossicking for the prized gem in this quirky outback town. Set within the scorched land of far northwestern New South Wales, it sprung up around the rare black opal industry. As well as opal mines and stores, other highlights are soaking in the free Artesian Bore Baths, outdoor pools filled with naturally heated water from the Great Artesian Basin, the John Murray gallery, and Bevan’s Cactus Nursery.

Katherine, Northern Territory

Sat on the rugged banks of Katherine River, the laid-back town of Katherine is a popular pit stop for roadtrippers driving from Western Australia to the tropical north. After soaking up the town’s hot springs, visitors usually explore the stunning Nitmiluk (or Katherine) Gorge, a cluster of 13 gorges that is of great importance to the Jawoyn Aboriginal people. There are also waterfalls, ancient rock art and astonishing wildlife. 

Tennant Creek, Northern Territory

Set on the main route from Darwin down to Alice Springs, there’s lots to recommend pulling over and staying a while in this blink-and-you-miss-it township. The Nyinkka Nyunyu Art and Culture Centre showcases Indigenous art and stories of the Warumungu people’s legends. Other highlights include an old gold mine and the historic telegraph station, which provided Australia with its first line to Britain. Just nearby is one of the outback’s iconic rock formations, Karlu Karlu (the Devil’s Marbles) – beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Check out these incredible places you won't believe are in Australia

Longreach, Queensland

Stranded far west in the dusty and dry interior of the vast state, Longreach can be a shock to the system. The surprisingly large and thriving outback town is also big on attractions. Top activities include bumping along the old Longreach-Windorah mail route in a restored stagecoach, drawn by five stock horses, cruises on the Thomson River and learning about life in rural Australia at the Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre. There's also Australia’s first ever passenger aircraft on display at the Qantas Founders Outback Museum.

Cobar, New South Wales

Cobar’s excellent Great Cobar Heritage and Visitor Information Centre is packed with local memorabilia. Set between Dubbo and Broken Hill, the characterful country town has a clutch of handsome historic buildings, including a courthouse and the late 19th-century Great Western Hotel, complete with exquisite veranda. Mount Grenfell, on the way out of town, offers some of the best examples of rock art in Australia.

Kalgoorlie-Boulder, Western Australia

Deep into WA’s goldfields region is one of Australia's most famous frontier towns with lots of character and a colourful history. The gold-rich twin towns of Kalgoorlie-Boulder are a mine of information when it comes to the gold industry (Kalgoorlie produces 10% of the world’s gold) both past and present. Many beautiful buildings remain from its 19th-century gold rush days, including its heritage hotels, museums and the Questa Casa Bordello, one of the world's oldest working brothels.

Kalgoorlie’s Super Pit is a sight to behold – there's a public viewing platform that gazes down the huge terraced hole in the earth which is the biggest gold mine in Australia. There are plenty of audio tours, encompassing 50 sites , that explain what life was like for the early prospectors. Visitors usually flock to the charming Palace Hotel, built in 1897 – it was the first hotel in the state to have electricity.

Take a look at Australia's eeriest abandoned buildings

Menzies, Western Australia

Most people follow the road north from Kalgoorlie and on to Lake Ballard – a vast salt lake with strong connections to the Aboriginal Seven Sisters’ dreaming story. It also has the country’s largest outdoor art installation, Inside Australia by Antony Gormley. En route is Menzies, another mining town in the state’s bountiful goldfields region. Once a bustling gold-rich town home to 5,000, today just 235 people live here. But there are plenty of points of interest and exquisite turn-of-the-century architecture to admire.

Daly Waters, Northern Territory

This tiny settlement, which lies on the Stuart Highway from Katherine to Darwin, is all about its pub. Literally. But it's a beauty. Picture an outback pub and tiny Daly Water's hotel is it: corrugated tin roof, screens, overhanging porch and walls lined with memorabilia from travellers who pass through. This being the Northern Territory, there's plenty of wild caught barramundi on the menu. There's also an airstrip, constructed around 1930 to service the Daly Waters Airmail run, which was later used as an RAAF base in the Second World War.

Kununurra, Western Australia

An oasis-like town on the banks of the Ord River, Kununurra is at the eastern end of the legendary Gibb River Road, an unsealed track which traverses 410 miles (660km) through the beautiful wilderness of the Kimberley region. It's a beaut of a base to explore East Kimberly. Water is the main attraction here with the town’s name derived from Aboriginal language meaning big water. Days here are all about exploring the area's striking waterways. 

The laid-back town is relatively modern – it was established in 1961 as a service centre for the Ord River Irrigation scheme – and as a tourist hub it has plenty of cafés, hotels and campsites. Highlights include canoeing down the river to spot freshwater crocs (the small, less scary variety), wallabies and lizards sun-baking on the banks; a hike up Kelly’s Knob to watch the sun set over the majestic hills; a cruise around Lake Argyle, and marvelling at the beehive-like rock formations in nearby Mirima Hidden Valley National Park.

See more of Australia's most beautiful national parks

Mount Magnet, Western Australia

A remote red dirt town, Mount Magnet is the longest surviving gold mining settlement in Western Australia and rich in historic and natural attractions. The 22-mile (35km) trail from the town centre (complete with Art Deco facades and charming old pubs) reveals the area's old and modern goldmine sites, as well as Warramboo Hill where the region's rugged granite rock formations are on display.

Melrose, South Australia

Tibooburra, New South Wales

A 17-hour drive northwest of Sydney, Tibooburra is in “Corner Country” – set near the borders of NSW, Queensland and South Australia. As with others, the small town has been affected by dreadful droughts in NSW in recent years. The hardy locals at the friendly  Family Hotel  are happy to chat about life in the outback though. Meanwhile the vast surrounds of the Sturt National Park showcase 450-million-year-old granite tors, plus a section of the dingo fence, the world’s largest man-made fence. 

Beechworth, Victoria

The immaculately preserved gold rush architecture of this town in Victoria's High Country is a big draw, as is its connection to one of Australia’s most infamous historical figures. Bushranger Ned Kelly was thrown in jail here before being sent to Melbourne to hang. Today, the town is very much a picture of respectability with over 30 National Trust-listed buildings and a reputation for independent stores, bakeries and microbreweries. There are great restaurants too including renowned chef Michael Ryan's lauded Provenance.

Highlights in the town are The Burke Museum and Historic Precinct, a living history museum that walks visitors through the town's gold rush history. It features the area's most significant buildings, each bringing their stories to life, including an audio re-enactment in the old courthouse of the committal trial which sealed Ned Kelly’s fate. There's usually a walking tour around the sites associated with the bushranger.

Winton, Queensland

This lonely little town is famous for a few remarkable reasons – firstly it's where Australia’s most famous song, Waltzing Matilda , stems from. Banjo Paterson is said to have been moved by the suicide of a shearer at the nearby Combo Waterhole and first performed the song in Winton’s North Gregory Hotel in 1895. It’s also where the world’s only evidence of a dinosaur stampede is recorded – the Dinosaur Stampede at Lark Quarry Conservation Park. The nearby Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum has an impressive collection of fossils.

See more of the world's best dinosaur destinations

Silverton, New South Wales

Location for seminal 1970s movie Mad Max , the diminutive dusty town (population 60) had its heyday at the turn of the century when it was the site of a short-lasting silver mine. Today, though, it usually draws filmmakers and tourists with its outback charm – all red dirt, blue skies and aesthetically-pleasing dilapidated buildings. Silverton is a popular day trip from nearby Broken Hill. The Mad Max Museum and the Silverton Gaol Museum are usually high on visitors' itineraries.

Broken Hill, New South Wales

Encircled by striking outback landscapes, there’s remote and then there’s Broken Hill. The National Heritage listed mining town lies 710 miles (1,142km) northwest of Sydney, 520 miles (837km) northwest of Melbourne, and 320 miles (515km) northeast of Adelaide. But with historic buildings (including the Palace Hotel, one of Australia’s most iconic outback pubs and location for Priscilla, Queen of the Desert ), a rich mining history and indigenous heritage, it's packed with charm.

Established to house hard-living miners, Broken Hill is also an unlikely creative hub drawing artists with its incredible light and arid beauty. The town boasts an impressive 30-plus galleries (including the Broken Hill Regional Gallery, which opened in 1904). The wonderful outdoor sculpture park, the Sculpture Symposium in The Living Desert Reserve, features 12 massive sandstone sculptures created by artists from around the world as well as local artist Badger Bates. 

Now discover the world's most beautiful small towns

More for You

Taranaki Lotto player wins big on Powerball

20 Wildly Expensive Foods—And Their Cheap Equivalents

Customers flying from major UK airport given three-hour warning

Why are TikTokers suddenly obsessed with a 2001 Bollywood film?

Childhood habits that affect your adult life

The World's Oldest Homes That Are Still Standing Today

Douglas firs in your living room: the designer taking minimalist furniture to the max

Common baking mistakes you need to avoid at all costs

'Women shouldn’t accept heavy periods as normal - see your doctor if they're affecting your life'

The coolest cars made by non-car makers

20 TV shows you may not know were inspired by real-life events

How to get rid of mice in your home as expert shares five super easy steps to follow

The secret to success for restaurants, according to Britain’s longest-running venues

30 foods you should always avoid at a restaurant

More pain at the pump: NZ fuel prices jump 26c/l as 91 reaches record high in Aussie

Can a virtual brick wall cure your slice? Golftec brings new technology to old-school learning

12 hobbies you could turn into a profitable pastime

This is the ideal age gap for a relationship that lasts

JK Rowling’s Harry Potter opening line voted among best of all time

27 Top Chef Contestants That Were Eliminated Earlier Than Expected

Health services in 'crisis' and relying too heavily on fly-in locums in Broken Hill, Far West NSW

The chair of a parliamentary committee examining health services in Far West New South Wales has warned the health system is in crisis and relies too heavily on fly-in locums.

The committee visited health outlets including the Broken Hill Base Hospital, Maari Ma Aboriginal Health Cooperation in Wilcannia, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Wagga Wagga MP Dr Joe McGirr, chair of the Select Committee for the Inquiry into Regional, Rural, and Remote Health, said it noticed the ongoing overuse of locums, during their visit to check on progress in implementing recommendations.

"The situation throughout rural NSW is getting worse. I'd say it is in crisis," he said.

"[There's] still a lot of reliance on agency staff and locum staff. We've just got to do better at making health professionals look at what the great opportunities are in remote and rural areas.

"NSW Health must work a lot harder and a lot smarter."

The committee was formed following a scathing report into NSW Health in 2022.

The report handed down  44 recommendations  to the then-Coalition government to address historic failures by the commonwealth and state governments that had led to workplace shortages and high costs of travel.

NSW Premier Chris Minns later committed to all 44 recommendations when he was elected.

Dr McGirr said the committee would do all it could to see the system change positively by talking to those who worked in communities but warned it would take time.

"In NSW, the Commonwealth is effectively missing in action. It's slow to change," he said.

"I think NSW Health has been making an effort to change."

Locums a band-aid solution

Professor Emeritus John Cole, from the University of Southern Queensland, said NSW Health was not the only health branch that had fallen into the trap of relying on locums.

"We have the situation where we spend millions of dollars flying people to the metropolitan hospitals, but it acts as an inhibitor for regional people accessing health services," he said.

While locums provide a short-term solution, they often do not spend much time in the community and miss out on the critical patient-health professional relationship.

Professor Cole said this could lead to people in remote communities opting not to get medical help in the early stages of illness.

"We can see differences in survivorship, partly because people simply decide to go a different way and ignore it," he said.

Health through a remote lens

Maari Ma Health chief executive Richard Weston said an complete overhaul of how health looked in remote communities could be the key.

"The solutions out of Sydney or Canberra are not designed to suit the needs of us in remote areas and are probably more suited to the bigger regional centres," Mr Weston said.

He said remote health districts could better service those living outside of regional centres.

"Outside of Broken Hill, we have a high Aboriginal population across sparsely populated areas," Mr Weston said.

"Things like transport, education food security and employment are challenges." 

Mr Weston said there also needed to be a wrap-around approach to attracting people to the state's Far West region.

"Things that help attract people to places like Broken Hill and the surrounding areas are good housing, access to a good social life, schooling for their kids, meaningful work and good incentives for people to relocate," he said.

Professor Cole said the way that Australians viewed the regions and remote communities needed to change.

"We as Australians have to engage in creating a different narrative about Australia," he said.

"Too often we depict regional Australia as second best, and it's not true."

The committee is expected to deliver its first report in the middle of the year.

ABC Broken Hill — local news in your inbox

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Indigenous health workers told to 'harden up' amid reports of 'targeted, ignorant racism', inquiry hears.

Have doctor shortages improved in regional NSW hospitals? A new inquiry is set to find out

If Xander McKenzie's mother had followed a FIFO doctor's advice, he would have died

Why rural and regional NSW is fed up and demanding to be heard

• Broken Hill
• Government and Politics
• Health Administration
• Health Policy
• Regional Communities