australian outback guided tours

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

Australian Outback Tours & Trips

Take a an adventure of the Australian Outback through Alice Springs and explore Uluru in the heart of the Northern Territory and beyond. Don't worry about the hot temperatures of the Australian desert, as you can escape the heat and visit the refreshing ocean waters of Queensland or New South Wales in no time.

142 Australian Outback tour packages with 131 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Uluru & Kings Canyon Adventure

Tents no hassle, well organised. Passionate tour guide Robbie went above & beyond to pack a lot in. A great story teller. Flies a nuisance but hey, that’s part of the Aussie experience!

• In-depth Cultural

The Great Kimberley Overland

This tour was just amazing! We saw amazing and beautiful spots of western Australia. The Tourguides made this tour awesome. They help whereever they could, were always in a good mood and made this adventure for all of us spezial.

• Christmas & New Year

3 Day Uluru Kata-Tjuta Kings Canyon (Camping) - from Alice Springs

The 3 day/2 night tour of the Red Center was spectacular. Our tour guide Sheeana was amazing!!! She was so informative, full of energy the entire time, and very accommodating. We weren’t able to fully climb certain hikes, so she modified our experience. It was so good to not feel pressured to go over our physical limitations and have a guide to tell us details about everything we were seeing. The camps were beyond expectation. We aren’t really camping people, so we were nervous about what we were getting ourselves into. The private tents were comfy, the showers and toilets were not scary at all, and we had electricity to charge phones in the main common area. It was perfect for groups, couples, or individuals that aren’t heavily experienced outdoors people. We highly recommend this tour!

8-Day Adelaide to Uluru Tour

The tour is amazing! Great tour guide tells us a lot of history, legends and landscape, interesting itinerary, friendly and nice team members, unforgettable experience. The team members spent wonderful time together that made us connected together. The scene and sight seeing are definitely worth to visit. Once in a lifetime experience.

8-Day Uluru to Adelaide Tour

This was an incredible experience! Amazing views, beautiful sunrise hikes, (bush) camping in swags and learning so much about geological and cultural history. My tour group was very small which created a very relaxed dynamic. No one was left behind or left out. Teamwork makes the dream work. Sid, our tour guide, is pretty damn awesome in what he does. I learned so much about these parts of Australia and he really kept me engaged because he showed authenticity and genuine engagement with people and his surroundings. He was very professional and cool even when things went a little south (blown out tire with a very long drive ahead). He had to stray away from the itinerary a couple of times but I fully trusted him to give us the best experience on this tour. He noticed when you took an interest in learning specific things and would try and teach you about what he knows. Also shoutout to Gary, who was a trainee tour guide. He'll do great on his first tour through the desert and that group will be lucky to have him. This part of Australia is so unique compared to the east coast and south. It's definitely in my top 2 of tours I've been on.

• Desert Hikes

Classic Larapinta Trek in Comfort

This trip was everything we hoped for, and more. Our guides, Anna, Ella & Lilly, are passionate and knowledgeable about the environment, indigenous culture, flora and fauna of the area; and even the stars in the night sky. They were friendly and helpful and made this a truly enjoyable experience for us. They also produced amazing meals! The campsites were well organised and we had fun with a group of like-minded walkers. What a way to see a stunningly beautiful part of the country! So many highlights but the night-time walk up Mt Sonder to view the sunrise at the top was fantastic!

Uluru Explorer (4 Days)

Very nice trip :-)))

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

3 Day Uluru Red Centre Kings Canyon (Camping) - from Ayers Rock

We loved the trip. Sights were amazing. Group was great. And the work of the guide, Rael, supported by Tristan, was excellent - we learned so much due to Rael’s deep knowledge and he went the extra mile to ensure we got the most out of the tour.

• Coach / Bus

Untamed Kimberley (11 Days)

Carolyn was very knowledgeable about the area. Loved her stories particularly about our indigenous Australians for which I now have a better understanding of what they have had to endure since the arrival of people from overseas.

5 Day Broome to the Bungle Bungles

My partner Iouri and I enjoyed the 5-day Bungle Bungles tour operated by Kimberley Wild Expeditions. Emma and Daz were our tour guides who were very organised and helpful, Special thanks to Emma, who handled the truck breakdown very well. She organised meditation, exercises and morning walks for us. She cooked great dinners as well. We are both grateful for the amazing experience that they provided to us.

Outback Contrasts (6 Days)

Premium Red Centre & Uluru

13 Day Kimberley Explorer

• Overland Truck

3 Day Uluru Adventure

………………………………………..x..

• Sightseeing

Northern Territory Escape with Uluru Tour

What people love about australian outback tours.

Tents no hassle, well organised. Passionate tour guide Robbie went above & beyond to pack a lot in. A great story teller. Flies a nuisance but hey, that’s part of the Aussie experience!

This tour brought together a n eclectic group of travellers for a lovely 3 day outback experience. The sights, and hikes were wonderful. The accommodations in tents were good. The meals were appropriate for the convenience and weather conditions.

Australian Outback Tours starting in:

• Alice Springs (18)
• Broome (18)
• Darwin (10)
• Group (129)
• Fully Guided (116)
• Explorer (109)
• Family (87)
• Active (36)
• Personalized (23)
• Hiking & Trekking (22)
• In-depth Cultural (15)
• Partially Guided (14)
• Coach / Bus (12)
• Private (10)
• Jeep & 4WD (9)
• Ocean Cruise (9)
• Overland Truck (9)
• Self-Guided (9)
• 3 Day Tours (7)
• 7 Day Tours (26)
• 10 Day Tours (14)
• 2 Week Tours (16)
• Spring 2024 (42)
• Summer 2024 (63)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 (48)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 (21)
• Spring 2025 (29)
• Summer 2025 (18)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 (13)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 (5)
• April 2024 (8)
• May 2024 (47)
• June 2024 (52)
• July 2024 (57)
• August 2024 (55)
• September 2024 (47)
• October 2024 (27)
• November 2024 (22)
• December 2024 (21)
• January 2025 (19)
• February 2025 (19)
• March 2025 (20)
• April 2025 (9)
• May 2025 (15)
• June 2025 (15)
• July 2025 (17)
• August 2025 (16)
• September 2025 (12)
• October 2025 (7)
• November 2025 (5)

Other Regions in Australia

• East Australia (210)
• Western Australia (150)
• Great Barrier Reef (105)
• Australia Northern Territory (101)
• Queensland (101)
• Tasmania (95)
• Australia East Coast (76)
• South East Queensland (68)
• Kakadu National Park (61)
• Australia West Coast (59)
• Red Centre (56)
• Central Australia (55)
• Uluru / Ayers Rock (44)
• South Australia (42)
• Victoria (36)
• New South Wales (35)

Travel Styles

• Budget (18)
• Singles and Solo (37)
• For Couples (16)
• Seniors (40)

Australian Outback Tours

When thinking Outback Australia  there is no better place to begin than South Australia. The gateway to thousand’s of square kilometres of tracks and roads.

Join our small group adventure travelling from coast to coast and showcasing the best of two states, South Australia and the Northern Territory.

Book the full 18 Day journey or take the shorter option of 10 Days and finish our Outback Tour in Alice Springs.

Outback Tours  are one of the best experiences for overseas travellers and Australians. Discover the desert with your own eyes and in safe hands of our knowledgeable guides.

Start your journey  with a visit to the Wadlata Outback Centre, the Australian Arid Lands Botanical Gardens and the Woomera Rocket Range.

Noodle for opal  in Coober Pedy, take a full town tour and sleep underground just like the locals do.

Walk to the beautiful Garden  of Eden and fly in a helicopter to see Kings Canyon from above. Witness the beautiful colour changes of Uluru and have a relaxing time in Alice Springs.

Tour to the Top End  with many giant termite nests to see. Huge rounded boulders at Devil’s Marbles and waterfalls in Litchfield National Park.

Cruise through  the majestic Katherine Gorge and on the Adelaide River seeing jumping crocodiles.

Outback Tours Highlights & Inclusions

• Small Groups of 16-20 Happy Travellers
• Quality Service from Start to Finish
• Pickup from Adelaide City Hotel
• All Meals as stated in our Itinerary
• Drinking Water, Snacks and Fruit
• 17x Nights Fully Accommodated
• Lochiel Pink Salt Lake
• Arid Lands Botanical Gardens Port Augusta
• Wadlata Outback Centre
• Woomera Rocket Range
• Coober Pedy Town Tour
• Opal Mine Tour
• Underground Church
• Noodling for Opal
• Indigenous Art Gallery
• Breakaways in Coober Pedy

• Kings Canyon Creek Walk (Rim Walk optional, requires moderate walking)
• Kings Canyon Scenic Helicopter Flight
• Cultural Tour at Karrke Community
• Uluru Culture Centre
• Uluru Base Walk
• Sunset at Uluru
• Ilkari Restaurant Buffet Dinner
• Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) – Walpa Gorge / Valley of the Winds Walk
• Free Time in Alice Springs
• Alice Springs Telegraph Station
• Western MacDonnell Ranges
• Devil’s Marbles
• Nitmuluk National Park
• Katherine Gorge Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River
• Litchfield National Park
• Edith Falls
• All National Park Fees
• Fully Guided Activities
• Drop Off Darwin City Hotel

Outback Tours from Adelaide to Port Augusta, Woomera Rocket Range and the Opal Capital Coober Pedy, Day 1 to 3

Depart your Adelaide accommodation and become one of the hundreds of happy travellers that have made the journey with us on our Outback Safari Tour to Darwin . There are several walking options available throughout the tour, making this Outback experience suitable for the 50plus traveller and semi-fit seniors. Choose a shorter walk if you are not a walker or take the opportunity for longer and extra walks, if you are keen and active.

Our first stop takes us to Lochiel . The pink salt lake is a great photo opportunity and we also look for Loch Eel rising out the salt. Further our journey takes us to Port Augusta, where we visit the well-known and recognised Wadlata Outback Centre . After we check into our motel we will be wowed by the Arid Lands Botanical Gardens . Learn about some of the bush plants from your guide and enjoy the walking trail to Matthew Flinders Red Cliff Lookout . Finish the day with a delicious group dinner. (Day 1 Overnight The Standpipe in Port Augusta, Lunch, Dinner)

We leave Port Augusta and venture to Woomera for our first stop this morning, the town which is known as the Woomera Rocket Range. Learn about famous Len Beadell who surveyed the site and walk amongst the rockets and planes left behind by the British. Continue travelling along the Explorer Highway and enjoy a break at the Lake Hart Lookout viewing white salt crystals and the endless horizon. Our final drive brings us through Glendambo to Coober Pedy, the opal capital of the world. We will spend two nights and a full day here to explore this bizarre town. (Day 2 Overnight Coober Pedy Lookout Cave, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Coober Pedy is known for underground living, a moon landscape and brilliant opal. Only here can you arrive with nothing and leave as one of the richest people in the world. We start with an Opal Mine tour and look at some amazing opal that has been found here. See how some of the locals lived and visit an underground church. We wander through the local indigenous art gallery and fall in love with the orphaned kangaroo babies which they raise. Our next stop takes us to the golf course , a unique area to be playing golf. Then we try our luck in noodling , meaning we search for opal through the towns mullock piles. Once you have found your first shiny piece, you will understand how easy it is to get opal fever. Complete the town tour with the views from the Big Winch Lookout , views of the Blower Truck and the first tree ever seen in town. We finish the day with a tour to the Breakaways and a delicious dinner before retiring underground just like the locals do. (Day 3 Overnight Coober Pedy Lookout Cave, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner )

Uluru Sunset and Sunrise, Culture Centre, Kata Tjuta Walk, Optional Field of Light Activities, Day 4 to 6

Your Outback Tour continues and it is a day to sit back and enjoy the passing scenery as we leave South Australia and venture into the Northern Territory along the Stuart Highway. The road is named after John McDouall Stuart. Shifting sand dunes, salt and clay pans made this construction a tough assignment. We leave civilization and our drive takes us to the township of Yulara. The place to be for learning about culture and discovering one of the most spectacular and indigenous sacred sites called Uluru. Check into your room for the next 3 nights and meet back for a delicious Outback Pioneer BBQ dinner. (Day 4 Outback Pioneer Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

An early rise this morning for a sunrise breakfast near Uluru . Watch the desert coming to life and the changing colours of Uluru as the first sunlight of the day creep across the desert plains. Uluru is one of Australia’s most recognized natural landmarks and today is the time to take in the true magnitude of the rock by a walk around the base . It is the world’s largest monolith rising 348 metres above ground with a circumference of 9.2 kilometres. For those not wanting to take on the full journey, join your guide on several well selected and shorter walks at Uluru.

After lunch learn about musical instruments, weapons, bush tucker and medicines at the Culture Centre and view the many displays and some incredible art. Tonight we witness a spectacular sunset with many changing colours of Uluru and its surrounding landscape. Back at Yulara Resort we spoil ourselves with a delightful buffet dinner at the Ilkari Restaurant . Taste some of the finest produce available under the Australian sun. (Day 5 Outback Pioneer Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Start the day with a sunrise breakfast at Kata Tjuta before we head off to explore the Kata Tjuta rocks, estimated to be over 500 million years old. The 36 weathered rock domes are another significant area for the indigenous – Anangu people. We follow a natural track between two of the tallest domes to a viewing platform at the end. Take in the beautiful surrounding scenery and listen to the sound of Walpa Gorge . Keen walkers have the opportunity to take on the much longer “ Valley of the Winds ” Track. Spend the afternoon with souvenir shopping, a visit to the local art gallery, museum, theatre or enjoy a relaxing nap or a treatment at the Red Ochre Spa. One of the best ways to experience Ulu r u and the domes of Kata Tju t a is from the air. This afternoon we give you the opportunity for an optional scenic helicopter flight. Tonight’s dinner choice is yours. Try one of the many restaurants in town square or join the Field of Light or Sounds of Silence Dinner . A night filled with Outback style canapes and sparkling wine or perhaps an unforgettable sunset journey on the back of a camel. (Day 6 Outback Pioneer Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch)

*The Field of Light Art Installation – you will have several options to experience the lights on the evening of day 6. Extra cost apply.

Kings Canyon Base Walk, Cultural Tour, Helicopter Flight, Optional Rim Walk Day 7 and 8

Today we drive to Kings Canyon , the biggest attraction inside Watarrka National Park. The canyon has been forged over 400 million years and is made from layers of sandstone with hard shale between the layers. Feel and experience aboriginal culture up close with a tour led by members of the local indigenous community. Be taken on an authentic journey while learning about musical instruments, weapons, bush tucker and medicines. After an inspiring introduction to the local culture, we take the  short and easy walk into the base of the canyon . Marvel at the sheer cliffs from the ground and absorb the surrounding nature. A bird’s eye view is the best way to see this amazing part of the Watarrka National Park. Our last activity for today has us all flying in a scenic helicopter over the Canyon Rim , the “Lost City” and the “Garden of Eden”. It is a fabulous and exhilarating helicopter flight which completes a fantastic day at Kings Canyon. Tonight we dine at the fabulous Outback Bar & Grill at the Kings Canyon Resort. (Day 7 Overnight Kings Canyon Resort, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Get up early and join your guide on a more challenging Rim Walk at Kings Canyon . Explore Kings Canyon, a scenic landscape of rugged ranges, ancient sandstone walls, rock holes and gorges. If moderate walking is not for you, enjoy a leisurely morning at the resort.  Then it is time to say good bye to this magic part of Outback Australia and we all travel onto Alice Springs . We arrive late afternoon at the Aurora Hotel for the next 4 nights. You have time to refresh and before joining back together for a delicious meal at the Red Ochre Grill Restaurant. (Day 8 Overnight Aurora Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Western MacDonnell Ranges and Free Time in Alice Springs, Day 9 to 11 of our Outback Tours

Alice Springs is nestled in between the Western and Eastern MacDonnell Ranges and today we will explore the Western region. The panoramic landscapes are known for their sunburnt oranges, maroons and purple colours and our first visit takes us to Glen Helen Gorge . A permanent waterhole surrounded by towering red cliffs is the main feature of Glen Helen Gorge and home to a variety of water birds and fish. Then we visit the world heritage listed Ochre Pits , a colourful outcrop of ochre on the banks of a sandy creek. Ochre is an important part of Aboriginal Culture and this area is a registered sacred site. For lunch we travel to Standley Chasm , a narrow gap which was formed by rushing floodwaters over thousands of years ago. It is at its most dramatic around noon on a sunny day. Take a walk through the chasm surrounded by fire-red walls up to 80m in height. On our return drive to Alice Springs we stop at the Telegraph Station. Enjoy a guided tour before heading back to our hotel in Alice Springs. (Day 9 Overnight Aurora Hotel, Buffet Breakfast, Lunch)

Enjoy two free days in Alice Springs . Visit the Women’s Hall of Fame or the Transport Hall of Fame. Check out the Desert Park, which is home to a vast range of plants and wildlife native to the area. Other great places to see are the School of the Air, the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Anzac Hill and several stunning art galleries. We also give you the opportunity to experience the breathtaking feeling of floating silently above the Outback as the sun slowly rises over the desert on a fabulous ballooning adventure . This optional activity will be available to you on the first free morning in Alice Springs. (Day 10/11 Overnight Aurora Hotel, Buffet Breakfast included)

Outback Touring to the Top End with Devil's Marbles, Thermal Pool, Katherine Gorge Sunset Dinner Cruise and Edith Falls, Day 12 to 15

Driving towards the “Top End” we follow the trail of the giant termite nests and pass through Ti Tree and Barrow Creek. Stroll between the giant rock formations of Devil’s Marbles located between Wauchope and Tennant Creek. These huge rounded boulders are the result of millions of years of erosion and are a nature lovers’ and photographers’ delight. Have a look around Tennant Creek before a delicious BBQ dinner. (Day 12 Overnight Bluestone Motor Inn, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

We travel further north to a small town called Mataranka ,which was made famous by the novel “We of the Never Never” – a book written about nearby Elsey Station by Jeannie Gunn. The Mataranka Homestead Tourist Resort is our accommodation for tonight. Framed by two rivers and the serene Elsey National Park, the homestead is a great place to relax. Swim in the crystal clear and sandy-bottomed thermal pool , sit back and immerse yourself in a truly relaxing atmosphere. (Day 13 Overnight Mataranka Motel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

After a morning swim in the thermal pools, we head towards Katherine . Stroll along the shops of Katherine or visit the Katherine museum. The township is set on the Katherine River which flows through Nitmiluk National Park. We are destined for a Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise at Katherine Gorge . Sit back and relax as the tranquil surroundings take you into a spiritual world of the Jawoyn culture and history. Discover the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people against the magnificent backdrop of the Nitmiluk Gorge, changing colour with the setting sun. Our tour includes a three course candle light dinner, featuring fresh, local Australian produce cooked on board, and a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. (Day 14 Overnight IBIS Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch, Sunset Dinner)

Today we head out to Leliyn / Edith Falls for a day of relaxation and swimming in the main natural pool. The Edith River comes down from the Nitmuluk escarpment at Leliyn, creating the Top Pools and the idyllic plunge pool surrounded by lush Melaleuca and Pandanus trees. Enjoy floating with a pool noodle or swim to the waterfall base. If you love walking, join your guide on a walk along the Leliyn Trail to the summit. Take in the spectacular scenic views, marvel at the sandstone formations and soak in the crystal clear upper pools. This is sure to be a day in paradise . (Day 15 Overnight IBIS Hotel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Giant Termite Mounds, Litchfield National Park, Adelaide River Crocodile Cruise and Arrival in Darwin, Day 16 to 18

Our journey takes us further north and we visit the township of Pine Creek . Originally the town was built to service the Overland Telegraph Line, but while digging holes for posts gold was found and led soon to the gold rush in 1871. Like in many other parts of Australia, the town became a busy mining town and Pine Creek had over 15 mines. Nowadays, the historical buildings and mining relics attract visitors to learn more about the past. Back on the bus we travel to Adelaide River , where we view the War Cemetery, the resting place of WWII service men and women . It is the site of the only Australian war cemetery on Australian soil. After lunch we make our way to Batchelor, the Gateway to Litchfield National Park . Spend the late afternoon at your own leisure with a relaxing swim in the pool, a visit to the Batchelor Museum or learn more about Butterflies at the local butterfly farm. ( Day 16 Overnight Litchfield Motel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Today we will spend a full day in Litchfield National Park . The park has many attractions and with time on our side, we will enjoy the scenery, explore the waterfalls and walking trails. Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Northern Territory landscape are the termite mounds. Discover the Cathedral Termite mounds which are unique to the area with some of them being seven metres tall and over 100 years old. We will also see a group of picturesque Magnetic Termite Mounds . It is truly incredible that hundreds of mounds have been built by tiny little bugs using sand, saliva and faeces. Our next stop takes us to Florence Falls . The plunge pool is only a short walk away and a great place for a refreshing swim. One of Litchfield’s most popular landmarks is Wangi Falls . Join your guide for a walk through a monsoon forest and look out for local wildlife including colourful lizards, tree snakes, frogs, red-winged parrots and kingfishers. A last swim at Wangi Falls has us fully refreshed and energized before heading back to Batchelor for another night. (Day 17 Overnight Litchfield Motel, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Watch out for giant salt water crocodiles as we take the Jumping Crocodile Cruise up the Adelaide River . It is a great way of seeing crocs in their natural habitat. Leaving the saltie’s behind us, we make our to way into Darwin after lunch. Year round warm weather, glorious sunsets, relaxed lifestyle and numerous attractions will await you in this far north city. Sadly, our Outback Tour is coming to an end and we will drop you off at your Darwin city hotel. But why not meet up for a dinner at the Fannie Bay Sailing Club tonight as this has always been a great finale of our Outback Tours . (Day 18 Breakfast, Lunch)

My husband & myself joined the Australian Iconic team for an 18 day outback trek from Adelaide to Darwin in June. This was our first tour with this company and were so impressed by how professional & well organised everything was. From the meals to the accommodation – all great. The variety of meals produced was wonderful – we never went hungry. Four nights were spent in tents – my first experience at camping & I loved it. Keith & I can thoroughly recommend this tour – lots of fun & laughs and met some wonderful people. We will look forward to our next trip with Australian Iconic Tours.

It was a truly amazing 18 days. Tina and I had the best time. I arrived home to mind three grandchildren for ten days, which was busy but good. I am now at home with time to think about our great adventure. My highlights of the trip were many, including Kings Canyon, Uluru (how could anyone not be impressed by the Rock), Kata Tjuta, Standley Chasm Coober Pedy, Edith Falls, the great company we had, loved Alice Springs and will come back to Darwin. Hope to come on another tour with you next year. Darwin to Broome sounds good and the Coast Road maybe. I have some good photos, and will send them to you. Best regards Shirley

Outback Safari Tour 18 Days

Adelaide to darwin.

Next Departure

I joined the Australian Iconic team in Adelaide for the outback Tour culminating for me in Alice Springs. This was my first time on an organised tour and I cannot speak too highly of the organisation and the friendliness. I had a wonderful time in good company. Many laughs and wonderful sights. I am eagerly looking forward to my next trip with Australian Iconic Tours to the Flinders Ranges . I agree with Anne T highly recommended for singles.

Outback Tour from Darwin to Adelaide – check seat availability

AUSTRALIAN ICONIC TOURS

Free Call 1800 814 218 Int.Phone +61 405 587 666

Head Office 11 Fell Street Encounter Bay 5211 South Australia

© 2008 - 2024 Copyright Australian Iconic Tours Truely Tribal Pty Ltd All Rights Reserved

About us FAQ Travel Rewards Eco Tourism Terms & Conditions

Extended Tours Short Tours Private Tours & Charters

Newsletter Contact us

Photo Gallery

• Follow Follow

Newsletter Signup

Email Address

Fully Accredited, Licensed and Insured Tour Company in Australia

Major Supporter of SOWFI - Save our Wildlife Foundation Inc.

Plus save up to $1,000pp*

Limited departures.

Special 2024 tours 

Find Your Adventure

Click on the map icons to explore each region

Arnhem Land

Arnhem Land is an enormous region in the north east of the Northern Territory which has been occupied by Aboriginal people for over 40,000 years. It extends from Port Roper on the Gulf of Carpentaria, right around the east and north coasts to the East Alligator River.

The Kimberley & Top End

To be immersed in the Kimberley is like touching the spiritual heart of our extraordinary country. Those who've explored this charming region with Outback Spirit talk about a deep sense of fulfillment at having realised their long held ambition of 'doing the Kimberley'.

The Pilbara & South West

Discover spectacular scenery, beautiful waterholes, delicate wildflowers and huge mineral deposits. Western Australia is a geological and biological wonderland with nature and wildlife experiences that are out of this world.

Cape York Peninsula

Bordered by the Gulf of Carpentaria to the west and the Coral Sea to the east, Cape York Peninsula is dominated by mighty meandering rivers and vast flood plains.

Central Australia & Corner Country

In the early 1860’s two expedition teams set out to cross the Australian continent from South to North. In 1860 Burke and Wills departed Melbourne to explore the unmapped and unknown interior, arriving on the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria in 1861.

South Australia

South Australia enjoys the distinction of being Australia's first freely settled state; perhaps that's one reason why our guests find it such a liberated, vibrant and culturally diverse place. Or maybe it's just the abundance of festivals, fine wines and stunning landscapes that give it such a carefree atmosphere.

Kati Thanda – Lake Eyre

Our award-winning adventures are in a league of their own and feature exclusive highlights and attractions designed to give our guests the best adventure possible.

Tasmania – quite literally an island on the edge of the world, steeped in history and beauty. First sighted by Dutch Explorer Abel Tasman, who originally named the island Van Diemen’s Land, Tasmania is a land of pristine wilderness, fine fresh produce, rich colonial heritage and Aboriginal culture.

Canning Stock Route

The Canning Stock Route is one of the most isolated and remote public tracks in the world and extends 1800kms from Halls Creek in the Kimberley to Wiluna in the mid-west region of Western Australia.

Simpson Desert

The first European explorer to see the Simpson Desert was Charles Sturt who visited the region in the 1840’s. Despite several attempts, nearly 100 years would pass before the Simpson would be crossed in its entirety by a non-indigenous Australian.

East Coast Islands

Palm fringed islands, rich reef ecosystems and lush tropical rainforests beckon visitors each year to Queensland’s stunning coastline. When visiting this natural wonderland, you will experience some of the most pristine marine environments in the world.

Outback Queensland & Gulf

The splendid region of Outback Queensland is rich in traditional and contemporary Australian heritage, fossilised history, pioneering spirit and colourful characters. It's the birthplace of Qantas and where the legend of our stockman started.

Binns Track

Binns Track is an epic off-road adventure travelling through the heart of the Northern Territory. Join our specialist desert safari team and explore rarely seen marvels of Central and Northern Australia away from the beaten tourist tracks.

Desert Safaris

Travelling through the outback’s most remote territories is an incredibly rewarding experience. The vastness of this great continent really hits home in places like the Simpson Desert, Canning Stock Route and the Northern Territory's Binns Track.

More than just sunshine, the state of Queensland offers a rich array of diverse locations ranging rom the world's oldest rainforests to rolling red sand dunes. With Outback Spirit, you'll explore every inch of it.

The time is now… see Australia today with the experts in small group outback adventures. Last chance 2022 adventures are calling.

Save up to $1,365 per person*!

Explore our most popular destinations

The kimberley.

We've recently updated our Privacy Policy which you can review by clicking here .

Sign up to receive our latest news & exclusive offers

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

Brochure Request

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

All prices in $AUD

 1300 661 206

Australian Outback Tours

A journey into the Australian Outback is something that everyone must complete at least once in their lifetime.

Best of Australian Outback

Often described as “the middle of nowhere”, the Australian Outback comprises a massive 81% of the continent. Taking up a piece of every state except Victoria and Tasmania, the Aussie Outback is expansive, and it is hard to imagine the sheer size of it. While you are trekking the Outback you will come across some pretty other-worldly locations, several-million-acre cattle stations, and rich history and culture of the hundreds of Indigenous nations that have called Australia home for more than 50,000 years.

Day trips are a great way to get a taste of what the Outback has to offer. We have a variety of day explore the outback, whether you wish to see crocodiles jumping from the water to feed, swim in the pristine water holes of Kakadu & Litchfield National Park , watch the sunset over sacred Uluru , or even cage dive with some of the biggest reptiles in the world, there is a day trip to suit everyone.

The Top End of Australia is the northern most part of the Outback. Home to several magnificent national parks such as Kakadu, Litchfield, and Arnhem Land, the Top End offers some of the country’s most remote and unique landscapes. We offer multiple Top End tours to check out this amazing part of Australia.

The 3-Day 2-Night Kakadu and Litchfield Buffalo 4WD Tour will take you deep into the Outback, full of amazing waterfalls, native wildlife, and adventure. Highlights include the unbelievable termite mounds, a crocodile cruise and relaxing in pristine streams and waterfalls. This is a fully guided tour, including all meals and tented camping. The 3 day 2 Nights Kakadu and Litchfield 4WD Expedition is very similar but includes camping under the stars in swags, rather than tents. Finally, the 3-day 2-night Kakadu and Litchfield Dragonfly 4WD Tour with Comfort is exactly what the name says. You will adventure in style and sleep in private accommodation and permanent tents.

For a truly authentic look into the Outback of Australia, join the 5-day 4-night Top end and Arnhem land Adventure tour . You will visit Kakadu, Litchfield, and Nitmiluk National Parks, all of which are full of unbelievable waterfalls, natural landmarks, and gorges. You will visit Arnhem Land, which is a largely untouched and remote area, and a hidden gem that very few visitors see. Not only will this experience open your eyes to the beautiful and intriguing way of life that has existed for thousands of years, you will make unforgettable memories and see a unique part of the world.

There are five tour options available for those who wish to explore the red centre of Australia. The tours range from 3-4 days in duration and the sleeping facilities differ between camping, swags, and permanent tenting. The vehicle used in the standard tours is a minibus, however the 3 Day 2 Night 4WD Red Centre Goanna Dreaming Adventure and the 3 Day 2 Night Red Centre Cockatoo Dreaming Budget Safari use a fully equipped all-terrain vehicle, making the journey more comfortable. On all tours, you will see sites such as the world-famous Uluru, huge Kings Canyon, historical Kata Tjuta and many other magical places in the Aussie Outback.

Overland- city to city

There is the option to explore a large part of the Australian Outback on an overland fully guided tour from several cities. Depending on where you wish to begin and end your adventure and how long you wish to take, there is an option for all kinds of travellers. The following routes are available and can generally be taken in reverse, Adelaide to Darwin , Alice Springs to Melbourne , Darwin to Melbourne , Alice Springs to Adelaide , Darwin to Alice Springs , Darwin to Perth and Darwin to Broome . For more information on our overland packages, head to their individual tour pages and pick the one that suits you best!

42 Tours in Australian Outback

1 Day Kakadu Day Tour

1 Day Litchfield and Jumping Croc Cruise

One Day Trip to The Rock at Sunset

3 Day 2 Night Red Centre Trip from Alice Springs

3 Day 2 Night Red Centre Trip from Uluru

4 Day Ayers Rock & Red Centre Premium Camping tour

4 days 3 nights Rock to Rock Tour from Alice Springs

4 days 3 nights Rock to Rock Tour from Uluru

Crocosaurus Cove Cage of Death

Darwin to Broome Ultimate Adventure

3 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon Premium Camping Tour

3 Day 2 Nights Kakadu and Litchfield Expedition!

4 Day 4WD Kakadu Adventure

5 Day 4WD Kakadu & Litchfied Tour

7 Day Alice Springs to Melbourne Express

7 Day Darwin to Adelaide Express

• Join Our Club
• Join Our Team
• Corner Country Outback Tour
• Great Divide Iconic Landscapes Tour
• Australia World Heritage Wilderness Tour
• Big Rivers Outback Tour
• Classic Outback Tour – Adelaide to Alice Springs
• Central Australia – Red Centre Tour
• Uniquely Australia National Parks Tour
• Outback to Reef Tour
• Tasmania National Parks Tour
• Private Tours
• Over 50’s Holidays
• Guided Walking Holidays
• Top Destinations and Experiences
• Family Business Journeys
• Short Break Tours
• Tour Comparison
• Eco-friendly Travel
• About Australia
• Travel Guidance – FAQ’s
• Accomm. & Meals
• Tour Transport
• Seasons and Climate
• Guided Walks
• Tour Guides
• Request Brochure

Book Now for Early Bird Savings and your "Big Red" Simpson Desert experience

Book Now for Early Bird Savings and your Cooper Creek wilderness experience

Book Now for Early Bird Savings and your Strzelecki Desert crossing experience

Book Now for Early Bird Savings and your Noccundra Hotel outpost experience

Book Now for Early Bird Savings and your Burke & Wills "Dig Tree" experience

• TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
• WHAT'S INCLUDED
• PRICING & DEPARTURES

A small group outback adventure to the Corner Country where three states meet

Current price.

all inclusive pp / twin share

Single Supplement AUD$832 Special Discounts apply to this tour Early Bird Price reverts to the Regular Price 6 months prior to this specific tour departure date

Next Departure

An experiential visit to a vast and beautiful desert heartland, home to the spirit of australia..

Immerse yourself in explorer, Afghan Cameleer and pioneer history in this personally enlightening Corner Country, Australia outback tour.

Visit the Sturt National Park, legendary Cooper Creek and Channel Country, Burke and Wills Dig Tree, the remote outposts of Birdsville and Innamincka, the Strzelecki Desert, Sturt Stony Desert, Simpson Desert and “Big Red”. Experience a “land of infinity” where the three States, Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia are all "just around the corner". An immersive tour in which to discover the real Australia .

2024 Departures now available - personalised 14 day tours July 2  and August 16 - Book now 3 seats remaining

2025 Departures (similar dates) to be confirmed October 2024 - register your interest today

Maximum 7 guests

Satisfy your frontier curiosity without forgoing your creature comforts. Cherish the natural wonders only the Corner Country with its intriguing wild rivers and unique deserts can present. To discover the Corner is to discover the authentic Australian outback. 

Register now for your priority reservation.

From our Guests:

"We thank you for an experience that far exceeded our expectations, which were already high anyway as a result of our many communications over the past couple of years.

Your meticulous planning and the seamless operation of the finest details of every day's activities were truly remarkable.

That, combined with your encyclopaedic knowledge of the geography, geology, botany, fauna, history, people and more, of the vast region encompassed by your Corner Country tour provided an experience the like of which we've not previously encountered in our 30 years of travelling.

Your attentive interactions with each guest individually throughout the tour to ensure we had a worthwhile journey was much appreciated.

Hopefully circumstances will conspire to enable us to join you both again for another tour at some future time."

Graham and Pat

Secure your reservation by firstly enquiring about availability today.

Tour Highlights

Picture yourself, standing alone on a million acre property, gazing at the vast horizon and curvature of the earth. A chance in a lifetime to immerse yourself in the Corner Country, a genuine Australian outback experience.

• Witness the beauty and emotion of vast open spaces, abundant wildlife, the life and times of isolated, resilient outback characters
• Appreciate the unique Corner Country colour, form and texture, in glimmering gibber plains of reds and purples, the rusty mesas of “Jump-Up” country, the crested desert sand ridges and swales sculptured by prevailing winds
• Watch glorious sunrises and sunsets and at night the expansive arrival of amazing starlit skies. Clarity, free of city pollution
• Experience the tyranny of distance, breeding profound friendships, family dynasties and amazing ingenuity.
• Visit tiny pubs and villages, home to just a handful of self-reliant locals with a yarn to tell about their remote outposts of Milparika, Tibooburra, Innamincka and Birdsville, etched in Australian history and folklore

Your tour commences with comfortable highway travel, due west toward the outback, through Queensland’s fertile Western Downs where landscapes and service towns are rich in productivity. We’ll recall many explorers, settler and natural history events.

• View farming enterprises ranging across grains, cotton, cattle and sheep production
• Reflect on the recent arrival of coal seam gas exploration and extraction
• Early explorers Thomas Mitchell and Ludwig Leichhardt passed this way and once Cobb & Co coaches serviced the region
• The world learnt from Australia’s Prickly Pear invasion which crippled the farming communities and later celebrated its subsequent eradication
• Settle in for some story telling around the Brigalow Scrub and Bottle Trees, displacement of Aborigines and Great Artesian Basin
• Fascination surrounds the life of a self-educated Greek migrant who lived off his wits and enterprise to become a celebrated boxer, barber, roo-shooter, store owner and engraver of emu eggs. His artful exhibits are extraordinary
• Overnight in St George, on the banks of the Balonne River - the river trail is a must for your late afternoon stroll

Accommodation

Quality country motel with ensuite rooms

Tailgate M/Tea, A/Tea, Lunch

Evening dinner at motel restaurant

• Driving :  546 kms in 4 relaxed stages over the day
• Walking : Roaming at travel breaks and features

Travelling further into the outback you’ll start to sense the feeling of remoteness which governs people’s lives and connects them with country and small communities.

• Out here, bush children use to walk and cycle long distances to school, connected to the ever present natural environment, birds and wildlife. Now in their senior years they recall “the good old days”
• The River Red Gums of tranquil Wallam Creek by Bollon are home to a Koala population, both symbolic of Australia
• There is much to learn about the Mulga shrubs, native to the arid outback, when drought and carbon sequestration are considered, not to forget the bush tucker and tool making of our First People
• History surrounds the Warrego River in flood, songs of Slim Dusty, scoundrel Breaker Morant and bushranger Joseph Wells. Drovers passed through here with large cattle herds following a web of Stock Routes
• No town is quirkier than where the shady but controlling Queen of Eulo reigned. Where bomb shelters and monuments to trodden cockroaches were erected - believe us, there’s more
• You will pass through an opal, dinosaur and ancient mega-fauna region
• Discover Thargomindah (Pop 270), the last significant service centre for the outback Corner Country. Here are the fruits of community mateship, involvement in town governance and sustainability
• Move over futurists, “Thargo” developed hydropower and street lighting way back in 1893, courtesy of the Great Artesian Basin lying beneath

Comfortable country motel with ensuite rooms

Continental Breakfast to room

Driving: 485kms in 4 relaxed stages throughout the day

Walking: Roaming at travel breaks and features. 2 kms evening stroll along the Bulloo River Trail

Vast horizons, far reaching outback roads and pastoral legends await you as we head for the isolated outpost of Noccundra, then south to cross the border into New South Wales and the most remote town of Tibooburra.

• When there were few railways, no vehicles, planes or telephone, Sidney Kidman began building 2 chains of cattle stations, eventually to stretch the length and breadth of Australia. We pass by “Naryilco” (1.9 million acres) and note he set up his first ration store in Tibooburra
• The Packer Group once owned “Nockatunga” (2.1 million acres) on which our lunch spot the heritage listed Noccundra Hotel sits, a lonely enterprise on the edge of the Strzelecki and Sturt Stony Deserts
• The ill-fated Burke & Wills Expedition (1860-1) passed through as did Ludwig Leichhardt and others who went searching for Ludwig, without success and perished here too
• You’ll pass through the border gates which double as the Dingo or Wild Dog Barrier Fence, stretching 5,291 kms across Australia, claimed as the longest man-made structure in the world
• Aboriginal for “Heap of Rocks”, Tibooburra (Pop 150) sits beside sacred outcrops of granite rocks 400-450 million years old. The town is essentially self governed and seems to prefer it that way, isolated from political power and interference
• Charles Sturt searched for an inland sea and 1000 miners arrived in search of gold
• In the 1930’s the Aboriginal population was shifted out, some tried to return
• Celebrated master artists Clifton Pugh and Russel Drysdale retreated to the town for periods of outback inspiration and mateship. Their morality challenging exhibits still adorn the local pub walls
• The thoughts and artworks of Russell Drysdale centred around our denial of natural images, compelling us to see what we wish to ignore - his world of arid, silent and lonely vista, endless perspectives and glittering stars. Welcome to Drysdale’s spirit of the outback

Comfortable country motel with ensuite rooms - 3 nights

• Cooked breakfast motel restaurant

Tailgate M/Tea, A/Tea

• Counter lunch at isolated heritage hotel Noccundra

Dinner at country hotel restaurant

• Driving:  369 kms in 3 relaxed stages during the day

Walking: Roaming at travel breaks, features and serendipity moments

An informative and emotional day visiting the 1844 expedition trials of Charles Sturt, the amazing circumstances he faced at Depot Glen on Preservation Creek. Later, we enter the Sturt National Park to witness the impacts of pastoral activity on an arid landscape over 100 years

• What does a 50yr old explorer do with 15 men, 7 horses, 200 sheep, 32 bullocks, a 22ft whaleboat with 2 sailors, caught for 6 months in 67C heat with dwindling water reserves? Keep searching for an inland sea?
• Today, you’ll climb to a huge cairn of rocks located on a hill called Mt Poole. Discover the historic significance of the cairn and how it came to be
• For his “energy, courage, prudence and conciliatory conduct with natives” Sturt was given the Royal Geographical Society Medal for the “most important geographical work of the decade”, discovering Australia’s interior
• Acknowledged with the naming of the Sturt’s Desert Pea, Sturt’s Desert Rose, Charles Sturt University, Sturt Stony Desert and Sturt National Park
• Production on a 1.2million acre station, shearing 65,000 sheep, ceased in 1972 with just 5% of its timber vegetation remaining. Regeneration now rests with National Park protection and nature itself. Scientists are engaged in saving the extinction of threatened desert species
• Water was stored in wells and excavated dams dug with shovels and wheelbarrows. Bullock wagons and camel trains brought supplies 220 miles (350 kms) overland from the Port of Wilcannia on the Darling River, returning with bales of wool for the markets. Afghan hawkers brought their wares
• A curious open air machinery museum and key buildings remain, evidence of more prosperous times
• Cooked breakfast roadhouse restaurant
• Counter lunch at isolated heritage hotel
• Driving:  220kms in 5 relaxed stages throughout the day
• Walking: Roaming at travel breaks and features. Optional additional 1 hr climb and descent of Mt Poole on a stony trail

A relaxed early morning walk in Dead Horse Gully for some birding or mindfulness; a visit to the National Park Display Centre and Old Courthouse Museum will precede a loop drive through back roads of the Sturt National Park and a return for sunset celebrations

• An unusual picturesque landscape of rounded boulders and twisted bloodwood trees filled with birdlife. Tracks left by nocturnal creatures navigating their way across the red sand of Dead Horse Gully, are proof the desert does come alive at night
• Enjoy the display of native animals, a model of Sturt’s expedition on the move and the original survey "corner post" from the merged three state borders of New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland
• Peruse heritage items in the old courthouse, relics of pastoral, mining and European history in the Corner Country
• View the bird life, Kangaroos, Emus and differing plant species along the ephemeral creek lines crossing the gibber plains on the Jump-up Loop Road
• Study the Jump Ups, once part of an ancient range. Discover how weathering and polishing over millions of years has crafted today’s breakaway landscape of silcrete-capped mesas rising 150 metres above the colourful gibber plains

Cooked breakfast at roadhouse restaurant

Driving:  150 kms enjoyed in 3 relaxed stages throughout the day

Today we start early with a toasted treat for a novel desert breakfast. We take a sandy back road through red dune country to the official Cameron Corner. After lunch we cross 100 or more sand ridges and travel the Strzelecki Desert tracks to the outpost of Innamincka.

• Breakfast by Olive Downs Station one of the first in the region and now part of the Sturt National Park
• From red sand ridges to the white sands of Lake Pinaroo, normally dry, but carrying status as an international Ramsar Site for migrating birds
• Near here Charles Sturt had his last depot camp before being turned back by deserts on all fronts, retreating ill from his inland sea aspirations. Lacking drinking water and a ration of a few ounces of flour and 2 ounces of tea a week, the decision was inevitable. He was carried ill, on the back of a dray 1500kms or more back to Adelaide
• The only enterprise at the official corner is the corner store. Here you are thousands of kilometres from anywhere but actually just around the corner and it is possible to play a single round of golf in three different states. Australians can make light of anything, anywhere.
• Learn more of the original settler families to arrive and set up home here in just a two room caravan ( no home, no stock, no road over the dunes) to create a million acre generational organic beef property amid the desert sand ridges. The current owner was soon to be borne at the time. Nearest neighbour today is 100 kms away
• Arriving at Merty Merty on Strzelecki Creek, we relive the cattle duffing venture of Harry Redford stealing 1000 head of cattle from central Queensland, droving them down the Strzelecki to Mt Hopeless, their sale and fortunes made at Blanchewater station. The venture was unravelled by the presence of an insistent white bull
• You’ll pass by the multi billion dollar oil and gas fields (no public entry) of Moomba with its jet airport, thousands of fly in-fly out workers, 140 wells and tentacles of pipelines reaching out to southern capital cities
• Innamincka (Pop never more than 30) is a welcoming site and a very comfortable, isolated stop over for 3 days as we explore legendary Cooper Creek, the Burke and Wills Expedition story, then weather and seasons permitting, Coongie Lakes

A quality isolated hotel / motel with ensuite rooms - for 3 nights

Tailgate M/Tea, A/Tea,

Counter lunch at isolated outpost address

Driving:  447kms in 4 relaxed stages throughout the day

Walking: Relaxed roaming at travel breaks, features and serendipity moments

The Burke and Wills Expedition story is firmly etched in Australia’s history so today we visit the key sites and story telling which will bring realism to the 1861 events that took place along the reaches of the serene wilderness of Cooper Creek.

• Learn of the specially created reserves, the commitments of all parties and interests enabling the continued preservation of this wild creek and how two rivers actually became a creek
• The Innamincka Station was a prized part of the Sidney Kidman holdings and the Rev John Flynn’s Australian Inland Mission opened a nursing home in town
• Cooper Creek, named by Charles Sturt, floods seasonally and has figured prominently in Innamincka’s history, having erased the pub and old Innamincka Station homestead
• Visit the famous “Dig Tree” and the delightful Cullyamurra Waterhole along the creek as the Burke and Wills story unfolds
• Visit the grave and memorial sites of Burke and Wills and where sole survivor John King was befriended by local Aborigines before his rescue
• Appreciate the surreal feeling of being there where the epic events in Australian exploration endeavour occurred and draw your own conclusions about the expedition and its conduct
• The Yandruwandha People who gave sanctuary to King, in 2015 were granted native title to 9.9 million acres of their tribal lands across the Innamincka, Strzelecki and Coongie Lakes reserves
• The creek provides one long birding corridor so be ready with binoculars

Comfortable hotel / motel with ensuite rooms

Breakfast, lunch and dinner at remote hotel restaurant

Driving:  Nominal local access throughout the day

Walking: Relaxed roaming at travel breaks and features

Not always possible given seasonal circumstances, but this day is dedicated to visiting Coongie Lakes, an internationally acclaimed Ramsar Wetlands Site.

• A near continuous supply of water available to great numbers of waterbirds and waders
• Monsoonal flood water from the far northern tropics and Central Queensland finds its way down the extensive “Channel Country” to fill the lake complex
• In extreme flooding, virtually the whole of the NW corner of South Australia becomes one huge lake
• In 2002 one lake alone accommodated up to 70,000 birds including 30,000 Pink-eared Ducks
• Charles Sturt discovered the lakes and found them to be home to large numbers of Aborigines, a spiritual site rich in resources, especially following flood events
• A true wilderness experience awaits with contrast between wetlands and sand dunes
• The CSIRO considers Coongie Lakes to be of world heritage standard with some of the rarest waterfowl in the world
• Preservation of the lakes was a special mission of the Wilderness Society. Total reserve area is 285,000 acres
• Sidney Kidman added Coongie Station to his pastoral empire. Protection from cattle grazing is now an important objective
• On a perfect season you’ll pass through a changing vista of salt-bush plains, covered dunes and gum lined creeks to suddenly crest a dune and be greeted by a massive expanse of water almost impossible to comprehend in the desert

Breakfast, dinner at remote hotel restaurant

Driving:  212kms  in two stages throughout the day on a track varying in conditions

Walking: Relaxed roaming at travel breaks and features plus birding along the edge of the lakes and wetlands

Prepare for a memorable but longer 7 to 8 hr drive through the Sturt Stony desert from Innamincka to Birdsville, a truly outback experience where the rare passing of another car becomes a significant event

• The journey takes you along the Cordillo Downs Road crossing braided water channels snaking across the stony gibber plains
• The country presents an exciting story in organic cattle production and natural regeneration of grasses for the cattle that roam freely
• Cordillo Downs (1.9 million acres) is one of a number of stations owned by the one family holding. It runs approx 7000 head of prime Poll Hereford Cattle
• Isolation and logistics play a big part in life on Cordillo with the homestead kitchen pantry said to be the size of a small supermarket
• Situated near the homestead is the heritage wool shearing shed the largest in Australia but no longer used for shearing. We will stop for your inspection
• At the turn of the century the shed had 120 shearing stands processing 85,000 sheep
• Afghan teams hauled stores up the Strezlecki Track and returned with the wool for export markets. The 1200 kms round trip took 2 months
• Camels brought a complete wool scour and several large steam engines up the track
• Imagine the difficulties for Aboriginal women shepherding the flocks and the menace of Dingoes, shearers strikes and unrest in such an isolated environment
• Imagine too, a shearer cycling up the stony track seeking seasonal employment
• So with a change of ownership came the conversion to cattle production and the establishment of an organic beef marketing company taking product to the world. A great story in natural farming sustainability
• The Cadelga ruins up the track were once occupied as a sheep station homestead but became an outstation of Cordillo as wool production faded
• Crossing the border into Queensland and heading west to Birdsville the time of day is near perfect for a spectacular blood red outback sunset

Comfortable remote hotel / motel with ensuite rooms - 2 nights

Driving:  418 kms at relaxed pace in 4 stages throughout the day

Today you’ll enjoy many of the features that have made Birdsville a desirable outback destination in Queensland.

• You’ll be accommodated at the famous Birdsville Hotel
• The Wirrarri Visitors Centre is one of the finer tourism information centres in outback Australia with its focus on finer independent art and craft products
• You’ll visit a stand of Waddi Trees growing to 10 metres tall and up to 1000 years old. These are rare and ancient species which grow on dry barren land on the fringes of the Simpson Desert
• Waddi wood is extremely hard, claims of the damage it causes to axes and saws, almost impossible to drill and long lasting as fence posts. Pieces were used by Aboriginal people to transport fire over long distances
• Birdsville is home to the only operating geothermal power station in Australia. It draws from the Great Artesian Basin and services the equivalent of 25% of Birdsville’s power needs
• Birdsville stands on the banks of the Diamantina River which seasonally can carry heavy monsoonal rains from north Queensland toward Lake Eyre. The average flood discharge at Birdsville would fill an olympic swimming pool every one second
• Part of the Australian outback river-scape is the overflow to a “billabong”. Pelican Point is located on the Birdsville billabong, a good birding opportunity
• The annual Birdsville horse racing carnival attracts a crowd of over 7000. You’ll visit the famous race track
• Our day will close with a visit to Big Red sand ridge on the edge of the Simpson Desert This is a popular tourism attraction often used to test both vehicle and driver in a frenetic or manic “burn” up the dune slopes. Our plan is to walk up Big Red and find an isolated place to view the sun setting over the Simpson Desert, share a celebration drink and quietly savour all the senses of such an extraordinary place and space

Comfortable remote hotel / motel with ensuite rooms

Remote hotel restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Driving: Nominal local access throughout the day

Walking: Relaxed roaming at features plus a short 20min climb up the Big Red desert sand ridge/dune

Today we travel across the unique Channel Country to the town of Windorah where the Thomson and outer Barcoo rivers flood into Cooper Creek and you immerse yourself in some Australian folklore oddities along the way.

• Contemplate the future of the town Betoota, population zero, Australia’s smallest town with a single building, the Betoota Pub(1880), once a resting place for weary travellers until its eccentric Polish publican Ziegmund Remienko retired
• Imagine Ziegmund stranded on the legendary Birdsville Track for 18 weeks, his truck loaded with 8 ton of beer
• The temperature rises to 45C on Betoota Race Day but 300 outstation stalwarts truck in from 180 miles (300kms) away to dress up, glamorise, socialise and punt on the 6 race program, after which Betoota rests in peace, once again
• What must a local station owner have felt when he found his “ringer” workers were spending too much time at the local mud brick pub, so he purchased the establishment, removed the roof and let nature do the rest
• Spare a thought for the family of a nearby grave site. Their 2 infant children (1 and 2 yrs) who wandered away from home in 1895/1901 and perished from exposure in the bush
• The verses of Australia’s most celebrated bush poet Andrew Barton “Banjo” Paterson ring clear here in the Outer Barcoo with his tales of “The Bush Christening”, “Clancy of the Overflow” and “Waltzing Matilda”
• The country inspires reflective story telling around “The Fighting Parson”, drover Nat Buchanan, Tom Quilty and his mate RM Williams
• “Windorah” Aboriginal for “Big Fish” (Pop 80) evolved from an 1870 flood. Given the braided channels and billabongs, the Cooper can flood to 24 kms wide encouraging water bird populations to flourish and breed
• The local sand hills are claimed to be the reddest you’ll ever see
• Pioneering pastoral history dating back to the 1860’s surrounds the town with its first settlers John Costello, Patsy and Jerry Durack (who built the original Pub where we stay) and the Tullys
• Moving with the times the small town is now powered by a spacey looking solar farm

Comfortable country motel/hotel with ensuite rooms and cabins

Hotel restaurant breakfast,

Informal community BBQ dinner at remote hotel

Driving:  386 kms in 4 stages throughout the day

This morning you’ll travel way back in time to the dinosaur era on the edge of a struggling town, before heading to the "boulder opal capital" town of Quilpie.

• Travel across the open downs, flood out and channel country where the land hungry pioneer Patrick Durack established a cattle station before his epic 3000 mile (4,828 kms) / 2.5 yrs overland droving mission with 7,250 head of cattle to the Kimberley. Later to become the subject of the best selling novel and subsequent TV Mini-series “Kings in Grass Castles”
• Eromanga (Pop 30) sits in an historic opal fossicking region on the edge of a long gone ancient Eromanga inland sea. Now it is fast becoming the centre of dinosaur and palaeontology interest in Australia with the rediscovery of our largest dinosaur, a titanosaur species
• Nearby are 70 internationally significant dinosaur and mega fauna sites. We visit the acclaimed Centre of Excellence in this field for a 1 hour insight into the collection, processing, recording and conservation mission in play
• Step into the laboratory and collection room, touch a 95 million yr old dinosaur bone and meet “Cooper” one of the top ten largest creatures in the world. A prehistoric discovery conveyed in modern times
• Travel then on back roads to your overnight accommodation in Quilpie and as time permits remaining afternoon enjoyment of local town and surrounding features.

Country motel with ensuite facilities

Continental breakfast to room

Counter lunch at remote heritage hotel

Motel BBQ or Buffet style meal

Driving: 313 kms in 2 stages throughout the day

Today we start returning from the outback with insights into tiny villages and larger service centres, then a tour celebration night in Roma

• We depart Quilpie, located on the Bulloo River along which we strolled in an earlier evening of the tour, at Thargomindah. The river terminates in remote wetlands east of the village of Tibooburra, also a familiar memory from your travels
• The town is home to exquisite boulder opals, the most valuable in the world and there is an opal alter to view at the local church
• All that remains in “Cheepie” is a private residence for one, while at Cooladdi in earlier times there was a bustling rail head and the original owner of the local store Bob Fox so renowned for his enthusiastic generosity, service and hospitality that the town became known as the Foxtrap
• Charleville a substantial service town, offers a number of special features for this tour. We visit a Bilby breeding Centre for an up close and personal insight into the program
• Then it is onto the Charleville base of the Royal Flying Doctor Service for some interactive awareness of their wonderful services to people of the bush. So welcomed and supported in the bush, at every pub we visit and major local events
• Mitchell named after the feisty explorer / surveyor who fought the last pistol duel in Australia, is known for its mineralised artesian water. Lesser known are the tales of Frank Forde our shortest serving Prime Minister for 7 days and the bushranger exploits of the Kenniff Brothers
• Roma, once promoted as the cradle of the oil and gas industry with the first natural gas strike in 1900, is now the site of Australia’s largest cattle sales yards handling up to 12,000 head a day
• The old Roma Courthouse was the scene of Harry Redford’s trial, an astonishing event. You’ll recall our story telling earlier down by Cameron Corner and the Strzelecki Track where Redford’s amazing cattle duffing venture passed through
• Note the unusual Bottle Trees lining the streets, a species endemic to Queensland. We’ll visit the largest of them all with a profound girth of 8.9 metres. But don’t be fooled, they are not an empty or full water bottle

Quality regional motel with ensuite rooms

Motel buffet breakfast

Tail gate M/Tea, A/Tea

Country cafe alfresco lunch

Quality motel restaurant dinner

Driving:  540 kms in 3 relaxed stages throughout the day

Today we return along the Warrego Highway retracing our path to Brisbane with comfort stops along the way.

Time to reflect on a fascinating journey into an area of Australia most city folk have never heard of and sadly will never experience. A journey good for the soul, of vastness, isolation, to witness bird and wildlife in natural habitats, the fateful endeavours of explorers, outback characters and “salt of the earth” people.

We will keep moving along as the day unfolds in the hope of getting all guests to their departure point at a reasonable hour, early evening.

End of tour accommodation pre-arranged with tour guests - not included in tour

Quality motel restaurant breakfast

Tailgate or cafe M/Tea, A/Tea

Quality alfresco cottage lunch

Driving:  477 kms in 4 stages to complete the tour

Best Value Inclusions

• All accommodation
• All meals with breakfast, lunch and  2 course dinner with choices
• Morning and afternoon teas
• Glass of wine with dinner if you wish
• Spontaneous travel treats and refreshments
• Tour transport and naturalist guides
• All National Park entry fees
• A number of feature entries
• Pre-tour briefing and meet ‘n greet function
• Local guides and guests, as available
• Informative travel reference kit
• Use of on-board reference materials and facilities
• A meaningful tour memento
• Personalised pre-tour planning advice to maximise your enjoyment of the experience
• What we don't include:
• Expenditure of a personal nature
• Pre and post tour travel and accommodation arrangements
• Travel and comprehensive contingency insurance

Pricing & Departure Dates

All inclusive prices. loyalty and group discounts apply - enquire, 2024 departures, what our guests say, everald aust., merri (sth aust.), sally (nsw).

Have you completed this tour? Click here to submit a review!

Other tours that may interest you

• Adelaide to Alice Springs Classic Outback Tour
• Central Australia - Red Centre Tour

Booking for Corner Country Outback Tour

Choose your style.

• Over 50's Holidays

Quick Links

• Terms and Conditions
• Travel Ethic

Copyright © 2009 - 2024 Nature Bound Australia. Site by Greenhat .

PO Box 1047 Paradise Point, Queensland 4216 Australia

Enter your email address to receive the latest news on feature tours, walking tips, new release Blog posts and connecting with nature

For our free online brochure please complete the following

* Required Fields

To really understand Australia you need to experience the continent’s unique natural wonder.

If you imagine yourself being part of a small intimate group of like-minded travellers, undertaking guided walks and scenic outback tours giving you access to areas that most tourists can’t get to, then Nature Bound Australia is for you

• +61 3 9125 3630
• Hi, {{firstName}}!
• Shortlist sign-up
• Shortlist log in
• My Shortlist
• Change password
• Travel agent? Log in here

Your browser 'Internet Explorer' is out of date. Update your browser for more security, comfort and the best experience on this site.

Outback Yarns Blog

• Agent Portal
• Live Chat Live Chat (Offline)

• Australian Outback Tours & Travel

SAVE 10% on Kimberley & Top End Tours!

Northern Territory

The australian outback is steeped in aboriginal history, the landscape part of the myth and legend known as the dreaming.

From seemingly endless red desert to cooling pools, towering rock formations to night skies that burst with stars, there’s a whole new world to discover on our Australian Outback adventures. Experience the grandeur of  Uluru , hear tales of the  First Nations Peoples , take in the scenery from a 4WD, explore a natural amphitheatre at  Kings Canyon , walk among a carpet of wildflowers in the  Flinders Ranges , noodle for opal in  Coober Pedy , indulge in gourmet bush tucker or go on a ‘goat muster’ at a working cattle station. ATA Australian Outback tours are packed with adventure and authentic Aussie experiences.

Our Australian Outback tours

2 Night MacDonnell Ranges Adventure (Alice Springs to Alice Springs)

2 days from $545.

Arguably the best kept secrets of the Red Centre, the West and…

Overnight Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Yulara)

2 days from $595.

Journey into outback Australia and experience Uluru, the Olgas and the intriguing…

Rock the Centre (Yulara to Alice Springs)

3 days from $660.

See the Outback’s best-known attractions in just three days on this camping…

Rock the Centre (Alice Springs to Alice Springs)

3 Night Rock the Centre (Yulara to Yulara)

4 days from $708.

Pushed for time? Strapped for cash? This trip starts and finishes at…

3 Night Rock the Centre (Alice Springs to Yulara)

Strapped for cash? This trip starts at Alice Springs and finishes at…

Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Alice Springs)

3 days from $796.

Experience Uluru (Ayers Rock), Watarrka National Park, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta…

Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Alice Springs)

Perth to Monkey Mia & Return

4 days from $1,195.

The only way to see Western Australia’s Coral Coast, in only 4…

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Alice Springs to Yulara)

4 days from $956.

Go camping in the Australian outback on this 3 night stay visiting…

3 Night Uluru Adventure (Yulara to Yulara)

Experience the highlights of the Red Centre in just 3 nights.

Esperance & Southwest Adventure

6 days from $1,395.

The southwestern reaches of Western Australia are defined by rolling vineyards, lush…

5 Night Perth to Exmouth Adventure

5 days from $1,395.

Experience Western Australia’s amazing Coastline, in less than a week.

Outback Camping Adventure (Yulara to Alice Springs)

5 days from $1,495.

Get to know the Red Centre at your own pace with a…

Outback Camping Adventure (Alice Springs to Alice Springs)

Perth to Exmouth & Return

7 days from $1,595.

The only way to capture the Best of the West, in less…

Uluru to Adelaide Adventure

8 days from $1,995.

Experience moments in nature that will stay with you for a lifetime…

Perth to Adelaide Adventure

10 days from $2,295.

Escape to secluded beaches where the white sand squeaks and the sunburnt…

Perth to Exmouth, Karijini & Return

10 days from $2,895.

Check out Australia’s rugged west coast on a 10-day return overland adventure…

Perth to Broome Adventure

Check out Australia’s rugged west coast on a 10-day overland adventure from…

Top destinations for Australian Outback adventures

South Australia

Western Australia

The Kimberley

Outback tour reviews, trip rating, time of year, esperance & southwest adventure , december 2019.

Thanks Adventure Tours for managing our itinerary during the tour so as to keep us safe and to ensure a good experience even with the worst fire season known in Australia unfolding throughout the nation in the summer of 2020. Some of your tours were cancelled where necessary. I felt we were in good hands throughout.

Review submitted 11 Jan 2020

• 1 --> Previous
• Page 1 of 22

Articles on the Australian Outback

10 unmissable Aussie experiences you need in…

Why travelling during the wet season shouldn’t…

Everything you’ll see on a 3-day camping trip…

Walk this way: 8 of the best day hikes in…

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.

Private & Small Group Touring Specialists

Travel with outback horizons and experience a once in a lifetime, small group tour of iconic australian locations., outback horizons is a family owned and operated tour company offering exclusive incomparable tours throughout outback australia., our aim is to ensure that you experience the ruggedness, isolation, and grandeur of the australian outback in safety, splendour, and comfort. we love all the australian outback has to offer and want to share our experiences in the hope you’ll love it too., with the option to stay in quality accommodation, camp under the stars, or experience a bit of both, we have tour options to cater to your every need. we offer a number of tours running through the kimberley, pilbara, western deserts, simpson desert and outback south australia. if you have a specific location or area in mind, we can even organise private charters to take you anywhere in australia.  our tour options are catered to you, how you want to travel and what you want to see., for current availability on scheduled departures, please click here or the book now button. for custom itineraries or private tours, please enquire directly. we’re hear to help, why choose us.

Small Group Touring Specialists

Enjoy attention to detail and a more personal experience

Safe, reliable and comfortable tour vehicles

No hidden costs, with all-inclusive itineraries

We love what we do!

Customise your tour to suit your individual needs and preferences

Family owned and operated

Respectful of guests’ needs, culture, identity and objectives

Highly experienced tour guides providing insights into life in the outback

Our difference

At outback horizons, we share our enthusiasm for the australian outback with you and strive to provide the highest excellence in knowledge, hospitality and generosity. our tours are designed and constructed with plenty of time to see the highlights, so you won’t feel you’re rushed off to the next destination. we cater for couples, families or even large groups of friends – you tell us how you wish to travel., our group kimberley camping tours are operated with a support vehicle, trailer and second guide to assist in the setup and pack down of camp. this enables you to have more time enjoying what you have come here to see, relax around the camp fire and enjoy the bush for what it is, we seek to provide you with new opportunities, unique experiences, and interesting knowledge while you enjoy your holiday with us., our outback horizons guides are fully qualified and accredited. they have an intimate understanding of all aspects of the outback to ensure your safety, comfort and quality experience. gaining insights and learning about culture and history is all a part of exploring new places. we want to provide you with new opportunities, unique experiences and interesting knowledge while you enjoy your holiday with us., the outback horizons tour experience, outback horizons caters for everyone, whether is be a group camping tour (our most popular and in demand), accommodated tour or private tour of outback australia. see the remarkable mitchell falls, the magnificent bungle bungles in the kimberley, the remote western deserts of australia (our newest destination, 6 years in the making), the west coast and pilbara or explore the natural wonders of kangaroo island, flinders ranges, lake eyre and simpson desert in south australia. spend your nights get close to nature by camping out under the stars with premium, quality equipment or staying in quality accommodation along the way., the underrated glamour of the outback.

Special thanks to Ben Broady  for sharing his photography of the Kimberley and to Tourism Western Australia

Join the adventure. Follow us @outbackhorizons

to Diamantina Touring Company

Ask us for more info, 2024 final season - after 37 years we are retiring.

Western Desert Art Expedition

Alice Springs-Alice Springs

19th-25th June 2024

Final Red Centre to Pilbara

29 May - 14 June 2024

Last ever Canning Stock Route

15th July - 2nd August 2024

Simpson Desert Madigan Line

Alice Springs-Adelaide WAITLIST ONLY

7th - 20th August 2024

Last East West Simpson Desert

Adelaide-Alice Springs

15th - 25 May 2024

Bindibu Country and Pintubi Nine

29th June - 10th July 2024

Message from Andrew Dwyer

Since 1988, Diamantina has been at the forefront of award-winning remote expeditions in the heart of Outback Australia. We're not just a tour company; we're a passionate family business deeply devoted to nature and the rugged beauty of the Outback. Our hand curated journeys are made even more exceptional with our meticulously equipped forward-seating Toyota Land Cruisers. These vehicles are renowned for their reliability and comfort in the challenging outback conditions. What's more, our entire fleet consists of vehicles under three years old, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the journey. We take pride in our personalized approach to expeditions, with a remarkable guide-to-guest ratio of 1:4. Our dedicated guides share a deep passion for the Outback, cultivated through years of collaboration with scientists in the field. With this wealth of knowledge, we offer expert interpretations of both the natural and cultural history, enriching your journey with fascinating insights. If you're yearning to experience the true essence of the Outback, explore the captivating culture of desert Aboriginals, and immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of nature, Diamantina is the choice for you – we proudly stand as Australia's leading outback eco-tour operator. As the sun sets and the night sky unfolds, you'll find yourself gathering around a roaring campfire, sharing stories of the day's adventures. Meanwhile, our experienced crew prepares a delectable meal. As a chef, author of two books, and television presenter, my passion for food is evident, and I promise you a culinary experience to savour. Expect modern cuisine with fresh ingredients, prepared over an open fire – a true feast for your senses. Camping with us means luxuriating in fully made-up swags, complete with sheets, doonas, and pillowcases, all laid out on comfortable stretchers. We offer a secure environment for solo travelers and couples alike. With our guest-to-guide ratio at 4:1 and a maximum group size of 17, you'll find the perfect balance of camaraderie and personal space. Our expeditions welcome adventurers of all ages. Age is no obstacle – all that's required is a zest for good health and a deep appreciation for nature and the untamed wilderness. Join us for an unforgettable journey, and let the blazing campfire and exquisite cuisine complement the stunning landscapes of the Australian Outback.

The GSTC is an independent body that establishes and manages global standards for sustainability in travel and tourism with the aim of increasing sustainable tourism knowledge and practices.

Diamantina hold the highest acknowledgement for environmental understanding, operational practices and cultural representation as defined by Ecotourism Australia.

The Victorian Tourism Awards represent an industry framework for peer recognition which fosters a culture for business development excellence and innovation.

This provides you with an assurance that we have a proven commitment to the highest quality of service, accredited through the Australian Tourism Accreditation Program.

The Respecting Our Culture Program is a triple-bottom line sustainability program for Australian tourism experiences that authentically and respectfully present Aboriginal Culture.

Subscribe here for our free newsletter. We will only send you information on Diamantina and we will never share your details.

I hope you enjoy this website and our collection of fine boutique expeditions. We look forward to welcoming you on board for a wonderful holiday soon.

Testimonials

The combination of your professionalism, tireless energy, friendly personalities and culinary skills created a holiday with everlasting memories. It was great travelling with Diamantina.

Just finished the Canning trip. We had a fantastic time with the best tour guides in Oz. Their experience, knowledge, camaraderie and personalities made this trip a great all-round experience.

I am full of admiration for your ability to produce such brilliant food in such remote locations.We couldn’t have asked for a more capable team to cross the desert with. It is a wonderful experience.

We did the Simpson in 2017, Canning 2018 & have just booked for Bindibu in 2019. We are experienced outback travellers and have returned to travel with Diamantina as they make outback travel safe, easy and fun.

I loved every expedition, the adventures, the beauty, etc. The food is excellent. If you are happy to rough it and be part of an expedition, I recommend Diamantina Outback Touring Company to you.

I have done 4 expeditions with the Diamantina crew - CSR *2, Ultimate Outback and Wills. Each expedition is a unique experience.Respect for the outback and flexible to meet the needs of the travellers.

Learned so much about the Outback, listened to the silence, breathed in the fresh air and made new friends for life, Incredible meals cooked every day to perfection. At the end I can't wait to get home and book the next trip!

Superb in all respects: tour planning, crew, vehicles and food. Andrew a miracle maker with each meal. With apologies to the NT tourism board - you will 'never never know' if you don't give Diamantina a go!

© Diamantina Touring Company 2019

Terms and Conditions

This is the small print page. In booking a Diamantina expedition you will be entering into a contract with us, and you need to be clear on the details of that contract

Bookings can be made via our secure online booking form. If you cannot use the online form you can download a manual booking form and post it back to us. You can download the manual booking form from the download forms box to the right on this page.

Booking Deposit and Final Payment

Diamantina requires a completed online booking form and non-refundable deposit to confirm your booking. The booking deposit is $400 per person. Your booking deposit is used towards pre-tour operational and administration costs for your expedition. Bookings made within 45 days of departure will require full payment at the time of booking. Final payment: The balance of money owed will be due 45 days prior to departure. If payment is not received by the due date you will forfeit your deposit and place on the tour. All prices are per person and inclusive of GST.

Cancellations

Cancellations must be received in writing. Cancellations take effect subject to the following: – If cancellation takes place more than 70 days before your departure date, your full deposit will be forfeited. – If cancellation takes place between 70 and 45 days before your departure date, 50% of the tour price will be forfeited. – If cancellation takes place less than 45 days before your departure date, 100% of the tour price will be forfeited. In view of the heavy penalties applied to cancelled reservations, it is a condition of your booking that you take out insurance.

Your health

Diamantina require you to complete a medical questionnaire to be returned to us as proof that you are fit enough to participate in the tour. This can be downloaded from the download forms box to the right. This must be returned to us at least 70 days prior to departure or if tour is booked closer to departure date, with booking form. If you are 70 years or over or have a pre existing medical condition you must have your doctor complete and sign the bottom section of the medical form before returning to ABH. If you suffer from severe muscular, chest, heart or bronchial disorders, or if you are a severe asthmatic, you are strongly advised against participating. Tours take place in remote areas where there is little or no access to normal medical services or hospital facilities for serious problems. Evacuation, where necessary, can be prolonged, difficult and expensive. Medical and evacuation expenses will be your responsibility. ABH reserves the right in its absolute discretion to refuse a participant the right to participate in a tour on medical or fitness grounds.

Travel Insurance

It is a condition of your booking that you take out travel insurance at the time your deposit is paid. Your insurance should provide cover against personal accident and sickness, medical expenses, emergency repatriation and personal liability. We also recommend that the policy covers cancellation, curtailment, loss of luggage and personal effects. For Australian residents: Under the Federal Government Medicare Act it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to medical expenses and ambulance/air ambulance services. We advise our travellers to take specific cover for ambulance through their respective State/Territory ambulance providers or through their own private health insurance. Australian Bush Hospitality Pty ltd, ABN 14 051 678 212 is a distributor of nib Travel Services (Australia) Pty Ltd (nib), ABN 81 115 932 173, AFSL 308461. Before deciding to purchase this product, read the Product Disclosure Statement available from us. This insurance is underwritten by XL Insurance Company SE, Australia branch (ABN 36 083 570 441)

Privacy Policy

Australian bush hospitality pty ltd. privacy policy.

a(ABH) trading as the Diamantina Touring Company is a domestic Australian adventure and experiential tourism operator.

ABH recognise that privacy is important, and we are bound by the Information Privacy Principles (IPP's) in the Privacy Act 1988 (Australia). We are also bound by the Spam Act 2003 (Australia).

There are several methods with which we collect personal information.

• You join our database by logging in at our customer centre to gain a password.
• You fill in a booking form for an expedition
• You have a business dealing with us as a service provider or supplier
• You opt in to receive our newsletter or have in the past requested information on our programs or responded to an advertisement placed by us.
• As a participant on one of our expeditions you filled out a client appraisal form.

We will collect such information as we need to service our relationship with you. As required by the IPP's we will not use personal information for any other purpose other than that for which it was collected. IIn the event that we needed to use that information for another purpose we would ask your consent. Our electronic newsletter has an unsubscribe option that you are free to use should you not wish to receive any further information from us.

Any information we have is stored in our office and on our secure server. We do not give out details like contents of our manifests. We will supply your name and address to Aboriginal corporations for the purposes of acquiring access permits. We will also provide your name and address to National Parks Services as requirements of our operating permits. We may also give your name and address to an accommodation provider on a tour as part of the registration process. Otherwise we will only disclose your personal information with your personal consent unless required to by law or permitted under the privacy act, for example if a request is made under the Freedom of Information Act 1982 (FOI Act). We do not give clients details to fellow traveling clients.

Information stored by ABH is hosted on secure servers both in Australian and the United States. Paper manifests and account information is stored in our locked office in Jamieson. Credit card details are not retained on our servers after processing, but are immediately deleted.

Under the Privacy Act 1988 you are entitled to access your personal detail records that we hold. You may also ask for us to correct or update that information.

As part of our statistical research we log the IP addresses to track your movement through our site through a tracker. This places a cookie on your hard disk. Our reservation system also uses cookies. Any links to third party websites do not constitute endorsement, approval or sponsorship of these sites and you should refer to the privacy policy of those sites separately. ABH uses affiliate advertisers and google ad-sense. ABH reserves the right to update or modify this privacy policy at any time.

Call an Australian luxury travel designer at The Tailor on: +61 (0)8 8354 4405

Northern Territory

• Uluru & Red Centre

South Australia

• Barossa Valley
• Kangaroo Island
• Flinders Ranges
• Eyre Peninsula
• Murray River & Riverland

New Zealand

• Family Friendly
• Luxury Resorts
• Food and Wine
• Active and Adventure
• Aboriginal Art and Culture
• Urban Style
• Walking and Hiking
• Rail Journeys
• Islands and Coastal
• Guided Journeys
• Luxury Cruises
• Luxury Yachts
• Private Villas
• Romantic Getaways
• Private Aircrafts
• Browse All Travel Blogs
• Latest News
• Newsletters
• Why Travel With Us
• The Tailor Process
• Testimonials
• Responsible Australian Travel
• Agents Info

Red earth beneath your feet, vast stretches of rugged and unique landscapes

Experience Outback  South Australia  through a safari-style tour, or visit a working cattle station located in the far-reaches of the  Northern Territory  and explore its vast lands by horse, 4WD or by helicopter.

With so much to see and do, The Tailor can help you uncover the Australian Outback  adventure  to best suit you.

Travel Australia like a Rockstar

JOURNEY | Travel Australia like a rockstar on your own VIP private jet on this unique 14-night journey made by top luxury travel specialists.

Around Australia in 14 Days

JOURNEY | Experience the best Australia has to offer on this luxury 14-day itinerary to the country’s most remarkable and exciting destinations.

North West Outback Safaris Australia

MULTI DAY TOUR | Embark on a luxury adventure escape to Queensland’s Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef with local experts from North West Safaris.

Mount Mulligan

LUXURY LODGE | Sitting on 69,000 acres in eucalyptus-rich outback Queensland is the outstanding Australian luxury resort, Mount Mulligan Lodge.

Finniss River Lodge

LUXURY LODGE | Finniss River Lodge is a luxury lodge boasting panoramic views of the Finniss River Station with personalised service, food, and wine.

Reasons to book with The Tailor

5 star experiences.

The ‘Outback’ is considered by many a s  the heartbeat of Australia’s identity. There is no better way to gain greater appreciation of those that live there than by staying at an Outback Lodge.  Our team of Travel Designers will ensure you have o pportunity to make true people to people connections.

Nature at Its Best

Typically, the  ‘ Outback ’  can conjure up images of red sands and open plains. Due to  its  vastness , the biodiversity of   Australia’s Outback can range f rom rocky escarpments,  desserts,  waterfalls,  rainforests,  floodplains to salt pans . Immerse yourself in the spectacular beauty of these natural surrounds.

Caroline Densley

Senior Travel Designer

Janelle Leske

Luisa Kleimann

Travel Designer

Prue Fargher

Customise your journey, who is travelling, why do you want to travel, how can we help, start designing your hand-crafted luxury experience today, let's build your amazing outback experience together, our other websites.

Phone:  +61 (0)8 8354 4405

Freecall:   1300 364 406

Email:  [email protected]

Mon-Fri 08.30 – 17.00 (ACST)

3 / 262 Marion Road

Netley SA 5037, Australia

Subscribe to our mailing list and receive exciting updates about luxury travel around Australia

Australia Trips & Tour Packages

With bright blue skies, immense red deserts, sun-bronzed beaches and vast green wetlands, Australia is big, bold and full of contrasts.

Come and experience this extraordinary country that bursts with kaleidoscopic cultures and constantly changing colors. From snorkeling with jewel-toned fish on the Great Barrier Reef and discovering the wildlife and wilderness of the west coast to walking through the World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest with an Aboriginal guide and exploring Uluru and nearby Kata Tjuta , an (Intrepid) in-depth Australia tour offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling as a family or a solo adventurer, a nature-lover or a sun worshipper, a food fanatic or a wine connoisseur, Australia can’t wait to welcome you. 

Our Australia trips

Let's create an exclusive trip for your group.

Australia tour reviews

Filter by rating

Kangaroo Island Adventure

Eyre Peninsula Adventure

South Australia Outback Adventure

Walk the Grampians Peaks Trail

10 must-visit beaches in South Australia

Australia or New Zealand? Where to go on your next trip

What not to do at Uluru

10 epic spots to stop at on your east coast Australia road trip

Reasons to visit the Grampians

The top 10 destinations to travel in May 2024

So much more than a rock: Spoonful of Sarah’s Uluru adventure

Everything you need to know before travelling to Uluru   

Australia departures by month

Browse australia by region, tours & vacations by state, australia at a glance, capital city.

Canberra (population approximately 467,000)

Approximately 25.69 million

(GMT+10:00) Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type I (Australian/New Zealand & Chinese/Argentine 2/3-pin)

Learn more about Australia

Best time to visit australia.

Being such a large place, Australia has a wide range of climates, so all year round, there is somewhere great to visit. 

Summer (December to February) can get very hot but is perfect for beach-going and other outdoor activities. In the far north, it is also the wet season, which can get quite humid, and some beaches may be closed due to jellyfish or 'stingers'.

Winter (June to August) is pleasant and dry in the north but can get quite cold in the south, especially in Tasmania and Victoria, where snowfall is common.

Spring and autumn are great times to visit Australia as the weather is milder but still warm enough for swimming in northern areas. 

Regardless of daytime temperatures, nights can get very cold in the desert areas of Central and Western Australia, so prepare accordingly.

The main school holiday period is from Christmas to late January and is considered the peak travel time within Australia; expect popular tourist spots to be crowded during this time.

Read more about the best time to visit Australia

From large malls and boutique shopping strips to weekend arts and crafts markets and vintage shops, Australia is a top place to shop. Shopping in Australia may not be cheap, but there are plenty of unique finds and original souvenirs to bring home. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to import certain items back into your home country. New Zealand, for example, has strict quarantine laws.

Things to buy in Australia

1. First Nation art

The quality of Aboriginal art is excellent in the Top End and Central and Western Australia. Be sure to buy from reputable galleries and organizations to ensure authenticity and fair prices for artists. Community-run organizations are typically the better choice.

If you’re looking for one, Coober Pedy has the best quality and variety on offer.

These precious gems are plentiful in Broome due to the booming pearling industry.

4. Modern art

Melbourne and Hobart are modern art and craft hot spots, making them great places to pick up one-of-a-kind mementos.

Top 10 places to see in Australia

Nothing will prepare you for seeing Australia's most famous landmark for the first time. An important part of Aboriginal Dreamtime stories, this ancient monolith is a photographer's dream as it changes colors with the sun; from dazzling orange to dusty purple.

Combine First Nations' culture and the magnificence of Australia's desert wonders on a 6 day Red Centre & Uluru Explorer tour.

2. Great Barrier Reef

See the world's largest reef system - so big it can be seen from outer space! This World Heritage site, just off the coast of Queensland, is home to whales, dolphins, turtles, sharks, colorful coral and more than 1,500 species of fish. Go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore this incredible underwater world.

See the beauty of the reef and its residents on our 5 day Best of Cairns, Great Barrier Reef & Daintree tour.

3. Twelve Apostles

Although there are actually only eight 'Apostles', these spectacular limestone rock stacks are a popular tourist spot along Victoria's Great Ocean Road. Formed by erosion that began 10-20 million years ago, the stacks rise majestically from the churning Southern Ocean. Hit the boardwalks, tracks and viewing areas for spectacular views.

Set off on a Twelve Apostles journey when you 7 day Hike the Great Ocean Walk.

4. Kakadu National Park

This region is a place of breathtaking beauty and incredible biodiversity. Steeped in Dreamtime history, Kakadu nurtures a staggering variety of landscapes and wildlife. Venture deep into the wilderness and discover gushing waterfalls, deep gorges, shimmering waterholes and rocky outcrops adorned with 20,000-year-old art.

Combine the best of history, wildlife, culture and beauty while venturing through a 6 day Top End & Kakadu Explorer tour.

5. Sydney Opera House

Set against a backdrop of that famous bridge that spans the sparkling harbor, the Opera House is one of Australia's most iconic sights. Those familiar sails, adorned with more than a million white tiles, host thousands of events and performances each year. Catch a show to admire the ornate interior, or take in the spectacular view from a ferry.

Climb the Opera House steps or tour the harbour as you start an exciting 18 day East Coast Encompassed tour.

6. Kimberley

From deep gorges and dusty Outback roads and lush rainforests to idyllic billabongs, the landscape of this beautiful region is truly enchanting. A trip to the Kimberly can be as active or relaxing as you wish - hike past the strange 'beehive' domes of the Bungle Bungle Ranges, explore underground caves at Tunnel Creek or simply relax on white sand beaches.

Be swept away by the beauty of the Kimberley on a 11 day Wild Kimberley Overland tour.

7. Daintree

With verdant tropical rainforest stretching to white, sandy beaches, the Daintree is nothing short of spectacular. This complex ecosystem in Far North Queensland is home to a prolific amount of wildlife, including frogs, reptiles, bats and butterflies, as well as the highest concentration of primitive plant species in the world. Australia's largest rainforest is a true natural wonder just waiting to be explored.

Walk among the diverse ecosystems of the Daintree Rainforests while on our 5 day Queensland Daintree Explorer tour.

8. Wineglass Bay

With its white sand, crystal-clear water and distinct crescent shape, Wineglass Bay on Tasmania's gorgeous Freycinet Peninsula is a pristine paradise. It's easy to see why it's often voted as one of the top 10 beaches in the world! Hike a trail to the summit overlooking the bay for breathtaking views, or descend to the beach and set up camp. Go snorkeling to discover colorful fish and perhaps some playful dolphins.

Stroll by the waters of Wineglass Bay on a nature-lovers 6 day Tasmania Adventure tour.

9. Clare Valley

This beautiful wine-producing region is famed for its delicious local produce, picturesque scenery, friendly people and, of course, its fabulous wine. Explore back roads lined with vines and go wine tasting to sample the very best drops this region has to offer.

Cycle and sample your way through one of Australia's oldest wine regions on our 6 day Cycle South Australia's Wine Regions tour.

10. Blue Mountains

Covering over one million hectares, the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains is rich in verdant rainforest, dramatic waterfalls, looming forests and an abundance of wildlife. Greet the iconic Three Sisters and wander the boardwalks to soak up this breathtaking area of Australian bush.

Walk, trek, and discover the beauty of the rugged New South Wales region home to the Blue Mountains on a 3 day Best of the Blue Mountains from Sydney.

Top destinations to visit in Australia

1. ikara-flinders ranges national park.

Discover Ikara with an Adnyamathanha guide on a tour that shines a light on Adnyamathanha history, uncovers the park’s more recent past, and looks towards the future.

Wander through Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park on our 7 day Flinders Ranges Explorer tour or on our 7 day Walk South Australia's Flinders Ranges tour .

2. Arnhem Land

Explore the rugged wilderness of Arnhem Land , where Australia’s First Nations people have lived for thousands of years. Share Dreamtime stories, learn how to gather local food and create traditional paintings.

Experience Arnhem Land for yourself on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour tour.

3. The West Coast

The West Coast of Australia certainly feels like the Final Frontier. Perhaps visit the red rock gorges of Karijini National Park, take in a camel ride on Cable Beach, or unwind among the vineyards of  Margaret River. 

Marvel at the beauty of the West Coast on our 8 day Hike Western Australia's Cape to Cape Track.

4. Tropical North Queensland

Join an Aboriginal painting class at Janbal Gallery and hear East Coast Kuku Yalanji Dreamtime stories about the animals, environment and language of the Indigenous rainforest people from Mossman and the Daintree rainforest.

Dive into Tropical North Queensland on our 7 day Queensland Coast Adventure or on our 8 day Brisbane to Cairns Adventure.

5. The Kimberley

While Broome could keep you occupied for days, it’s really the Kimberley’s natural beauty that lures you in. Away from the stretches of Cable Beach, you find a region that rapidly unrolls into a world of dense rainforest, underground caves and boab-dotted horizons straight out of Africa. 

Discover the beauty of the Kimberley's on our 5 day Kimberley Family Holiday.

Kakadu National Park is packed with billabongs, waterfalls, strange rock formations and all types of native wildlife. ‘Roos bounce through the bushland, dingoes are spotted along rocky outcrops, dugongs wallow off the coast, and, despite the name, crocs patrol the waters of Alligator River. 

Explore Kakadu National Park on our 8 day Walk Kakadu National Park tour or on our 4 day Kakadu, Katherine & Litchfield Adventure.

7. The Red Centre

Also known as Central Australia, the Red Centre is where Uluru rises from the landscape in all its beauty. But there’s far more to this region than the iconic rock of the Outback. Discover Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and its 36 stunning red domes; Kings Canyon , with its natural amphitheater and the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

Uncover the magic of the Red Centre on our 6 day Premium Red Centre & Uluru tour or on our 4 day Uluru & Kings Canyon Family Adventure.

8. The Outback

Experience the untamed beauty of Outback Australia, hear tales of the Aboriginal Dreaming with a First Nations guide, cross incredible scenery in a 4WD, and walk among a carpet of wildflowers in the Flinders Ranges. 

Explore the Outback on our 4 day Best of Uluru & Kings Canyon tour or on our 10 day West Coast & Karijini Overland Adventure.

9. K'gari (Fraser Island)

K'gari (Fraser Island) isn’t just the largest sand island in Queensland, it’s the largest one in the world. Explore the rugged headlands, silica sand beaches, lush rainforests hugging the shore and freshwater lakes that lay hidden throughout this World Heritage-listed island.  

Experience K'gari for yourself on our 14 day Sydney to Cairns Adventure.

10. Great Ocean Road

The Great Ocean Road is a winding coastal route of sandstone cliffs and dense rainforest hinterland that stretches all the way from Torquay in the East to Allansford in the West. While the region is famous for its Twelve Apostles, there are plenty of local secrets to be discovered if you’re willing to take the time.

Drive along the Great Ocean Road on our 6 day Great Ocean Road & Grampians Adventure.

11. Tasmania

This island state turns heads thanks to its thriving gallery and gastronomy scene, plus its bounty of natural wonders. Boasting some of Australia’s finest beaches, mistiest mountaintops, loneliest patches of wilderness and most elusive animals, Tasmania is a nature lover’s wonderland.

Discover Tasmania on our 6 day Highlights of Tasmania tour , on our 4 day Hobert & Southern Tasmania Explorer tour or on our 6 day Trek the Cradle Mountain Overland Track.

See the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, take a dip at Bondi Beach, explore the historic Rocks area and discover everything this cosmopolitan city has to offer.

Marvel at Sydney's iconic sights on our 7 day Sydney to Brisbane Adventure.

13. South Australian outback

Explore the South Australian outback at Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary on a 4WD tour that takes in science, education and conservation and showcases this incredible and unique wilderness area.

Delve into the South Australian wilderness on our 10 day South Australia Outback Adventure or on our Outback South Australia & Eyre Peninsula tour .

14. The Great Barrier Reef

Be inspired by the beauty of the world’s largest coral reef – The Great Barrier Reef. Go snorkeling in the warm waters with exotic sea creatures and colorful coral.

Go swimming on our 12 day Brisbane to the Daintree Discovery.

15. The Daintree Rainforest

Explore the world's most ancient rainforest, the Daintree in Far North Queensland , with a local family who lives in a privately owned part of it.

Experience the serenity of the Daintree Rainforest on our 5 day Daintree Family Holiday or on our 8 day Daintree & Cape Tribulation Adventure.

Geography and environment

The continent of Australia is known for being one of the flattest, hottest, and driest places on earth, but despite this, there is an astounding variety of terrains and environments on this island nation. While large areas of Australia are covered in desert, there are also tropical rainforests, alpine snowfields, dense bushland, beaches, gorges, lakes, and rivers to be found.

Australia’s national parks are home to many species of birds and mammals not found in the wild anywhere else in the world, including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, and wombats.

Boasting many stunning white sand beaches, Australia has a coastline like none other. From busy Bondi to surfing icons like Bell’s Beach and Tasmania’s stunning Wineglass Bay , there are endless places to swim, surf, snorkel and paddle. 

Despite Australia’s large landmass, most people tend to live in urban, coastal cities. Faster-paced cities like Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne hold much of the population, as do regional satellite cities such as Albury, Dubbo, Bunbury, Townsville, Newcastle and Geelong.

Outback towns have a unique flavor and a distinct way of life; things are slower here, and due to smaller populations, space is plentiful, with most locals relying on agriculture for a living. Venturing away from the city to visit the Outback and rural areas of Australia is highly recommended, as it gives travelers the chance to see a different side of Australia. Traverse the northern regions of Australia's iconic outback landscape on a 11 day Darwin to Broome Outback tour.

Culture and customs

With a strong history of immigration, modern Australia is made up of people from many different cultural backgrounds. This mix makes Australia an endlessly fascinating place to visit, as travelers will be exposed to a variety of different customs and cultures during their stay. From the ancient, spiritual ways of the First Nations population to the wide array of faiths, foods, and festivals on display in the big cities, Australia is a cultural melting pot. 

Despite the differences, there are many things that unify the people of Australia. Sports, in particular cricket, soccer, and football (Australian Rules), are played and watched by the masses, irrespective of age, race, gender, or income. Large sporting events like the AFL Grand Final, Melbourne Cup Day, and the Boxing Day Cricket Test have universal appeal for Australians. 

Australians relish public holidays, with national and state holidays offering locals time to relax with friends and family over a barbecue or picnic. Making use of Australia’s natural environment is also paramount during this time, with outdoor activities like bushwalking, swimming at the beach, or lazing in the park popular with locals.

Eating and drinking

Intrepid believes that one of the best ways of experiencing a country is by eating! Whether you're sampling street food, savoring a cheap eat, or indulging in a banquet, there are endless options to choose from wherever you are in the world. 

Australia is a land that has been built by immigrants, and these multicultural influences are evident in the wide array of food available. In the cities, it’s possible to find world-class Vietnamese, Turkish, Italian, Greek, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and Indian restaurants, as well as excellent gastro-pub fare. Head to the Outback, and you’ll find authentic ' bush tucker ', simple campfire meals, and sizzling barbecues.

Food to try in Australia

1. Fresh seafood

With such an impressive coastline, it’s no wonder fresh oysters, prawns, mussels, and ‘balmain bugs’ are devoured by locals and savored by visitors. For those on a budget, there’s nothing wrong with eating fish and chips on the beach.

Australia creates some of the best wines in the world at South Australia’s Barossa Valley , Western Australia’s Margaret River , and New South Wales’s Hunter Valley .

Whether you’re downing a can of VB in Victoria or sipping micro-brewed ale in Sydney, sharing a beer with mates is a social experience not to be missed when in Australia

4. Hot pies

An Australian classic – savory meat pies (or vegetable pies for vegetarians) are best eaten with tomato sauce and are easily found and served in city cafes, country bakeries, and football matches around Australia.

Read more about Australia's must-try foods

Festivals and events in Australia

Anxiously anticipated by many – the Australian Rules Football Grand Final is a great time to be in Melbourne. Tickets are notoriously scarce but pubs, clubs and backyards overflow with people watching the ‘Big Game’ and celebrating (or commiserating) afterwards.

Tasting Australia 

Feeling hungry? Tasting Australia is a food festival that takes place once a year throughout South Australia and showcases the culture, producers, and regions that make this state such a delicious destination to explore. 

Vivid Sydney

Vivid Sydney lights up the harbor city with a Festival of Ideas featuring inspirational speakers, performances by local and international artists, and light installations that transform buildings and cultural icons into colorful works of art. 

Margaret River Pro

See your favorite professional surfers at work against the backdrop of the beautiful Margaret River region in South Australia at the Margaret River Pro.

State of Origin

Turn your Brisbane, Perth or Sydney adventure up a notch by experiencing a State of Origin game. 

Cairns Ecofiesta

Switch your Cairns holiday to sustainable mode at Cairns Ecofiesta: an eco-conscious festival that celebrates and supports the environment through eco workshops, live music, local produce markets, and vegetarian food options. Suitable for the whole family, this festival aims to both encourage a sustainable lifestyle and leave you with plenty of eco-inspo so you can start your very own planet-protecting journey. 

Alice Springs Beanie Festival 

Celebrate the very best of Aboriginal talent, creativity, and skill at the Alice Springs Beanie Festival. Bursting with silly and colorful handmade beanies, this festival aims to encourage and appreciate the work of both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people with various textile workshops and demonstrations on sight to help you understand and learn how to make local arts and crafts. 

Barunga Festival

Barunga is a closed community in the Northern Territory that you usually need a permit to enter, but for three days they open up to the world to celebrate life in Katherine's remote Indigenous communities. With a jam-packed program featuring storytelling circles, art and bush medicine workshops, and some of Australia's best First Nations musicians, Barunga Festival is a wonderful opportunity to connect with the vibrant community.

Darwin Festival 

Promising to give you a real taste of the Northern Territory, the Darwin Festival brings together a myriad of performances, shows, concerts, and exhibitions for you to enjoy. From comedy shows to art galleries, this bubbling festival will have you wanting to come back again and again and again. 

Similar destinations

Inspired by Australia but still browsing? Why not check out these incredible destinations:

New Zealand

• New Zealand tours
• Should I travel to Australia or New Zealand?
• Canada tours
• The United Kingdom

Further reading

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 travelers 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 travelers 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.

What's the weather like in Australia?

The weather in Australia varies depending on where in the country you are. For example, winter in Victoria and Tasmania tends to be very cold (around the 50 °F -60 °F mark), whereas, if you head further north to the Northern Territory and Queensland, temperatures in the winter months are much nicer (usually around 65 °F -77 °F ).

This pattern also applies to summer, where the southern states tend to experience lower temperatures (but still warm), while the northern and western states are warmer, with temperatures reaching as high as 100 °F +.

Do I need a visa to travel to Australia?

All foreign nationals require a visa to enter Australia – excluding passport holders from  New Zealand  who can enter Australia without a visa.

Passport holders from 34 countries are eligible to apply for the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA/601), which permits multiple entry to Australia for up to three months within a 12-month period. 

All other foreign nationals will need to apply for a visitor visa (600). This permits stays of up to 12 months with the option to apply for single or multiple entry.

Learn more information about Australian tourist visas on the Australian Department of Home Affairs website

Last updated: 28 June 2023

Is tipping customary in Australia?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Australia; however, rounding up the bill or leaving spare change is common practice. Restaurant staff, taxi drivers and other service workers welcome tips for good service.

What is the internet access like in Australia?

Internet access is widely available in most parts of Australia, with internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots commonly found in urban areas. Please note that internet access won’t be available in Outback and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Australia?

Cell phone coverage is excellent in most parts of Australia, especially in large cities and urban areas. Remote, rural and mountainous places may have limited to no coverage, so be aware of this before venturing away from the city. Ensure global roaming is activated before leaving your home country if you want to use your cell phone, or you can purchase a sim card when you arrive. The provider that will have coverage in the majority of Australia is Telstra, secondly Optus and then Vodafone. A hot tip – when you are in remote areas and don’t have cell phone signal, turn your phone to flight mode which will conserve battery and prevent your phone from using data trying to search for internet signal.

What are the toilets like in Australia?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in Australia, and many of our campsites have proper facilities with flushing toilets. In remote areas such as the Kimberley, there is no established plumbing and therefore we have installed ‘drop toilets’. Some campsites we use are managed by the National Parks and have either eco-toilets or drop toilets, most of which are maintained regularly.

What will it cost for a…?

Newspaper = AU$2.50-$4.00 Cup of coffee = AU$4.00-$7.00 Pint of beer in a pub = AU$11.00 Basic lunch at a mid-range cafe = AU$20.00

Can I drink the water in Australia?

Drinking water from taps in Australia is considered safe, unless otherwise marked. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Australia?

Credit cards are widely accepted by shops, restaurants and cafes in Australia. Smaller establishments may only accept cash or require a minimum purchase for credit card use, so be sure to carry enough cash for smaller purchases.

What is ATM access like in Australia?

ATMs are commonly found in large cities and regional towns in Australia. ATM access will be very limited in remote areas so be aware of this before heading into national parks or the Outback.

What public holidays are celebrated in Australia?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• 26 Jan: Australia Day
• Good Friday*
• Easter Monday*
• 25 Apr: Anzac Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day

*Please note, Australia public holidays may vary.

This list does not include State governed public holidays.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Who are the First Nations people of Australia?

There are two distinct groups of First Nations peoples in Australia - Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people - both of which have lived on this land for centuries. While there are only two Indigenous groups, there's actually a wide range of language and location communities that are made up of Aboriginal Australians and Torres Strait Islander people including the Adnyamathanha people of the Flinders Ranges (Aboriginal Australians) and the Badu people from the Near Western Group (Torres Strait Islander people). 

Is Australia LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Australia is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers thanks to its anti-discrimination laws, diverse population and welcoming culture. There are many LGBTQIA+ friendly neighborhoods and establishments across the country, as well as a wide variety of Pride events. 

What's the transport like in Australia?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun. Depending on which trip you're on while in Australia, you may even find yourself traveling overland. 

Overland tours

Australia is a big place – like, huge.   Overland tours   involve a lot of time on the road covering long distances, and sometimes the landscape can be pretty barren, so bring a book or some tunes to keep you company.

What's the accommodation like in Australia?

Traveling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavor to provide travelers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.

When traveling with us in Australia you may find yourself staying in a:

Our lodge accommodation is located outside major cities, such as near the entrance to a National Park, and has its own amenities such as a restaurant or dining room. Lodges are comfortable places to stay and offer a good night's rest after a day spent exploring the natural beauty of Australia. 

Permanent Tented Campsite

There's no need to put up your tent when you spend the night in a Permanent Tented Campsite. You'll have a roof over your head and will bunk down on sleeper mats on the ground or stretcher (camp) beds, with access to a toilet/shower block. Tent sizes can vary depending on the trip you're on and the location you're visiting. Some of our permanent tented campsites are a little bit fancy, others are very simple. Sometimes you'll be sharing a tent with others in your group. 

Our bush camping experiences are as diverse as Australia itself. Some offer swag camping under cover or under the twinkling stars. You could be sleeping in a tent with access to simple toilet or shower amenities or you might not have access to a shower at all. However, the scenery at these magical spots makes it worth going without a bath for a day or so. Sometimes a trip has participatory camping where everyone pitches in to help. Other times, a staff member is on hand to look after things like cooking. 

We provide accommodation at a wide variety of hotels around Australia. Some are quite upmarket, others less so, but all of them offer a comfortable stay and ensuite facilities. 

We use hostels on some trips which means your bed could be in a twin room or a shared dorm room. Some of these rooms come with their own facilities while others have share facilities. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Australia support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Australia directly support our foundation partners, Blue Carbon Lab, Greening Australia and WWF-Australia.  Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Blue Carbon Lab

Blue Carbon Lab is helping to mitigate climate change by restoring and protecting blue carbon in coastal wetlands. We've already lost 65% of wetlands globally, and multiple impacts, including urban development, agriculture, industry, and more, threaten these crucial blue-carbon ecosystems. Donations from our trips help Blue Carbon Lab to restore the natural coastal wetland areas in Victoria, Australia. 

Find out more or make a donation   

Greening Australia

Greening Australia is taking action to rebuild resilient ecosystems across Australia, from the warm waters of the Great Barrier Reef to the cool island ark of Tasmania. Donations from our trips help them tackle Australia's complex environmental challenges through large on-ground restoration projects and innovative research initiatives that help scale their impact.  

Find out more or make a donation

Country Needs People

Country Needs People support Indigenous land and sea management in Australia. Donations help them empower Indigenous communities to rehabilitate and protect places of significance on land and sea using traditional knowledge paired with modern technology.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

• Mount Conner
• Daintree Rainforest
• Groups and Charters
• Uluru Tours Brochure
• Daintree Tours Brochure

Local Small Group Tours

Join our interactive small group tours and feel fully immersed in these special places, gaining a true connection to culture. You’ll go beyond the icons, hearing the stories of this land, as your specialist SEIT Guide takes you on a unique and individual journey.

SEIT invites you to gain a connection to this land, travelling together at a personalised pace, allowing you time to discover a sense of spirit. You’ll discover the method and the art of doing, because our tours are tactile and let you take home learnings to last a lifetime.

We tell stories, connecting you to places through culture, history and nature. Our SEIT Guides are individuals, they won’t repeat back a manual or a guide book to you, we talk from the heart.

The company bases its philosophies from the key words of  Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT) .

Venture to places less travelled, feel its spirit and awaken your own.

Encounter a journey of emotions. Cherish these unique moments, where your environment fully captivates you.

Travel to seek knowledge and understand the ways of these lands. Learn from the people, hear the stories, and understand more, with our specialist guides.

Embed yourself in culture. Embrace the art of doing, feel fully immersed and energised – imprint these experiences for life.

We tell stories worth sharing, enriching the lives of others, the world and our place within it.

Children (5-15yrs), Infants (0-4yrs).

A booster seat will be provided for children 5-8yrs. A safety seat or baby capsule is required for an additional $75 per infant.

Departure Unavailable

The departure you have selected does not have enough capacity.