Explore the Top End, admiring the changes in the landscape and remoteness on this stretch of highway; we stop at small outback towns,water holes and strange rock formations (Devil's Marbles) before reaching Alice Springs. Set off agin to see the highlights of the Red Centre - Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon.
Tour Highlights
- Ride a Camel - Opportunity to ride a camel (optional).
- Sunset and sunrise at Uluru - Watch a sunset and enjoy sunrise at Uluru.
- Devils Marbles - Marvel at these strange rock formations.
- Exclusive Campsites - Sleep in comfortable permanent tents.
Itinerary Day 1: Darwin to Katherine Gorge
Leaving Darwin, we stop for a break at Adelaide River on the way to Katherine. We spend the whole afternoon at the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Experience the striking beauty while canoeing or cruising (at own expense) through the gorge itself. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp near Katherine Gorge.
Day 2: Katherine Gorge to Tennant Creek
Not far to the south is Mataranka, where you can revive in a sparkling thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Next stop is the iconic Daly Waters outback hotel, the Territory's oldest pub. Nearby lies Australia's first international airport, but you won't get a flight back home from here these days! After lunch, we continue south to Tennant Creek where we camp overnight at Juno Horse Farm.
Day 3: Tennant Creek to Alice Springs
This morning we check out the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously on their rocky perch. From here we stop in at Barrow Creek Pub, home to the historic Telegraph Station - catch a glimpse of what Outback telecommunication used to be like! A visit to Ti Tree gives you the chance to buy original works of art by Indigenous artists, before crossing over the Tropic of Capricorn to arrive in Alice Springs late in the afternoon. Overnight dorm accommodation included.
Day 4: Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta and Uluru
Kick off your adventure on top of a camel! Our first stop is the Outback Camel Farm where you can choose to ride atop one of these desert giants (at own expense). From here it's off to Uluru (Ayers Rock), and a bite to eat. Kata Tjuta will fascinate you, and you will discover some of the secrets of this ancient landform on the Valley of the Winds hike. You'll be mesmerised as the desert sun sets over Uluru, and as the night grows darker, curl up in your swag (Aussie bedroll) under millions of stars.
Day 5: Uluru to Kings Canyon
It's an early start this morning, but you'll be rewarded with a glorious Uluru sunrise. Stretch your legs with a walk around Uluru's base, or climb to the top if you choose. You'll deepen your understanding of the land and its stories at the Cultural Centre. After lunch we travel to our permanent campsite at Kings Canyon. You'll fall asleep contented with a delicious camp oven dinner filling your stomach.
Day 6: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
Get your hiking shoes on today as we head out to explore the impressive formations which make up Kings Canyon. You'll be left breathless by the sheer beauty of the canyon as we trek through the Amphitheatre, the Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the North and South Walls. Lunch is a welcome prospect, before we make our way back to Alice Springs.