Explore the Australian outback on a journey from Adelaide, through the Red Centre, all the way to Darwin in the Top End. Experience the greens of South Australia’s wine regions, the eye-popping striations of Wilpena Pound and Coober Pedy’s lustrous opals. Discover the incredible Breakaways moon like landscape, dating back millions of years. Enjoy a visit to the unmissable Daly Waters Pub in outback NT as you continue through the crystal waterfalls of Katherine and Kakadu’s emerald hues. Below are some of the highlights of this spectacular part of Australia that should be on everyone’s list.
ADELAIDE
The city of Adelaide surprises many tourists thanks to its continued explosion of new laneway bars, cafes and incredible restaurants along with further international hotels popping up around the city. Wander along North Terrace and marvel at the historic architecture of the Art Gallery of South Australia, University of Adelaide and South Australian Museum. Head to the historic and bustling Adelaide Central Markets for superb local produce and eateries, tour the iconic Adelaide Oval or enjoy a leisurely walk through the stunning Adelaide Botanic Gardens. Not far from the city itself are numerous beautiful beaches such as Glenelg, Henley and Semaphore, each with their own inviting seaside cafes, restaurants and shopping.
FLINDERS RANGES
Experience the splendour and sheer vastness of South Australia’s ancient Flinders Ranges from above on a scenic flight or get back to nature by staying in a luxury glamping experience. Explore the wonders of this breathtaking landscape via a multitude of 4WD tracks and walking trails and delve deeper into Indigenous culture with an experienced guide. Explore the spectacular panorama of its dramatic gorges and spectacular peaks including Wilpena Pound and Pugilist Lookout.
COOBER PEDY
Coober Pedy is situated in the outback of South Australia, between Adelaide and Alice Springs. The township offers all the facilities expected in a large country town, including shops and restaurants. The town is surrounded by a moon type landscape dotted with shafts and mullock heaps from mining activities, with opal workings extending for nearly 40 kilometres around the town. Kanku – Breakaways Conservation Park lies north of Coober Pedy and it consists of colourful low hills which have broken away from the Stuart Range, hence their name ‘The Breakaways.’
ULURU – KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK
Discover the heart of the Red Centre by exploring the amazing World Heritage-listed Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park followed by the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Cultural Centre to gain some further insight into the fascinating cultural history of this area. It also houses an amazing collection of Indigenous paintings, and an appropriate prelude to majestic Uluru (Ayers Rock) including the Kuniya Walk to the sacred Mutitjulu Waterhole. The powerful landscape that is Uluru is home to numerous sacred sites and a fitting representation of the spiritual heart of our nation and its ancient culture. A bucket list experience of witnessing the striking colour changes of Uluṟu at sunset while enjoying nibbles and sparkling wine is just incredible. Yet another must-have experience is to watch the first rays of the sun rise as it sets Uluru and the magical Red Centre alight. Visit the soaring rock domes of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) to be equally impressed by the majesty of this incredible 36 dome landmark.
ALICE SPRINGS
The most visited landmark in Alice Springs, Anzac Hill is the ideal spot for an overview of the town with the lookout offering a panoramic view of township it’s beautiful surrounding ranges. The Anzac Hill Memorial was unveiled on 25 April 1934 (Anzac Day) and was originally dedicated to all those members of the armed services who had paid the supreme sacrifice during World War I. Further historical touring includes the Royal Flying Doctor Service Alice Springs Facility for an opportunity to see, experience & learn through the wonder of technology as this facility brings history to life. Since being declared protected as a Historical Reserve in 1963, the Alice Springs Telegraph Station has become the best restoration in Australia with a commitment to authenticity with the restored stone buildings housing furnishings and artefacts from early last century. Alice is also the perfect base to explore the nearby MacDonnell Ranges.
KATHERINE
The third largest town in the Northern Territory, Katherine, is your gateway to Nitmiluk National Park, Mataranka and Katherine Hot Springs. Situated on the banks of the Katherine River which flows through to Nitmiluk Gorge, Katherine holds a rich history in Indigenous art, World War II and the Overland Telegraph Line which are easily visited throughout the town and museums. The majesty of Nitmiluk National Park, incorporating 13 beautiful gorges including the renowned Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, needs to be seen to be believed. There are a number of ways to explore this incredible bucket-list destination including on-foot, cruising, by air or canoeing!
KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
Welcome to the largest National Park in Australia! Here you’ll find a magical natural paradise just waiting to be explored. The mere mention of Kakadu instantly invokes that picture of untouched nature, lush waterfalls and ancient culture. Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park is home to the oldest living culture on earth and its diverse landscapes and breathtaking lookouts are nothing short of spectacular. Yellow Water is a landlocked billabong brimming with native flora and fauna and is one of World Heritage-listed Park's best-known landmarks. Take a relaxing journey through the waterway on board a Yellow Water Cruise or during a walk along the boardwalks on the water's edge and spot the teeming wildlife that inhabit the area. Visit Ubirr and Nourlangie Rock, Kakadu’s two most famous Aboriginal rock art galleries, dating back thousands of years. Time your visit to Ubirr for a spectacular and unforgettable tropical sunset from atop, reached by a moderately steep 250 metre track, and stunning views across the floodplains.
LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK
Favoured by many locals (especially those without swimming pools) for its fantastic mix of water amid stunning nature and a much welcomed cool off in the rejuvenating, mineral infused waters. With spectacular views from atop and epic ‘is this really happening’ swims below, the waterfalls and waterholes of Litchfield are an absolute must. Follow the crowd to Wangi Falls, Florence Falls, Tolmer Falls or Buley Rockhole.
DARWIN
Easy-going Darwin is full of history, year-round events, unique shopping, famous Asian inspired markets and an exotic food scene to ignite the senses. Head to the Darwin Waterfront to ride the swell at the Wave Pool, take a swim in the manmade saltwater beach lagoon or walk across to local favourite, Stokes Hill Wharf, for fresh local seafood in the relaxed, alfresco eateries. For the adventure seekers you can eyeball a croc in the Cage of Death or experience a relaxing sunset cruise around the picturesque Darwin harbour!
Click here for our small group ‘Explorer’ departure featuring the above destinations or contact our Holidays of Australia team on 1300 854 897 or holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for further information.
Image credit: KazKaptureZ, Tourism NT, Sam Earp, Emily Hutchinson, Dan Moore, Peter Eve
