Central Australian Explorer 2024
Snapshot
- 14 nights / 15 days
- Adelaide to Darwin
- Multiple departures
From
$11,940*
per person twin share
Overview
Central Australia & Corner Country
In 1860’s Australia, there was fierce competition between the colonies to map the interior and host the terminus of the Australian Overland Telegraph Line. Only one thing stood in their way; the Australian continent.
In 1860 Burke and Wills departed Melbourne with much fanfare, arriving on the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria in 1861. Eighteen weeks later, their expedition ended in tragedy on the banks of Cooper’s Creek. The ‘Dig Tree’, a lonely coolibah under which supplies had been buried, still stands to this day.
In that same year, John McDouall Stuart set off from Adelaide to cross the continent, reaching the north coast east of Darwin on the July 24, 1862. They returned home safely, maintaining Stuart’s impeccable record of never losing a man.
The story of these brave explorers is utterly fascinating, and retracing part of their expeditions makes for an incredible adventure.
*Offer valid until 17 May 2024 and is subject to availability and change. Advertised price based on 21 July 2024 departures, correct as of 4 April 2024.
Inclusions & Highlights
Inclusions
- Small Group Size - 26
- All meals including all breakfasts, lunches and dinners while on tour
- All attraction & entry fees
- Travel aboard a 5-star all terrain Mercedes Benz Coach
- 14 nights of hotel, motel and resort accommodation ranging from good to excellent
- Services of a professional 2 person crew: Tour Driver and Tour Director
- Outback Spirit Explorer Pack featuring handy travel items (for first-time travellers only)
Highlights
- Admire the internationally acclaimed 'Field of Light' display at Uluru
- Discover remarkable World Heritage Listed Uluru & Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and spend 2-nights at the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel
- Spend 2-nights at Lorella Springs, an incredible million-acre cattle station on the Gulf of Carpentaria. Take a dip in one of Lorella's pristine springs
- Enjoy a helicopter and ground adventure to the ‘Lost City’
- Spend 3 nights in Alice Springs with comprehensive sightseeing.
- Visit an opal mine at Coober Pedy & stay at the Desert Cave Hotel
- Follow in explorer John McDouall Stuart's footsteps along Oodnadatta Track
- Dine under the stars at the 'Sounds of Silence' dining experience
- Visit Kings Canyon for a guided scenic rim walk and journey through the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges
- Travel along the remote and historic Savannah Way and visit Roper Bar
Past Passenger Loyalty Rewards
Travelled once - Save $250pp
Travelled 2-3 tours - Save $350pp
Travelled 4+ tours - Save $500pp
*Pricing valid on departures from June - August 2023, correct as of 28 February 2023.
Itinerary
Departs May - August 2023
DAY 1 - Adelaide – Port Augusta
Today you’ll be greeted at Adelaide airport upon your arrival (please arrive by 11am). After some lunch we make our way out of Adelaide and head north along the Princes Highway to Port Augusta. We arrive late this afternoon and spend the night at the Standpipe Golf Motor Inn. Meals: (L,D)
DAY 2 - Port Augusta - Parachilna – Marree
This morning we visit to the Aridlands Botanic Gardens and Wadlata Outback Centre, an award winning multifunctional visitor centre. Step back in time and learn about the early explorers of Sturt, Eyre, Giles and Stuart and their brave expeditions into the unknown. We then head up the western side of the Flinders Ranges, arriving at Parachilna early this afternoon for a gourmet lunch under the verandah of the Prairie Hotel. This afternoon we continue heading to Marree at the junction of the Oodnadatta and Birdsville Tracks. Marree is a true desert settlement which enjoys just 155mm of rainfall annually. We spend the night at the Marree Hotel in modern cabins with ensuite bathrooms. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 3 - Oodnadatta Track - Coober Pedy
This morning we visit the Marree Museum which features the famous old mail truck E.G Kruse used to transport mail from Marree to Birdsville. Then, travel the Oodnadatta Track and follow in the footsteps of John McDouall Stuart. Pass by Lake Eyre South and through William Creek before arriving into Coober Pedy mid afternoon.
Due to the summer heat, most of Coober Pedy’s residents live underground. The town is also known as the opal capital of the world, supplying 70% of the world’s precious opals. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Umoona Opal Mine and perhaps fossick for your own. Tonight we stay at the award winning Desert Cave Hotel. Note: underground rooms at the Desert Cave Hotel cannot be guaranteed. Meals: (B,L,D)
Note: underground rooms at the Desert Cave Hotel cannot be guaranteed.
DAY 4 - Coober Pedy – Uluru
Today we trek north along the Stuart Highway through Marla and Kulgera before heading west along the Lasseter Highway to Yulara. Our accommodation for the next 2 nights is at the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel, part of Ayers Rock Resort. Tonight, enjoy a sumptious dinner at Ilkari Restaurant. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 5 - Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) - Uluru (Ayers Rock) - A Night at Field of Light
This morning early risers will experience the sun rising over Uluru and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. After breakfast, head off to discover Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge. Then, return for a guided tour around the base of Uluru, which stands 348 metres above the desert plains. Learn about traditional Anangu culture as you marvel at one of the largest monoliths in the world!
This afternoon we prepare for ‘A Night at Field of Light’, which combines Bruce Munro’s acclaimed Field of Light installation with the award winning ‘Sounds of Silence’ dining experience. Departing the resort before sunset, we head to an exclusive dune top location with majestic views of Uluru. Then, enjoy a special 3-course bush tucker inspired menu as Field of Light gently illuminates. Spread across an area the size of 7 football fields, ‘Field of Light’ features 50,000 slender stems crowned with radiant frosted spheres. After dinner, head off to explore the stunning display via the dedicated pathways. This evening we return to the hotel for our second and final night at Sails in the Desert. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 6 - Uluru - Kings Canyon
After breakfast we depart Yulara and head to Curtin Springs, a one-million acre station owned and operated by the Severin family. Here we'll enjoy a chat with the manager and learn about the station's history and current operations.
Then, continue on to Kings Creek Station for lunch before arriving at Kings Canyon Resort in Watarrka National Park, our accommodation for the evening. Kings Canyon is a majestic, must-see destination for anyone visiting the Red Centre. Its sheer sandstone walls, palm filled crevices and expansive desert vistas make for an incredible experience. This afternoon you have the choice of two escorted walks, the 6km Rim Walk offering breathtaking views and descending into the 'Garden of Eden', or a shorter 2.6km walk that meanders up the centre of the Canyon floor. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 7 - West MacDonnell National Park
Departing Kings Canyon this morning we travel the Mereenie Loop Road to historic Hermannsburg. After some lunch we visit Angkerle (Standley Chasm) and also Simpsons Gap, home to a number of rock wallabies. We arrive into Alice Springs and spend the next three nights at the Mercure Alice Springs Resort. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 8 - Alice Springs Sightseeing
This morning there is the option of a hot air balloon flight over Alice Springs (own expense). The flight includes hotel pick up, chilled refreshments and around 45 minutes in the air. Today we explore 'The Alice'. Our activities include a visit to the award-winning Alice Springs Desert Park, The Royal Flying Doctor Service and a tour of the historic Telegraph Station. We arrive back at the hotel late afternoon.
Note: Those who have experienced these attractions previously can spend the day at their leisure.
This evening we head out into the East McDonnell ranges for a unique and authentic dining experience. The 'Original Outback Bush BBQ' dinner show is a fun filled evening of entertainment and outback cuisine, taking place around a large campfire under a star filled territory sky. Enjoy timeless Australian songs from a bush balladeer and gain some insight from the local cattlemen’s talk. The dinner includes a sumptuous 3 course meal and all beverages. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 9 - Eastern MacDonnell Ranges
Today we travel from Alice Springs and venture further east along the MacDonnell Ranges to see more of these rugged central Australian landscapes. Trephina Gorge Nature Park is our first destination and features a network of short walking trails that let you delve deep into the heart of this magnificent natural setting. Trephina Gorge is known for the exceptionally large eucalyptus trees that line the sandy creek bed, and nearby we can visit the largest ghost gum in Central Australia. After our time here we make our way to Corroboree Rock Conservation Area. A short walk around the base of the rock reveals some of the geological history of the region. Made up of ancient sediment and fine-grained rock, the structure was formed more than 800 million years ago by salt lakes. While not thought to be a corroboree site, this impressive structure is of great importance to the local Arrernte people and plays a significant role in their culture today. We arrive back in Alice Springs this afternoon where you can spend the rest of your day at your leisure. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 10 - Devils Marbles – Barkly TablelandsBarkly Homestead
This morning we depart Alice Springs and trek north again along the Stuart Highway. Visit Karlu Karlu (The Devils Marbles), a series of massive granite boulders scattered across a wide, shallow valley. After a picnic lunch we'll
continue on to Tennant Creek and visit the Battery Hill Mining Centre. We then head east to the Barkly Homestead where we spend the night in recently updated motel rooms. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 11 - Cape Crawford – Lorella Springs
The Barkly Tablelands are well suited to cattle grazing and economically it is one of the most important areas for pastoral production in the NT. The Mitchell and Flinders grasses provide excellent feed on the rich black soils. The largest lease (Brunette Downs) is over 12,000 square kms and runs around 65,000 head of cattle.
This afternoon we pass through Cape Crawford and take the Savannah Way north to Lorella Springs Station. This one million acre station sits adjacent to the Limmen National Park and stretches all the way to the shores of the Gulf. Accommodation comprises a mixture of safari tents and cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 12 - "Lost City" & Thermal Springs
Today we take part in an exhilarating helicopter and ground tour of the southern ‘Lost City’. After landing near these ancient sandstone structures enjoy a ground tour with a guide who’ll share expert knowledge on the local geology, vegetation and birdlife. We return to Lorella mid-afternoon, where the rest of the day can be spent at your leisure. Enjoy a dip in the nearby thermal springs, one of the most pristine in the Northern Territory. Meals: (B,L,D)
Please note: Weight limits apply to all scenic flights
DAY 13 - Savannah Way - Roper Bar - Katherine
Our travels today take us further north along the Savannah Way. We pass through the remote village of Roper Bar, situated on the south east boundary of Arnhem Land. The Roper River was first explored by Ludwig Leichhardt in 1845 and by the 1870’s was lined with paddle steamers bringing in supplies for the men building the Overland Telegraph Line. This afternoon we trek through Mataranka to Katherine. We spend the night at Knott’s Crossing Resort. Meals: (B,L,D)
DAY 14 - Katherine River Gorge Cruise
This morning we enjoy a 2-hour boat cruise on Katherine River Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. We then continue to Darwin, arriving mid-afternoon to check in to our accommodation for the final night of the tour, the DoubleTree by Hilton on the Esplanade. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure before boarding the Charles Darwin for a delicious Territory-style sunset dinner cruise and celebrate a truly amazing trip! Meals: B.L.D
DAY 15 - Darwin City Sights tour – Farewell
This morning we take a city sights tour including the National Museum, Cullen Bay and the Port. You’ll then be transferred to the airport or your accommodation if staying on in Darwin. Meals: B
About Outback Spirit
Australia's leading experiential tourism group
Outback Spirit is part of Journey Beyond, a national business focused on bringing Australia’s most unique and iconic experiences to life. Outback Spirit was founded in 1999 and has been showcasing great Australian destinations to travellers to this day.
To learn more about Journey Beyond and our unique travel experiences, please click the link below
Committed to Conservation
As an eco-certified company, Outback Spirit regularly reviews its potential impact on natural, cultural and historical environments. We strive to be ecologically sustainable and limit our impact on the environment through good practice, innovation and financial support for Australia’s pre-eminent wildlife conservation group, AWC (Australian Wildlife Conservancy).
AWC is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to the protection of our most precious wildlife. With 3 million hectares under conservation locations such as the Kimberley, Gulf of Carpentaria, Cape York and Lake Eyre, AWC is making a real difference in the fight against extinction. Since 2008, Outback Spirit has donated over $1 million to AWC and will continue its support well into the future.
To learn more about this fantastic organisation, head to www.australianwildlife.org
Supporting Aboriginal Communities
Outback Spirit supports remote Indigenous communities in certain locations across the Kimberley & Arnhem land by way of employment opportunities, community sponsorships and support for Indigenous owned businesses. For example, Outback Spirit sponsors over a dozen football teams in Ramingining and Maningrida, both directly and through local schools.
The company also creates jobs for local interpretive guides, which gives Outback Spirit passengers an authentic insight into the environment and local culture. It also helps to preserve Indigenous culture. Past initiatives have included the provision of teachers and tutors in small communities where no school facilities exist.
Award Winning Tour Operator
Choosing Outback Spirit means choosing an award-winning tour operator. We’re proud to have been acknowledged for consistently delivering professional and authentic adventures to remote destinations of Australia.
Some of our achievements have been recognised with the following awards:
Operation & Mechanical Bases
The outback can be a challenging environment to operate in, and professional back-up support is vital.
Outback Spirit headquarters are in the regional NSW city of Albury, however we have a dedicated team in Broome and Darwin for mechanical and operational matters. These teams are available 24 hours a day to provide immediate support, should it be required. Other smaller bases are located around the country, guaranteeing you a seamless touring experience.
* Term and conditions apply – please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
Prices subject to change with availability and prevailing exchange rates.
Advertised prices based on per person twin share unless stated otherwise.
Offers may be withdrawn at any time.
If travelling on a PHT Escorted Journey or Hosted Cruise, included home to airport transfer is for the Adelaide metropolitan area to the value of $50 per person only.
Surcharges may apply if outside this radius.
Interstate travellers are welcome to participate in PHT Escorted Journeys or Hosted Cruises, however any noted pre-departure function is held in Adelaide only.