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Experience the ultimate Australian journey on this 15-day Small Group expedition from Adelaide to Darwin, uncovering Australia’s most iconic landscapes. Explore Wilpena Pound, Coober Pedy, Uluru, Kings Canyon, and Kakadu National Park, with expert-led tours and premium accommodation. Experience wine tastings, a Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge cruise, and a magical Uluru sunset. Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, encounter vibrant wildlife, and immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery. With expertly curated experiences, this adventure offers an unforgettable exploration of Australia’s rugged heartland.
- 16 Jun 2026 – 30 Jun 2026
from $10,670 pp twin share * - 01 Sep 2026 – 15 Sep 2026
from $9,816 pp twin share * - 20 Apr 2027 – 04 May 2027
from $10,980 pp twin share * - 18 May 2027 – 01 Jun 2027
from $9,882 pp twin share * - 25 May 2027 – 08 Jun 2027
from $10,980 pp twin share * - 15 Jun 2027 – 29 Jun 2027
from $10,161 pp twin share * - 22 Jun 2027 – 06 Jul 2027
from $11,290 pp twin share * - 13 Jul 2027 – 27 Jul 2027
from $11,290 pp twin share * - 20 Jul 2027 – 03 Aug 2027
from $10,161 pp twin share * - 10 Aug 2027 – 24 Aug 2027
from $10,161 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Welcome to Adelaide:
Adelaide effortlessly blends culture and charm, drawing in food lovers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts alike. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers over a drink, then explore the city’s highlights on a guided tour, including a visit to the legendary Central Market to meet a local gourmand who will take you behind the scenes – taste testing stall to stall. - Day 2 – Adelaide – Flinders Ranges:
Nestled in the Clare Valley, Knappstein Enterprise Winery crafts fragrant Rieslings and rich reds, complemented by rolling vineyards and endless blue skies. Just north lies Hawker, a town that fuelled Jeff Morgan’s passion for vast Outback panoramas, beautifully depicted in his larger-than-life paintings. Visit his gallery, where you’ll also find a fascinating collection of memorabilia. But the highlight awaits – arriving at Wilpena Pound Resort, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, set in the dramatic shadows of a natural amphitheatre, where breathtaking landscapes and untamed wilderness create an unforgettable experience. The journey through South Australia’s rugged beauty has only just begun. - Day 3 – Flinders Ranges – Port Augusta:
The towering river red gums surrounding Hills Homestead create a breathtaking scene. A leisurely walk along Wilpena Creek leads you to Wangarra Hill Lookout, where sweeping views showcase the pound’s peaks and curves. The journey continues through Pichi Richi Pass, unveiling rugged landscapes before reaching Quorn, a town steeped in ANZAC history. With a Local Guide, uncover Quorn’s role in the Gallipoli campaign, then ease into Port Augusta, where the night offers time to reflect on the day’s rich stories and stunning scenery. - Day 4 – Port Augusta – Coober Pedy:
Uncover history at Woomera, once a rocket-testing site, now home to a fascinating aerospace park showcasing Australia’s innovations. Journey through sunbaked landscapes so surreal they resemble the moon, arriving at Coober Pedy, the opal capital of the world. Go beneath the surface with a Local Guide, discovering the underground mines where dazzling opals are unearthed – maybe even finding your fortune! Explore the town’s unique subterranean homes and facilities, a testament to life in one of the country’s most extreme and isolated environments. The South Australian Outback holds endless surprises. - Day 5 – Coober Pedy – Uluru:
Leaving Coober Pedy’s underground dwellings, your journey into the Northern Territory begins at Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Australia’s spiritual heart and a World Heritage-listed wonder. As sunset paints the iconic monolith in shifting hues, capture nature’s brilliance with every snapshot. Raise a glass, savour delicious bites, and share stories with fellow adventurers beneath the vast Red Centre Outback sky. Ask us about pre-booking our Optional Experience* exclusive Uluru Barbecue Dinner for tonight. - Day 6 – Uluru Sunrise – Kata Tjuta:
Early starts are well worth it when you witness a breathtaking Red Centre sunrise – words cannot describe how beautiful it is. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, encounter Uluru, standing 348 metres tall and dating back half a billion years – even loftier than the Eiffel Tower. At its base, embark on a guided walk to the serene Mutitjulu Waterhole, a place sacred to the Anangu people, steeped in ancient stories. More soul-stirring landscapes await at Kata Tjuta, where towering domes lead to the peaceful Walpa Gorge. This afternoon, enjoy free time to experience Uluru however you choose – whether soaking in its beauty or uncovering its rich cultural significance. - Day 7 – Uluru – Kings Canyon:
Rise before dawn for a breathtaking glimpse of the Uluru Field of Light, an Optional Experience*, where 50,000 glowing bulbs transform the desert landscape into a mesmerising spectacle. It’s an unforgettable way to begin your day. Among Australia’s record-breaking rock formations, few are as striking as Attila (Mt. Conner) – its flat-topped silhouette is impossible to forget. Pause at Kings Creek Station, Australia’s largest wild camel exporter, where camel burgers make for a unique outback lunch. Then, prepare for the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon rim walk, a 440-million-year-old geological wonder, featuring soaring sandstone domes, dramatic plateaus, and hidden rock pools – a true feast for the senses. - Day 8 – Kings Canyon – Alice Springs:
The Northern Territory Outback is a land of vast scale, from sprawling cattle stations to the dramatic MacDonnell Ranges, which stretch toward Alice Springs on our drive today. The town holds a special place in Australian history with its 1872 Telegraph Station, one of 11 connecting Adelaide to Darwin over 3,200 kilometres. See it up close, then take in its significance from Anzac Hill, where sweeping views offer a glimpse into the landscapes that inspired many works in Alice Springs’ galleries. - Day 9 – Alice Springs Sightseeing:
Start your day with a scenic drive to the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges. Marvel at the rugged beauty and unique rock formations as you explore Simpsons Gap, a picturesque gorge with towering cliffs and a tranquil waterhole. Return to Alice Springs for a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about the incredible medical services provided to remote Australian communities. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Unwind by the hotel pool, soaking up the sun, or take the opportunity to discover more of Alice Springs at your own pace. Whether you choose to explore local shops, visit art galleries, or simply relax, this day offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. - Day 10 – Alice Springs – Tennant Creek:
Begin your day with a visit to the School of the Air, broadcasting lessons across 1.3 million square kilometres. If touring during the school term, you might observe live educational sessions. Depart Alice Springs and head towards Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), a fascinating collection of boulders formed over millions of years. These unique rock formations vary in size, with some reaching up to 6 metres high. You can walk through the boulders, marvelling at their impressive size and the natural beauty of the area. Continue your journey to Tennant Creek, your base for the night, known for its rich gold mining history. - Day 11 – Tennant Creek – Katherine:
Since the 1930s, the Daly Waters Pub has been a beloved Outback institution, serving up schnitzels, barramundi burgers, and hearty steaks. Its walls tell stories, adorned with quirky keepsakes left behind by travellers – from bras to boots. What will you add to the collection? Next, the Land of the Never Never awaits in Mataranka, where you can visit a replica of the Elsey Homestead, featured in the 1982 film We of the Never Never. Or take a peaceful stroll through palm-lined walkways and indulge in a soak at steamy thermal springs – the perfect remedy for weary limbs before arriving in Katherine. - Day 12 – Katherine – Kakadu:
The Jawoyn people have called Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge home for millennia, their deep connection to Country reflected in the ancient tale of the cicada, symbolising their spiritual bond with the land on a cruise through the gorge, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Journey into Kakadu National Park, where the Yellow Water Billabong cruise unveils untouched wetlands bursting with diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery, MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Glide through this unique landscape, spotting majestic crocodiles, vibrant birdlife, and lush vegetation, all guided by local experts. Keep your eyes peeled for sea eagles, brolgas, and kingfishers, their striking colours adding to the magic of the Top End – an unforgettable immersion into Australia’s wild beauty. - Day 13 – Kakadu – Darwin:
The vast beauty of Kakadu is best admired from above. Take an Optional Experience* morning flight for sweeping views of this immense wilderness, gaining insight into its Indigenous significance. Back on solid ground, uncover the Aboriginal art of Ubirr, where ancient rock galleries tell stories of the land’s deep cultural heritage. Climb to the top for panoramic vistas across floodplains and escarpments, a backdrop made famous in the movie Crocodile Dundee. As night falls, Darwin’s tropical energy takes over. Begin at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, where a fusion of global flavours awaits, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening. - Day 14 – Darwin Free Time:
Your final full day in the Northern Territory is fittingly warm and tropical embrace the relaxed rhythm of the Top End. Spend the morning your way, whether it’s sleeping in before indulging in a tropical breakfast or setting off on one of our Optional Experiences. Explore Litchfield National Park, a spectacular blend of magnetic termite mounds, cascading waterfalls, and refreshing waterholes (seasonal swimming). Alternatively, venture to the Tiwi Islands, where First Nations guides offer deep insights into Indigenous history and art. No matter how you spend the day, gather in the evening for a memorable dinner, celebrating the incredible experiences shared along the journey. - Day 15 – Farewell from Darwin:
It’s time to say farewell and head home, sorting through snapshots of an unforgettable journey. But the best souvenirs? The lasting memories of two weeks immersed in untamed Outback experiences.
Highlights
- Explore Wilpena Pound, Coober Pedy, Uluru, Kings Canyon, and Kakadu National Park.
- Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art and encounter vibrant wildlife.
- Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery with expertly curated experiences.
Experience the ultimate Australian journey on this 15-day Small Group expedition from Adelaide to Darwin, uncovering Australia’s most iconic landscapes. Explore Wilpena Pound, Coober Pedy, Uluru, Kings Canyon, and Kakadu National Park, with expert-led tours and premium accommodation. Experience wine tastings, a Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge cruise, and a magical Uluru sunset. Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art, encounter vibrant wildlife, and immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery. With expertly curated experiences, this adventure offers an unforgettable exploration of Australia’s rugged heartland.
Inclusions
- Join guided tours of the Adelaide Central Market and the fascinating town of Quorn Explore Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre in the ancient Flinders Ranges National Park, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience Visit the Wadlata Outback Centre in the Flinders Ranges Learn about living underground and how to mine for opals at iconic Coober Pedy Witness an unforgettable sunset at Uluru, complete with sparkling wine On a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience – Discover a maze of waterways on a cruise through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge and learn about the Jawoyn people, the owners of the gorge Cruise on Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu National Park, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience Includes three UNESCO sites of Uluru-Kata Tjuta, Kakadu and Watarrka National Parks Discover stories of Indigenous culture Marvel at natural wonders like Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), Mataranka Thermal Springs, and Kings Canyon Visit the Ubirr Rock Art Site.
- Day 1 highlights Welcome to Adelaide: Adelaide effortlessly blends culture and charm, drawing in food lovers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts alike. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers over a drink, then explore the city’s highlights on a guided tour, including a visit to the legendary Central Market to meet a local gourmand who will take you behind the scenes – taste testing stall to stall.
- Day 2 highlights Adelaide – Flinders Ranges: Nestled in the Clare Valley, Knappstein Enterprise Winery crafts fragrant Rieslings and rich reds, complemented by rolling vineyards and endless blue skies. Just north lies Hawker, a town that fuelled Jeff Morgan’s passion for vast Outback panoramas, beautifully depicted in his larger-than-life paintings. Visit his gallery, where you’ll also find a fascinating collection of memorabilia. But the highlight awaits – arriving at Wilpena Pound Resort, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, set in the dramatic shadows of a natural amphitheatre, where breathtaking landscapes and untamed wilderness create an unforgettable experience. The journey through South Australia’s rugged beauty has only just begun.
FAQs
- Bluestone Motor Inn
- Contour Hotel Katherine
- Crowne Plaza Adelaide
- Desert Cave Hotel
- Desert Gardens
- DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs
- Hilton Garden Inn Darwin
- Kings Canyon Resort
- Majestic Oasis Apartments
- Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
- Wilpena Pound Resort
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 15 days and 14 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 16 Jun 2026 and 24 Aug 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
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