Day 1: Arrival in Adelaide
Adelaide, a city that effortlessly combines culture with a laid-back charm, draws food lovers, history enthusiasts, and art aficionados alike. Begin with a city tour before meeting a local food expert at the famous Central Market. Later, join your Travel Director for a warm Welcome Dinner.
Day 2: Adelaide to Flinders Ranges
In the scenic Clare Valley, Knappstein Enterprise Winery is renowned for its aromatic rieslings and rich reds. The picturesque surroundings of rolling vines and expansive skies enhance the experience. Continue north to Hawker, the town that inspired artist Jeff Morgan’s vast outback panoramas. Don’t miss the chance to view his artwork and memorabilia. Your journey culminates at Wilpena Pound Resort, set against the backdrop of a magnificent natural amphitheatre.
Day 3: Flinders Ranges to Port Augusta
Stroll through the majestic river red gums of Hills Homestead and enjoy a peaceful walk along Wilpena Creek. Take in the panoramic views from Wangarra Hill Lookout before heading to Pichi Richi Pass and the historic town of Quorn. With a Local Guide, learn about Quorn’s significant role in the ANZAC Gallipoli campaign, before making your way to Port Augusta.
Day 4: Port Augusta to Coober Pedy
Uncover secrets at Woomera, a former rocket-testing site now home to Australia’s aerospace innovations. As you journey through the sun-baked country, prepare for the unique landscape of Coober Pedy, the ‘opal capital of the world.’ Go underground with a local guide to explore the town’s fascinating subterranean dwellings.
Day 5: Coober Pedy to Uluru
After emerging from your underground home in Coober Pedy, head to Australia’s spiritual heart: Uluru-Kata Tjuta, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. At sunset, capture the changing colours of the mighty monolith. Celebrate the day with a glass of sparkling wine and snacks while mingling with fellow travellers.
Day 6: Uluru Sunrise and Kata Tjuta
Rise early for a stunning Red Centre sunrise. During this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, witness the grandeur of Uluru, standing 348 metres tall. On a guided walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole, immerse yourself in this sacred site of the Anangu people. Continue to Kata Tjuta for a scenic walk through its domes to Walpa Gorge, before enjoying a sunset toast with panoramic views.
Day 7: Uluru to Kings Canyon
For early risers, an optional pre-dawn visit to the Field of Light installation is a captivating experience (own expense). Discover the hidden gem of Mt. Conner (Attila), a striking table mountain. Then, at Kings Creek Station, the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia, enjoy a camel burger before embarking on the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Marvel at the towering sandstone domes and natural rock pools formed over 440 million years.
Day 8: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
Travel through the vast MacDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs. Visit the historic 1872 Telegraph Station, one of the critical points on the 3,200-kilometre Overland Telegraph Line. Take in panoramic views from Anzac Hill, which have inspired many local artists.
Day 9: Alice Springs Sightseeing
Discover Aboriginal culture at the Alice Springs Desert Park, where the Arrernte people share insights into the region’s wildlife and plants. Continue to the Royal Flying Doctor Service museum to learn about life-saving services in remote areas. End your day stargazing at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre while enjoying a Be My Guest BBQ dinner with the Falzon family.
Day 10: Alice Springs to Tennant Creek
At the School of Air, learn about the vast distances over which lessons are broadcast. If visiting during term time, you may even witness live educational sessions. South of Tennant Creek, visit Karlu Karlu (the Devils Marbles), a geological wonder of enormous boulders. Your stay in Tennant Creek pays tribute to the area’s gold-mining history.
Day 11: Tennant Creek to Katherine
Stop at the Daly Waters Historic Pub, famous for its eclectic collection of mementos. At Mataranka, enjoy a visit to the replica Elsey Homestead from the film *We of the Never Never*, or take a dip in the region’s soothing thermal springs before continuing to Katherine.
Day 12: Katherine to Kakadu
The Jawoyn people have called Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge home for millennia. Discover the ancient story of the cicada, a symbol of their spiritual connection to the land. Continue to Kakadu National Park for a Yellow Water billabong cruise, where you’ll encounter wildlife, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife amid stunning wetlands.
Day 13: Kakadu to Darwin
Experience the immensity of Kakadu from the air on an optional flight (own expense). On the ground, visit Ubirr to view ancient Aboriginal rock art, with expansive views over the floodplains. Later, head to Darwin’s Mindil Beach Sunset Markets to sample multicultural cuisines (own expense).
Day 14: Darwin Free Day
Take a day to explore Darwin at your own pace. Sleep in, enjoy a tropical breakfast, or join an optional excursion to Litchfield National Park to explore magnetic termite mounds, waterfalls, and refreshing swimming holes (seasonal). Alternatively, head to the Tiwi Islands for an immersive Indigenous cultural experience (both at own expense). In the evening, gather for the Farewell Dinner.
Day 15: Departure from Darwin
Your outback adventure concludes as you head home with a camera full of memories and a heart full of unforgettable experiences from two weeks exploring the wild beauty of the Australian outback.
