Red Centre, Palm Valley and Kakadu Tour 11 Days

Itinerary

Day 1 - Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru

Ride a camel this morning at the Outback Camel Farm (at own expense) and then continue on through the remote outback of the Red Centre to Uluru (Ayers Rock). After lunch, we set out to explore the wonder of Kata Tjuta (Olgas) on a guided interpretive walk through the Valley of the Winds returning in time to view the desert sun set over Uluru. After dinner curl up under the millions of stars in an authentic Aussie bedroll (swag) at our permanent campsite at Ayers Rock Resort. (LD)

Day 2 - Uluru to Kings Canyon

An early start is required to view the magical Uluru sunrise. Absorb the early morning wonder on a 9.4km walk around the base of Uluru or if you prefer, tackle the climb. Enjoy a guided interpretive walk exploring mysterious rock formations and Aboriginal art sites followed by a visit to the Cultural Centre. After lunch we depart for Kings Canyon, where we enjoy a delicious camp oven dinner and overnight at our permanent campsite at Kings Canyon Resort. (BLD)

Day 3 - Kings Canyon to Glen Helen

Climb and explore Kings Canyon viewing the impressive formations of the 'Amphitheatre', 'Lost City', picturesque 'Garden of Eden' and the breathtaking North and South Walls. After lunch, we travel along the famous Mereenie Loop Track, sighting Gosse Bluff (a meteorite crater believed to be over 130 million years old) and the home of renowned Aboriginal artist Albert Namitjira as we travel towards Glen Helen. We spend tonight in our permanent campsite at Glen Helen, nestled in the western end of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. (BLD)

Day 4 - Glen Helen to Alice Springs

This morning we explore picturesque Ormiston Gorge before engaging '4WD' as we travel along the ancient track of the Finke River into Palm Valley and Cycad Gorge. We spend most of the day exploring Palm Valley, the site of an in-land sea in prehistoric times and home to one of the rarest trees in the world, tropical palm Livistonia Mariae. Enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Western MacDonnell Ranges as we journey back to Alice Springs. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (BL)

Day 5 - Alice Springs

Relax and explore Alice Springs. Dorm accommodation included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 6 - Alice Springs to Banka Banka

We cross the Tropic of Capricorn then pull over at Ti Tree for the opportunity to purchase authentic Aboriginal art. Next stop is the Barrow Creek Pub where we view the historic Telegraph Station. Further 'up the track' we explore the Devils Marbles; precariously balanced granite boulders sacred to the traditional owners', before arriving at Banka Banka Cattle Station where we camp overnight. Weather permitting - take a dip in the picturesque waterhole. (LD)

Day 7 - Banka Banka to Katherine Gorge

We head further north to the famous outback pub at Daly Waters, the oldest pub in the Northern Territory and first international airport in Australia! After lunch we travel to Mataranka to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the crystal clear thermal springs. Late afternoon we travel towards the magnificent Katherine Gorge for our overnight camp. (BLD)

Day 8 - Katherine Gorge to Darwin

Spend half a day canoeing or cruising (at own expense) the spectacular gorge. There is also the chance for a scenic helicopter flight (at own expense) to appreciate the vastness of the gorge system. After lunch we head into Darwin via Edith Falls and Adelaide River. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (BL)

Day 9 - Darwin to Mary River

See the falls of Litchfield National Park before heading to the spectacular Mary River Wetlands, home to a vast array of bird life. This afternoon look for 'crocs' and other abundant wildlife on our private river cruise. Arrive at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge where we spend the night at our permanent campsite. (LD)

Day 10 - Mary River to Kakadu

Our first stop is Ubirr where we discover ancient Aboriginal rock art and climb to enjoy picturesque views. We continue on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where we hike to the plunge pools for a refreshing dip. Stay overnight at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (BLD)

Day 11 - Kakadu to Darwin

This morning we 4WD into the awesome Jim Jim Falls, hiking to the base of the falls then continue on to Twin Falls. Here we join a National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience up the stunning gorge to the waterfall. In the afternoon we return to Darwin, enjoying the impressive scenery along the way. (BL)

Further Information

Max Passengers

21/24/45

What's Included

4 Day 4WD Red Centre Safari, 3 day Alice to Darwin, 3 Day 4WD Kakadu Safari, 4 nights dorm accommodation (1 night before each tour-Cavenagh in Darwin, Haven in Alice Springs), all meals on tour as indicated.

Fitness Level

This tour is suitable for very fit people who can hike 5-9km a day.

What to Bring

Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), swimming gear, hat & sunscreen, water bottle, towel & toiletries, torch, warm clothing in winter, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for $20)

Notes

Itinerary may vary and / or attractions substituted due to seasonal conditions, Traditional Owner & National Park requirements. A fee of AU$10 may apply for National Park boat transfer at Twin Falls (to be confirmed).

This package is made up of 3 individual tours; therefore you may travel with a different guide and passengers during each section.