9 Day Darwin to Alice Springs Adventure Tour

Itinerary

# Pre-tour overnight dorm accommodation in Darwin is included

Day 1 - Darwin to Mary River

A refreshing start to your day: the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, followed by the spectacular Mary River Wetlands. Birds aren't the only wildlife abundant around here; keep your eyes out for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge is where we'll stay tonight. (LD)

Day 2 - Mary River to Kakadu

Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, our first stop this morning. Clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it's on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (BLD)

Day 3 - Kakadu to Darwin

Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we'll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (BL)

Day 4 - Darwin to Katherine Gorge

Leaving Darwin, we stop for a break at Adelaide River on the way to Katherine. We spend the whole afternoon at the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Experience the striking beauty while canoeing or cruising (at own expense) through the gorge itself. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp near Katherine Gorge. (LD)

Day 5 - Katherine Gorge to Tennant Creek

Not far to the south is Mataranka, where you can revive in a sparkling thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Next stop is the iconic Daly Waters outback hotel, the Territory's oldest pub. Nearby lies Australia's first international airport, but you won't get a flight back home from here these days! After lunch, we continue south to Tennant Creek where we camp overnight at Juno Horse Farm. (BLD)

Day 6 - Tennant Creek to Alice Springs

This morning we check out the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously on their rocky perch. From here we stop in at Barrow Creek Pub, home to the historic Telegraph Station - catch a glimpse of what Outback telecommunication used to be like! A visit to Ti Tree gives you the chance to buy original works of art by Indigenous artists, before crossing over the Tropic of Capricorn to arrive in Alice Springs late in the afternoon. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (BL)

Day 7 - Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru

Kick off your adventure on top of a camel! Our first stop is the Outback Camel Farm where you can choose to ride atop one of these desert giants (at own expense). From here it's off to Uluru (Ayers Rock), and a bite to eat. Kata Tjuta will fascinate you, and you will discover some of the secrets of this ancient landform on the Valley of the Winds hike. You'll be mesmerised as the desert sun sets over Uluru, and as the night grows darker, curl up in your swag (Aussie bedroll) under millions of stars. (LD)

Day 8 - Uluru to Kings Canyon

It's an early start this morning, but you'll be rewarded with a glorious Uluru sunrise. Stretch your legs with a walk around Uluru's base, or climb to the top if you choose. You'll deepen your understanding of the land and its stories at the Cultural Centre. After lunch we travel to our permanent campsite at Kings Canyon. You'll fall asleep contented with a delicious camp oven dinner filling your stomach. (BLD)

Day 9 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Get your hiking shoes on today as we head out to explore the impressive formations which make up Kings Canyon. You'll be left breathless by the sheer beauty of the canyon as we trek through the Amphitheatre, the Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the North and South Walls. Lunch is a welcome prospect, before we make our way back to Alice Springs. (BL)

Further Information

Max Passengers

16/24

Highlights

Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), Kings Canyon, Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Devils Marbles, Mataranka Thermal Springs, Katherine Gorge, Darwin, Litchfield NP, Kakadu National Park, Mary River Wetlands, Wildlife/Crocodile Cruise, Bowali Visitor Centre, Ubirr Rock, Aboriginal Rock Art, Jim Jim & Twin Falls, Nourlangie Rock, Boulder Creek, Small Gorge, Motor Car Falls.

What to bring

Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), swimming gear, hat & sunscreen, water bottle, towel & toiletries, torch, warm clothing in winter, flynet, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for $15). 15kg luggage limit

What's Included

Experienced tour guides, all meals as indicated, accommodation transfers, camping fees & equipment, 3 nights dorm accommodation (1 night before each tour)