7 Day 'Desert Venturer' Cairns to Alice Springs Safari Tours

Itinerary

Day 1 - Cairns to Hughenden

Our road trip into the heart of the Australian desert begins early today. This morning travel through the Atherton Tablelands and continue westward through Eucalypt forest. Visit Australia’s smallest bar before travelling unsealed roads, providing a great opportunity to spot our native wildlife. Our next stop is Porcupine Gorge, before arriving at Hughenden, where we enjoy a buffet dinner and air-conditioned multi-share accommodation. (LD)

Day 2 - Hughenden to Boulia

We see a complete change of landscape this morning as we travel through the flat black soil plains. We make a stop at Winton, a town rich in Australian history. Carisbrooke Station is our next destination with time to explore before a BBQ lunch. Continue to Middleton Pub (population of 5!) before we head through Boulia to our overnight accommodation at Wirrelyerna Station, an authentic working sheep/cattle station – a fantastic experience! (BLD)

Day 3 - Boulia to Alice Springs - Our Journey

Today is approximately 800km of mostly unsealed roads, with no townships at all on the way. If you’ve never had a feeling of remoteness before, you will today! Pass through cattle stations, stopping at Tobermorey Station en route. Skirt the top of the Simpson Desert before lunch at Jervois Station. Late afternoon we arrive at Alice Springs. Dorm accommodation is included. (BLD)

Day 4 - Alice Springs

A leisurely day to relax and enjoy the Red Centre town of Alice Springs. Overnight dormitory included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 5 - Alice Springs to Kata Tjuta & Uluru

Travel to the Outback Camel Farm for an optional camel ride (at own expense). Journey on to Uluru (Ayers Rock) and explore the ‘Valley of the Winds’ in majestic Kata Tjuta (Olgas). Enjoy a glass of sparking wine while watching the desert sun set over Uluru then enjoy dinner before curling up at our permanent campsite in tents or under the outback sky in authentic Aussie bedrolls (swags). (LD)

Day 6 - Uluru to Kings Canyon

An early start is required for one of the highlights of the tour - the Uluru sunrise. You can choose to climb the rock or enjoy a walk around the base exploring its mysterious rock formations and Aboriginal art sites while watching the changing light on the desert. A visit to the Cultural Centre offers the chance to view and purchase Aboriginal arts and crafts. After lunch, we depart for Kings Canyon for our overnight camp and delicious camp oven cooking. (BLD)

Day 7 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Climb and explore Kings Canyon, viewing the impressive formations of the 'Amphitheatre', 'The Lost City', the spectacular North and South Walls and the refreshing ‘Garden of Eden’. After lunch, return to Alice Springs enjoying the rugged desert scenery. (BL)

Further Information

Max Passengers

24/45

Highlights

• Porcupine Gorge
• Hughenden
• Waltzing Matilda Country
• Plenty Highway
• Atitjere Aboriginal Community
• Alice Springs
• Kata Tjuta (Olgas)
• Uluru (Ayers Rock)
• Kings Canyon

What to bring

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

What's Included

Experienced guides, all meals as indicated, accommodation transfers, camping fees & equipment

Note

Safaris must be reconfirmed by 4pm the day before travel.

Itinerary may vary according to seasonal conditions.