Essence of the Outback

Be met on arrival in Cairns and transferred to your hotel. This evening, a relaxed welcome dinner provides the perfect opportunity for you to meet your fellow travellers. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina (D)

• Embark on the Archway Explorer tour through the mysterious Undara Lava Tubes.

• Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise in Karumba and indulge in a selection of local king prawns as you take in the sunset over the Gulf of Carpentaria.

Set off for Mt Isa, commonly referred to as the ‘oasis of the outback'. En route, stop to see the Purple Pub, one of the most iconic hotels in the north of Australia. Stay Two Nights: Mt Isa, Red Earth Hotel (B/L/D)

Located on the banks of the Leichhardt River, Mt Isa is a melting pot of culture and industry. A tour of Hard Times Mine reveals its history as you enter the Alimak Cage with your guide and descend into the mine. Feel the earth tremble and cover your ears as you have a go at using the air-leg drill. (B/L/D)

Embark on a drive to the outback town of Cloncurry. After some time here, visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre – the first museum in the world dedicated to a song, which also includes a nostalgic light and sound show in the Billabong Theatrette. Later, arrive in Winton in time for dinner. Stay: Winton, Boulder Opal Motor Inn (B/L/D)

• As part of your exclusive experience with APT, enjoy working with recently unearthed dinosaur fossils in a specialised laboratory.

• Experience the ultimate dinner adventure. Begin your evening with the mesmerising Silver-Tails Sunset rail journey, soaking in the breathtaking sunset over the floodplains while indulging in signature canapés and drinks aboard our heritage Rail Motor. Then, immerse yourself in the unforgettable Smithy's Outback Dinner & Show experience under the stars, savouring a delectable two-course camp oven themed dinner followed by freshly baked damper and billy tea.

Set off for Carnarvon National Park. Along the way, stop at the famed Tree of Knowledge, known as the founding site of the political movement that helped to create the Australian Labor Party. Arrive in Springsure, set in a beautiful valley which hosts remarkable Mount Zamia and Virgin Rock overlooking the town. Stay Two Nights: The Overlander Springsure (B/L/D)

Discover incredible Carnarvon National Park today. (B/L/D)

• Experience the awe-inspiring Carnarvon flight, offering unparalleled views of the stunning Carnarvon Gorge's unique rock formations and rich history, accessible only by plane. Marvel at the picturesque grazing country bordering Carnarvon National Park, breathtaking cascading gorges, and iconic sandstone cliffs with expansive vistas reaching into the Arcadia Valley.

Travel to Charters Towers today. Established as a gold rush town in 1871, it quickly grew to become the second-largest town in Queensland. Admire its heritage buildings on your way to the Heritage Lodge Motel. Stay: Cattleman's Rest Motor Inn (B/L/D)

On the way back to Cairns, stop at Paronella Park, nestled amid heritage gardens and 13 acres of lush Australian rainforest. Situated on the banks of the crystal-clear waters of Mena Creek, this unique attraction also features a Spanish-inspired castle. After time exploring the castle ruins and grounds, continue to the Shangri-La Hotel in Cairns.

This evening, celebrate the end of your journey during a final farewell dinner. Stay: Cairns, Shangri-La Hotel, The Marina (B/L/D)

Your holiday comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home. (B)