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Central Australian Explorer

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Fully Guided Adventure Group 4WD Scenic
Our Price From 12,695 Per Person
 Trip Length
15 Days
 Trip Starts
Adelaide
 Trip Finishes
Darwin
15 Day Central Australian Explorer Itinerary (Outback Spirit)
Countries Explored: Australia
Trip Style
4WD Adventure
Departures
Accommodation
Mixed
Max. Group Size
26
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
CAE

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Outback Spirit's 15 Day Central Australian Explorer. Join Outback Spirit on a Central Australia tour and discover the rugged beauty of Australia’s red centre with Australia's outback experts.

Itinerary

Today you will be greeted by our friendly and professional Tour Directors. After some lunch we make our way out of Adelaide and head north along the Princes Highway to Port Augusta. We arrive late afternoon and spend our first night at the Standpipe Golf Motor Inn. Stay: Standpipe Golf Motor Inn (L/D)

This morning we visit the Arid Lands Botanic Gardens and the Wadlata Outback Centre, an award-winning multifunctional visitor centre. Step back in time and learn about the early explorers, Sturt, Eyre, Giles and Stuart and their brave expeditions into the unknown. We then head up the western side of the Flinders Ranges, arriving at Parachilna for a gourmet lunch at the Prairie Hotel.

This afternoon we continue heading north through Leigh Creek to Marree. Located at the junction of the Oodnadatta and Birdsville Tracks, Marree is a true desert settlement which enjoys just 155mm of rainfall annually. We spend the night at The Marree Hotel in modern ensuited cabins. Stay: Marree Hotel (B/L/D)

This morning we visit the Marree Museum which features the famous old mail truck E.G. Kruse used to transport mail from Marree to Birdsville. Then, travel the Oodnadatta Track and follow in the footsteps of John McDouall Stuart. Pass by Lake Eyre South and through William Creek before arriving into Coober Pedy mid-afternoon .

Due to the summer heat, most of Coober Pedy's residents live underground. The town is also known as the opal capital of the world, supplying 70% of the world's precious opals. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the Umoona Opal Mine and perhaps fossick for your own.

Note: Underground rooms at the Desert Cave Hotel cannot be guaranteed. Stay: Desert Cave Hotel (B/L/D)

Today we trek north along the Stuart Highway through Marla and Kulgera before heading west along the Lasseter Highway to Yulara. Our accommodation for the next two nights is at the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel, part of Ayers Rock Resort. Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous dinner at Ilkari Restaurant.

Note: Voyages Ayers Rock Resort have moved to cashless transactions Stay: Sails in the Desert Hotel (B/L/D)

This morning early risers will experience the sun rising over Uluru and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. After breakfast, head off to discover Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge. Then, return for a guided tour around the base of Uluru, which stands 348 metres above the desert plains. Learn about traditional Anangu culture as you marvel at one of the largest monoliths in the world!

This afternoon we prepare for ‘A Night at Field of Light', which combines Bruce Munro's acclaimed Field of Light installation with the award winning ‘Sounds of Silence' dining experience. Departing the resort before sunset, we head to an exclusive dune top location with majestic views of Uluru. Then, enjoy a special 3-course bush tucker inspired menu as Field of Light gently illuminates. Spread across an area the size of 7 football fields, ‘Field of Light' features 50,000 slender stems crowned with radiant frosted spheres. After dinner, head off to explore the stunning display via the dedicated pathways. This evening we return to the hotel for our second and final night at Sails in the Desert. Stay: Sails in the Desert Hotel (B/L/D)

After breakfast we depart Yulara and head to Curtin Springs, a one-million acre station owned and operated by the Severin family. Here we'll enjoy a chat with the manager and learn about the station's history and current operations. Then, continue on to Kings Creek Station for lunch before arriving at Kings Canyon Resort in Watarrka National Park, our accommodation for the evening.

Kings Canyon is a majestic, must-see destination for anyone visiting the Red Centre. Its sheer sandstone walls, palm filled crevices and expansive desert vistas make for an incredible experience. This afternoon you have the choice of two escorted walks, the 6km Rim Walk offering breathtaking views and descending into the 'Garden of Eden', or a shorter 2.6km walk that meanders up the centre of the Canyon floor. Stay: Kings Canyon Resort (B/L/D)

Departing Kings Canyon this morning we travel the Mereenie Loop Road to historic Hermannsburg. After lunch we visit Angkerle (Standley Chasm) and also Simpsons Gap, home to a number of rock wallabies. We arrive into Alice Springs and spend the next three nights at the Mercure Alice Springs Resort. Stay: Mercure Alice Springs Resort (B/L/D)

This morning there is the option of a hot air balloon flight over Alice Springs (own expense). The flight includes hotel pick up, chilled refreshments and around 45 minutes in the air.

Today we explore 'The Alice'. Our activities include a visit to the award-winning Alice Springs Desert Park, The Royal Flying Doctor Service and a tour of the historic Telegraph Station. We arrive back at the hotel late afternoon.

Note: Those who have experienced these attractions previously can spend the day at their leisure. Stay: Mercure Alice Springs Resort (B/L/D)

Today we travel from Alice Springs and venture further east along the MacDonnell Ranges to see more of these rugged central Australian landscapes. Trephina Gorge Nature Park is our first destination and features a network of short walking trails that let you delve deep into the heart of this magnificent natural setting.

Trephina Gorge is known for the exceptionally large eucalyptus trees that line the sandy creek bed, and nearby we can visit the largest ghost gum in Central Australia. After our time here we make our way to Corroboree Rock Conservation Area. A short walk around the base of the rock reveals some of the geological history of the region.

Made up of ancient sediment and fine-grained rock, the structure was formed more than 800 million years ago by salt lakes. While not thought to be a corroboree site, this impressive structure is of great importance to the local Arrernte people and plays a significant role in their culture today.

This evening we head out into the East McDonnell ranges for a unique and authentic dining experience. The 'Original Outback Bush BBQ' dinner show is a fun filled evening of entertainment and outback cuisine, taking place around a large campfire under a star filled territory sky. Enjoy timeless Australian songs from a bush balladeer and gain some insight from the local cattlemen's talk. The dinner includes a sumptuous 3 course meal and all beverages. Stay: Mercure Alice Springs Resort (B/L/D)

This morning we depart Alice Springs and trek north again along the Stuart Highway. Visit Karlu Karlu (The Devils Marbles), a series of massive granite boulders scattered across a wide, shallow valley.

After a picnic lunch we'll continue on to Tennant Creek and visit the Battery Hill Mining Centre. We then head east to the Barkly Homestead where we spend the night in recently updated motel rooms. Stay: Barkly Homestead (B/L/D)

The Barkly Tablelands are well suited to cattle grazing and economically it is one of the most important areas for pastoral production in the NT. The Mitchell and Flinders grasses provide excellent feed on the rich black soils. The largest lease (Brunette Downs) is over 12,000 square kms and runs around 65,000 head of cattle.

This afternoon we pass through Cape Crawford and take the Savannah Way north to Lorella Springs Station. This one million acre station sits adjacent to the Limmen National Park and stretches all the way to the shores of the Gulf. Accommodation comprises a mixture of safari tents and cabins, all with ensuite bathrooms. Stay: Lorella Springs Station (B/L/D)

Today we take part in an exhilarating helicopter and ground tour of the southern ‘Lost City'.

Enjoy a ground tour of Lorella Springs with your guides who'll tell you about the local geology, vegetation and birdlife. We return mid-afternoon where the rest of the day can be spent at your leisure. Enjoy a dip in the nearby thermal springs, one of the most pristine in the Northern Territory. Stay: Lorella Springs Station (B/L/D)

Please Note: Weight limits apply to all scenic flights.

Our travels today take us further north along the Savannah Way. We pass through the remote village of Roper Bar, situated on the south-east boundary of Arnhem Land. The Roper River was first explored by Ludwig Leichhardt in 1845 and by the 1870's was lined with paddle steamers bringing in supplies for the men building the Overland Telegraph Line. One paddle steamer, the ‘Young Australian' ran aground on a rocky ledge and its ruins are still there to this day.

This afternoon we travel through Mataranka and on to Katherine where we spend the night at Knotts Crossing Resort. Stay: Knott's Crossing Resort (B/L/D)

This morning we enjoy a two hour boat cruise on Katherine River Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. We then continue to Darwin, arriving mid-afternoon and check in to the Hilton Garden Inn Darwin (Formerly The Doubletree by Hilton). Enjoy premium harbour view rooms in this centrally located hotel, perfectly positioned along the Esplanade.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure before boarding the Charles Darwin for a delicious Territory-style sunset dinner cruise and celebrate a truly amazing trip! Stay: Hilton Garden Inn (B/L/D)

This morning we take a city sights tour including the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Cullen Bay and Stokes Hill Wharf. You'll then be transferred to the airport. (B)

Trip Inclusions

Moments of Magic

  • Uluru - Stand in awe of the second largest monolith in the world. Rising from the outback desert, the impressive rock formation carries great spiritual and cultural significance. Watch the sun set over this breathtaking spectacle.
  • Field of Light - This spectacular exhibition by acclaimed international artist Bruce Munro is a must-see attraction. As darkness falls over Uluru, be amazed as more than 50,000 stems crowned with frosted-glass spheres fill the landscape with colour and light.
  • The Lost City - This marvellous natural structure, reminiscent of an ancient civilisation is a result of thousands of years of wind and rain erosion. Learn about the geology and local wildlife from your expert guide. Includes an exhilarating helicopter tour.

Tour Highlights

  • Admire the internationally acclaimed 'Field of Light' display at Uluru
  • Discover remarkable World Heritage Listed Uluru & Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and spend 2-nights at the 5-star Sails in the Desert Hotel
  • Spend 2-nights at Lorella Springs, an incredible million-acre cattle station on the Gulf of Carpentaria. Take a dip in one of Lorella's pristine springs
  • Enjoy a helicopter and ground adventure to the ‘Lost City'
  • Spend 3 nights in Alice Springs with comprehensive sightseeing.
  • Visit an opal mine at Coober Pedy & stay at the Desert Cave Hotel
  • Follow in explorer John McDouall Stuart's footsteps along Oodnadatta Track
  • Dine under the stars at the 'Sounds of Silence' dining experience
  • Visit Kings Canyon for a guided scenic rim walk and journey through the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges
  • Travel along the remote and historic Savannah Way and visit Roper Bar

  • Small Group Size - 26
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner) included. Complimentary beverages from a selected list included at lunch and dinner (when dining at licensed venues only).
  • All attraction & entry fees
  • Travel aboard a 5-star all terrain Mercedes Benz Coach
  • 14 nights of hotel, motel and resort accommodation
  • Services of a professional 2 person crew: Tour Driver and Tour Director
  • Outback Spirit Explorer Pack (for first-time travellers only)

  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change. We may need to alter or amend itineraries, excursions, accommodation, or sightseeing arrangements from those published, with little or no notice. This may be due to road conditions, weather, cultural considerations, safety factors and other operational considerations or government regulations. Final itineraries are sent to passengers approximately 2-3 weeks before travel.
  • This tour also operates with a reverse itinerary. Please contact us for reverse itinerary departures.
  • Prices are for land tour only, flights not included unless specified
Inclusive Small Group Adventures
Inclusive Small Group Adventures

Enjoy an intimate and enriching touring experience with other like-minded people on an inclusive Outback Spirit small group journey. Read more

Expert Drivers & Guides
Expert Drivers & Guides

Highly professional, passionate and always willing to go the extra mile, Outback Spirit's guides provide a seamless touring experience. Read more

Mercedes Benz 4WD Touring Coaches
Mercedes Benz 4WD Touring Coaches

When you travel with Outback Spirit, you're guaranteed to travel in the comfort and safety of Mercedes Benz. Read more

Brochure

4WD Adventures

Outback Spirit 4WD Adventures (2025)

Pick any place off the map. It could be Arnhem Land, The Kimberley or Cape York. Then, go a little deeper. A Welcome to Country, exhilarating helicopter ride or journey to Pajinka, the tip of Australia. Deeper still. A newfound connection, lust for life or wandering curiosity. And no one goes quite as far as us. We’ll go further to take you deeper....more To introduce you to an Australia most others can’t get to with an award-winning fleet, exclusive accommodation and passionate local expertise. Because there’s something out here. And it’s kept us coming back again and again and again, to share it with you. Now it’s time for you to find your Outback Spirit, on an all-inclusive small group 4WD adventure.

Availability

Exclusive Savings
Sunday 29 Jun 2025
Sunday 13 Jul 2025
Status
From: $12,695
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Exclusive Savings
Sunday 29 Jun 2025
Sunday 13 Jul 2025
Status
From: $16,095
  Enquire
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Outback Spirit. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Outback Spirit. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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