DAY 1 – BOARD THE GHAN IN ADELAIDE  

Board The Ghan in Adelaide, heading for the Flinders Ranges and beyond. The city streets will give way to rural South Australia before the impressive mountains of the Flinders Ranges come into view. Lunch and dinner will be your introduction to dining on board and set the scene for the meals to come. (L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night The Ghan

DAY 2 – THE GHAN, ARRIVE ALICE SPRINGS

After your evening of enjoying the fine dining and relaxed comfort of this iconic train, you’ll wake to an unforgettable outback sunrise at Marla – a remote outpost 160 kilometres from the Northern Territory border that marks the start of the Oodnadatta Track. After breakfast in Marla, board The Ghan and head onwards to Alice Springs.

Our arrival in Alice marks the start of a new adventure. We’ll venture further into the heart of Australia on the eight-day Red Centre Explorer tour with Outback Spirit. Here, you will be met by the passionate Outback Spirit crew, who will be guiding you as you take in all the Red Centre has to offer over the next eight days.

Check-in at your Alice Springs hotel, where we’ll stay for the first two nights. In the evening, the group will meet for welcome drinks and a short briefing on what you can expect during your tour. Tonight’s dinner is at the hotel. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

DAY 3 – ALICE SPRINGS

Today, explore Alice Springs and its surrounds, taking in natural rock formations that are truly spectacular. After breakfast, venture to the West MacDonnell Ranges and enjoy a walk to Simpsons Gap. Known as ‘Rungutjirpa’ by the Arrernte people, Simpsons Gap is an important spiritual site and home to dozens of rare plants and a host of native wildlife.

We’ll then visit Standley Chasm Angkerle Atwatye a cultural icon of Central Australia, which is 100% owned and operated by the Arrernte community. We’ll break for morning tea before departing the West MacDonnell Ranges to visit the Alice Springs Desert Park. Here, enjoy a guided tour that will challenge your perception of the desert, leaving you with an understanding that the desert is full of life.

This evening, enjoy a classic-style outdoor BBQ and show under the incredible night sky. (B,L,D)

DAY 4 – ALICE SPRINGS TO KINGS CANYON

Today, we say goodbye to Alice Springs as we go deeper into the outback. First up is a visit to Ellery Creek for a short walk and morning tea, then we travel to Ormiston Gorge to see its towering red cliffs. After lunch, we’ll travel on to the mighty Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park.

As we drive through the outback, we’ll take the scenic Mereenie Loop 4WD track through the West MacDonnell Ranges and arrive at Kings Canyon Resort, where we’ll spend the next two nights.

Tonight, dinner is at Carmichael’s, a relaxed restaurant situated in Kings Canyon Resort, surrounded by native trees and bushlands. If you’re lucky, you may spot an inquisitive dingo wandering through the grounds. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Kings Canyon Resort

DAY 5 – KINGS CANYON – WATARRKA NATIONAL PARK

This morning, we depart early to experience the beauty of Kings Canyon. Two walks are available, including the spectacular 6km rim walk, which features breathtaking views of the Watarrka National Park before descending into the ‘Garden of Eden’. For those who wish to save energy, a more relaxed walk is also available along the creek on the canyon floor (2.6km).

There is also the opportunity to take a 15-minute helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and Watarrka National Park (at own expense). After the morning’s activities, we return to Kings Canyon Resort for lunch and to rest and refresh.

For those wishing to take the optional helicopter flight over Kings Canyon, this afternoon offers some time to enjoy Kings Canyon from the air (at own expense), or you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your leisure.

As afternoon turns to evening, we’ll enjoy sunset drinks and canapes at Light-Towers, an immersive sound and light installation by the acclaimed artist Bruce Munro. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner at the newly renovated Kings Canyon Bar & Grill and gather to recall the day’s adventures. (B,L,D)

DAY 6 – KINGS CANYON TO ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK 

Today is special. This morning we visit Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience and Tours, an indigenous owned and operated cultural tour. In the Aranda language, Karrke is the Aboriginal name for the western Bowerbird, which is native to Central Australia, and our guide will teach us about bush tucker and bush medicines used for spiritual and physical healing.

We then depart Karrke for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, passing through Kings Creek Station to enjoy lunch at Curtin Springs, a million-acre cattle station. In the early afternoon, we arrive at the award-winning Sails in the Desert Hotel, part of the Ayers Rock Resort.

This evening, we are transferred to the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner. A breathtaking cultural storytelling experience through choreographed drones, lasers and projections illuminating the night sky.

After a short journey from the resort, we venture to an open-air theatre set upon a dune top. Enjoy cocktails infused with native ingredients while taking in the incredible views of Uluru. As darkness descends, enjoy a gourmet dinner hamper where native ingredients are combined with modern techniques to create a balanced and flavourful palette as the night sky lights up before our eyes. Witness the ancient Mala story re-told and feel a powerful connection to country listening to a traditional Inma soundtrack and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Sails in the Desert Hotel 

DAY 7 – ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast, we depart to discover Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge, an ancient temple crafted by nature.

Take in the cultural centre and take a guided tour around the base of Uluru, which stands 348 metres above the desert plains. Learn about traditional Anangu culture and why Uluru, one of the largest monoliths in the world, is such a sacred site.

In the afternoon, tour the Gallery of Central Australia followed by free time to relax by the pool or alternatively, take the complimentary shuttle to explore the Resort and activities on offer.

Departing the resort before sunset, we head to an exclusive dune-top location, again with majestic views of Uluru. Enjoy drinks and canapes as artist Bruce Munro’s global phenomenon Field of Light gently illuminates. Aptly named Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku (looking at lots of beautiful lights), Field of Light features 50,000 slender stems, crowned with radiant, frosted-glass spheres, spread across an area the size of seven football fields. After your host provides insight into this remarkable installation, you can explore the stunning display via dedicated pathways.

This evening, return to the hotel for dinner. (Please note dinner will be at approximately 9.00pm). (B,L,D) 

DAY 8 – ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK

Early risers can experience the sun rising over Uluru this morning and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. Breakfast is at the hotel, before we depart for the Mala Walk. Admire the fine examples of rock art along this walk before arriving at Kantju Gorge, a place of profound peacefulness surrounded by sheer vertical walls. This afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to explore the Town Square, arrange a scenic flight (own cost) or relax in the comfort of your hotel. 

This evening, enjoy the unique Sounds of Silence dining experience under the stars. Offering the best of the Red Centre distilled into four magical hours, the evening begins with canapes and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of the didgeridoo and enjoy a premium bush tuckerinspired buffet incorporating native bush ingredients. Afterwards, settle back and listen to the resident star talker decode the southern night sky.

After this incredible experience, we return to Sails in the Desert for our final night. (B,L,D) 

DAY 9 – ULURU-KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK TO ALICE SPRINGS, THE GHAN 

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel before making the journey by road from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park to the Alice Springs Rail Terminal where your Red Centre Explorer tour comes to an end.

Re-join The Ghan and reacquaint yourself to life on train as The Ghan heads north, enjoy watching the beautiful scenery pass by your window as you relax with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night The Ghan 

DAY 10 – THE GHAN, KATHERINE AND DARWIN

When the landscape transforms into rocky gorges and fast-flowing canyon streams, prepare to experience one of the Top End’s most impressive natural wonders on a boat cruise along Nitmiluk Gorge. Alternatively, the Katherine Outback Experience lets you into the lives of those who call the outback home, there is also a helicopter flight upgrade available, for those wishing to see Nitmiluk from an aerial perspective.

Continue to Darwin and upon arrival it’s time to say farewell to The Ghan. At the Darwin terminal, you will be transferred to your overnight accommodation and after checking in, you may wish to explore the Waterfront Precinct, with its many restaurants and bars. (B,L)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night Hilton Darwin

DAY 11 – DARWIN TO LITCHFIELD AND KAKADU NATIONAL PARKS 

As one adventure ends, another begins with Outback Spirit. This morning, we depart Darwin and head towards Batchelor, the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Containing several types of typical Top End habitats, Litchfield National Park is abundant with lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and cascades.

After stopping for morning tea, our next stop is Florence Falls. Here you can watch from the scenic viewing platform as the spectacular falls cascade into the plunge pool below.

Next, we move onto Wangi Falls; a large plunge pool surrounded by shady grassed areas. The falls flow all year round and you can take a dip in the crystal-clear pool. After a light lunch we cross the Adelaide River and continuing east, we enter the World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park before arriving at your accommodation for the next two nights, the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel at Jabiru, so named for the crocodile shape it takes. (B,L,D)

Note: Swimming at Wangi Falls is subject to National Park No Croc Safety Clearance.

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights at Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel 

DAY 12 – KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

An early start today as we head to Jabiru Airstrip, where you’ll gain another perspective on this incredible environment. Take to the skies on a 60-minute scenic flight over ancient escarpments, floodplains and winding rivers, exhibiting the results of 1.8 billion years of continuous erosion. Your flight includes live commentary from your pilot as you glide over these spectacular ancient lands.

After landing at Jabiru Airport we depart for the East Alligator River region, known as the gateway to Arnhem Land. Take a spectacular local indigenous cruise on the East Alligator River and listen to the stories of the region as you spot the large saltwater crocodiles that dwell in these waters.

After a peaceful cruise, it’s time to reboard the coach and head to the World Heritage Ubirr art site, home to some of the world’s most outstanding rock art.

Enjoy a 1-kilometre circular track walk and take in the amazing rock art. There will be time for those feeling fit to make the steep 250m climb to the top of the rocky escarpment for magnificent views across the Magela floodplain.

Enjoy lunch before heading to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Art Site where you can take in ancient rock paintings and spectacular vistas whilst enjoying the 1.5 kilometre walk around this incredible indigenous site. Then it’s time to head back to the hotel to relax and enjoy dinner. (B,L,D)

*Due to the seasonal weather experienced in the Top End during March and April you will experience Nourlangie after your scenic flight instead of Ubirr, and the cruise will occur on Yellow Waters. 

DAY 13 – KAKADU NATIONAL PARK TO DARWIN

This morning, we depart Kakadu National Park and travel along the Arnhem Highway through the Mary River National Park with its vast wetlands attracting many migratory birds.

On arrival at Mary River, you will take to the water on a cruise that showcases the local wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles and the abundance of birdlife in the region.

From here we travel through the productive region of Humpty Doo, where an array of tropical fruits are grown before heading to Darwin, arriving early evening, where your three-day Simply Kakadu Tour comes to an end. (B,L)

*Due to the seasonal weather experienced in the Top End during March and April you will enjoy the famous ‘Jumping Croc Cruise’ in place of the Mary River cruise.

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Hilton Darwin

DAY 14 – DARWIN HARBOUR DINNER CRUISE

Today is free for you to enjoy the sights of Darwin at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll along the Waterfront Precinct or visit the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. In the evening, see why Top End sunsets are so special on a Darwin Harbour Sunset Cruise. You’ll feast on a Territorystyle featuring local seafood and produce as the colour of the sky transforms to hues of vibrant red and orange. (B,D)

DAY 15 – FAREWELL

This morning, it’s time to check out of your hotel, completing your Ultimate Territory Tour. You’ve just spent 15 days exploring Australia’s outback, walking away with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of culture and country. (B)

*Itinerary subject to change during the wet season (April)