The Northern Territory in Depth
Independent Tour & Rail Journey
Discover one of Australia’s most iconic locations, Uluru, watch the natural light show bring the rock to a close at sunset whilst enjoying a sumptuous BBQ dinner. Experience the remoteness of the outback as you venture out to Kings Canyon where you will have a choice of walking options within this ancient landscape. Continue onboard one of the world’s greatest train journeys, The Ghan, sit back and relax, leaving the red desert sands behind as you approach the far north coastal city of Darwin and a farewell dinner cruise.
Product Ref: 510878
Click here to check out more holidays in Australia.
Your Itinerary
-
Day 1-3
-
Day 4
-
Day 5
-
Day 6
-
Day 7-8
-
Day 9
-
Day 10-11
Day 1-3 : Arrive Ayers Rock
Ayers Rock is one of the most impressive landmarks in Australia. A huge chunk of sandstone and a ‘true’ monolith, it resides in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Ayers Rock is located down towards the southwest corner of the Northern Territory and close to the geographic centre of Australia.
Spend 3 nights in Desert Gardens Hotel - Ayers Rock Resort. Offering the only rooms with views of Uluru in Ayers Rock Resort, the hotel features welcoming rooms and locally inspired dining options. Accommodation options are diverse all located under a canopy of towering gum trees and garden beds dotted with native flowers.
Day 4 : Full Day Kings Canyon & Outback Panoramas (Return To Uluru)
Duration: 13hrs
Your tour travels to Kings Canyon, stopping for breakfast at Kings Creek Station (included) along the way. Make the rocky climb to the rim of the canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park. Follow the rim of the canyon stopping to look down into the canyon gorge at lookout points. The Rim Walk is 6 km/3.7 miles in distance. Time permitting, you may choose to descend into the green oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'.
The circuit walk takes approximately 3 hours to complete and is rocky and steep in parts. It is recommended for those with a good level of fitness. Alternatively, you may wish to take an easier, shorter walk to explore the boulder strewn canyon floor. After lunch (own expense). You will then be transferred to your Ayers Rock Resort accommodation.
Day 5 : Afternoon/Evening Uluru Sacred Sites & Sunset with BBQ Dinner
Duration: 7hrs
Your tour will enter Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park for an afternoon and evening of discovery. Visit the Cultural Centre where you’ll have time to explore the galleries and you may local Aboriginal Artists at work. Travel to the base of Uluru where you will be amazed as your local guide shares the Aboriginal Tjukurpa (creation) stories that breathe life into this giant formation. Feel the spirit of the land as your guide takes you on a walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole, interpreting the meaning of the ancient Rock Art and sacred sites you’ll see along the way.
Travel to the Uluru Sunset Viewing Area where you can relax with a sparkling wine or two while you enjoy a famous Uluru sunset. Witness the incredible changing colours as the sun sets below the horizon. After sunset, transfer to the AAT Kings’ exclusive barbecue site to enjoy dinner. Your guide will conduct a tour of the night sky (weather permitting) and also explain some Aboriginal stories that relate to the stars. You will then be transferred to your Ayers Rock Resort accommodation.
Day 6 : Afternoon Ayers Rock To Alice Springs
Duration: 6hrs 30 mins
Your tour travels through spectacular desert scenery from Ayers Rock Resort, stopping at Angus Downs. At Angus Downs you will transfer to another luxury coach to continue your journey onto Alice Springs. From Angus Downs, stop at Erldunda Roadhouse, where you may purchase afternoon tea. Travel along the Stuart Highway before arriving in Alice Springs. You will then be transferred to your Alice Springs accommodation. Note: You may like to pack snacks for the trip. There will be comfort stops with the opportunity to purchase snacks along the way, however, you won't arrive at Alice Springs until dinner time.
Alice Springs is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory, halfway between Darwin and Adelaide, both 1,500km away. Known to the locals as “Alice”, this town embodies the Australian spirit, from the ancient desert it sits upon to its Aboriginal culture.
Day 7-8 : The Ghan Rail Journey
Travelling through the heart of Australia, between Adelaide in the south and the northern tropical city of Darwin, you’ll be enthralled by the landscape that makes this one of the great train journeys of the world. For two you’ll be mesmerised by an unforgettable vista of red earth, glimpses of Australia’s unique wildlife and outback splendour.
Top End Discovery Itinerary
An early evening departure from Alice Springs Terminal and it is time to enjoy modern Australian cuisine and regional fine wines onboard. And of course, there’s time to socialise with your fellow traveller before retiring to your comfortable private cabin for the night. Next Day - The pristine wilderness of Katherine is stirring and powerful, and you’ll have the chance to explore it from the water on an Off Train Experience. Cruise the jaw-dropping Nitmiluk Gorge, learn more about its ancient Indigenous rock paintings and gain insight into the culture of the traditional owners of Nitmiluk, the Jawoyn people.
Spend one night in The Ghan and arrive the following day in Darwin. The capital of the Northern Territory, Darwin is gateway to some of the best wildlife and cultural experiences in the country in Katharine, Lichfield and Kakadu National Parks, as well as being a starting or end point for a journey in the incredible Ghan train. A vibrant and youthful city, it sits on a harbour twice the size of Sydney’s and its tropical climate during the summertime gives it a unique appeal and charm not found elsewhere in Australia.
Day 9 : Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise
Delight in gourmet evolution-themed cuisine while cruising picturesque waters, celebrating the legacy of science and flavour in perfect harmony.
Day 10-11 : Darwin Departure
Time to check in for your homeward flight.
