South Australia and Northern Territory pair beautifully together for an epic Aussie itinerary from Ocean to Outback. From the vibrant capitals of Adelaide and Darwin to lush vineyards and Aboriginal culture to nature and wildlife and stunning coastlines, we have put together the 10 unmissable Aussie icons in these two contrasting regions.
Northern Territory: Iconic Natural Treasures and Ancient Aboriginal Culture
Darwin
An easy and accessible gateway to Australia – just over 18 hours from the UK. This tropical, vibrant capital city is home to friendly locals and delicious food inspired by the close proximity to Asia. Experience fiery orange sunsets at Mindil Beach Street markets, on a Darwin Harbour Cruise or on a jet ski adventure.
Kakadu National Park
Famous for its cultural and natural values, this UNESCO World Heritage Park is bursting with nature and wildlife. With a third of Australia’s bird species calling this park home, you are sure to catch a glimpse of something extraordinary. Discover the Aboriginal Culture too, ancient rock art up to 20,000 years old can be found at Ubirr and Nourlangie.
Alice Springs
An authentic outback town – the gateway to Uluru. Nestled between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges, ‘Alice’ (as it's known by the locals) is famous for its beautiful desert landscapes, colourful characters, adventure, and strong Aboriginal history. Stay for a couple of days and visit the Telegraph Station, Kangaroo Sanctuary or hike the famous Larapinta Trail.
Uluru - Ayers Rock
The spiritual heart of Australia, Uluru is 600 million years old and is hugely sacred to the traditional owners. Rich with cultural experiences and stories, choose to walk, segway or cycle around the base, dine under the stars, experience the sunrise, or take a scenic flight; there are over 100 activities available around Uluru and Kata Tjuta to choose from.
Katherine & Nitmiluk National Park
The third largest town in the Northern Territory, and famous for Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge, enjoy incredible vistas and sunsets. Explore by kayak, cruise, helicopter or hike the famous Jatbula Trail. Nitmiluk National Park offers 13 gorges, all carved from the ancient sandstone.
South Australia: World-Class Wine and Dramatic Coastlines
Adelaide
A melting pot of culture, flavours, events and entertainment. Taste your way through world-famous wine regions only minutes away from the city or soak up the sun at one of many picture-perfect beaches. Adelaide is a gateway to some of Australia’s best vineyards and is dotted with historic architecture, pretty parklands and botanic gardens.
Kangaroo Island
Kangaroo Island is unmistakably serene; as soon as you step onto the island, you're immediately relaxed. It's known as nature’s playground and home to koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, wallabies and rare Australian sea lions. While its waters are filled with seals, dolphins and seasonal whales, you may also spot cockatoos, honeyeaters and eagles in the vast skies overhead.
Barossa Valley
A world-renowned wine region and is just a 50 minute drive north east of Adelaide. Explore over 80 cellar doors, tasting some of the most awarded wines in the world paired with delectable local produce. Meet winemakers, chat with knowledgeable staff and mingle with friendly locals. It’s a region founded on passion, pride and South Australian spirit.
Flinders Ranges
The Flinders Ranges and Outback are like something out a movie... or outer space. Here, meander your way through dusty red roads, ancient cliffs and deep gorges. Take a stop at Wilpena Pound, an enormous outdoor amphitheatre created over millions of years. Surrounded by mountain ranges, spectacular craters and shaded creeks, this beautiful area is only a five hour drive north of Adelaide.
Coober Pedy
Known as the opal capital of the world; boasting a sun-baked lunar landscape, fascinating history and a unique way of life. With around a half of Coober Pedy’s population living underground due to the heat, why not explore some underground churches, opal mines and homes. Witness the colourful low hills which have broken away from the Stuart Range at Breakaways Conservation Park.
Explore authentic Australia with First Class Holidays, contact our Australia experts today on 0161 888 5632 or [email protected] to start booking your perfect Australian itinerary.
