Today is one of colours. The ochre soil spiked with cycads as you come into land. The endless blue sky. The russet hues of Uluru… And that’s all before the enchanting hour. Uluru has been home to the Anangu for millennia. You will discover their connection to the land when you arrive in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park at sunset watching the shifting colours transform the desert. Elevate your evening with the exclusive Uluru Barbecue Dinner (own expense).

Desert Gardens

Help protect the highlights of Australia’s wilderness through your bucket list visit to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. You’ll encounter iconic Uluru, half a billion years old, standing 348 metres high and taller than the Eiffel Tower. If you’re looking for a reason to roll out of bed before dawn, make it an Uluru sunrise. Then, travel to Kata Tjuta’s to wander through its Jurassic domed rock formations into Walpa Gorge, between two of the tallest domes. Return to the resort, where this afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.

Desert Gardens

Breakfast

The only other reason to get up before dawn is to glimpse the Uluru Field of Light, a dazzling installation by British artist Bruce Munro that sees 50,000 stem-like globes blanket the Uluru soil (own expense). It’s optional – we won’t judge you for sleeping in, steeling yourself for today’s adventures. But if you’ve come this far, it would be a shame to opt for shut-eye over eye-popping. Speaking of which, did you know Australia has the largest population of wild camels in the world, and Kings Creek Station, your next stop, is the largest exporter of these doe-eyed creatures? From here, the land eases into Kings Canyon, part of the immense Watarrka National Park. Views over the Red Centre are perspective-resetting.

Kings Canyon Resort

Breakfast

This morning prepare for the awe-inspiring Kings Canyon Rim Walk, a 440-million-year-old geological wonder featuring soaring sandstone domes, dramatic plateaus, and hidden rock pools – a true feast for the senses. Cattle stations are the size of small nations in the NT outback, as you’ll discover on your journey toward Alice Springs. The other ‘big’ thing in these parts is the MacDonnell Ranges, undulating across the red earth like a caterpillar’s spine. Back in 1872, Alice Springs was a hive of activity, as a Telegraph Station was built to connect Adelaide and Darwin as part of the Overland Telegraph Line. Sweat and tears went into the project, as you’ll discover browsing the grounds. Finally – panoramas from Anzac Hill steal the scene.

DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Breakfast

Start your day with a scenic drive to the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges. Marvel at the rugged beauty and unique rock formations as you explore Simpsons Gap, a picturesque gorge with towering cliffs and a secluded waterhole. Return to Alice Springs for a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn about the incredible medical services provided to remote Australian communities. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Unwind by the hotel pool, soaking up the sun, or take the opportunity to discover more of Alice Springs at your own pace. Whether you choose to explore local shops, visit art galleries, or simply relax, this day offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Breakfast

Kick off your morning with a visit to the School of the Air, which broadcasts lessons across an incredible 1.3 million square kilometres. If visiting during the school term, you might even observe live educational sessions. Depart Alice Springs and make your way to Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), a fascinating collection of boulders formed over millions of years. These unique rock formations vary in size, with some reaching up to 6 metres high. Stroll through the boulders, marvelling at their impressive size and the natural beauty of the area. Continue your journey to Tennant Creek, renowned for its rich gold mining history.

Bluestone Motor Inn

Breakfast, Dinner

Since the 1930s, the Daly Waters Pub has been a beloved Outback institution, serving up schnitzels, barramundi burgers, and hearty steaks. Its walls tell stories, adorned with quirky keepsakes left behind by travellers, from bras to boots. What will you add to the collection? Next, the Land of the Never Never awaits in Mataranka, where you can visit a replica of the Elsey Homestead, featured in the 1982 film We of the Never Never. Or take a peaceful stroll through palm-lined walkways and indulge in a soak at steamy thermal springs, the perfect remedy for weary limbs, before arriving in Katherine.

Contour Hotel Katherine

Breakfast

Explore the natural beauty of Nitmiluk National Park on a cruise along Nitmiluk Gorge. You’ll wind through this gorge carved through ancient sandstone alongside steep cliff walls, watching for lush rainforest gullies in giant cracks, and maybe a freshwater crocodile or two on the banks. You can almost feel the spirits yawning as they created this landscape on Jawoyn land, part of Nitmiluk National Park. It takes your breath away. More wildlife lurks in Kakadu’s Yellow Water Billabong, which is a mecca for sea eagles, brolgas and little kingfishers.

Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Breakfast

The best way to grasp the immensity of Kakadu National Park? From the air, should you wish to take a scenic flight (own expense). You won’t regret it – perspective is always a good thing. Speaking of which, Ubirr’s Aboriginal rock art dates back an eye-watering 20,000+ years. If it looks familiar, that’s because it starred in classic Aussie movie, Crocodile Dundee. As night falls, Darwin’s tropical energy takes over. Begin at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, where a fusion of global flavours awaits, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable evening (own expense).

Hilton Garden Inn Darwin

Breakfast

Today, go your own way. That might mean sleeping in, then heading out for a delicious tropical lunch. Or signing up for optional experiences, like explorations into Litchfield National Park. This pocket of the NT is a staggering union of magnetic termite mounds and waterfalls (swimming is seasonal and opening is controlled by NT Parks). Alternatively, head north to the Tiwi Islands, where you take a deep dive into Indigenous history and art with First Nations guides (both own expense). Whichever route you go, we’ll see you at the Farewell Dinner.

Hilton Garden Inn Darwin

Breakfast, Dinner

It’s time to say farewell and head home, sorting through snapshots of an unforgettable journey. But the best souvenirs? The lasting memories of 11 days immersed in the untamed Northern Territory Outback experiences.

Breakfast