7 Days Darwin to Alice Springs 'Red Rocket'
Highlights
- Aboriginal Culture
- Aboriginal Rock Art
- Devils Marbles
- Jim Jim Falls
- Kakadu National Park
- Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)
- Katherine Gorge
- Kings Canyon
- Mary River Wetlands
- Mataranka Springs
- Twin Falls
- Uluru (Ayers Rock)
- Wildlife boat trip
Itinerary: day by day
Day 1 – Darwin to Kakadu
Head to the Mary River wetlands system for a private river cruise this morning, keep your cameras close and your eyes peeled for crocodiles. After lunch, discover more about the land and its stories at the Bowali Visitor Centre. The whole of Kakadu is spread out before you at Ubirr Rock, where we spend the afternoon. Tonight we camp within Kakadu National Park. (LD)
Day 2 - Kakadu to Darwin
Jim Jim Falls is our fi rst stop today, and it's a stunner! You'll feel a bit dwarfed by the towering cliffs as we
hike to the base of the falls. The spectacular gorge of Twin Falls is experienced onboard a National Park operated boat and along the boardwalk. Relax for a while on the sandy banks before we trek back to Darwin. (BL)
Day 3 – Darwin to Katherine Gorge
Leaving Darwin, we stop for a break at Adelaide River on the way to Katherine. We spend the afternoon at the majestic Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk), which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Experience the striking beauty while canoeing or cruising (at own expense & seasonal) through the gorge itself. Want to see more? Jump onboard a helicopter flight (at own expense) which will take you high above the vast gorge system. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp near Katherine Gorge. (LD)
Day 4 – Katherine Gorge to Banka Banka
Not far to the south is Mataranka, where you can revive in a sparkling thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Next stop is the iconic Daly Waters outback hotel, the Territory's oldest pub. Nearby lies Australia's first international airport, but you won't get a flight back home from here these days! After lunch, we continue south to Banka Banka station where we camp overnight at our private campsite. (BLD)
Day 5 – Banka Banka to Alice Springs
This morning we check out the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously on their rocky perch. From here we stop in at Barrow Creek Pub, home to the historic Telegraph Station – catch a glimpse of what outback telecommunication used to be like! We cross over the Tropic of Capricorn, before arriving early evening into Alice Springs. Overnight dorm accommodation included (BL).
Day 6 – Alice Springs – Kings Canyon – Uluru
Kick off your Red Centre adventure with a drive through James and Waterhouse Ranges and the ancient Hugh and Finke river systems on the way to Kings Canyon. There's a bit of exploring to do here: the monumental North and South Walls, the Amphitheatre, the Lost City and the lush, inviting Garden of Eden. From here we head to another ancient landform, Uluru (Ayers Rock) where we stay overnight in our private campsite. (LD)
Day 7 – Uluru to Alice Springs
Sunrise at Uluru is worth the early start! Take a stroll part way around the base and discover mystifying rock formations and Aboriginal art sites around the base of Uluru. Be fascinated by the red domes of Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and their spiritual significance to the Anangu people. Passengers may leave the tour at Ayers Rock Resort.
Otherwise we head back to Alice Springs after lunch, watching through the window as the rugged desert scenery passes by. (BL)
Seasonal itinerary changes
TROPICAL SUMMER ITINERARY (Nov/Dec-May approx)
Day 1
- Cultural Experience
- Wildlife Cruise
- Ubirr (seasonal)
- Nourlangie Rock (seasonal)
- Overnight in Kakadu National Park (LD)
Day 2
- Cathedral Termite Mounds
- Gunlom Falls (seasonal)
- Motor Car Falls (seasonal) (BL)
Please note this package is made up of MULTIPLE individual tours; therefore you may travel with a different guide and passengers during each section
B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner
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Departures
Departure Dates
01APR-30JUN: Mon Wed
01JUL-310CT: Mon Wed Fri
01NOV-31MAR: Mon Wed
Notes
- Pre-tour dorm accommodation included.
- Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due for any cause including seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. See terms and conditions for full details
- .Package is made up of 3 separate tours therefore you may travel with a different guide and passengers on each section
- A STRICT luggage limit of 15KG applies (10KG in Kakadu)
- National Park fees of AUD $62.50 are payable on the morning of departure (includes $25 entry into Kakadu National Park, $25 entry to Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park and $12.50 Twin Falls boat transfer – seasonal)
- Safaris must be reconfirmed 48 hours prior to departure by phone on 1300 654 604
Included
- Experienced guides
- meals as indicated
- accommodation transfers
- 4 nights camping including camping fees & equipment
- 3 nights dorm accommodation (including pre night)
Optional Activities
- Canoeing at Katherine Gorge
- Cruise at Katherine Gorge
- Helicopter Flight at Katherine Gorge
- Camel Ride
- Helicopter Flight at Kings Creek Station
- Harley Davidson Ride at Uluru
- Helicopter Flight at Uluru
What to bring
Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high)
swimming gear
hat & sunscreen
toiletries
warm clothing in winter
water bottle
torch
insect repellent
camera, sleeping bag (can be hired for $20)
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Price: AUD $1235