Description

18-Day Melbourne to Darwin
Tour Price: AUD 2195 + park fees
Child: AUD 1755 + park fees

Tour Code: MAPBTAN

Tour Departs: Melbourne 6.30 am from three central locations
All Year: Tue/Thu/Sat

Tour finishes: Darwin accommodation early evening day 18

Max Passengers: 16/24

Ensuite accommodation upgrade options:
11 nights budget motel (incl. Opal Inn 3 Star)
* Twin/Double per person - AUD465
* Triple share per person - AUD295
* Single - AUD1110

11 nights budget motel (incl. Desert Cave 4 Star)
* Twin/Double per person - AUD525
* Triple share per person - AUD345
* Single - AUD1230

Itinerary

Day 1 - Melbourne via Great Ocean Rd to Princetown
Our trip begins as we leave Melbourne and head through Geelong towards the coast to Torquay, with a stop to shop at Quiksilver and Rip Curl before we continue to world famous Bells Beach. Our Great Ocean Road journey begins here as we wind our way along one of the most spectacular coastal roads in Australia. We stop to see some koalas before passing through the seaside town of Lorne on our way to Apollo Bay, where we'll stop for lunch (own expense). Next we hit the cool temperate rainforest of the Otway National Park, spending some time at the magnificent Otway Fly, 25 metre high elevated tree top walk. We cap off the day watching the sun set over the Twelve Apostles. We'll stay overnight in the coastal township of Princetown. (D)

Day 2 - Princetown to Grampians NP
Climb down the Gibson Steps to the beach to get a different angle of the Twelve Apostles. Next we head on to check out Loch Ard Gorge and the western end of the Great Ocean Road including London Bridge, the Bay of Martyrs and Bay of Islands. You may spot a whale or two (seasonal) at Warrnambool, where we have a stop. From here we travel through country Victoria, arriving at the magnificent Grampians National Park to the challenge of a hike to the top of the Pinnacle. The day is topped off by a walk to The Balconies and Reeds Lookout, before we get to our overnight Grampians accommodation. (BD)

Day 3 - Halls Gap to Adelaide
Get your legs working this morning with hikes at Hollow Mountain and the amazing McKenzie Falls, where you'll experience the breathtaking views stretching over the north of the Grampians. Leaving this magical place, we travel west, stopping for lunch at Horsham (own expense) before continuing through the agricultural region of Victoria and in to South Australia. Bordertown is home of the rare White Western Grey Kangaroos. Crossing the mighty Murray River, king of Australia's rivers, we wind our way through the picture-pretty Adelaide Hills before arriving into Adelaide city. Overnight accommodation included. (B)

Day 4 - Adelaide
A FREE DAY in Adelaide to relax. Overnight dorm accommodation included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 5 - Adelaide to Quorn
Leaving the city behind, we travel through the Clare Valley then on to the frontier town of Melrose where we take a short walk across a swinging bridge and enjoy panoramic views from the Mt Remarkable lookout. Soon after we arrive in Quorn, the quaint and historical railway township nestled at the entrance to the Richman Valley. Eat a hearty lunch, because this afternoon we hike to the summit of Dutchman's Stern for stunning 360° views of Quorn, Spencer Gulf and the Flinders Ranges! We return to Quorn where we stay two nights in private accommodation at the historical "Mill". Get ready for tonight's BBQ dinner it doesn't get any more Aussie than this! (LD)

Day 6 - Flinders Ranges & Wilpena Pound
The Flinders Ranges has been recognized as one of Australia's National Landscapes and today you'll get to experience and explore this magical region! Wilpena Pound is a natural amphitheatre located in a huge stone crater and you will spend the morning hiking and exploring its wonder! After lunch, it's a short walk to Yourambulla Caves to view Aboriginal rock paintings. Learn about the hardships of sheep farming in the mid 1800's as you view the ruins of Kanyaka Homestead. As we travel back to Quorn, there's an opportunity to spot for the shy and elusive Yellow Footed Rock Wallaby on a quiet stroll through peaceful Warren Gorge. Overnight at the Quorn "Mill". (BLD)

Day 7 - Quorn to Coober Pedy
It's time to go underground! We journey north through Port Augusta and the small town of Glendambo (population 30!) and visit ancient salt lakes which are the remnants of an inland sea. We arrive in plenty of time to check out the sites of Cooper Pedy on a town tour which includes an opal cutting demonstration and mine tour with the opportunity to try your luck 'noodling' for opals! Our bunkhouse for tonight is you guessed it underground. (BLD)

Day 8 - Coober Pedy to Uluru
Driving through the rugged desert country, we reach Yulara in time for infamous Uluru (Ayers Rock) sunset. Tonight, lend a hand as we cook dinner at our permanent campsite then consider the option to sleep under the outback stars in a traditional 'Aussie swag'. (BLD)

Day 9 - Uluru to Kata Tjuta & Kings Canyon
Sunrise over Uluru is magical and it's an early start to catch it! While the morning's fresh (and your legs are too!) take a walk around Uluru's base (unguided), or climb to the top if you choose however, the Anangu traditional owners prefer it if you don't, before we take a guided interpretive walk at Mala. After visiting Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) we head to Kings Canyon, where we camp for the night. (BLD)

Day 10 - Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
There's a lot to explore at Kings Canyon, including the Lost City, the lush and ancient Garden of Eden and the sheer outcrops of the North and South Walls. After lunch, relax and enjoy the harsh desert scenery as we travel to Alice Springs. (BL)

Day 11 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight accommodation included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 12 - Alice Springs
Enjoy a FREE DAY to explore Alice Springs. Overnight accommodation included. (Meals at own expense)

Day 13 - Alice Springs to Banka Banka
We pass by 23° 262 223 south of the equator (otherwise known as the Tropic of Capricorn) before stopping at Ti Tree for the chance to buy original works of art by Indigenous artists. Learn about the early struggles of bush telecommunications at Barrow Creek's historic Telegraph Station it'll make your mobile phone seem like the space age! Precariously balanced on their rocky perch are the Devils Marbles, a site sacred to its traditional owners. Last stop for today is our camp at Banka Banka Cattle Station and if the weather's good, you can take a dip in the pretty waterhole. (LD)

Day 14 - Banka Banka to Katherine Gorge
No visit to the Top End would be complete without a visit to the famed Daly Waters pub, a quintessential outback roadhouse and 'watering hole' for travelers from far and wide. The tiny town is also home to Australia's first international airport (but you wouldn't guess it!). Mataranka lies in the heart of the 'never-never', and you'll feel a million miles from anywhere as you soak in the steamy thermal springs. As the day draws to a close, we reach our overnight camp at stunning Katherine Gorge. (BLD)

Day 15 - Katherine Gorge to Darwin
The gorge is all yours this morning, with a half day to spend canoeing or cruising (at own expense) the spectacular waters. Want to see more? Jump aboard a helicopter flight (at own expense) which will take you high above the vast gorge system. We'll head to Darwin after a bite to eat, with stops at idyllic Edith Falls and the 'croc-filled' Adelaide River (both a town and a river). Overnight accommodation in Darwin is included. (BL)

Day 16 - Darwin to Mary River
A refreshing start to your day: the waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, followed by the spectacular Mary River Wetlands. Birds aren't the only wildlife abundant around here; keep your eyes out for lurking crocodiles on our private river cruise! A secluded campsite at Point Stuart Wilderness Lodge is where we'll stay tonight. (LD)

Day 17 - Mary River to Kakadu
Discover ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, our first stop this morning. Clamber to the top of a rocky lookout for fabulous views over the Nardab floodplain. Next it's on to Maguk (Barramundi Gorge), where a hike is rewarded with a reviving swim in the plunge pools. Tonight we stay at our permanent camp within Kakadu NP. (BLD)

Day 18 - Kakadu to Darwin
Get ready for some 4WD action today on our way to Jim Jim Falls! Once we get there, we'll hike to the base of the falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Feel the beauty of the stunning gorge and powerful falls from the National Park operated boat and boardwalk experience. The impressive scenery will continue to amaze you as we journey back to Darwin in the afternoon. (BL)

Bring: Sturdy walking shoes (ankle high), hat & sunscreen, towel & toiletries, warm clothing in winter, water bottle, torch, insect repellent, camera & film, pillow, sleeping bag (can be hired for AUD15) and money for some meals.

Included: Experienced guides, meals as indicated, accommodation transfers (Adelaide, Alice Springs, Darwin), camping fees & equipment, Opal Mine tour, hostel dorm accommodation where stated (or upgrade to twin/double ensuite), entry to Otway Fly Tree Top Walk.

Note:
- Package includes 11 nights dorm or upgrade accommodation and 6 nights camping.
- This is a combination safari and you will therefore travel with a different guide and passengers during each section.
- Upgrade accommodation is budget style and may be located on different premises to hostel accommodation.
- Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted due to seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements.
- Uluru National Park fees of AUD25.00, Kakadu NP boat transfer into Twin Falls of AUD12.50 per person are payable on morning of departure.
- Safari must be reconfirmed by 4pm the day prior to travel.
- Luggage Limit of 15kg.

Highlights

* Great Ocean Road
* Grampians National Park
* Flinders Ranges
* Parachilna
* Coober Pedy
* Uluru (Ayers Rock)
* Kata Tjuta
* Kings Canyon
* Aboriginal Culture
* Devils Marbles
* Daly Water
* Mataranka Springs
* Katherine Gorge
* Litchfield National Park
* Mary River Wetlands
* Kakadu National Park
* Jim Jim & Twin Falls

Travel Types

• Camping
• Heritage Tourism
• Hiking
• Safari
• Tours

Cost in US$:

from AUD 2195

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Adventure Tours Australia's Mission Statement

Adventure Tours Australia is an award winning company specialising in small group nature-based tours for the active traveller. An extensive range of tours are available exploring the highlights and hidden delights of the Northern Territory, South Australia, Tasmania, Western Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. The tours have an emphasis on the unique scenery, wildlife and Aboriginal culture of each area. Most tours are camping and accommodated safaris catering for budget travellers as well as private charters and deluxe 'Safari in Style' tours in the Northern Territory. Tours range from 1 to 18 days with regular guaranteed departures. Many tours have been conveniently combined into tour packages for those wanting an extended value for money travel options