Northern Territory Explorer

Northern Territory Explorer

17 Views
10 Days From

$4930

Northern Territory Explorer

10 Days Starting in Darwin, Australia and ending in Uluru, Australia

Visiting: Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, Uluru

Tour operator:

AAT Kings

Tour code:

NDAU26

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4930

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Australia's Northern Territory with the "Northern Territory Explorer" tour. This cultural adventure begins in Darwin, where you'll explore the vibrant city and its rich history. Experience the world's oldest culture with a visit to the Aboriginal-owned Pudukal Cultural Experience, ensuring the preservation of this ancient heritage. Travel in comfort with a specialist team accredited with Kakadu and Uluru National Parks, and enjoy stays at comfortable accommodations like the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront and Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Kakadu, Uluru, and Nitmiluk National Parks, with guided tours, boat cruises, and sunset drinks. From the sacred Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) to the awe-inspiring Uluru, this tour offers a deep dive into the natural and cultural wonders of the region. Conclude your adventure with the mesmerizing Field of Light art installation, leaving you with memories to cherish.

Highlights

  • Visiting the Aboriginal-owned Pudukal Aboriginal Cultural Experience.

  • Exploring the vast Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Cruising the wildlife-rich Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu.

  • Soaking in the Mataranka thermal hot springs near Katherine.

  • Discovering the sacred Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) near Tennant Creek.

  • Experiencing the beauty of Alice Springs Desert Park.

  • Witnessing the sunrise and sunset over Uluru, the world's largest monolith.

  • Exploring the Field of Light art installation at Uluru.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Darwin

Location: Darwin

Accommodation Name: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Meals Included: Dinner

Get to know the steamy NT capital at your own pace – you’ll fast find that the characters here are almost as colourful as the sunsets. You’ll enjoy the latter over drinks and dinner with your Travel Director and fellow adventure-seekers. A tasty entrée to your 11-day Northern Territory tour from Darwin.

Day 2: Darwin Sightseeing & Free Time

Location: Darwin

Accommodation Name: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Today is about getting your Darwin bearings on a city tour revealing the events that have shaped the city over the decades, from wars to natural disasters. You’ll be a Darwin expert after visiting attractions like East Point Military Reserve and the MAGNT (Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory). The afternoon is at your leisure. If you’re at a loss for ideas, we can point you in the direction of the Royal Flying Doctor Service Tourist Facility, perhaps, or the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, loaded with 200+ stalls. Grab a bite and watch the day end with your feet in the sand.

Day 3: Darwin - Kakadu

Location: Kakadu National Park

Accommodation Name: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

Aboriginal culture is strong in this part of Australia, and its kept alive by Traditional Landowners on this morning’s tour. 100% Aboriginal owned and operated family business, Pudakul offers cultural and nature-based cultural experiences from the Adelaide River Flood Plains on Aboriginal owned land Limilngan-Wulna. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, dive deep into First Nations heritage, highlighting art, music and bush tucker. Your next deep dive is into the heart of Kakadu, a World Heritage listed national park that is one of Australia’s most important living ecosystems.

Day 4: Kakadu National Park

Location: Kakadu National Park

Accommodation Name: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel

Kakadu is vast, spanning almost 20,000 square kilometres. The best way to gain appreciation for just how immense it really is from the air on a highly recommended morning flight (own expense). Now that you have your bearings, take to the land to discover ancient Aboriginal rock art and cruise the wildlife-packed Yellow Water Billabong to search for enormous saltwater crocs – your eagle-eyed local cruise guide knows where to look.

Day 5: Katherine - Tennant Creek

Location: Tennant Creek

Accommodation Name: Bluestone Motor Inn

Meals Included: Dinner

If the Elsey Homestead looks familiar, that’s because it starred in the 1982 Aussie drama We of the Never Never. Today it’s better known for its Mataranka thermal hot springs. Pop on your swimsuit and have a soothing soak, the magical setting surrounded by palms. The only thing more refreshing is a cold beverage at the Daly Waters Pub, self-declared as Australia’s ‘original outback pub’. You can imagine the kind of swagger the locals bring. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark as well; a memento, perhaps, something of their own. You’ll arrive in Tennant Creek with a new appreciation for country life.

Day 6: Tennant Creek - Alice Springs

Location: Alice Springs

Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

The Stuart Highway is long (2,700 kilometres), very straight and very flat. Which makes the appearance of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) on the horizon all the more dramatic. These granite boulders pock the countryside. But they’re not just a pretty sight – they’re a sacred place for the Aboriginal community reflecting cultural beliefs and serving as a sacred site for ceremonies and storytelling. Get the lay of the land atop Alice Springs’ Anzac Hill. From this vantage, the East and West MacDonnell Ranges appear to stretch to the horizon.

Day 7: Alice Springs Sightseeing

Location: Alice Springs

Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Visit Alice Springs Desert Park, home to a vast range of plants and wildlife native to the area. You can really experience the beauty and diversity of this incredible landscape. The Arrernte people, traditional owners of the park, are also on hand to share their local wisdom and knowledge. Save some energy for this afternoon’s visit to the historic Telegraph Station – the reason the town was formed – and School of the Air, to gain an insight into outback and remote learning.

Day 8: Alice Springs - Uluru

Location: Uluru

Accommodation Name: Outback Hotel & Lodge

From the moment you wake up until the last of day disappears, spiritual Aboriginal culture is all around during today’s exploring. Get set to be in awe over stories about the creation of Uluru, the world’s largest monolith. It’s particularly pretty at sunset when the fading rays change the desert’s colour with every sip of your sparkling wine and nibbles. Choose to extend your evening under the stars with an exclusive Barbecue Dinner (own expense).

Day 9: Uluru Sightseeing & Free Time

Location: Uluru

Accommodation Name: Outback Hotel & Lodge

There aren’t many things worth getting up in the dark for. Sunrise over Uluru is one. It’s a magical time of day, the shifting light casting the countryside aglow. Exploring the base on an Uluru tour, you’ll begin to understand why this part of the country is so special to the Anangu, who have called the region home for millennia. Go at your own pace this afternoon. We wouldn’t blame you for taking a dip in the resort pool to cool off. But if you want to see Uluru in another different light, opt to chopper around it on a scenic helicopter flight (own expense). You’ll have plenty of stories to tell over your Farewell Dinner.

Day 10: Farewell From Uluru

Location: Uluru

Another reason to rise early: to catch the Field of Light art installation by artist Bruce Munro that blankets the desert floor (own expense). Your spirit will glow just as brightly as you bid farewell to this epic Northern Territory tour.

What's Included

  • Specialist team and National Park access

    Travel with a specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver, accredited with Kakadu and Uluru National Parks, and enjoy access to 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Kakadu and Uluru National Parks.

  • Comfortable accommodation

    Enjoy comfortable stays at Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Knotts Crossing Resort, Bluestone Motor Inn, Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs, and Outback Hotel & Lodge, all offering easy access to city centers and key attractions.

  • National Park entrance fees

    Entrance fees for Kakadu, Uluru-Kata Tjuta, and Nitmiluk National Parks are included.

  • Boat cruises

    Experience boat cruises in Kakadu at Yellow Water Billabong and Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge.

  • Uluru Guided touring

    Enjoy guided touring of Uluru with sunset drinks and nibbles.

  • Indigenous Guided Tour

    Entrance fees for an Indigenous Guided Tour of Alice Springs Desert Park, Telegraph Station, and School of the Air are included.

  • Dining

    The tour includes 3 Dinners, 9 Full Breakfasts, and 1 Farewell Dinner.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price.

  • Optional activities

    Optional activities such as the morning flight over Kakadu, BBQ dinner under the stars at Uluru, and the Field of Light art installation are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with a specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver, accredited with Kakadu and Uluru National Parks. Note that flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable stays at Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Knotts Crossing Resort, Bluestone Motor Inn, Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs, and Outback Hotel & Lodge, all offering easy access to city centers and key attractions.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner (D)
  • 9 Full Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Farewell Dinner (FD)

Fitness Requirement

  • Low level of fitness required

Flexible Holidays

  • Life in the Northern Territory moves at a leisurely pace. Choose your own leisurely adventure during your free time in Uluru.

Flight information

  • Flights to and from the start/end of your trip are not included in the trip price. Day 1 – flights to arrive prior to 3.00pm into Darwin AirportDay 11 – flights to depart anytime from Ayers Rock Airport

Iconic Sites

  • Have your camera poised: we’re taking you from the wilds of Kakadu to the escarpments of Nitmiluk Gorge and epic landscapes of Uluru.

Natural Wonders

  • Sunrise over Uluru has this incredible ability to make you forget everything else around you and just focus on the now.

What to Bring

  • Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat Water bottle Warm layers in cooler months Camera Comfortable walking shoes

Check out our Q&As

  • What cultural experiences are included in the Northern Territory Explorer tour?

    The tour includes a visit to the Aboriginal-owned and operated Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Experience, where you can dive deep into First Nations heritage, highlighting art, music, and bush tucker. Additionally, there is an Indigenous Guided Tour of Alice Springs Desert Park.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as a morning flight over Kakadu, a BBQ dinner under the stars at Uluru, and the Field of Light art installation, which are not included in the tour price.

  • What kind of wildlife experiences can I expect on this tour?

    You will have the opportunity to cruise the wildlife-packed Yellow Water Billabong in Kakadu National Park, where you can search for enormous saltwater crocodiles with the help of a local cruise guide.

  • What is the accommodation like on the Northern Territory Explorer tour?

    The tour offers comfortable stays at various hotels including Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront, Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Knotts Crossing Resort, Bluestone Motor Inn, Doubletree by Hilton Alice Springs, and Outback Hotel & Lodge, all providing easy access to city centers and key attractions.

  • What is the transportation arrangement for the tour?

    Travel is in comfort with a specialist team of two highly experienced Travel Director and Driver, accredited with Kakadu and Uluru National Parks. However, flights to and from the start/end of the trip are not included.

  • What are some of the iconic sites visited during the tour?

    The tour takes you to iconic sites such as the wilds of Kakadu, the escarpments of Nitmiluk Gorge, and the epic landscapes of Uluru.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    The beauty of taking a holiday with us is you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    It is important to adhere to departure times while on tour for the comfort of everyone on-board, and to make sure no one misses out on the planned experiences. The coach will not be able to wait for you, and in some instances, if you miss a departure time you will need to make your own way to the next destination to re-join the tour.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    AAT Kings operated Guided Holidays have competitive single supplement rates available if you prefer to confirm your own room. Or we can match you to share with a guest of the same gender at no extra cost. If we fail to match you, we will accommodate you in a single room at no extra cost.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Over 100 years

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    We will email your documents to you approximately four weeks before your departure date provided you have completed your pre trip registration using the My Travel Portal. If you’ve booked through a travel agent, your documents will be emailed directly to your agent.

Reviews of this operator

Ann Purcell  

Well worth the money

24-Feb-2023

Absolutely wonderful trip. Tastes of southern Australia. Hotels were good quality. Sightseeing was amazing. Manuela our travel director was lovely. A great trip all round

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Lynda Whittingham  

Particularly loved QUEENSTOWN (jet boat) and plane ride over Mt Cook

18-Feb-2023

Great guide “Dexter” who was pleasant and knowledgeable, skilled and pleasant driver, Aaron, interesting activities, and comfortable hotels in good locations. I have been on organized bus trips in different countries and this company stands out. I would travel with them again. Read less

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Milford Sound , West Coast , Queenstown, Christchurch

22-Feb-2023

The most professional tour group i have ever travelled with. Both tour director (Hope) & driver (Dave) had extensive knowledge of NZ. Highly recommended.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Keith Jones  

Christchurch, Milford Sound and the Franz Joseph Railway journey

02-Mar-2023

Very professional service throughout. Friendly experienced tour guide imparting excellent knowledge and local anecdotes. Friendly professional driver enhanced the overall pleasure. Excellent hotels throughout the holiday.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Allison Cooper  

Wonderful experience, highlight had to be Uluru so spiritual and beautiful

22-Feb-2023

Very professional. Excellent travel director very knowledgeable and a lovely guy. Amazing experience seeing do many great places.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    AAT Kings requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aat kings charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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