Best of Northern Territory

Best of Northern Territory

60 Views
8 Days From

$4135

$3308

Best of Northern Territory

8 Days Starting in Alice Springs and ending in Darwin

Visiting: Alice Springs, West MacDonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon, Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara, Uluru / Yulara (or Alice Springs), Darwin, Litchfield National Park / Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Kakadu National Park / Darwin

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

PZKNC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 15

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

0-99

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $4135 $3308 Operator discount: -$827 -20%

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

Immerse yourself in the unique Outback landscapes and rich First Nations culture of Australia’s Red Centre and Top End on this eight-day adventure. Spot rock wallabies in Western MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja), tour through ethereal rock formations in Kings Canyon and admire the sunrise over Uluru. Then, transfer to the Top End and roam the vast Litchfield National Park, plunge into the picturesque Florence Falls and spot crocs in Kakadu National Park. First Nations guided walks, cruises and more will showcase the cultural importance of these regions. This is a true-blue picture of Australia!

Highlights

  • Discover the ever-changing colours of Uluru, one of Australia’s most spiritually significant sites, as you marvel at the epic sandstone monolith at both sunrise and sunset.

  • Embark on a guided walk through Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations – with your knowledgable local guide.

  • Learn about the importance of great Tjunba (perentie) totem that protects the Simpsons Gap from a First Nations guide during a walk through the spiritual site.

  • Refresh yourself with incredibly scenic swims in the natural pools of Litchfield National Park, with stops at Wangi Falls and Florence Falls.

  • Marvel at ancient First Nations rock art at Kakadu National Park and learn more about the wildlife and histories of Ubirr and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie).

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Greening Australia. Donations help them tackle Australia’s complex environmental challenges, restoring landscapes at scale – in ways that work for communities, economies and nature.

  • Embark on a guided walk through Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations – with your knowledgeable local guide.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Alice Springs

Location: Alice Springs

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

G’day and welcome to Alice Springs (Mparntwe in the language of the traditional owners of the land on which Alice Springs is now located). This quintessential laidback Aussie town is the perfect place to start your journey into the ancient culture and landscapes of Australia’s Outback. This is your launching pad to reach some of the top spots on the agenda over the next few days. Your adventure officially kicks off with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet your group leader and new travel companions. Until then, feel free to check out some of the town’s sights or tuck into an Outback inspired meal at one of the quirky local cafes.

Day 2: West Macdonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon

Location: West MacDonnell Ranges / Kings Canyon

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, you’ll hit the road for Simpsons Gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges National Park (Tjoritja). Keep an eye out for rock wallabies as you take part in a guided walk through the important spiritual site. A First Nations guide will share their insights on the local flora and fauna and will tell the story of the great Tjunba (Perentie) totem that protects the gorge and its present importance to the Eastern and Northern Arrernte People. The walk will also take you along the riverbed that marks the boundary between the Eastern and Northern Arrernte tribes. Next, drive along the Stuart and Lasseter Highway and through the colourful semi-desert to Watarrka National Park, home of the majestic Kings Canyon. Your leader will take you along the Kings Creek Walk, following the trail between soaring cliffs and ethereal rock formations. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more magical place! Tonight enjoy an included dinner before visiting the Light Towers - an immersive visual and aural display.

Included Activities:
-Tjoritja-West MacDonnell Ranges - Simpsons Gap Guided Aboriginal Cultural Walk
-Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Creek Walk
-Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Light Towers by Night

Day 3: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara

Location: Kings Canyon / Kata Tjuta / Uluru / Yulara

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Spend the morning exploring the rugged landscape of Kings Canyon and enjoy the 3-hour rim walk up and across the famous Kings Canyon plateau, from the sandstone domes of the 'Lost City' to the oasis of the 'Garden of Eden'. You’ll walk across the red rock cliffs that protrude from the land and take in views of the palm forest below. Then hit the road again for a scenic drive across the sprawling landscape to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Keep your eyes out, there’s chance that you might spot brumbys, camels or wallabies on the drive. Arrive at Kata Tjuta (formerly known as The Olgas) – a towering collection of 36 domed rock formations. Here, you'll embark on a walk to a popular lookout to admire the stunning formations that make up Kata Tjuta – these ochre-coloured shapes are a mesmerising sight. After, you'll make your way to one of Australia’s most spiritually significant and iconic sites, Uluru. From a prime location, you’ll enjoy the view as the sun sets over the epic sandstone monolith – watching the incredible landscape shift in colour is a sight you won’t soon forget!

Included Activities:
-Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Kata Tjuta Walpa Gorge Walk
-Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Rim Walk
-Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru Sunset Viewing

Day 4: Uluru / Yulara (Or Alice Springs)

Location: Uluru / Yulara (or Alice Springs)

Meals Included: breaksfast

You'll start the day early in one of the best ways imaginable – watching a spectacular sunrise over Uluru. Embark on a short walk across the rust-coloured landscape to a nearby waterhole and marvel at some of the traditional art sites. Your leader will shed light on the history and nature here and explain how the Anangu people are deeply connected to the lands. After, stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to continue learning about First Nations culture. Stop by Yulara for any travellers finishing the trip here. Then, hit the highway for Alice Springs just after lunch. This is where you’ll say goodbye to the members of your group who are leaving today and your local leader.

Included Activities:
-Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole with local Anangu Guide
-Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru Sunrise Viewing
-Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Cultural Centre

Day 5: Darwin

Location: Darwin

Accommodation: Hotel

Your included airport transfer will take you from the hotel to Alice Springs Airport today. Fly to Darwin (flight not included), or Gulumerrdgen in the language of the local Larrakia people, who are the Traditional Owners of the land on which Darwin is now located. Transfer to your hotel in Darwin, then meet your new group members and new leader during your second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight.

Day 6: Litchfield National Park / Darwin

Location: Litchfield National Park / Darwin

Accommodation: Darwin

Meals Included: lunch

Today, drive into the magnificent Litchfield National Park. Situated on a huge sandstone plateau, the park is home to stunning waterfalls, secret swimming spots and towering rocky pillars. Your first stop will be the Wangi Falls, where you’ll be able to take a short loop walk or go for a plunge in the picturesque natural pool. Then it’s off to the dramatic Tolmer Falls and Florence Falls. Hidden amongst monsoon forest, you'll have a picnic lunch next to a bubbling creek. The last stop for the afternoon is Litchfield’s famous Magnetic Termite Mounds, which are up to 100 years old and unique to the northern parts of Australia, before returning to Darwin for the evening.

Included Activities:
-Litchfield National Park - Wangi Falls
-Litchfield National Park - Tolmer Falls
-Litchfield National Park - Florence Falls
-Litchfield National Park - Termite Mounds

Day 7: Kakadu National Park

Location: Kakadu National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch, dinner

Rise bright and early, have breakfast and drive towards Kakadu National Park this morning. Covering an enormous 20,000 sq km, the park is a world of its own. Stop for at the Mamukala Wetlands (and see if you can spot the wetland birds, then drive on to Ubirr, one of Kakadu's rock art gems, where you’ll learn more about the local First Nations history and stories from your leader. Later in the afternoon hop aboard a cruise up the East Alligator River (despite the name, you won’t see any alligators – this is crocodile country) and take in the wonderful pristine wilderness of this World Heritage landscape. You’ll be joined by an Aboriginal guide who’ll provide a unique insight on the cultural significance of the landscape, the local mythology, and the plants and animals that live there. You'll also have the chance to disembark on the Arnhem Land side of the river. After, continue to your Kakadu accommodation for an included dinner with your group.

Included Activities:
-Kakadu National Park - Guluyambi Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River
-Kakadu National Park - Ubirr Rock Art Cultural Walk
-Kakadu National Park - Mamukala Wetlands

Day 8: Kakadu National Park / Darwin

Location: Kakadu National Park / Darwin

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Your final morning at Kakadu National Park begins with a drive to a local cultural arts centre at Jim Jim Creek. Here, depending on availability, you may be able to take part in a cultural weaving class, learning the craft and listening to local stories about the significance of weaving in the local culture. After lunch, a drive will take you to Burrungkuy (Nourlangie), famous for its World Heritage-listed rock art created by the Bininj people. There are various short walks available while you’re here, each offering a different perspective on the wildlife, art and natural features of the area. Then, a drive north will take you back to Darwin where your adventure will finish. If you’d like to extend your stay in Darwin, just speak to your booking agent.

Included Activities:
-Kakadu National Park - Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) rock art site

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (7 nights)

  • Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park - Guided Aboriginal cultural walk

  • Kings Canyon - Creek Walk

  • Kings Canyon - Light Towers by Night

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park - Walpa Gorge Walk

  • Watarrka National Park - Kings Canyon Rim Walk

  • Uluru - Uluru Sunset

  • Uluru - Kuniya Walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole with Anangu guide

  • Uluru - Uluru Sunrise

  • Litchfield National Park - Wangi Falls

  • Litchfield National Park - Tolmer Falls

show more

What's Not Included

  • Insurance

  • International Travel

Transport

  • DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA
  • Australia is a BIG country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that's why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
  • HOT WEATHER
  • From October to March it is likely that you will experience temperatures over 35C/95F. These extreme temperatures place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your leader will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping cool and hydrated.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • FLIGHTS BETWEEN TRIPS
  • Your flight from Alice Springs to Darwin is not included. Please see the itinerary for information on recommended flight details and book these through your agent or directly with the airline.
  • START & END TIMES
  • The trip starts in Alice Springs with a Welcome Meeting at 6pm on Day 1 at our joining point hotel. The trip finishes on arrival in Darwin at our finish point hotel by 4pm. Accommodation is not included on this day but can be booked on request.
  • COMBINATION TRIP
  • This is a combination trip made up of two shorter trips. This means the composition of your group may change in Darwin as some group members leave and new ones join you.
  • SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
  • A Single Supplement can be booked if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip, subject to availability.

Mode of Transport

  • DRIVING DISTANCES IN AUSTRALIA
  • Australia is a BIG country! In fact, the whole of Europe fits into Australia with plenty of room to spare. Australians are accustomed to driving long distances on holiday, but you may not be. Perth to Broome is roughly the length of Portugal. Driving from Alice Springs to Darwin is about the length of the UK, and Perth to Adelaide is about the same distance from Spain to Poland. However, that's why we think seeing Australia from the ground is better. We live in a country that has it all; stunning coastline and beaches, the outback, tropical rainforests, and some seriously amazing landscapes and wildlife. Please read the itinerary carefully for travel time estimates.
  • HOT WEATHER
  • From October to March it is likely that you will experience temperatures over 35C/95F. These extreme temperatures place stress on the air-conditioning units within our vehicles which can make travelling uncomfortable. Your leader will assist with regular breaks and information to assist keeping cool and hydrated.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Flights from Alice Springs to Darwin are not included. Please see the itinerary for information on recommended flight details.

    Temperatures in Northern Territory can be extreme, so you will need to be well prepared. Depending on the time of the year, daytime can be very hot (and the Australian sun is very strong year-round) so always use sun protection and drink plenty of water. In the evenings temperatures can really drop, so bring sufficient warm clothing.

    On some days of the trip, you’ll spend many hours driving through very remote areas of Australia. Sit back and enjoy landscapes that you would miss in any other form of travel. The days can be long, but you’ll want to fit as much of this amazing place in as you can in four short days!

    As sunrise and sunset times as well as weather conditions vary throughout the year, the order of activities may change to ensure you have the best experience possible. On occasion, the First Nations experiences may not be available should your guides have other cultural commitments, in which case there will be alternative activities.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

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

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

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15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

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Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

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Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

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Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

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May 11, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$4135 $3308

Operator discount: -$827

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Operator discount: -$827

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Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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