Outback Odyssey

Itinerary

Day 1, Sydney & Merimbula

Say a fond farewell to Sydney on our first day takes as we head to Kiama, Ulladulla, Moruya & Merimbula; the strange sounding names pale into the clear blue haze as we journey South exploring miles of near deserted pristine beaches on our way to Melbourne. Accommodation: Budget lodging included

Day 2-3, Melbourne

Melbourne is the cosmopolitan capital of Australia. You'll have plenty of time to appreciate this attractive city where you can sample a diverse range of international cuisine, catch a "Neighbours Tour" or go to a traditional Aussie rules football game. Accommodation: Budget lodging included

Day 4-6, Great Ocean Road & Grampians National Park

Leaving Melbourne, we head West on the Great Ocean Road, one of the most scenic stretches of coastal road in the world. We may find some Koalas in the wild, hike in a temperate rainforest and explore the rugged coastline. Visit the famous Twelve Apostles and maybe catch a helicopter flight for a bird's eye view of the surrounding area. Take in a winery tour on our way to the majestic Grampians National Park. Here we will hike the ancient volcanic trails, photograph the lakes, waterfalls, gorges and kangaroos. Come and swap stories around the evening campfire as we plan the following days of our journey. Accommodation: Great Ocean Road: 1 night budget lodging included Grampians: 2 nights camping included

Day 7-9, Adelaide, Mt Remarkable & Coober Pedy

After stopping in South Australia's capital, Adelaide, we'll go hiking in Mt Remarkable National Park, spotting wild kangaroos and emus at a fantastic lookout over the surrounding gulf country before heading back to our semi bush camp. Marvel at the changing scenery on the Stuart Highway as we head into the true outback interior and Coober Pedy. Take an opal mine tour - a great opportunity to purchase opals from the miners themselves. Tonight we will sleep underground in a dugout motel after a night out with the locals. Accommodation: Adelaide & Coober Pedy: Budget lodging included Mt Remarkable: Camping included

Day 10-11, Ayers Rock/Uluru

You will really appreciate how big and flat this country is as we cross the border into the Northern Territory and head towards Uluru (Ayers Rock). Our first view of the mighty monolith will be at sunset, so you can witness the changing shades of red of this aweinspiring natural splendour. The following day we will hike around the base of Uluru, learning some of the Aboriginal legends that abound in this World Heritage Area. We'll also visit the excellent cultural centre before heading to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a series of large dome shaped rocks. Accommodation: Camping included

Day 12-14, Kings Canyon & Alice Springs

The third natural wonder in this area is King's Canyon. We'll hike the challenging Rim Trail, seeing the Garden of Eden, a chasm filled with palm trees and take in some stunning views across the Canyon. We'll head to Alice Springs via Kings Creek Station where there is an opportunity for you to take a quad bike or camel ride. We have a free day to take time out in Alice Springs. "The Alice" is home to some of the world's best hot air ballooning, complete with a champagne breakfast. Consider taking an optional day trip through the Western MacDonnell Ranges where you can see Simpson's Gap, the Ochre Pits or even hike around Ormiston Gorg; visit the Desert Park, go shopping or just hang out at the pool. There's the chance to hit the town in the evening for a meal out and maybe one of the local clubs or bars. Accommodation: Camping included

Day 15-16, Devils Marbles & Manyallaluk

Heading North again, stopping at the Devil's Marbles for some great photos and a hike before arriving at our "bush camp" for the night. We'll then spend a night at Manyallaluk, an Aboriginal camp where you will learn more about this ancient culture. Learn how to throw a spear or even "make fire" using two sticks. Find out how the aboriginals existed for thousands of years in harmony with their surroundings. The Aboriginals themselves teach these ancient skills. They will take us on a hike to learn more about "Bush Tucker". An excellent opportunity to purchase didgeridoos, paintings and woven baskets from the people who make them, and all the money stays in the community. Accommodation: Camping & Bush Camp included

Day 17-19, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park & Darwin

Next stop is Katherine Gorge, where you can take a cruise up two of the magnificent natural gorges carved by the Katherine river. For our final night we'll camp by a crystal clear waterfall in Litchfield National Park. Time for a swim then a walk down to the base of Florence Falls. Learn about the magnetic termite mounds before heading to the city of Darwin. Maybe join us for a night out tonight to recap on your three week adventure. Accommodation: Camping & Bush Camp at Litchfield included Tour ends at approx 17:00 - 18:00 hrs in Darwin on day 19