Day 1 : Garramilla (Darwin)
Touching down in Darwin, we'll waste no time getting into it as we head out for an optional visit to the Royal Flying Doctors Service. Learn about the history & the activities of the RFDS's pilots, engineers, doctors & nurses, & the experiences of the patients that were carried & cared for each day. See, experience & learn through the wonder of technology as this facility brings history to life before our free evening where we'll check out the city's cosmopolitan nightlife.
Accommodation : Travelodge Resort Darwin (or similar)
Day 2 : Garramilla (Darwin) to Kakadu National Park
After an included breakfast at the hotel this morning, we'll take a city tour on the coach and head to Kakadu National Park.
It's time to get to grips with the breathtaking landscapes of Kakadu National Park. We'll kick things off by meeting some local Indigenous people at their business, Pudakul. We'll be taken on an immersive cultural tour where we'll have the chance to learn and understand the local customs and traditions of the Aboriginal people of the region. It's an experience not to be missed. Fully immersed in these timeless lands we'll take a hike up to Ubirr lookout, to catch a stunning sunset over the Nadab floodplain before enjoying a free evening to chill out at our accommodation.
Accommodation : Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (or similar)
Day 3 : Kakadu National Park
Cameras at the ready! We have all day today to explore the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding National Park. You'll have the option to see the unique terrain of the Northern Territory from the sky, gliding over the strikingly different landscapes on a scenic flight. You can then opt into a Sunset Yellow Waters cruise this evening, while learning why this region is so important to the local Aboriginal people.
Accommodation : Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (or similar)
Day 4 : Kakadu National Park to Katherine Gorge
More natural beauty in store today, as we start with a visit to Edith Falls before we head to the otherworldly Katherine Gorge.
Welcome to the spectacular sandstone landscapes of Katherine Gorge. We'll have the opportunity to take a cruise and explore the world famous National Park, spotting waterfalls, ancient aboriginal rock art and of course the incredible gorge itself.
Accommodation : Contour Hotel Katherine (or similar)
Day 5 : Katherine Gorge to Garramilla (Darwin) via Litchfield National Park
Our time in Katherine comes to an end today, but the departure is easier knowing we're headed for another natural wonder...
Arriving in Litchfield National Park, we'll check out the enormous termite mounds and famous Florence Falls, two waterfalls pouring over a wide plateau into into deep, picture-perfect water holes. Grab your swimmers to take a heavenly dip in the crystal clear waters.
Back in Darwin we'll settle in for the night, ready to continue our adventures further south tomorrow.
Accommodation : Travelodge Resort Darwin (or similar)
Day 6 : Garramilla (Darwin) to Uluru (Ayers Rock) via Alice Springs
Flying out of Darwin, we have Alice Springs and the majestic Uluru in our sights.
Touching down in red-earthed Alice Springs, we'll jump on board a private coach bound for Uluru.
Welcome to Uluru! Here we'll settle into our lodge, ready for a few days of exploring this jaw-dropping destination. Before your head hits the pillow, you'll have the chance to visit the magical Field of Lights.
Accommodation : Voyages Outback Hotel & Lodge (or similar)
Day 7 : Uluru (Ayers Rock)
After a comfy night's sleep it's time to get out and about and explore the majesty of Uluru. And what better way to start the day than witnessing the rock bathed in the golden glow of an Australian sunrise? A sacred site for the local aboriginal tribe, this imposing rock is actually a staggering 700 million years old. We'll then get right into the heart of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with a hike to the Walpa Gorge and Valley of the Winds, where boulders bigger than skyscrapers dominate the landscape. This afternoon you'll have a chance to try out your skills by taking an optional Segway tour. You could also take part in a dot painting workshop.
Accommodation : Voyages Outback Hotel & Lodge (or similar)
Day 8 : Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kings Canyon
Grab your sneakers, camera and your sense of adventure - it's time for a day trip! Our first stop is an included Big BBQ Brekkie at Kings Creek Station, then we're ready to go.
Your guided hike around the imposing King's Canyon awaits. Wonder at the lunar-like landscape as you hike through the canyon and take respite from the sun in the shady space at the bottom of the climb, The Garden of Eden. It's as idyllic and mythical as it sounds and is home to its own unique ecosystem in this barren landscape.
Finish the day off with a glass of bubbles in hand and the sunset casting a glow over the Outback's most picturesque backdrop, there's no better way to spend your final evening in Uluru.
Accommodation : Voyages Outback Hotel & Lodge (or similar)
Day 9 : Uluru (Ayers Rock)
This morning we'll have the chance to check out the landscape from the clouds with a scenic flight or a Skydive over the outback before it's time to say our sad farewells to our Contiki family. Australia, it's been real. We may shed a tear, but we'll never forget what we've experienced together in this spectacular land. And just remember, it's not goodbye, just see you soon.