Australia

A big place with a big heart

Chockas full of crocas

Don’t be taken in by their toothy grins
Crocodiles are classified as both a hypercarnivorous
apex predator and a protected species, and it’s
probably no surprise to hear that the waterways of
northern Australia are host to a healthy population
of them – both saltwater and freshwater. Freshies,
as the latter are known locally, are considered the
friendlier of the two and many of our Top End trips
include croc-spotting tours. While fresh-water crocs
don’t generally harm people, they are known to
bite out of self defence if feeling threatened. So it’s
best not to try and pat them.

Fast facts
A lotta land G’day mate The great fence Got the goods

Covering over 34,000 In 2005, security The Dingo Fence, In 1954, Oxford student
sq km, Anna Creek guards at Canberra’s which stretches from Bob Hawke set a world
Station in South Parliament House were Queensland to South record for skulling
Australia is the world’s banned from calling Australia, is over twice 2.5 pints of beer in 11
largest working cattle visitors “mate”. Due to the length of China’s seconds. He was elected
station – and bigger public outcry, the ban Great Wall... though it’s Prime Minister of
than Belgium. lasted only 24 hours. not quite as spectacular. Australia 29 years later.

12 Australia
 Uluru too
In 1993, a dual naming policy saw Ayers
Rock also being named Uluru, which was
a recognition of the sacred significance
of the area to the Anangu people. It
was also around this time that people
recognised that it caused offense to the
local Aboriginal people to climb Uluru.
Kata Tjuta, Australia - William Tang
3 Day Uluru Explorer
3 days, Alice Springs to Alice Springs
Venture into Australia’s rugged Red Centre and encounter the myth-laden landscapes
and staggering natural attractions that have made the Outback so famous.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/Kata Tjuta (The
Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers Rock) Welcome to Alice Springs,
the Red Centre’s dusty, character-filled heart. This
adventure gets underway with a visit to the Outback
Camel Farm. Why not get a new perspective of the
Australian Outback atop one of these 'ships of the
desert'. Make tracks across sunburnt plains to the
captivating domes of Kata Tjuta and enjoy a guided
hike to uncover the legends of the Valley of the Winds.
Then head to Australia’s most iconic landmark and
watch the colour of the rock change during a magical
desert sunset over ancient Uluru – a fitting end to
a memorable day. Then choose whether to bunker
down in a cosy swag (Aussie bedroll), where you can
literally fall asleep under the stars, or sleep in your
permanent tent. Day 2 Uluru (Ayers Rock)/Watarrka
National Park (Kings Canyon) Wake early and join a
local guide for an exploration around the base of Uluru,
discovering its many caves and rock art sites. View the
rock from different vantage points and learn about one
of the world’s oldest living cultures on an interpretive
walk led by a local Indigenous guide. Browse
Aboriginal arts and crafts at the cultural centre, then
travel to our campsite located within Watarrka National
Park for another night camped under sparkling night
skies. Day 3 Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)/
Alice Springs Grab your hiking shoes and head out on
foot along the Rim Walk to discover the remarkable
formations and towering rock faces that make up Kings
Canyon. Wander past the park’s ochre-coloured rock
walls and columns, visit the famous sites of the Lost
City and the Amphitheatre and take a dip in the Garden
of Eden’s shaded pool before tucking into a tasty lunch.
Then watch the colours of the desert change on the
trip back to Alice Springs.
Highlights
• Take a guided hike through the
Valley of the Winds
• Enjoy a morning walk around the base of
breathtaking Uluru
• Learn about ancient Indigenous culture
on an interpretive walk
• Camp in the depths of Watarrka
National Park
• Be dwarfed by towering Kings Canyon
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com
N ORTH E R N TE R R ITO RY Alice
Springs
Watarrka NP
(Kings Canyon)
Kata Tjuta
(The Olgas)
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
3 Day Uluru Explorer
trip code PAR3
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp
with shared facilities (2 nts)
TRANSPORT Private vehicle
MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 502 kg pp per trip
notes 1. Tour commences in Alice Springs on Day 1
at 6am and finishes in Alice Springs on Day 3 at approx.
6pm – please consider this when booking flights
and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book
accommodation in advance and extend your stay here.
3. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can pre-purchase
one from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at time of booking.
4. You can also join this trip in Yulara (Uluru) on Day 1;
please see trip code PAR3Y. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not
included. 6. This trip uses simple, permanent, twin-share
tents or there is an option to swag camp. Upgrade your
accommodation on trip code PAY3C (see below). 7. See trip
code PAR3F for French and PAR3G for German-speaking
departures.
TRAVELLER RATING 4.70 out of 5
DEPARTS Daily
Upgrade your accommodation
The 3 Day Uluru Safari (PAY3C) allows you
to follow the same fabulous itinerary as
the 3 Day Uluru Explorer (on this page),
but the accommodation is in comfortable
permanent, twin-share safari tents with a
light and fan. Full linen is also provided,
which includes a pillow and towel.
Northern Territory 13

KIngs Canyon, Northern Territory
Kata Tjuta, Northern Territory
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Western MacDonnell Ranges/ Glen Helen
Alice Springs
Watarrka NP
(Kings Canyon)
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)
4 Day Red Centre Explorer
trip code PAR4
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (3 nts)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle
MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners
GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 670 kg pp per trip
NOTES 1. Tour commences in Alice Springs on Day 1
at 6am and finishes in Alice Springs on Day 4 at approx.
5pm – please consider this when booking flights
and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book
accommodation in advance and extend your stay here.
3. Please bring a sleeping bag,or you can pre-purchase
one from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at time of booking.
4. You can also join this trip in Yulara (Uluru) on Day 1;
please see trip code PAR4Y. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not
included. 6. This trip uses simple, permanent, twin-share
tents or there is an option to swag camp. Upgrade your
accommodation on trip code PAY4C (see box above).
TRAVELLER RATING 4.70 out of 5
DEPARTS Every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
and Sunday
14 Northern Territory
Upgrade your
accommodation
The 4 Day Red Centre Safari (PAY4C)
allows you to follow the same
fabulous itinerary as the 4 Day Red
Centre Explorer below, but the
accommodation is in comfortable
permanent, twin-share safari tents
that have a light and fan fitted into
the tent. Full linen is also provided,
which includes a pillow and towel,
and bathrooms facilities are shared.
4 Day Red Centre Explorer
4 days, Alice Springs to Alice Springs
Discover Australia’s own Lost City in Kings Canyon, camp out in the Western
MacDonnell Ranges and learn about the local legends of Creation Time.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/Kata Tjuta (The MacDonnell Ranges/Alice Springs Begin the day with
Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers Rock) Begin this Red Centre a hike around Ormiston Gorge and perhaps also take
adventure in the small outback town of Alice Springs. a morning swim in a beautiful waterhole. Journey to
Then make tracks towards iconic Uluru, stopping Hermannsburg, a local Aboriginal community where
at a camel farm en route to say “hi” to these unique Indigenous artist Albert Namatjira spent much of his
creatures. Take in the beauty of Kata Tjuta on a guided life. Later, take a bumpy 4x4 journey across the desert
walk through the Valley of the Winds, then sit back to Palm Valley and Cycad Gorge. Be sure to have the
and enjoy an incredible Uluru sunset. In the middle of camera ready on this final leg of the journey back to
this isolated landscape, nothing can beat an evening Alice Springs – the extraordinary scenes of Australia’s
curled up in a swag watching the desert stars dance wilderness are bound to impress.
across an endless night sky. Day 2 Uluru (Ayers Rock)/
Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) Rise early to
Highlights
experience a jaw-dropping sunrise over Uluru before
exploring this giant sandstone formation up-close.
• Discover rich diversity in Alice Springs
Learn the story of the Mala people on a guided
walk with a local Aboriginal guide, and admire the • Explore mesmerising Uluru
Indigenous art on display at a local cultural centre.
• Learn about outback ways of life from an
Then head into Watarrka National Park and spend
Indigenous guide
the evening camping. Day 3 Watarrka National Park
(Kings Canyon)/Glen Helen Take a stroll along the • Follow the Kings Canyon’s best hiking
walking tracks of Kings Canyon, where chasms, gorges trails through the bush
and surprisingly lush gardens dot the landscape.
Before the heat of the day gets too intense, head • Embark on a 4x4 expedition across the
along the Mereenie Loop Track to our camping spot Australian Outback
in the Western MacDonnell National Park. Enjoy a
• Hike to the Garden of Eden rock pool
refreshing dip in a waterhole or pull up a stool at
a bar overlooking the Finke River. Day 4 Western

Scaly stats
Twenty out of the world’s 25 most
venomous snakes all do their slithering
on Australian soil. Don’t be too alarmed
though – the country averages only
two recorded deaths from snake bites
per year. And these usually result from
people trying to grab them.
Katherine, Northern Territory
5 Day Alice Springs to Adelaide Explorer
5 days, Alice Springs to Adelaide
Travel from rustic Alice to charming Adelaide on a true outback odyssey that takes in
Uluru, Kata Tjuta and the unique opal mining town of Coober Pedy.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/Kata Tjuta (The
Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers Rock) Flanked by rugged hills
and spindly ridges, Alice Springs is the archetypal
gateway to Central Australia’s vast Outback. Hike past
the Valley of the Winds’ gargantuan rock formations,
then be treated to a mesmerising Uluru sunset. Day 2
Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers Rock) Admire the
morning colours that break over the world’s biggest
rock face, then venture in for a closer perspective. Join
a local Aboriginal guide on a cultural walk to learn
more about the sacred importance of this hallowed
site. Day 3 Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)/
Erldunda Although the hike may be challenging, the
sights to be savoured in Kings Canyon are magnificent.
Admire the Garden of Eden oasis before returning for
2 Day Alice Springs to Darwin Explorer
2 days, Alice Springs to Darwin
A short trip across a massive landscape; get a taste of the Northern Territory’s
staggering scale and sense of timelessness on this two-day adventure.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/Karlu Karlu (Devils
Marbles)/Daly Waters Kick off this two-day adventure
with a visit to the iconic Karlu Karlu, or 'Devils Marbles'.
Hear the Aboriginal Creation Time story behind
these gigantic boulders before continuing on to
Tennant Creek for lunch. In the evening visit a true
blue Aussie pub, perhaps sharing a couple of beers
with the friendly locals before camping out beneath
the stars for an evening of peaceful outback solitude.
Day 2 Katherine Gorge/Darwin Start the day with an
exploration of Nitmiluk National Park. Meaning the
'Place of the Cicada Dreaming' in the Jawoyn language,
it’s a stunning place to explore. Take a short walk to
Barrawei Lookout for an incredible view of Katherine
Gorge before learning about the significance of this
5 Day Alice Springs to Adelaide
Explorer
trip code PASAE5
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (3 nts), underground multishare (1 nt)
TRANSPORT Private vehicle
MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 6
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 502 kg pp per trip
notes 1. Tour commences in Alice Springs on Day
1 at 6am and finishes in Adelaide on Day 5 at approx.
6pm – please consider this when booking flights
and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book
accommodation in advance and extend your stay here.
3. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can pre-purchase one
from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at time of booking.
4. You can also join this trip in Yulara (Uluru) on Day 1;
please see trip code PASAE5Y. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals
not included.
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
another relaxing evening gathered around a campfire. DEPARTS Every Sunday
Day 4 Coober Pedy Visit an underground opal mine
and see how the locals live in this scorching part of the Darwin PASAE5
desert. Day 5 Adelaide Take a scenic drive from Coober PASDE2
Pedy to Adelaide, stopping at salt lakes, the infamous Katherine
Daly Waters
Woomera and oceanside ports along the way. On
the home stretch, bask in the beauty of Australia's
N O RT H E R N Karlu Karlu
bushscapes before wrapping up this trip in Adelaide. (Devils Marbles)
T E R R I TO RY
Alice Springs
Highlights
Watarrka NP
(Kings Canyon)
Kata Tjuta
(The Olgas) Erldunda
• Watch the sun rise over Uluru
Simpson
Uluru Desert
• Explore the Valley of the Winds (Ayers Rock) Coober Pedy
• Venture underground at Coober Pedy
SOUTH
A U S T R A LI A
Adelaide
2 Day Alice Springs to Darwin
Explorer
trip code PASDE2
area to the Jawoyn people. Stop for a swim in the physical rating  style Original
refreshing waters of Edith Falls before journeying to cultural rating  theme Short Break
tropical Darwin, the Territory’s culture-rich capital city.
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Self-pitch camping with facilities (1 nt)
Highlights
TRANSPORT Mini coach
MEALS No meals included
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 6
notes 1. Tour commences in Alice Springs on Day
• Visit Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) 1 at 6am and finishes in Darwin on Day 2 at approx.
6pm – please consider this when booking flights
• Order a beer at the Daly Waters Pub and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book
accommodation in advance and extend your stay here.
• Hike around Nitmiluk National Park 3. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can pre-purchase one
from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at time of booking.
4. Allow AUD 100 for meals not included.
• View the breathtaking Katherine Gorge
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
• Take a dip beneath Edith Falls
DEPARTS Every Monday from May to October
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Northern Territory & South Australia 15
 Dry runnings
If you’re in Alice Springs on the last
Sunday of August then you’re in for a
treat, as the Henley-on-Todd Regatta
rolls into town. Featuring yachts,
kayaks and ‘pirate ships’ all battling
it out for racing glory, this regatta is
surely one of the most unorthodox in
the world – particularly given that it’s
held in a dry river bed and people run
with their crafts. In fact, the event had
to be cancelled in 1993 due to the river
having water in it.

Mary River Kakadu NP

Darwin
Litchfield NP
Katherine
Daly Waters

N O RT H E R N
T E R R I TO RY
Karlu Karlu

Cloud 9 Explorer North

(Devils Marbles)
Watarrka NP
(Kings Canyon)
Alice Springs
9 days, Alice Springs to Darwin
Kata Tjuta
(The Olgas)
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
From the rust-coloured domes of Kata Tjuta to the hidden waterholes of Kings
Canyon, and the deep gorges of Katherine to the lush rainforest of Kakadu, experience
Cloud 9 Explorer North all that Australia’s Outback has to offer on this overland escape.
trip code PC9AD
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/Kata Tjuta (The learn about their culture and traditions. Wind down
Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers Rock) After making your the day with a cruise along the Mary River Wetlands,
physical rating  style Original
acquaintance with Alice Springs, travel across desert where the local crocodiles are often kind enough to
cultural rating  theme Overland
plains to Kata Tjuta, embarking on a hike to discover join us. Day 8 Mary River/Kakadu National Park Hike
the nearby Valley of the Winds. End the day with a to Ubirr and see ancient Aboriginal rock art. Clamber
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Permanent tented camp (4 nts), spectacular sunset over ancient Uluru. Day 2 Uluru up to a rocky lookout where the Nadab Floodplain
camping with facilities (1 nt), hostel (3 nts) (Ayers Rock)/Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) and East Alligator River make for an astonishing view.
TRANSPORT Private vehicle, mini coach, all terrain vehicle
Gain a deeper understanding of one of the world’s Reward your efforts with a splash in the plunge pools
MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 4 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 6 oldest living cultures on a walk with a knowledgeable at Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) before heading back
NOTES 1. Tour commences in Alice Springs on Day Aboriginal guide. Days 3-4 Watarrka National Park to camp. Day 9 Kakadu National Park/Darwin Put
1 at 6am and finishes in Darwin on Day 9 at approx.
6pm – please consider this when booking flights (Kings Canyon)/Alice Springs Venture into Kings the 4x4 through its paces on the way to Jim Jim Falls,
and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book Canyon and marvel at the Amphitheatre, the Lost City, then continue on to Twin Falls. Enjoy the tranquillity
accommodation in advance and extend your stay. 3. You
can also join this trip in Yulara (Uluru) on Day 1; please see the Garden of Eden and the North and South walls. of Kakadu National Park before the return to Darwin
trip code PC9ADY. 4. Allow AUD 200 for meals not included. Return to Alice Springs and spend a free day in this marks the end of this all-Australian adventure.
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
outback enclave. Day 5 Alice Springs/Karlu Karlu

DEPARTS Every Thursday from May to October

(Devils Marbles)/Daly Waters Set off northbound for Highlights
Karlu Karlu, crossing the Tropic of Capricorn along the
way. After a long day of travel, relax with an ice-cold • Watch the sun set over Uluru
beer at the famous Daly Waters Pub. Day 6 Katherine
Gorge/Darwin Stop by Nitmiluk National Park, home • Share a yarn with the locals at the Daly
to Katherine Gorge, Edith Falls and Burrawei Lookout, Waters Pub
before continuing to the state capital. Day 7 Darwin/
• Cool off in Litchfield’s tropical waterfalls
Litchfield National Park/Mary River Visit Litchfield
National Park and escape the heat in refreshing • Meet the Limilngan-Wulna people
swimming holes. Head east and meet the Limilngan-
Wulna people, traditional owners of the land, and • See ancient rock art at Ubirr

16 Northern Territory
 Kakadu culture
Kakadu is not only one of the most
spectacular national parks in Australia,
it’s also one of the most culturally
diverse. Twelve clans hail from the area,
and three native languages are still
spoken. There are also over 5,000 rock
art sites to be discovered within the park.
Northern Territory - Tourism NT
Litchfield NP, Northern Territory
4 Day Kakadu/Katherine/
Litchfield Explorer
4 days, Darwin to Darwin
Spot saltwater crocodiles in the Mary River Wetlands, learn about local bush tucker in
Wulna Country and gaze up at Kakadu’s towering Jim Jim Falls.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Darwin/Litchfield National
Park/Mary River As quickly as you can say "g'day",
it’s time to farewell Darwin and head to the natural
beauty of Litchfield National Park. Freshen up with a
dip in a swimming hole before travelling into Wulna
Country, where the group will be welcomed by the
Limilngan-Wulna people who are the traditional
owners of the area. Learn about bush tucker, test
out a didgeridoo or try your hand at basket weaving
before venturing out to the Mary River Wetlands – a
hotspot for birdwatching. Day 2 Mary River/Kakadu
National Park Journey to Kakadu National Park, an
enclave of Indigenous Australian culture, for an insight
into the traditional values of one of the world's oldest
civilisations. View ancient rock art at Ubirr, head out on
a nature hike for incredible views out over the Nadab
floodplain and take a splash in Maguk (Barramundi
Gorge) before setting up camp for the evening.
Day 3 Kakadu National Park/Katherine Located in
Kakadu’s lush heart, marvel at the 200-metre-tall Jim
Jim Falls before continuing on to Twin Falls. Perhaps
get an up-close experience of the falls on a boat and
boardwalk trip. In the afternoon, journey through
the once-bustling gold-mining town of Pine Creek to
reach Nitmiluk National Park, a beautiful place to camp
Darwin
Kakadu NP
Mary River
Litchfield NP
N ORTH ER N
TE R R ITORY
Nitmiluk NP
Katherine
4 Day Kakadu/Katherine/Litchfield
Explorer
trip code PNTK4
physical rating
cultural rating
 style Original
 theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 16
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (3 nts)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle
MEALS 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners
GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 512 kg pp per trip
or
NOTES 1. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 6:50am
f
and finishes in Darwin on Day 4 at approx. 6pm – please
for the night. Day 4 Nitmiluk National Park/Darwin
es
consider this when booking flights and accommodation.
Consider taking a slow and steady boat cruise through o t
2. We recommend you book accommodation in advance
n n trip
and extend your stay here. 3. Strict luggage limit of 10
the tranquil waters of Katherine Gorge, all the time
i
kg applies in Kakadu; excess luggage can be stored at
d c
Darwin accommodation. 4. Please bring a sleeping bag,
Ad t y4
feeling dwarfed by the imposing 70-metre-high walls
or you can pre-purchase one from us for AUD 30. Please
separating this mighty chasm. Edith Falls is the next
pn
enquire at time of booking. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not
stop, where a refreshing swim is on the cards. Get a included. 6. This trip uses simple, permanent, twin-share
tents or there is an option to swag camp. Upgrade your
final glance of the Australian Outback on the trip back accommodation on trip code PNTY4C (see below).
to Darwin. After arrival, perhaps head out for a beer to TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
celebrate this journey in Australia’s Top End.
DEPARTS Daily from July to August, and every
Highlights
Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from April to June and
September to October
• Be shown bush tucker in Wulna Country
Upgrade your accommodation
• Go croc-spotting in the Mary
River Wetlands The 4 Day Kakadu/Katherine/Litchfield
Safari (PNTY4C) allows you to follow
• Take a swim at Barramundi Gorge
the same fabulous itinerary of the 4
• Experience the astonishing beauty of Day Explorer (on this page), but the
Kakadu National Park
accommodation is in comfortable
• Feel dwarfed by the impressive permanent, twin-share safari tents with a
Katherine Gorge light and fan. Full linen is also provided,
which includes a pillow and towel.
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Northern Territory 17
 Garn’ on the Ghan
Stretching across the continent from
Adelaide to Darwin, there’s nothing
like a journey on the Ghan to get a
sense of Australia’s endless expanse of
Outback. The Ghan is an abbreviation of
the service’s official name, The Afghan
Express, which was coined in honour of
the Afghan camel drivers who helped
explore the country’s vast interior. Keep
an eye out for other remnants of their
legacy: some one million feral camels.
Northern Territory - Tourism Australia

Mary River Kakadu NP Katherine Gorge, Northern Territory

Darwin
Litchfield NP
Katherine
N O RT H E R N
T E R R I TO RY
The Ghan
Glen Helen/Western
MacDonnell Ranges
Watarrka NP
(Kings Canyon) Alice Springs
Kata Tjuta
(The Olgas)
Uluru (Ayers Rock)
The Ghan Adventure – Gold Class
trip code PISGC
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Overland
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Permanent safari camp with shared
facilities (5 nts), overnight sleeper train (1 nt), hotel (2 nts)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle, overnight train
MEALS 5 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 5 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to availability
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 1339 kg pp per trip
NOTES 1. Trip commences on Day 1 at 6am and finishes
on arrival in Darwin on Day 9 at approx. 6.30pm – please
take this into consideration when booking any flights and
accommodation. 2. We recommend you pre book extra
accommodation pre and post the trip. 3. This trip requires
an increased non-refundable deposit (AUD 500, CAD 500,
USD 500, EUR 400, GBP 350, CHF 500, NZD 600) in order
to secure tickets for the Ghan train journey. Please see Trip
Notes for more details. 4. You can join this trip in Yulara
(Uluru) on Day 1 no later than 2pm. Please see trip code
PISGY for details. 5. Allow AUD 200 for meals not included.
TRAVELLER RATING 4.50 out of 5
DEPARTS Every Thursday from April to November
The Ghan Adventure – Gold Class
9 days, Alice Springs to Darwin
Catch a mesmerising Uluru sunset, watch the morning break over Kata Tjuta, dine
on traditional outback fare, then hop aboard the famous Ghan and get among the
myriad flora and fauna that colour the Top End.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Alice Springs/ Kata Tjuta (The
Olgas) Uluru (Ayers Rock) Journey from Alice Springs
across the sparse Australian Outback to Kata Tjuta,
where 36 magical domes are waiting to be discovered.
Hike through the Valley of the Winds before travelling
to Uluru for sunset. Day 2 Uluru (Ayers Rock)/
Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) Wake to a
spellbinding sunrise over Uluru. Explore the rock’s base
with an Indigenous guide, witness ancient Aboriginal
art and discover secluded waterholes that bring the
surrounding desert to life. Then travel to Watarrka
National Park and fall asleep to thousands of stars
sparkling a trail across the desert sky. Day 3 Watarrka
National Park (Kings Canyon)/Glen Helen Discover
the Lost City and Garden of Eden on a guided walk
through Kings Canyon. After a picnic lunch, travel along
the Mereenie Loop Track to Glen Helen. Experience
Aussie pub culture with a beer at an outback bar, or
enjoy a swim in a local waterhole. Day 4 Western
MacDonnell Ranges/Alice Springs Keep eyes peeled
for wildlife on a morning hike at Ormiston Gorge. Visit
Hermannsburg, a mission famous for Aboriginal arts
and crafts, then explore Palm Valley and Cycad Gorge,
which were once part of a prehistoric inland sea.
Admire the scenery of the Western MacDonnell Ranges
on the trip back to Alice Springs. Day 5 The Ghan
Hop aboard the legendary Ghan and prepare for one
of the world’s great train journeys. Day 6 Katherine/
Darwin Stop off at Katherine to marvel at the stunning
Katherine Gorge before continuing on to Darwin. Day 7
Darwin/Litchfield National Park/Mary River Escape
the heat in the cascading waterfalls and refreshing
swimming holes of Litchfield National Park. Meet the
Limilngan-Wulna people, sacred custodians of the land,
and be welcomed by their humbling 'Cul Cul' greeting.
Come late afternoon, embark on a short cruise down
the Mary River in search of crocs. Day 8 Mary River/
Kakadu National Park See the ancient rock art of Ubirr,
view the Nadab Floodplain and cool off with a splash
in the plunge pools of Maguk (Barramundi Gorge).
Day 9 Kakadu National Park/Darwin Head out by
4x4 to iconic Twin Falls before this Northern Territory
adventure concludes in Darwin.
Highlights
• Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of Uluru
• Step aboard the famous Ghan
• Refresh in the swimming holes of
Litchfield National Park

18 Northern Territory
 Upgrade your accommodation
The 3 Day 4WD Kakadu/Litchfield Safari
(PNTY3C) follows the same fabulous
itinerary of the 3 Day Kakadu/Litchfield
Explorer below, but the accommodation
is in comfortable permanent, twin-share
safari tents with a light and fan. Linen is
provided, including a pillow and towel.
Twin Falls, Northern Territory
3 Day 4WD Kakadu/Litchfield Explorer
3 days, Darwin to Darwin
Become immersed in Darwin’s eccentric vibe, take a soak in the idyllic swimming
holes of Litchfield National Park and gaze out over the sprawling Nadab Floodplain.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Darwin/Litchfield National
Park/Mary River Welcome to Darwin, the Northern
Territory’s balmy, laidback, slightly kooky capital city.
Trade the urban heat for the cool swimming holes of
Litchfield National Park. Get a special welcome to the
Wulna Country from the Limilngan-Wulna people,
and gain an insight into local Indigenous culture with
lessons in bush tucker, didgeridoo playing, spear
throwing and basket weaving. Then try keeping count
of the crocs floating by on a boat trip through the Mary
River Wetlands. Day 2 Mary River/Kakadu National
Park Witness haunting Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr, then
climb up a rocky outcrop overlooking the East Alligator
River. Later in the day, cool off with a dip in the plunge
pools of Maguk (Barramundi Gorge) before heading to
3 Day 4WD Kakadu Unleashed
3 days, Darwin to Darwin
Meet the traditional custodians of Kakadu National Park, marvel at majestic waterfalls
and head off croc-spotting in the Mary River Wetlands.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Darwin/Kakadu National Park
Kick off this Kakadu adventure with a traditional
welcome from the Limilngan–Wulna people.
Learn about the culture and ancient history of this
Indigenous tribe, then journey to the Mary River
Wetlands, where saltwater crocodiles rule the waters.
Arrive in Ubirr for a spectacular sunset and the chance
to see Aboriginal rock art that’s thousands of years old.
Day 2 Twin and Jim Jim Falls Take a boat cruise with a
national park ranger through the chasm of a gorge to
witness Twin Falls up close – the dwarfing magnitude
of this chasm invokes the often startling realisation
of just how small we really are. After lunch, hike to
the base of Jim Jim Falls, where a swim or laze on the
beach is an excellent way to wile away the afternoon.
the camp site in Kakadu National Park. Day 3 Kakadu
National Park/Darwin Admire the magnificent Jim Jim
Falls and get a sense of the scale of Kakadu’s Twin Falls
on a boat trip to its base. Perhaps toast the end of this
adventure with a beer back in Darwin.
Highlights
• Camp out under the stars in the
Aussie Outback
• View ancient Aboriginal rock art at Ubirr
• Hike around Kakadu National Park
• Marvel at Jim Jim Falls
Day 3 Kakadu National Park/Darwin Plunge into the
refreshing waters of Maguk Gorge before working up a
sweat hiking to the top of Gunlom Falls, where a series
of swimming holes await your arrival. In the afternoon,
head back to lively Darwin.
Highlights
• Learn about local bush tucker
• Spot crocs in the Mary River Wetlands
• View Aboriginal rock art thousands of
years old in Ubirr
• Hike to the top of Gunlom Falls
Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com
Darwin N ORTH ER N
TE R R ITORY
Ubirr
Kakadu NP
Litchfield NP Mary River
Jim Jim Falls
PNTK3
Twin Falls
PNTKU3
3 Day 4WD Kakadu/Litchfield
Explorer
trip code PNTK3
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 16
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (2 nts)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle
MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
GUARANTEE Departure guaranteed
CARBON EMISSIONS OFFSET 512 kg pp per trip
NOTES 1. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 6:50am
and finishes in Darwin on Day 3 at approx. 6pm – please
consider this when booking flights and accommodation.
2. We recommend you book accommodation in advance
and extend your stay here. 3. Strict luggage limit of 10 kg
applies in Kakadu; excess luggage can be stored at Darwin
accommodation. 4. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can
pre-purchase one from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at
time of booking. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not included.
6. This trip uses simple, permanent twin-share tents or there
is an option to swag camp. Upgrade your accommodation
on trip code PNTY3C. See box above for more information.
7. See trip code PNTK3F for French-speaking departures.
TRAVELLER RATING 4.00 out of 5
DEPARTS Daily from June to September; every Monday,
Wednesday, Friday and Sunday from November to April;
plus every Saturday in May and October.
3 Day 4WD Kakadu Unleashed
trip code PNTKU3
physical rating  style Basix
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 16
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (1 nt), camping with facilities (1 nt)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle
MEALS 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 4
notes 1. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 6:50am
and finishes in Darwin on Day 3 at approx. 6pm – please
consider this when booking flights and accommodation.
2. We recommend you book accommodation in advance
and extend your stay here. 3. Strict luggage limit of 10 kg
applies in Kakadu; excess luggage can be stored at Darwin
accommodation. 4. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can
pre-purchase one from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at
time of booking. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not included.
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
DEPARTS Every Monday and Wednesday from April to
May, and every Monday, Wednesday and Sunday from June
to October.
Northern Territory 19
 Ancient interactions
We are fortunate to work with two unique
community-owned tourism businesses
in Australia’s Northern Territory. Local
Aboriginal guides from the Anangu
community lead walking tours at the base
of Uluru, sharing their special knowledge
and culture in their native language (with
an English-speaking interpreter on hand).
And in Kakadu National Park, members of
the Limilngan-Wulna people share insights
into their traditions and culture with talks
on bush tucker, didgeridoo playing, basket
weaving and spear throwing.
Northern Territory - Mary Anne Nelson Bush tucker - Tourism Australia

Kakadu, Northern Territory

Darwin

5 Day Top End Explorer

Kakadu NP
Mary River
Litchfield NP Jim Jim Falls
Mt Bundy Station Twin Falls
Katherine Nitmiluk NP
NO RTHER N T E R R I TO RY
5 Day Top End Explorer
trip code PNTK5
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Short Break
GROUP SIZE Max 16
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (3 nts), camping with facilities (1 nt)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle
MEALS 4 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 4 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 4
notes 1. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at 6:50am
and finishes in Darwin on Day 5 at approx. 6pm – please
consider this when booking flights and accommodation.
2. We recommend you book accommodation in advance
and extend your stay here. 3. Strict luggage limit of 10 kg
applies in Kakadu; excess luggage can be stored at Darwin
accommodation. 4. Please bring a sleeping bag, or you can
pre-purchase one from us for AUD 30. Please enquire at
time of booking. 5. Allow AUD 100 for meals not included.
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
DEPARTS Every Monday and Wednesday from April
to October
5 days, Darwin to Darwin
Sample Top End life and culture on a working cattle station, cool off in gorgeously
secluded natural plunge pools and visit the gold-mining town of Pine Creek.
ITINERARY... Day 1 Darwin/Kakadu National Park
Begin this journey with a history lesson in Aboriginal
culture from the area’s original owners, the Limilngan–
Wulna people. Receive a traditional ‘Cul Cul‘ welcome,
then gain an insight into this ancient culture with
bush tucker talks, didgeridoo lessons, basket weaving
and some spear throwing. Later on, head out on a
cruise through the Mary River Wetlands and scan the
waters and banks for the crocodiles that live here in
astonishing numbers. Arrive in Ubirr in time to admire
Aboriginal rock paintings, which date back thousands
of years, and to catch a classic Top End sunset. Day 2
Kakadu National Park Take on the rough terrain
of the Aussie Outback in a 4x4 on the drive towards
Twin Falls. After a post-lunch laze on a riverbank and
a scenic cruise, embark on a challenging hike to the
base of Jim Jim Falls. After a hot and sweaty climb,
spend the rest of the day indulging in refreshing dips
in the pleasantly cool plunge pool. Day 3 Kakadu
National Park/Katherine Hike to the top of Gunlom
Falls for a swim in another pristine waterhole. Soak
up the astounding views of the valley from the top
of the pools before exploring the old gold-mining
town of Pine Creek. Spend the night at our private
campsite on the doorstep of Nitmuluk National Park.
Day 4 Nitmiluk National Park/Mt Bundy Station
Admire the rich colours of Katherine Gorge. Choose to
further your experience here with a paddle in a canoe
or by hopping aboard a boat tour – either way, the
dazzling scenery is sure to leave you breathless. Travel
on to Edith Falls, a hidden oasis of clear, cool water
surrounded by bronze boulders. After a quick swim, set
up camp for the night at Mt Bundy Station – a working
cattle station that was once the largest in the Territory.
Day 5 Litchfield National Park/Darwin Awash with
dense tropical rainforest and peppered with gorgeous
waterholes, Litchfield National Parkis without a doubt
one of the highlights of any trip to the Top End. Visit
Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and the Buley Rockholes,
then enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to edgy and
eccentric Darwin.
Highlights
• Experience a traditional Aboriginal
welcome to the country
• Cruise past crocs on the Mary
River Wetlands
• Discover the wonders of Kakadu
National Park
• Take a challenging hike to the base of
Jim Jim Falls

20 Northern Territory
 Great Ocean Road, Victoria - Alan Lee

More Melbourne
With its hidden laneways, eclectic art
scene and hole-in-the-wall wining
and dining venues, Melbourne is a
city that rewards a journey into its
backstreets. Check out the secret
hotspots and happening hubs on a
Melbourne By Foot Urban Adventure.

Mary River Kakadu NP

Darwin
Litchfield NP
Katherine
Daly Waters

Melbourne, Victoria - Angelica Tan

Watarrka NP Karlu Karlu
(Kings Canyon) (Devils Marbles)
Alice Springs

14 Day Darwin to Melbourne Explorer Kata Tjuta

(The Olgas)
Erldunda
Simpson
Desert
14 days, Darwin to Melbourne Uluru
(Ayers Rock) Coober Pedy

Traverse Australia from top to bottom – from the verdant environs of Litchfield National Park SOU TH
A U S TR A LIA
through the rough and rugged Red Centre to Victoria’s utterly spectacular Great Ocean Road.
Uluru. Day 8 Uluru (Ayers Rock)/Watarrka National
Adelaide V IC TOR IA
ITINERARY... Day 1 Darwin/Litchfield National Park/
Grampians
Mary River Farewell Australia's most northern capital Park (Kings Canyon) Rise with the sun for a colourful Melbourne
city and discover the stunning cascades of Litchfield start to the morning. Take a walk around Uluru’s base, Great Ocean Road

National Park. After lunch, meet the traditional owners
of the Wulna Country and learn about their ancient
culture. Day 2 Mary River/Kakadu National Park
After witnessing incredible Aboriginal rock art, art
lovers should certainly visit the main art gallery of
Kakadu National Park. Then take in the park’s natural
beauty on any number of short hikes. Day 3 Kakadu
National Park/Darwin Visit two of Kakadu's most
beautiful highlights, Jim Jim and Twin falls. Feel the
power of Mother Nature while exploring this natural
wonder by boat before returning to Darwin. Day 4
Darwin/Katherine/Daly Waters Start the morning
off with a refreshing dip beneath Nitmiluk’s Edith
Falls before heading to spectacular Katherine Gorge.
Come evening, unwind with a cold beer in the Daly
then enjoy learning from the local Mala people. Day 9
Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon)/Erldunda
Hike through the desert sands and green oasis of
Kings Canyon. Day 10 Coober Pedy Whether above or
below the ground, discover the enchanting world of
this opal-mining capital. Days 11-12 Adelaide Enjoy
a scenic drive to Australia’s ‘City of Churches’. Day 13
Adelaide/Grampians National Park Journey across
the Murray River towards the Grampians National
Park, stopping off at Brambuck Cultural Centre and
Silverband Falls. Day 14 Great Ocean Road/Melbourne
Cruise along the winding Great Ocean Road, checking
out the Twelve Apostles and London Bridge. Finish up
in vibrant and artsy Melbourne.
14 Day Darwin to Melbourne
Explorer
trip code PDME14
physical rating  style Original
cultural rating  theme Overland
GROUP SIZE Max 24
ACCOMMODATION Simple permanent tented camp with
shared facilities (6 nts), hostel (6 nts), underground
multishare (1 nt)
TRANSPORT All terrain vehicle, mini coach,
private vehicle, minibus
MEALS 6 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 5 Dinners
GUARANTEE Subject to minimum 6
notes 1. Tour commences in Darwin on Day 1 at

Waters Pub. Days 5-6 Daly Waters/Karlu Karlu (Devils
Marbles)/Alice Springs Journey to the delicately
balanced Karlu Karlu, a sacred site to the traditional
owners. Cross the Tropic of Capricorn while heading
south towards the Red Centre’s biggest town. Day 7
Alice Springs/Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)/Uluru (Ayers
Rock) On the drive to Uluru, stop by a camel farm
and consider taking a short walk atop one of these
unique animals. Next stop, Australia's most iconic site,
Highlights
• Admire the natural beauty surrounding
Alice Springs
• Watch a staggering sunrise over Uluru
• Noodle for an opal in Coober Pedy
• Cruise down the Great Ocean Road
6:50am and finishes in Melbourne on Day 14 at approx.
6pm – please consider this when booking flights
and accommodation. 2. We recommend you book
accommodation in advance and extend your stay here.
3. Strict luggage limit of 10 kg applies in Kakadu; excess
luggage can be stored at Darwin accommodation. 4. Please
bring a sleeping bag, or you can pre-purchase one from us
for AUD 30. Please enquire at time of booking. 5. Allow AUD
300 for meals not included.
TRAVELLER RATING N/A as this is a new trip
DEPARTS Every Monday from May to October

Additional information is available at intrepidtravel.com Victoria, South Australia & Northern Territory 21