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Outback Hiking Gunlom Falls Swimming Kakadu National Park Underground Coober Pedy Devils Marbles Northern Territory Adventure Kings Canyon

13 Day Adelaide to Darwin Cheap as Chips Including Kakadu and Litchfield National Park

Back to Adelaide Tours

$3,720.00

Transport:
Mixed (Minibus,All Terrain Vehicle)
Difficulty:
Medium
Accom:
Mixed(Dorm Share and Camping)
Duration:
13 days, 12 nights
Food:
Most Meals
Guided?:
While on Tours
Departs:
Tuesdays (all year) and Saturdays (May to Oct) between 6:30am and 7:30am
Arrives:
Darwin on day 13 at 5:30pm approx
Explore Australia’s Outback without putting a huge dent in your wallet!

Get out and see Australia’s Outback cheap as with this budget conscious package!

You’ll explore the Flinders Ranges and Coober Pedy.

Get to the Red Centre and explore Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon before spending some time in Alice Springs.

Head north through the Northern Territory with stops at the Devils Marbles, Mataranka Thermal Pools and more.

Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks are not to be missed and are an unforgettable experience. Spend a few days exploring the parks and swimming in the waterfalls and streams.

Includes:

  • 6 day 5 night Adelaide to Alice Springs tour
  • 2 nights in Alice Springs
  • 6 day 5 nights Alice Springs to Darwin tour
  • Meals while on tour as indicated in itinerary (9 breakfasts, 12 lunches, 9 dinners)
  • 4 nights in dormitory accommodation, 8 nights swag camping
  • Friendly, informative tour guides

*This trip can be done in the reverse direction click here to check it out!!*

 

“Our cheap as chips and shoestring Trips are a great option for the budget-conscious traveller. They’re a combination of tours with accommodation included in between at a price that won’t put a huge hole in your wallet.” – Cameron – One Stop Adventures Travel Expert

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Description

  • Visit the Flinders Ranges
  • Stay in the underground opal mining town of Coober Pedy
  • Visit the Rock
  • Explore Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon
  • See the Devil's Marbles and Mataranka Thermal Pools
  • Explore Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks

Below is an example calendar and written itinerary

Itinerary

Day 1 - Adelaide to the Clare Valley and the Flinders Ranges (Lunch, Dinner)
We start our adventure travelling through the vineyards of the Clare Valley wine region, but soon enough we’re heading into the rugged Outback through the historic town of Melrose, gateway to the Flinders Ranges. We enjoy an easy stroll through the awesome Alligator Gorge, which is sometimes bursting with wild flowers. We’ll then settle in the heart of the southern Flinders Ranges for the night.

Day 2 - Flinders Ranges to Coober Pedy (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Along the way to Coober Pedy – the Opal Capital of the World – you’ll notice the incredible changing landscapes. Wildlife, such as kangaroos, emus and eagles will scatter as road trains thunder across a landscape that resembles Mars or the moon. On a tour of an underground mine and Opal Mine and Museum you’ll learn about the history of Coober Pedy. A highlight for some is visiting Josephine’s Kangaroo Orphanage, where you can meet the rescued kangaroos and baby joeys and admire (or buy) Aboriginal art and didgeridoos. Tonight, we sleep like the locals do – underground, in bunkhouse accommodation.

Day 3 - Coober Pedy to Kings Canyon (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
It’s a big day driving up the Stuart Highway, with several pit stops en route. Our mission today is to reach the majestic Watarrka National Park (Kings Canyon) where we’ll camp for the night in an authentic station.

Day 4 - Kings Canyon to Uluru (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We get up early to explore Watarrka (Kings Canyon), where you’ll need to stop to admire and photograph the massive sandstone walls, vast canyon floor and stunning gorges. On the Canyon Rim Walk (3-4 hours), you’ll experience the beautiful Garden of Eden and learn more about the local Aboriginal culture. After lunch, we begin our journey into Uluru. Nothing will prepare you for the sight of the Rock. We quickly set up camp before learning about the local Aboriginal history at the Uluru Kata Tjuta Aboriginal Cultural Centre. Soon after we’ll be experiencing our first awe-inspiring Uluru sunset, taking time to absorb the beauty and majesty of this place.

Day 5 - Uluru to Kata Tjuta (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
We start the day at dawn taking a (3 ½ hour) walk around the base of Uluru. Hiking through acacia woodlands and grassy clay pans, you’ll spot wildlife at waterholes, marvel at the Rock’s geological wonders and learn more about Aboriginal interpretations from your culturally accredited guide. Later, we relax back at our campground.

Day 6 Kata Tjuta to Alice Springs (Breakfast, Lunch)
After devouring yet another scrumptious breakfast we’ll experience a glorious sunrise over Kata Tjuta, before we hike to lookouts around Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and visit the majestic Valley of the Winds with its ancient rock formations and extraordinary views. After lunch, we’ll hit the road to Alice Springs, arriving approximately at 6:30pm.

Day 7 - Alice Springs

Today is a free day to Explore Alice Springs as you please or relax by the pool.

Day 8 - Alice Springs to Banka Banka Station (Lunch, Dinner)
You will be collected from your Alice Springs accommodation at approximately 6.00am and then our adventure through the ‘Territory’ to Darwin begins. Just north of Alice Springs is the Tropic of Capricorn (80% of the Northern Territory lays north of this point). Further along the track are the Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu) which are a collection of gigantic granite boulders magically balanced on top of one another. Our day winds to a close just north of Tennant Creek at historic Banka Banka Cattle Station where we camp for the night.

-Tropic of Capricorn
-Devils Marbles (Karlu Karlu)
-Banka Banka Cattle Station

Day 9 - Banka Banka Station to Mataranka Thermal Pools (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
No trip to the ‘Territory’ is complete without a visit to the Daly Waters Pub, an important watering hole for explorers and drovers in days gone by and now a great spot for a cold beer, a bit of history and a ‘fair dinkum outback experience’! Later in the day you can take a soak in the Mataranka Thermal Pools, a lush oasis fringed by paperbark trees and nearby where we camp overnight.

-Daly Waters Pub
-Mataranka Thermal Pools

Day 10 - Mataranka Thermal pools to Darwin (Breakfast, Lunch)
Your guide will wake you early this morning for the short drive to the Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park which is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people. Ancient sandstone has been carved away by the Katherine River to create a deep and picturesque gorge. You may like to take a boat cruise or paddle a canoe (seasonal) through the peaceful water (both optional and additional cost). In the afternoon, relax and watch the changing landscape as we travel to cosmopolitan Darwin.

-Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park

**DAYS 11 TO 13 FOR TRAVEL IN APRIL & NOVEMBER  TO MARCH**

Day 11 - Darwin to Kakadu National Park (Lunch, Dinner)
Departing Darwin at 7:00am, the first stop on your adventure is Ubirr Rock, one of the main cultural sites within the park. At Ubirr you can view a wide range of Aboriginal rock art which will be interpreted by your guide. Here you will learn about the Rainbow Serpent and climb the Nadab Lookout for excellent views over the surrounding floodplain and beyond into Arnhem Land. In the afternoon visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre to learn about the 40,000 years of aboriginal occupation within the park.  Tonight enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at either our private campsite or air-conditioned accommodation at Cooinda.

- Ubirr Rock
- Warradjan Cultural Centre
- Cooinda

Day 12  - Kakadu National Park to Litchfield National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Up early to enjoy a crocodile cruise on the Yellow Waters billabong. A must do activity within Kakadu National Park, the award winning Yellow Waters cruise is Aboriginal owned and centres around a spectacular billabong system that is home to some remarkable and diverse wildlife. Spotting crocodiles is only one of the many wildlife viewing opportunities on this unique water system.   Later, enjoy a half day hike and swim at the beautiful Gubara Springs and/or Gunlom Falls, and walk to the top of the Nawurlandja lookout with spectacular views over Kakadu. Late afternoon we will drive to Mount Bundy, close by Litchfield National Park and spend tonight at our private permanent campsite with your fellow travellers, or in your lodge room nearby.

- Yellow Waters Cruise
- Gunlom Falls
- Gubara Springs
- Nawurlandja Lookout
- Mount Bundy Homestead

Day 13 - Litchfield National Park to Darwin (Breakfast, Lunch)
Enjoy the short journey to Litchfield National Park. Explore the waterfalls, spring-fed streams and rugged sandstone escarpments of Litchfield. Discover intriguing cathedral and magnetic termite mounds and swim, hike and explore Florence and Wangi Falls (water level dependent) as well as Buley Rockhole. Return to Darwin in the early evening.

- Termite mounds
- Florence Falls
- Wangi Falls
- Buley Rockhole

DAYS 11 TO 13 FOR TRAVEL FROM MAY TO OCTOBER 

Day 11 - Darwin to Kakadu National Park (Lunch, Dinner)

You will be collected from your Darwin accommodation at approximately 6.30am where our "Top End" adventure begins as we travel to the Mary River Wetlands for our cruise. This region is home to over 250 bird species and has the highest concentration of saltwater crocodiles in the Southern Hemisphere. Search for the mighty crocs who rule this waterway, buffalo, birds and other wildlife. Our entrance to Kakadu National Park is at the South Alligator River, a picturesque location for a picnic lunch. There’s the opportunity to purchase Aboriginal arts and crafts at the Bowali Visitor Centre before our late afternoon arrival at Ubirr. Here you will view a wide range of ancient Aboriginal art which will be interpreted by your guide. Learn the story of the Rainbow Serpent and climb the Nadab Lookout for panoramic views over the floodplain and beyond into Arnhem Land. As the day draws to a close we head to our private campsite for dinner and our overnight stay.

- Crocodile and Wildlife cruise
- Bowali Visitor Centre
- Ubirr

Day 12 - Kakadu National Park to Litchfield National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

This morning the jewels of Kakadu National Park awaits. After breakfast and departing camp we travel off road to the majestic Twin and Jim Jim Falls for a day of adventure and exploration.  Travelling into Twin Falls by 4WD track, a boat shuttle and finally a rocky track and boardwalk we will be rewarded by the beauty of this remote waterfall deep within Kakadu National Park. Afterwards we stay off the beaten track where a walk through monsoon forests and over boulders lead us to Jim Jim Falls. Surrounded by 150 metre cliffs, we spend some time soaking up the natural beauty of this majestic location. This afternoon we depart Kakadu National Park and travel towards Litchfield National Park where we will stop along the way at our private campsite. Tonight, enjoy a hearty meal with your fellow adventurers.

- Twin and Jim Jim Falls

Day 13 - Litchfield National Park to Darwin (Breakfast, Lunch)

Today is spent exploring the waterfalls, spring-fed streams and rugged sandstone escarpments of Litchfield National Park. Marvel at the intriguing magnetic and cathedral termite mounds and swim, hike and explore Florence and Wangi Falls. Discover the many rock holes and cascading waterfalls of Buley Rockhole before our early evening arrival back in Darwin.

- Termite mounds
- Florence Falls
- Wangi Falls
- Buley Rockhole

Frequently Asked Questions

Are National Park fees included in this trip?

National Park Entry fees are included in this trip.

Seasonal Twin Falls boat shuttle fee of $12.50 is collected on day of travel and not included in price.

Boat cruise or canoe at Katherine Gorge is an optional activity and not included in price.

Those with specific dietary requirements may need to bring food supplements and snacks. Please inform us of dietary requirements at time of booking and confirm details with reservations when reconfirming tour.

What sort of camping is done on this trip?

Swag Camping! A swag is a kind of bag that you can sleep in. It has a mattress and pillow inside and you can roll it up for storage. It has a flap you can put over your head for total cover but most people choose to fall asleep staring at the night sky!

Do I need a sleeping bag?

You will definitely want a sleeping bag in winter as it can get quite cold at night, especially the further south you are and in the Red Centre, around Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. In summer it is advisable as it can still be cool at night. We advise to bring along your own sleeping bag, otherwise you can hire one for $50 on the Darwin to Alice springs section and $30 on the Adelaide to Alice Springs section of the trip.

Will I be in the same group the whole trip?

No, this package is a combination of different tours put together and made into one convenient itinerary so that you get the best value trip and see as much as you can! This way you'll get to make as many friends as you can on your travels.

I've heard the flies are bad in summer. Is this true?

In the warmer months there can definitely be a lot of flies while travelling through the outback. It is advisable to bring a fly net in the warmer months.

What clothes do I need?

In summer the temperatures can be extremely hot when travelling through the outback. A shirt and shorts is all that is needed during these months though we recommend a light long sleeved top and light long pants (zip off) to minimise your exposure to the sun. It can still get cool at night and in the morning so you will want a jumper as well.

Definitely bring swimmers as there will be opportunities to swim at some locations. Sunglasses, as well as sunscreen SPF 30+ or better, are also a necessity no matter what time of year.

During winter the temperatures can be mild during the day but cold at night and in the morning when travelling through the centre of Australia. You will want a mixture of warm and cool clothes for this time of year. Long pants, a good jumper, a beanie, gloves and warm socks are recommended for use at night and in the morning. Further north near Darwin the temperature will not be so cold.

At all times of the year you will need a hat, preferably wide brimmed.

What to bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Hat and sunscreen
  • Towel and toiletries
  • Warm clothing in winter
  • Water bottle
  • Torch/flashlight
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera
  • Travel pillow

We advise to bring along your own sleeping bag, otherwise you can hire one for $50 on the Darwin to Alice springs section and $30 on the Adelaide to Alice Springs section of the trip.

Luggage restrictions: 20 kg max

Departs:

All year round - Tuesdays
May - October - Saturdays

Extra Costs:

$12.50 for Twin Falls boat shuttle if in season