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Travel from the Red Centre up to the Top End admiring the changes in the landscape and remoteness on this stretch of highway; stopping at small outback towns, water holes including Katherine Gorge and strange rock formations (Devil's Marbles) before arriving in Darwin
Tour Highlights
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Mataranka Thermal PoolsSwim and relax in the hot pools. |
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Daly Waters PubHave a drink at this historic outback pub. |
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Katherine Gorge canoeingTake this popular optional activity. |
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Devil's MarblesBe amazed by strange rock formations. |
Itinerary
Day 1: Alice Springs to Banka Banka
We pass by 23' 26' 22' south of the equator (otherwise known as the Tropic of Capricorn) before stopping at Ti Tree for the chance to buy original works of art by Indigenous artists. Learn about the early struggles of bush telecommunications at Barrow Creek's historic Telegraph Station - it'll make your mobile phone seem like the space age! Precariously balanced on their rocky perch are the Devils Marbles, a site sacred to its traditional owners. Last stop for today is our camp at Banka Banka Cattle Station and if the weather's good, you can take a dip in the pretty waterhole. (LD)
Day 2: Banka Banka to Katherine Gorge
No visit to the Top End would be complete without a visit to the famed Daly Waters pub, a quintessential outback roadhouse and watering hole for travellers from far and wide. The tiny town is also home to Australia's first international airport (but you wouldn't guess it!). Mataranka lies in the heart of the never-never, and you'll feel a million miles from anywhere as you soak in the steamy thermal springs. As the day draws to a close, we reach our overnight camp at stunning Katherine Gorge. (BLD)
Day 3: Katherine Gorge to Darwin
The gorge is all yours this morning, with a half day to spend canoeing or cruising (at own expense) the spectacular waters. Want to see more Jump aboard a helicopter flight (at own expense) which will take you high above the vast gorge system. We'll head to Darwin after a bite to eat, with stops at idyllic Edith Falls and the croc-filled- Adelaide River (both a town and a river). (BL)