Australian Outback Tour: Self-Drive from Darwin to Uluru

Your journey to the heart of Australia begins in Darwin, the continent's northernmost city. Darwin has a tropical climate and its proximity to Southeast Asia makes it a melting pot of different cultures. If you’re in the mood for culture, visit the Museum of the Northern Territory. Next head to the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens for something peaceful and serene. We recommend a fish restaurant for dinner on the city’s waterfront - ask your Tourlane Travel Expert for recommendations. 

Next, you’ll discover the Kakadu National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage site that is the same size as West Virginia! The park is home to over 280 species of birds, as well as more saltwater crocodiles than anywhere else in the southern hemisphere. Keep your eyes peeled for buffalos and wallabies, too. The Twin Falls and the Jim Jim Falls are difficult to reach, but their breathtaking beauty will more than compensate you for your efforts. 

The region's climate helped make Katherine known as the city where “the outback meets the tropics”. In the Katherine Museum, learn more about the history of the city and region. Very close is Nitmiluk Katherine Gorge National Park - one of the most popular excursion destinations in the region. Take a boat trip or paddle a canoe through the calm waters. Alternatively, head to  Mataranka Hot Springs - hot thermal springs where visitors relax in the warm waters surrounded by the tropical forest. 

The small town of Tennant Creek is located in the heart of the Northern Territory and was the scene of Australia's last great gold rush when the precious metal was discovered here in 1926. There are several Aboriginal groups in the region, whose culture continues to shape the city - there are also several sites in the area that are sacred to the Aboriginal people. The award-winning Nyinkka Nyunyu Culture Center provides information about the art and culture of the Wurumungu living here.

Alice Springs is the third largest city in the Northern Territory. Surrounded by seemingly never-ending desert, Alice is truly remote: it is located right at the geographical center of the Outback and Australia. Alice Springs’ Kangaroo Sanctuary is a great place to meet the popular animal. The rescue center offers protection and medical care for kangaroos on 76 hectares. Visitors may pre-book an evening stroll through the extensive grounds - speak to your Tourlane Travel Expert for more information. 

Watarrka National Park is home to Australia's largest gorge: the famous Kings Canyon. Watch the mountain kangaroo drinking from the waterhole under eucalyptus trees. Take one of three hiking trails that lead from the Kings Canyon car park through the impressive landscape. The Kings Creek Walk is the shortest and leads to a platform that offers visitors a closer look at the steep rock faces. More experienced hikers should try the Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which offers extraordinary views. 

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is considered by many to be the spiritual center of Australia. The heart of the park is Uluru and Kata Tjuta. During the course of the day, a fascinating play of colors unfolds on the red rock, which is particularly magnificent at sunrise and sunset. The park boasts incredible biodiversity: kangaroos, dingoes, emus and also wallabies have their home here. Take one of the many hiking trails to get in touch with nature.