Australia North to South: Darwin to Adelaide

Now's the time to explore Australia on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. Wildlife, waterfalls, wallabies — you might think all the cool stuff in Australia starts with the letter 'W' but this country's attractions span the whole alphabet. Start in Darwin and make your way to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks. Then hop on a flight to the Red Centre to see the magical (and massive) Uluru rock formation before continuing to Adelaide. There's no better way to learn the ABCs of AUS.

Day 1 Darwin
Arrive at any time.

It’s time to experience Darwin nightlife! Get ready to hang out, have fun, meet some cool locals, and get to know who you’ll be travelling with. Hangout and mingle at the rooftop hostel bar where you’ll be staying before making your way to a backpackers nightclub/bar with a lively atmosphere to enjoy as the night gets into full swing.

Day 2 Darwin/Litchfield National Park
It’s off to Litchfield National Park today. Rise early and head to one of the best spots in the Top End for bushwalking, camping, and swimming! Check out waterfalls like, that pour off the edge of Tabletop Range into croc-free plunge pools and feel yourself unwind as you float aimlessly in one of Australia’s most stunning landscapes.

Litchfield can sometimes feel like the Northern Territory's best kept secret. Side note: as you drive make sure to check out some of the most enormous termite mounds in the Top End. (Who knew?) Later, after getting acquainted the group will go on a wetland nature cruise to try and spot crocs, then it’s finally time to stretch out in a swag and sleep under the stars.

Day 3 Litchfield National Park/Kakadu National Park
Embark early on a full day of exploring. Travel with the group to our overnight camp near Kakadu NP, where swags or tents await. Hike through ancient sandstone escarpment country, discover more waterfalls and swimming holes, check out the Ubirr rock art, and take the plunge on this day of adventure! End the day with a group barbecue under the stars.

Day 4 Kakadu National Park/Katherine Gorge
Wake to the sounds and smells of the Australian bush and spend a leisurely morning exploring more of Kakadu NP with the group. Then zoom off to the beautiful Katherine Gorge, stopping to enjoy Edith Falls along the way. Take this day to reminisce, reflect, and ready yourself for the journey ahead.

Day 5 Katherine Gorge/Darwin
Take advantage of a relaxed start to the day in spectacular Katherine Gorge. What you do next is up to you; from kayaking through one of the 13 deep sandstone gorges to enjoying a leisurely boat cruise on the Katherine River there’s loads to soak up. Take some time to stop and stare at the haunting beauty of this wild place before returning to Darwin.

Day 6 Darwin/Alice Springs
Hop on a place to fly to Australia's interior where you'll transfer to your hostel in Alice Springs; the spiritual epicentre of Australia. Spend your free day journeying through the heart of the landscape. Active lovers rejoice as you walk a portion of the Larapinta Trail. History buffs visit the different cultural galleries, museums, sculptures and sacred sites in town offering a unique experience of Aboriginal art and heritage. At the end of the day simply enjoy the delights of this Outback town from quirky bars to lively cafes, and restaurants with stunning views; there’s plenty to choose from.

Day 7 Alice Springs
Spend your free day journeying through the heart of Australia. Simply enjoy the delights of this Outback town from quirky bars to lively cafes, and restaurants with stunning views; there’s plenty to choose from.

Day 8 Alice Springs/Kings Creek
Charge those cameras and hit the road to Kings Canyon. Journey to Australia’s famous Red Centre passing through desert plains, weathered mountain ranges, rocky gorges, and some of the most sacred Indigenous sites in the country. Spend your first night together under the stars in a true Aussie desert swag (padded bed roll) and let the good times roll... no pun intended!

Day 9 Kings Creek/Uluru
Rise early, beat the heat, and embark on a morning walk through the gorges and valleys of Kings Canyon. Take in the spectacular views surrounding you and simply enjoy being in the moment. Then it’s time to hop on the bus and drive to Uluru, where Australia’s most iconic view awaits. Grab a glass of bubbly and enjoy one of the most colourful sunsets of your life as Uluru puts on an unforgettable show in the fading light.

Day 10 Uluru
Get in touch with your inner zen as you wake near one of the most spiritual places in Australia. Listen to your peaceful surroundings and reflect before you begin the day. Visit an Indigenous culture centre with the group and partake in the informative Mala Walk at Uluru.

This walk is perfect if you are looking to see lots of Indigenous rock art and get away from the crowds. Wander between the sheer walls and tranquility of Kantju Gorge as you explore one of Australia’s most recognizable landmarks. See the colours change before your eyes, learn the significance behind this destination for the local people, and let Uluru capture your heart.

Day 11 Uluru/Alice Springs
The unexplainable energy of the Red Centre will have you itching to head out on another hike. You’re in luck because the group will travel to the Mars-like rock formations of Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) to explore the surrounding area. If the temperature isn’t too unbearable you’ll also get to walk through the Valley of the Winds, which is full of dusty orange rock domes just waiting to be enjoyed. Snap some pics, wander away from everyone and revel in the peaceful atmosphere of the Australian Outback before making the drive back to Alice Springs.

Day 12 Alice Springs/Adelaide
Rise early to enjoy some more time in the outdoors of Alice Springs on your own. Then hop on your flight to Adelaide, the capital of South Australia. Use your free time this afternoon to indulge in the multicultural flavours infused in the city’s restaurants, partake in the pulsing arts and live-music scene, and count church spires as you search for pubs and hip bars tucked away in city lanes. Then it’s time to embrace the energy of Adelaide on a final night out together!

Day 13 Adelaide
Depart at any time.

Alas, it is time to bid farewell to “The Land Down Under." Make one more stop at Central Market for some “brekkie” before heading home. Do you want one final adventure? We recommend spending an extra day in Adelaide and adding the ‘Dolphin Swim and Cruise’ extra to your tour. You’ll get to head out in search of wild dolphins, before hopping into the water and going for a swim as they play around you. What a way to end the trip in true "Aussie" fashion.