Rock N Top 2011 - 12

Itinerary

DAY 1 ALICE SPRINGS TO AYERS ROCK

We commence our voyage by heading south to the Outback Camel Farm, for an optional camel ride. Then we head to our Yulara accommodation, before meeting fellow travellers from the nearby airport. Get a feel for Uluru (the traditional owners’ name for Ayers Rock) in the afternoon, with a guided tour of the rock’s base and the ancient paintings that abound. (L, D)

DAY 2 AYERS ROCK TO KINGS CANYON

We start early today, in order to catch the sunrise at Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). This dramatic collection of 36 domes is a world-renowned site of natural beauty, with plenty of flora and fauna to discover. Then we’ll pay a visit to Kings Creek Station, a working cattle farm in the middle of the Red Centre, before arriving at our destination of Kings Canyon Lodge. Cool off with a swim before dinner perhaps? (B, L, D)

DAY 3 KINGS CANYON TO ALICE SPRINGS

Bring your walking shoes today. We go for a hike through Kings Canyon, visiting towering sandstone cliffs, idyllic watering holes and lush greenery on the valley floor. It’s a true highlight of the trip, bringing the natural world to bear in all its magnificence. (B, L)

DAY 4 ALICE SPRINGS

Get a taste of the bright morning sky with an optional hot air balloon ride today – the views are spectacular! We'll take in the MacDonnell Ranges, including the towering Simpsons Gap, and the foreboding Standley Chasm (it’s over 5 metres wide). We’ll return to Alice for lunch and some free time: check your emails, go quad biking, even a spot of shopping. Tonight we’ll feed rock wallabies just before dinner. (B, D)

DAY 5 ALICE SPRINGS TO RENNER SPRINGS

Today we'll make tracks northwards, with an afternoon visit to the rock outcropping known as the Devil's Marbles a real highlight. This isolated geological formation is a spectacular sight and we'll also get an insight into its meaning to the indigenous people. Then we'll stop in at Tennant Creek, before making our way to Renner Springs where we'll get a taste of outback hospitality. (B, L, D)

DAY 6 RENNER SPRINGS TO KATHERINE - MANYALLALUK

First stop today is the Daly Waters pub, a local beacon of culture and an important historical point: Qantas used this point to refuel planes in the early days of aviation. We'll then make our way to the oasis of Mataranka, where a swim in the cool blue waters is very much a possibility. Then we finish up in Katherine, where tonight the indigenous people will give us an insight into the journey from the “dreamtime”. (B, L, D)

DAY 7 KATHERINE TO GUNLOM (WATERFALL CREEK)

We start early today, first making our way through Katherine Gorge by canoe (or you can upgrade to a cruise). Expect towering cliffs surrounding lush vegetation, while we sweep across the azure waters. Then it's on to Edith Falls for another chance to get in the water, and a great place to stop for lunch. We then travel further north, arriving at Gunlom in the evening. (B, D)

DAY 8 GUNLOM TO JABIRU

Today we visit the World Heritage site of Kakadu National Park, one of the true highlights of any Australian trip. Take in the ancient paintings of Nourlangie Rock, then get a view from on high at the nearby lookout. We'll then visit the Bowali Visitor's Centre for a look at the bigger picture, before turning in for the night. (B, L, D)

DAY 9 KAKADU

Get a feel for Kakadu, where wetlands meets sub-tropical wildlife. There's an optional scenic flight in the morning before we travel to Ubirr, an important site for the Indigenous people. Take in the sunset over an inland version of paradise, before trying local delicacies such as crocodile or kangaroo. (B, L, D)

DAY 10 KAKADU TO MT BUNDY STATION

We take part in a relaxed Guluyambi cruise along the East Alligator River – expect breathtaking scenery and an introduction to the indigenous culture and mythology of the region. We’ll stop in Arnhem Land and be treated to a demonstration of traditional hunting and gathering, before heading back along the river. After lunch we’ll make a stop at the Adelaide River Inn, before arriving at our homestead for the night – go for an optional horse ride! (B, D)

DAY 11 MT BUNDY STATION TO DARWIN VIA LITCHFIELD

First stop on our voyage today is Litchfield National Park, an irresistible combination of lofty waterfalls, cool rainforests and peaceful swimming holes. We’ll spend some time here, drinking in the oasis, before heading up to Darwin, the biggest city in the Top End. A charming combination of cosmopolitan ambience and tropical colony, it’s well worth exploring. (B, L)