12 Day Alice Springs to Melbourne
Marvel at our coast lines, bed down at outback station, explore Aboriginal culture, catch the magnificent colours of Uluru at sunset and explore the Red Centre.
Rainforest walk in Great Otway National Park. Coast the Great Ocean Road. Befriend the wildlife at Kangaroo Island. Camp under the stars and sip champagne during sunset at Uluru.
- Camping in swags/tents
- Air-conditioned Vehicle
- Meals and indicated
- Vegetarians catered for
- Hot showers & flushing toilets
- Electric plugs for charging
- Experienced tour guide
- Camping equipment
- Trip length:
- 12 Days
- Group size:
- Max 21
- Start:
- Alice Springs
- End:
- Melbourne
- Vehicle:
- Airconditoned 4WD Mini Bus
- Sleep:
- Camping and Hostels
- Physical Demand:
- Comfortlevel:
Itinerary
Day 1 - Alice Springs to Adelaide
We depart Alice Springs and head towards Kings Creek Station, Australia’s largest exporter of wild camels and our camp site for tonight. We hike Watarrka (Kings Canyon) to experience the fantastic views of the gorge, huge sandstone walls and an immense canyon floor. Here we trek through the Garden of Eden and learn about the Aboriginal history and culture of the area. Back at the campground there is time for you to swim in the pool or take up on any of the Adrenalin Plus Options (extra cost) they have on offer.
Day 2
Today we head for Uluru. Nothing really prepares you for The Rock – it’s awesome! After lunch we visit the Cultural Centre to learn about the Aboriginal people of the region and walk around the base of Uluru. We end our first day with a spectacular sunset over Uluru. Tonight we camp at the Ayers Rock Resort Campground in comfy swags under the desert stars, our home for the next two nights.
Day 3
A fantastic Uluru sunrise and breakfast, before we hike Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and the majestic Valley of the Winds with its incredibly ancient rock formations before returning to the campsite for relaxing afternoon and another Uluru sunset.
Day 4
Today we cruise to Coober Pedy, opal capital of the world. Incredible changing landscape, kangaroos, emus, eagles and road trains all unfold before us and a view of the striking sandstone colours of the Breakaways on the way. On arrival we visit the local kangaroo orphanage and later enjoy dinner, lots of stories and an overnight stay in an underground bunkhouse.
Day 5
We spend the morning in Coober Pedy and take a tour of the town and an opal mine. We also have the opportunity to “noodle” for opals, visit an opal shop or any of the other underground attractions. We continue our journey south in the afternoon as we travel on down to the foothills of the Flinders Ranges where we sleep among the red gum trees of Stony Creek Bush camp.
Day 6
This morning we hike through the stunning Alligator Gorge, cut through ancient quartzite. We stop at a winery in the Clare Valley before cruising to Adelaide, arriving at around 6pm.
Day 7-8: Kangaroo Island
From our comfortable minibus you’ll appreciate the fantastic coastal views as we head towards Kangaroo Island along the Fleurieu Peninsula. After driving for 90 minutes, we hop aboard the massive ferry for the 45 minute cruise to the picturesque beachside village of Penneshaw, where we stock up on supplies.
Our first stop is Prospect Hill, where a moderately easy climb offers magnificent 360-degree views of Australia’s third-largest island.
The highlight for many is the guided tour along the pure-white beach of Seal Bay, where you can walk within metres of countless Australian Sea Lions snoozing on the sand or frolicking in the surf. Or maybe your favourite part will be the Flinders Chase National Park in the far west of the island, which hosts two extraordinary geological features: the Remarkable Rocks and the Admirals Arch, which is also home to a colony of New Zealand Fur Seals.
Our dormitory style accommodation is located within a farm on the edge of the national park. After a huge Aussie barbeque dinner, we sit around the campfire swapping stories, playing didgeridoos and maybe, spotting wildlife, such as kangaroos and possums.
After breakfast our wildlife adventure continues! In the cooler morning weather, we can hike one of the many walking trails on the island where you can watch kangaroos hopping about the bush, koalas nesting in their favourite gum trees and possibly, spot a shy echidna shuffling past. In the summer months we spend some time swimming and snorkelling in search of the elusive leafy sea dragon which resides off the coast. You can laze about Vivonne Bay, Hanson Bay, Stokes Bay or one of the other superb beach spots with their pristine sand and clear water, or alternatively you can follow the nearby trail along the beach and river to search for more wildlife.
The action packed afternoon starts with sand-boarding down the Little Sahara dunes. We leisurely paddle with kayaks along the Harriet River, but if you do crave something more adventurous, quad-biking along rocky paths through dense scrub is an optional extra.
From Penneshaw, we reluctantly take the ferry to Cape Jervis for the short drive back to Adelaide to arrive at around 8:30pm.
Day 9 - Free day in Adelaide
Today you can explore the magical city of Adelaide. Meals are not provided.
Day 10- Adelaide to Melbourne
We soon escape the city and cruise through the scenic Adelaide Hills with a morning stop to grab a bite to eat and a tea or coffee. We stop for lunch before entering Halls Gap, gateway to the famed Grampians National Park. At around dusk, when wildlife, such as wallabies, kangaroos, cockatoos and kookaburras, come out to play, we walk (an easy 1 hour) through rocky outcrops and forests to The Balconies, another stunning geological formation. Tonight we sleep in dormitory style accommodation in the heart of the Grampians.
Day 11
We wake up and hike 2 hours to The Pinnacle, probably the finest viewpoint in the Grampians. We visit the Brambuk Cultural Centre to learn about the local Aboriginal history, before departing this wondrous place. For lunch we stop somewhere truly spectacular: the Tower Hill Reserve, home to wetlands, a lake, abundant wildlife and a dormant volcano.
The magnificent Great Ocean Road beckons! We stop at several extraordinary rock formations along the Shipwreck Coast, such as the Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Loch Ard Gorge. For many, the most amazing sight is the famed Twelve Apostles. This spectacular collection of limestone stacks is best appreciated at sunset from the boardwalk. The next morning you also have the opportunity to view them aboard a helicopter (extra cost). Tonight we stay in dormitory style accommodation on the Great Ocean Road.
Day 12
We start our final day with an easy walk (1 hour) through the Great Otway National Park, which boasts some of the world’s oldest temperate rainforest. Sections of the Great Ocean Road were carved through cliffs by servicemen returning after World War I, and offer some of the most impressive coastal roads you’ll ever see. You can take a quick dip in the ocean or explore the artistic beachside villages of Apollo Bay and Lorne. You can watch surfers in action at famed beaches such as Bells Beach and Torquay (home of the surf brand outlets Rip Curl and Quicksilver). We’ll find time to stop at Kennett River Koalas to watch the cuddly creatures in the wild, before heading through Geelong on the way to The Big City.
What to bring
CLOTHING
- Comfortable hiking/walking shoes ( no flip flops! ). Sandles are OK.
- Warm jacket and long pants. Night times temperatures can drop down 5 degrees celcius
- Long Sleeve shirt for protection from the Sun and Mosquitoes
- Shorts and T Shirts for daytime hikes and walks
- Swimwear
- Hat and sunglasses
Passengers need to take caution during December/January period where temperaturs in Central Australia can get quite high. Its advised to prepare accordingly.
EQUIPMENT / OTHER
- Sunscreen
- Towel & toiletries
- Pillow
- Insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Sleeping bag are needed and can be hired if you don't have one.
- Mp3 Player / iPod
- Rechargers
- Torch
- Camera
- Binoculars
What is included
TRANSPORT
- 4WD - Custom-prepared airconditioned mini bus
- Transport to and from Kangaroo Island
ACCOMMODATION
- Hostel acommodation
- Outback campfire and swags
- Shower and toilet facilities
MEALS
- Meals as indicated in itinerary
EQUIPMENT
- Camping equipment and utensils
- Tents and/or Swags
- Sleeping Mattress
- Pillows
OTHER
- Plenty of drinking water and snacks
- Experienced and knowledgable tour guide
- Park entry fees
Personal travel insurance is not included but visitors are advised to have it. This can be organised through your travel agent.
Trip Info
Preparing for the trip
Where can I get more information about this trip?
If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have. To contact us please visit our contact page here.
What should I pack?
Depending on where in Australia you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.
What immunisations do I need?
For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.
Private tours and families
Is it possible to travel in a private group?
Definitely! Just choose an existing itinerary or destination and contact us we can help you arrange the trip as a private tour.
If your looking for a customised itinerary we can tailor make a tour to suit your requirement.
Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip. Our team can help you decide on destinations best suits your needs and give you additional information on the best time to visit, cultural expectations, weather conditions and so fourth.
Booking the trip
Do I have to book this tour online?
Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.
If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?
Absolutely! If you are booking a tour for more than 1 person, or if you are a single person booking multiple tours then we are happy to offer a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.
Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.
Who travels with us
Is this tour for me?
Our tours are made up of small groups with a range of ages, nationalities and backgrounds. Generally people who travel with us are between 20 and 45, though we also get alot passengers much older onboard - everyone is welcome! On tour we get equally as many males as females and everyone shares an enthusiasm for the out doors, nature, adventure and culture.
Our tours are for those wanting to really explore Australia and its many facets. Whether we are camping by a billabong in Kakadu National Park or sharing a cabin in Tasmania, our travellers want more than just a site seeing tour. They are chasing a hands on experience.
The trips are packed with many highlights and the pace can be fast - although there’s always time to chill out, have a cold beer ( or wine! ) and soak up your surroundings.
As always, if in doubt then contact us directly with your concerns.
What type of groups go on these tours?
Onboard our tours there are usually around 5 - 24 people ( depending on the tour and destination ). Lost In Australia's travellers want to explore the country and develop a real sense for the land, nature and its people. We travel in small groups which allows us to get from destination to destination quickly and effortlessly whilst being flexible and free!
Cost and Fees
What does "Paid Locally" mean?
Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.
Will I need additional money?
Visitors are advised to bring some cash as ATMs and banks can be few and far between depending on where we are during the trip. It’s handy to have some extra cash as we do stop by local shops and cafe.
Do I need to tip our guide?
If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip the guide, then that is completely up to you. However, tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.
Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?
Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.
Whilst on tour
What type of tent will I get?
Tents are generally designed to accommodate a minimum of 2 people. This means there is plenty of room to move about and store your luggage. However, most Uluru tours we try and encourage the use of swags and mattress rather than tents. This is the ideal way to camp in the centre of Australia; Around a campfire, under the stars!
What will the food be like?
Our emphasis is on fresh food wherever possible and our meals are nutritious and varied on these Uluru tours. If you are vegetarian or gluten intolerant we can cater for you, but if you have very specific dietary needs you may need to provide your own food, please discuss this at time of booking. For breakfast we supply cereals, fruits, toast, tea and coffee. Lunch is usually a self-serve sandwich and salads; in the evening we have a cooked dinner. We always carry water in the vehicle and you will often have the chance to buy your own drinks, ice-creams etc at stops. Please refer to each individual tour/package to establish which meals are included.
Can you cater of special diets?
We can certain cater for most dietary needs. Please advise us at the time of your booking so arrangements can be made. For travellers with more extreme diets we may ask that you bring along additional snacks.
Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?
Definitely - We know Australia inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Additionally some tours have recommended accommodation and specials under the "Optional Extras" tab on the top right corner.
What form of vehicle do we use?
For our Uluru Tours we toss between a Troop Carrier 4WD Landcruise and a 4WD Mini bus. This depends on the size of the group and the amount of days we are out in the park. Each tour varies so please refer to your tour info panel on the top right hand side of the page.
Where do I meet the tour?
Our tour guide picks up from all major hotels and hostels. For pick locations in suburban or rural areas please contact us to arrange a meeting point and time.
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