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14 Days – Top to Bottom
Darwin and Surrounds - The Ghan - Adelaide and Surrounds
Traversing Australia from top to bottom, or vice versa, is an incredible experience and is easily achieved in a fortnight. This itinerary combines two very different cities, World Heritage-Listed national parks, stunning natural scenery, beautiful wineries, and an epic train journey through the mythical outback.
At a glance:
- 6 nights Darwin and surrounds
- 2 nights train journey on The Ghan
- 3 nights Adelaide region
The Journey:
- Nearest Major City: Darwin
- Duration: 14 days
- Mode of Tranpsort: Plane, Car
Days One to Seven
Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, Darwin, Northern Territory
Start your journey in the vibrant tropical city of Darwin.
Darwin is heavily influenced by its Asian neighbours, with lots of nationalities sharing an easy going lifestyle and a great fusion of food scene.
The city is located on a peninsula with the sea on three sides, and has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons, the Wet season (November- April) and the Dry season (May-October).
Regular markets are located throughout the city, but the Mindil Beach Sunset markets are perhaps best known. Operating every Thursday and Sunday evening between May and October, there are music performances, craft stalls and an eclectic mix of international dishes.
A great way to experience Darwin Harbour is to board a sunset cruise – the sunsets in Darwin are amazing!
After a day or two in Darwin experience Kakadu National Park (3 hours drive from Darwin) on an accommodated or camping safari. A day trip to Litchfield National Park is a must do.
Highlights:
- Shop for Aboriginal Art in Darwin’s galleries.
- Meet locals and tourists at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets.
- Explore the World heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, swim in billabongs (where safe), see ancient rock art and camp under the stars.
- Take a jumping crocodile cruise on Adelaide River and see saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat.
- Cool off under cascading waterfalls in Litchfield National Park.
Days Eight to Ten
The Ghan, MacDonnell Ranges, Northern Territory
The iconic Ghan train journey travels from Darwin through the heart of outback to Adelaide in South Australia.
Enjoy two nights aboard this great train, marvelling at the spectacular landscapes from the comfort of your cabin. The trains depart twice a week and operate in both directions.
The train stops for off train excursions in Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy.
Highlights:
- Discover the magnificent and spiritual Nitmiluk (Katherine) gorge. Cruise down the Katherine river and gaze in awe at the towering sandstone cliffs.
- Sit back and relax as you watch the landscape change to red desert as you enter the outback.
- Explore the pioneering town of Alice Springs.
- See what life under ground is like on a tour of opal mining town, Coober Pedy.
Day Eleven to Fourteen
Moseley Square, Adelaide, South Australia
Once you arrive in Adelaide there is plenty to explore, including; award winning wineries, gorgeous beaches, superb restaurants, buzzing markets and the famous Adelaide Oval cricket ground. With spacious boulevards vibrant inner city districts, lush gardens and plenty of accommodation to choose from, Adelaide is a popular city with Aussies and international visitors alike.
A 20 minute tram ride brings you from the heart of the city to the popular beachside suburb of Glenelg. Here you can swim with dolphins, go sailing and enjoy the dining and shopping opportunities along Jetty Road and Holdfast shores. Return to the city for a dose of culture at one of the various museums or sample wines at the National Wine Centre of Australia.
History art and culture are on display through Adelaide. Thousands from across the globe converge on the city for the biennial Adelaide Festival and annual Fringe Festival, biennial Tasting Australia food and wine festival as well as major sporting events.
Highlights:
- Experience the tastes sights and sounds of the Adelaide Central Market.
- Swim with the dolphins, just 20 minutes from Adelaide city centre at Glenelg.
- Take a day trip to one of the wine regions on Adelaide’s doorstep for wine tasting and stunning scenery.
- Meet Australian wildlife on a tour of Kangaroo Island.
- Enjoy one of the many festivals and events.
