Top End & Central Australia Explorer
Top End & Central Australia Explorer
11 Days Starting in Darwin, Australia and ending in Uluru, Australia
Visiting: Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Katherine, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru
Tour operator:
Tour code:
3381-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Landscapes like no other and an abundance of cultural heritage, this is just some of what you can expect to uncover on this 11-day tour through Central Australia. Starting in Darwin, you’ll travel south through the Northern Territory, ending in Uluru (Ayers Rock), with overnights in Darwin, Kakadu, Katherine, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Uluru.Start your morning in Darwin with an orientation of the city’s main highlights then onwards to the Adelaide River for a thrilling Jumping Croc Cruise. In Kakadu, enjoy spotting local wildlife from your guided Yellow River Cruise; at Nitmiluk National Park, see the famous Katherine Gorge and enjoy a swim in Edith Falls; Kings Canyon, where your Tour Director will take you on the incredible Kings Canyon Rim Walk; and of course, at Uluru, where you’ll enjoy walks to the base of "the Rock" and Mutitjulu Waterhole.Throughout this tour of Central Australia, you’ll also learn a lot about the traditional custodians of the land, Australia’s Indigenous Aboriginal people and culture. Enjoy a guided walk in Kakadu National Park to the Nourlangie ancient rock art site; visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre where you’ll learn about local Aboriginal culture; discover Aboriginal Rock paintings at Uluru and learn about their stories and their historic significance.These are just some of the many highlights of this Central Australia tour featuring awe-inspiring scenery, fascinating cultural history and fun-filled experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive In Darwin
Location: Darwin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Resort Darwin
Meals Included: None
Welcome to the Northern Territory! Hotel rooms are available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule flights to arrive by 4pm in time for a welcome meeting and drink.
Day 2 : Darwin
Location: Darwin
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Travelodge Resort Darwin
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with an orientation tour of Darwin and see some of the city’s highlights. Next, travel down the murky waters of the Adelaide River and be thrilled and awed on a Jumping Croc Cruise. It’s your chance to see these prehistoric creatures up close and in their natural habitat. Have your cameras ready for some fantastic photo ops! Return to Darwin where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Your Tour Director will have suggestions for additional sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Day 3 : Kakadu National Park
Location: Kakadu National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre to learn more about the local aboriginal people who have lived in the region for up to 50,000 years. Afterward, cruise the unspoiled waterways of the Yellow Water Billabong. Enjoy incredible scenery with the opportunity to spot water buffalo, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may want to take an optional helicopter flight to see more of this vast park or just relax with a cool drink at your resort's pool. This evening, enjoy a dinner featuring local delicacies and bush food. Perhaps try some of the Northern Territories’ famous Barramundi.
Day 4 : Kakadu National Park - Nitmiluk National Park - Katherine
Location: Katherine
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Contour Katherine
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit Nitmiluk National Park and enjoy a walk to Edith Falls where there is time for a swim in this amazing setting. Arrive in Katherine and enjoy a cruise through the dramatic Katherine Gorge. See dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and pristine wilderness. You'll have the chance to see wildlife including cockatoos, eagles, and wallabies plus learn the history and culture of the local indigenous people. This evening is at leisure.
Day 5 : Katherine - Mataranka - Tennant Creek
Location: Tennant Creek
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Bluestone Motor Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a visit to Mataranka Thermal Springs where you can relax and enjoy this tropical oasis. Later, make a stop for a long cool drink at the historic Daly Waters Pub. Hear stories about the pub's history, meet some of the friendly locals, and see the treasures left behind by visitors from around the world. After dinner, your evening is at leisure in the Northern Territory's "Heart of Gold", Tennant Creek.
Day 6 : Tennant Creek - Devils Marbles - Alice Springs
Location: Alice Springs
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Alice Springs
Meals Included: Breakfast
Discover the iconic Devils Marbles, a collection of massive granite boulders. The boulders stand 6 meters (19 feet) high and were formed over millions of years. Enjoy a short walk and hear the ancient mythology of how the local aboriginal people believe them to be the fossilized eggs of the Rainbow Serpent. Before arriving at the hotel, make a stop at Alice Springs Brewing Co to sample some of their locally brewed craft beer. This evening is at leisure.
Day 7 : Alice Springs
Location: Alice Springs
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Mercure Alice Springs
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, visit remarkable Standley Chasm, a geological and cultural icon. Explore the history of this land as well have the chance to walk "the Gap of Water," a striking geological formation with a Local Indigenous Guide. Afterward, visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service to learn about the medical care required to service the remote region of the Outback. The remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to enjoy a bike hire and explore more on your own, browse the local art galleries and shops, try your luck at the casino, or relax by your resort's pool.
Day 8 : Alice Springs - Kings Canyon
Location: Kings Canyon
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kings Canyon Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, travel to majestic Kings Canyon. After a relaxed lunch, lace up your walking boots for the incredible Kings Canyon Creek Walk. Other walks are available as well as scenic helicopter tours. Tonight, enjoy a refreshing drink as you watch the sunset.
Day 9 : Kings Canyon - Uluru
Location: Uluru
Accommodation Name: Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
You may wish to rise early to join in the Kings Canyon Rim Walk. Enjoy amazing views and iconic sites such as the Garden of Eden, Priscilla's Crack, and the weathered domes of "the Lost City." Continue to Uluru and enjoy a locally guided tour at the base of the rock and visit the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Discover aboriginal rock paintings and learn their stories and historic significance. This evening, witness the sunset at Uluru with nibbles and drinks. NOTE: The optional Kings Canyon Rim Walk is challenging. There is a steep portion at the beginning of the walk which requires an acceptable level of fitness. Suitable footwear should be worn. Please speak to your Tour Director if you are unsure of your ability.
Day 10 : Uluru
Location: Uluru
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
For those that wish, choose to rise early and see the sunrise over Uluru. Later, enjoy a walk at Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological splendor of some 36 brilliant domes. The afternoon is at leisure. You may want to take an optional scenic helicopter flight, take part in a bush food experience, or participate in a walking tour. This evening, join your Tour Director for a festive farewell dinner.
Day 11 : Uluru
Location: Uluru
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Uluru and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations including the centrally located Travelodge Resort Darwin, the unique Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, the comfortable Contour Katherine, the family-owned Bluestone Motor Inn, the scenic Mercure Alice Springs, the naturally blended Kings Canyon Resort, and the authentic Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge.
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Transportation
Travel through the Northern Territory with a mix of guided tours, river cruises, and scenic walks. Enjoy the convenience of organized transportation between key locations, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 3 dinners.
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UNESCO Sites
Visits to Kakadu National Park and Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
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Small Group Discovery
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select South Pacific tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as helicopter flights, bush food experiences, and additional sightseeing tours are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as shopping, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 3 dinners
UNESCO Sites
Kakadu National Park|Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Small Group
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select South Pacific tour dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the Northern Territory with a mix of guided tours, river cruises, and scenic walks. Enjoy the convenience of organized transportation between key locations, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What types of accommodations can I expect on this tour?
You will experience a variety of accommodations including the centrally located Travelodge Resort Darwin, the unique Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, the comfortable Contour Katherine, the family-owned Bluestone Motor Inn, the scenic Mercure Alice Springs, the naturally blended Kings Canyon Resort, and the authentic Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge.
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What should I know about the Kings Canyon Rim Walk?
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is challenging with a steep portion at the beginning. It requires an acceptable level of fitness and suitable footwear. Please consult with your Tour Director if you are unsure of your ability.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities include a helicopter flight over Kakadu National Park, a scenic helicopter tour at Kings Canyon, and a bush food experience or walking tour at Uluru.
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Are there any unique cultural experiences included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes visits to the Warradjan Cultural Centre to learn about the local aboriginal people, a guided tour at the base of Uluru to discover aboriginal rock paintings, and a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service to learn about medical care in the Outback.
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Is there any leisure time during the tour?
Yes, there are several instances of leisure time throughout the tour, such as in Darwin, Kakadu National Park, Katherine, Tennant Creek, Alice Springs, and Uluru.
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What type of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes a mix of guided tours, river cruises, and scenic walks, with organized transportation between key locations to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.
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What is the group size for this tour?
Cosmos offers Small-Group Discoveries on select South Pacific tour dates, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes breakfast daily and three dinners.
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Will there be opportunities for wildlife viewing?
Yes, you will have opportunities to see wildlife such as crocodiles on the Jumping Croc Cruise, water buffalo and various bird species at the Yellow Water Billabong, and cockatoos, eagles, and wallabies at Katherine Gorge.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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