The Ultimate Territory Tour Expedition

You've arrived in Darwin – it's yours to explore. Spend the day at your leisure before checking in to your accommodation. Stay: Hilton, Darwin

Depart Darwin heading towards Kakadu National Park. Much of the route is along the Arnhem highway, passing the productive region of Humpty Do, where a vast array of tropical fruits is grown, and crossing the Adelaide River, with its vast wetlands, which attract migratory birds. At the Mary River, take to the water on a cruise that showcases the local wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles and the abundance of birdlife in the region. Continuing east, you'll arrive at World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and check in to the Crocodile Hotel at Jabiru, so named for the crocodile shape it takes.

*During April, the cruise will be on Adelaide River in place of Mary River, with crossings at Mary River, West & South Alligator Rivers OVERNIGHT: 2 nights at Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel *Due to availability, some stays may be at Cooinda Lodge Stay: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (B/L/D)

Begin the day with a drive to the East Alligator River region, known as the gateway to Arnhem Land. Take a walk to the World Heritage Ubirr art site, home to some of the world's most outstanding rock art. There will be time for those feeling fit to climb to the top of the escarpment for a magnificent view across the Magela floodplain. Next up, take a local indigenous cruise on the East Alligator River. Hear the stories of the region as you spot the large saltwater crocodiles that dwell in these waters. Returning to our sturdy yet comfortable vehicle, we'll traverse Cahill's Crossing to visit the town of Oenpelli, stopping at the Injalak gallery to admire the indigenous artworks. Returning to Jabiru, you'll gain another perspective on the incredible environments you experienced today on a 60minute scenic flight that takes you over ancient escarpments, floodplains and winding rivers and exhibits the results of 1.8 billion years of continuous erosion. This flight includes live commentary from your pilot as you glide over these spectacular ancient lands.

**During April, touring may visit Nourlangie Rock Art, the Bowali Visitor Centre, and cruise the South Alligator River, in place of Ubirr, Injalak Gallery and cruising the East Alligator River. The order of sites is subject to change due to weather conditions. Stay: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel (B/L/D)

Check out after breakfast to return to the Arnhem highway, diverting towards the town of Batchelor, the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Litchfield National Park contains several types of typical Top End habitats, including lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and cascades. Your first stop is Florence Falls, but one waterfall is never enough, so you'll continue on to Wangi Falls. After a light lunch, you can take a dip in the large, crystal-clear pool of the waterfall before returning to Darwin and checking in to your hotel. Stay: Hilton Darwin (B/L)

Explore Darwin at your leisure. Tonight, enjoy a dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour Cruises' Charles Darwin catamaran in air-conditioned comfort. View the spectacular Darwin sunset while savouring a delicious Territory-style Stay: Hilton Darwin (B/D)

Settle into the comforts of The Ghan, relax in your cabin or mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End's best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge. Stay: The Ghan (B/L/D)

After breakfast you'll arrive into Alice Springs, where a day of fascinating Off Train Experiences awaits you. Once your experience is complete, you will be transferred to your hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure. (B) Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs (B)

Today, your 5 night Red Centre adventure with Outback Spirit Tours starts. You will be met by your friendly and professional crew. This afternoon take a brief town tour of Alice Springs, including Anzac Hill, and learn about this unique outback town before dinner at the hotel. Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs (B)

Today, depart Alice Springs and travel the Mereenie Loop through the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Visit Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge before arriving at Kings Canyon. Stay: Kings Canyon Resort (B/L/D)

Experience the wonders of the majestic Kings Canyon with your choice of walk, including the 6km rim walk, featuring breathtaking views of the Watarrka National Park or a less arduous 2.6km walk along the canyon floor. Returning to the resort this afternoon, there is an opportunity to take a helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and the Watarrka National Park.

PLEASE NOTE: Additional costs are applicable and weight limits apply to all scenic flights. Stay: Hilton Darwin (B/L/D)

Pass through Kings Creek Station and enjoy an informative paper talk and lunch at Curtin Springs, before arriving at Uluru. Enjoy this evening's unique ‘Sounds of Silence' dining experience under the stars. Beginning with canapes and chilled sparkling wine, listen to the sound of the didgeridoo and the resident star talker decode the southern night sky while enjoying a premium bush tuckerinspired buffet. Stay: Sails in the Desert (B/L/D)

Early risers will experience the sun rising over Uluru and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. After breakfast, head off to discover Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge. Learn about traditional Anangu culture on a guided tour around the base of Uluru. This evening, head to an exclusive dune-top location with majestic views of Uluru. Enjoy drinks and canapes as artist Bruce Munro's global phenomenon ‘Field of Light' comes to life before heading off to explore the stunning display via dedicated pathways.

PLEASE NOTE: Dinner this evening will be at approximately 9pm Stay: Sails in the Desert (B/L/D)

After a leisurely breakfast, set your sights on Alice Springs. Pause at Mount Conner, one of the ‘Three Giants' of the desert, before arriving at your hotel in Alice Springs in the afternoon. Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs (B/L)

Checking out after breakfast, the day is yours to explore Alice Springs before returning to your hotel to join a scheduled transfer to the Alice Springs Rail Station to rejoin The Ghan Expedition. This evening, enjoy a truly unique dining experience. Tuck into a mouth-watering meal and enjoy a cold beer or fine wine at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, under a chandelier of stars. (B,D) Stay: The Ghan (B/D)

From your morning stop at Manguri, you'll venture into the weird and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. Here, you'll enjoy a day of discovery and a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations: underground. Dinner is served back on the train, where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey continues. (B/L/D)

From your cabin window this morning, you'll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the majestic Flinders Ranges and prepare for your mid-morning arrival into Adelaide, completing one of the world's great train journeys. (B)