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Trip Style
4WD Adventure
Accommodation
Mixed
Max. Group Size
22
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
LSE
Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Outback Spirit's 15 Day Leichhardt's Savannah Expedition. Off the beaten track, a journey across the Gulf of Carpentaria is an exciting adventure and for many people, the missing link in their travels. Now, with the upgrade of our wilderness camp at Pungalina Wildlife Sanctuary, you can enjoy this exclusive adventure with a level of comfort never before offered; ensuite accommodation all the way.
Itinerary
Today you will be greeted by our friendly and professional Tour Directors at the time and location specified above. We then head into the city and check in to Harbour view rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on the Esplanade.
This evening we enjoy our first dinner together on the Charles Darwin with a delicious Territory-style sunset dinner cruise. Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton (D)
This evening we enjoy our first dinner together on the Charles Darwin with a delicious Territory-style sunset dinner cruise. Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton (D)
Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before departing Darwin mid-morning to journey south along the Stuart Highway, through Adelaide River and Pine Creek en route to Katherine. Along the way we'll visit Edith Falls, where you can swim in the paperbark-fringed pool at the base of the waterfall. Later this afternoon we arrive in Katherine and spend the night at Knotts Crossing Resort. Stay: Knotts Crossing Resort (B/L/D)
This morning we enjoy a 2-hour boat cruise on the Katherine River Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. We then continue to Mataranka where we enjoy a visit to the deep, sandy bottomed thermal pools for a swim amongst the Livistona palms. There really is no better way to end the day!
We check in to the Territory Manor Hotel for our overnight stay in Mataranka. Note: There has been a change in your itinerary as we are no longer allowed to travel to the community of Ngukurr due to Covid19 concerns. Stay: Territory Manor Hotel (B/L/D)
We check in to the Territory Manor Hotel for our overnight stay in Mataranka. Note: There has been a change in your itinerary as we are no longer allowed to travel to the community of Ngukurr due to Covid19 concerns. Stay: Territory Manor Hotel (B/L/D)
This morning we travel east along the Roper Highway towards Roper Bar. Our travels take us along one of the most remote sections of the Savannah Way. Used extensively by drovers in the 1870's, thousands of cattle have walked this route on their way from Queensland to the Northern Territory and the Kimberley.
We pass through the dramatic scenery of the Limmen National Park and take a guided walk into the geological wonder of the Southern Lost City before arriving at the turn off to Lorella Springs.
From here it's a 30km drive to Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, a spectacular one million-acre pastoral lease that stretches right to the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria.
We arrive late afternoon and settle in for our three-night stay in this extraordinary location. Lorella Springs has recently built new accommodation, all with private ensuite bathrooms. Stay: Lorella Springs Station (B/L/D)
We pass through the dramatic scenery of the Limmen National Park and take a guided walk into the geological wonder of the Southern Lost City before arriving at the turn off to Lorella Springs.
From here it's a 30km drive to Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, a spectacular one million-acre pastoral lease that stretches right to the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria.
We arrive late afternoon and settle in for our three-night stay in this extraordinary location. Lorella Springs has recently built new accommodation, all with private ensuite bathrooms. Stay: Lorella Springs Station (B/L/D)
Over the next two days we explore all the wonders of Lorella Springs Wilderness Park. Visit pristine thermal springs, take a helicopter flight over the Southern Lost City and head all the way to the coast for a walk along the shores of the Gulf - a truly surreal experience that beautifully complements the sunset cruise in Karumba and helicopter flight at Pungalina. At the end of each day's adventures, join your station hosts at the bar for happy hour and mingle with other likeminded explorers journeying across the Gulf. Note: Weight restrictions apply for legal and safety reasons on all helicopter flights. All passengers must be weighed prior to boarding the aircraft. Stay: Lorella Springs Station (B/L/D)
This morning we farewell the lovely team at Lorella Springs and make our way back out to the Savannah Way. From here we head to Borroloola, and after a visit to the Borroloola Museum, we continue our journey southeast towards Australian Wildlife Conservancy's Pungalina-Seven Emu Wildlife Sanctuary. Together the two properties cover a combined area of around 305,000 hectares and include coastal monsoon rainforest, tall paper bark forests, palm-fringed wetlands, deep gorges and coastal flood plains. The sanctuary is home to over 40 species of mammals, 190 species of birds and 95 species of frogs and reptiles.
We arrive at the sanctuary late afternoon and check in to our new safari camp. Built by Outback Spirit in 2019, the camp features unique safari tents with ensuite bathrooms and covered decks, the perfect spot for a three-night stay to discover the area. Note: Seven Emu is owned by Mr Frank Shadforth with 110,000 hectares of the property leased to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy for conservation. Pungalina is wholly owned by AWC. Stay: Pungalina Safari Camp (B/L/D)
We arrive at the sanctuary late afternoon and check in to our new safari camp. Built by Outback Spirit in 2019, the camp features unique safari tents with ensuite bathrooms and covered decks, the perfect spot for a three-night stay to discover the area. Note: Seven Emu is owned by Mr Frank Shadforth with 110,000 hectares of the property leased to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy for conservation. Pungalina is wholly owned by AWC. Stay: Pungalina Safari Camp (B/L/D)
Over the next two days, we'll explore Pungalina-Seven Emu Sanctuary and learn about what makes these two properties such important ecological habitats in northern Australia.
Activities include a scenic helicopter flight over the sanctuary, following the spectacular Calvert River all the way to the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Visit the old homestead or take a cruise on the Calvert River and experience some rarely seen but truly spectacular scenery.
In between activities you'll have the opportunity for a dip in the beautiful thermal creek that runs past the safari camp. Its waters run at a constant 32 degrees, making it a perfect place to relax and soak up the pristine environment. Note: Weight restrictions apply for legal and safety reasons on all helicopter flights. All passengers must be weighed prior to boarding the aircraft. Stay: Pungalina Safari Camp (B/L/D)
Activities include a scenic helicopter flight over the sanctuary, following the spectacular Calvert River all the way to the shores of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Visit the old homestead or take a cruise on the Calvert River and experience some rarely seen but truly spectacular scenery.
In between activities you'll have the opportunity for a dip in the beautiful thermal creek that runs past the safari camp. Its waters run at a constant 32 degrees, making it a perfect place to relax and soak up the pristine environment. Note: Weight restrictions apply for legal and safety reasons on all helicopter flights. All passengers must be weighed prior to boarding the aircraft. Stay: Pungalina Safari Camp (B/L/D)
This morning we bid farewell to Pungalina-Seven Emu Wildlife Sanctuary and continue east along the Savannah Way, crossing over the NT/QLD border and onto Hell's Gate.
Located on Cliffdale Station, Hell's Gate Roadhouse takes its name from a gap in the escarpment one kilometre south. This afternoon we enjoy a tour of the station and tonight we stay in new and modern accommodation with ensuite bathrooms. Stay: Hell's Gate Roadhouse (B/L/D)
Located on Cliffdale Station, Hell's Gate Roadhouse takes its name from a gap in the escarpment one kilometre south. This afternoon we enjoy a tour of the station and tonight we stay in new and modern accommodation with ensuite bathrooms. Stay: Hell's Gate Roadhouse (B/L/D)
This morning we depart Hell's Gate and travel via Doomagee to Burketown. We visit Leichhardt Falls (no swimming) then follow the Savannah way across the gulf.
Stop at Camp 119, the most northerly camp of the Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860/61. The exhausted party of Robert O'Hara Burke and William John Wills set up camp close to the seasonal Little Blynoe River, in the hinterland of the Gulf of Carpentaria, in their attempt to cross Australia from south to north. It was the northernmost point of their ill-fated expedition.
From here we travel through to Normanton before heading into Karumba. Located on the banks of the Norman River, Karumba came to importance in the 1930's when it became a stop-over point for flying boats on the run from London to Australia.
Later this afternoon we enjoy a special Sand Island sunset dinner cruise in the Gulf. Dine on local seafood while watching a sensational gulf sunset. (Includes wine and beer. Alternative meals are available). Stay: End of the Road Motel (B/L/D)
Stop at Camp 119, the most northerly camp of the Burke and Wills Expedition of 1860/61. The exhausted party of Robert O'Hara Burke and William John Wills set up camp close to the seasonal Little Blynoe River, in the hinterland of the Gulf of Carpentaria, in their attempt to cross Australia from south to north. It was the northernmost point of their ill-fated expedition.
From here we travel through to Normanton before heading into Karumba. Located on the banks of the Norman River, Karumba came to importance in the 1930's when it became a stop-over point for flying boats on the run from London to Australia.
Later this afternoon we enjoy a special Sand Island sunset dinner cruise in the Gulf. Dine on local seafood while watching a sensational gulf sunset. (Includes wine and beer. Alternative meals are available). Stay: End of the Road Motel (B/L/D)
This morning we join one of the last great characters of rail travel - The Gulflander. This historic little train takes us on a journey from Normanton to Critters Camp.
From here we head back to Karumba and discover the amazing secrets of the mighty barramundi at The Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish! The brand new interactive and state-of-the-art Interpretive Centre provides the history, stories, lifecycle, and habits of these sought-after fish.
This evening we enjoy our second night at the End of the Road Motel. Meals (B,L,D)Note: Due to the closure of Adel's Grove we will be spending the night at the End of the Road Motel. Note: Gulflander travel may change subject to availability. Stay: End of the Road Motel (B/L/D)
From here we head back to Karumba and discover the amazing secrets of the mighty barramundi at The Les Wilson Barramundi Discovery Centre, the only hatchery in the world to breed the Southern Gulf strain of this iconic fish! The brand new interactive and state-of-the-art Interpretive Centre provides the history, stories, lifecycle, and habits of these sought-after fish.
This evening we enjoy our second night at the End of the Road Motel. Meals (B,L,D)Note: Due to the closure of Adel's Grove we will be spending the night at the End of the Road Motel. Note: Gulflander travel may change subject to availability. Stay: End of the Road Motel (B/L/D)
From here we head east to Mt. Surprise and then on to Undara Volcanic National Park, which protects the longest lava tube cave system in the world.
This afternoon we check in to Undara Experience for our overnight stay in unique accommodation, consisting of restored railway carriages. The lodge has recently been fully renovated and upgraded, with all rooms now featuring private ensuite bathrooms. Tonight, enjoy dinner in the outdoor style restaurant as the outback sun fades into a clear starlit night. Stay: Undara Experience (B/L/D)
This afternoon we check in to Undara Experience for our overnight stay in unique accommodation, consisting of restored railway carriages. The lodge has recently been fully renovated and upgraded, with all rooms now featuring private ensuite bathrooms. Tonight, enjoy dinner in the outdoor style restaurant as the outback sun fades into a clear starlit night. Stay: Undara Experience (B/L/D)
This morning a local Savannah Guide will take us on a tour through the lava tube cave system. Created when the Undara Volcano erupted over 190,000 years ago, the lava that poured out was enough to fill Sydney Harbour three times over. The lava flows lasted a long time, which allowed the outer edge to cool while the interior kept flowing, creating the tubes seen today.
Departing Undara, we join the Kennedy Highway and travel east to the beautiful Millaa Millaa Falls. Continuing through the scenic Atherton Tablelands, we check in to the Shangri-La located on the Marina, just minutes from the Esplanade.
Tonight, enjoy our final dinner together and celebrate our adventure through some of the most remote country in Australia. Stay: Shangri-La The Marina (B/L/D)
Departing Undara, we join the Kennedy Highway and travel east to the beautiful Millaa Millaa Falls. Continuing through the scenic Atherton Tablelands, we check in to the Shangri-La located on the Marina, just minutes from the Esplanade.
Tonight, enjoy our final dinner together and celebrate our adventure through some of the most remote country in Australia. Stay: Shangri-La The Marina (B/L/D)
After breakfast enjoy a free morning before being transferred to the airport or your accommodation if staying on in Cairns. (B)
Trip Inclusions
Moments of Magic
- Burrunju, Arnhem Land - Extraordinary sandstone formations majestically rise from the plains north of the Roper River in Arnhem Land, creating an incredible vista known as ‘The Ruined City'. Learn from Indigenous guides why the mysterious Burrunju Land pillars are an important part of their culture.
- Karumba Sunset Cruise - Cruise to Karumba's magical sunset viewing destination, a sand island in the Gulf of Carpentaria. Witness a spectacular gulf sunset as you dine on delicious fresh seafood and enjoy the tranquillity that surrounds.
- Pungalina Sanctuary - Pungalina is a vast wildlife sanctuary stretching from the Savannah Way to the pristine coastline of the Gulf of Carpentaria. Owned and operated by AWC, it protects a diverse range of ecosystems, including over 350 species of mammals, birds, reptiles and frogs.
Tour Highlights
- Spend two nights at our new wilderness lodge on AWC's Pungalina-Seven Emu Wildlife Sanctuary on the Gulf of Carpentaria. Take a scenic helicopter flight to the coast and cruise the Calvert River
- Travel the remote Savannah Way and spend three nights at Lorella Springs Wilderness Park, a spectacular million-acre cattle station on the Gulf
- Discover the Southern Lost City in Limmen National Park on an included helicopter flight and guided walk
- Take a guided tour through the mind-blowing lava tubes at Undara Volcanic National Park and overnight in unique train carriage accommodation
- Take a magical sunset dinner cruise on the Gulf of Carpentaria
- Travel through the Atherton Tablelands and visit Millaa Millaa Falls
- Swim in pristine thermal pools
- Small Group Size - 22
- All meals including all breakfasts, lunches and dinners while on tour
- All attractions, entry, cruise and national park fees
- Travel aboard a 5-star All Terrain Mercedes Benz Coach
- 13 nights of good to excellent quality accommodation
- Services of a professional 2 person crew: Tour Driver and Tour Director
- Outback Spirit Explorer Pack featuring handy travel items
- Itinerary is under review and subject to change. This tour also operates with a reverse itinerary.
- Prices are for land tour only, flights not included unless specified
Inclusive Small Group Adventures
Enjoy an intimate and enriching touring experience with other like-minded people on an inclusive Outback Spirit small group journey. Read more
Expert Drivers & Guides
Highly professional, passionate and always willing to go the extra mile, Outback Spirit's guides provide a seamless touring experience. Read more
Mercedes Benz 4WD Touring Coaches
When you travel with Outback Spirit, you're guaranteed to travel in the comfort and safety of Mercedes Benz. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Outback Spirit. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Outback Spirit. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Outback Spirit. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Outback Spirit. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
