Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluṟu – and the 500km between – form the beating red heart at the centre of Australia’s vast landmass.

This place is anything but bare and barren with powerful thunderstorms, delicate bush tucker and stunning aerial perspectives usually reserved for hovering Australian kestrels. Join me as I discover the hidden secrets of Central Australia.

Gateway to the outback

Scorching air blasts my face like I’ve opened the oven door. My weather app teases thunder and rain for the week ahead. Squinting at the sun in the cloudless sky, I dismiss it as impossible. Within a few days, I’d learn to expect the unexpected in the Red Centre.

My first hours in Alice Springs teem with colour. At the Tjanpi Desert Weavers gallery, I meet Wendy who explains the intriguing sculptures and baskets lining the walls.

“We have works from more than 450 artists – all women living on Country in the NPY Lands,” Wendy says.

“Selling the pieces allows women of all ages to earn valuable income, while also coming together to collect and teach younger generations.”

At the nearby Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre, all 25 of the studio’s artists continue to paint in the ‘Hermannsburg School’ style watercolour tradition of their grandfather and relative, Albert Namatjira. Gazing at the lavenders, greens and hazy blue skies captured in his art, I remark that the Red Centre should really be called the Rainbow Centre.

The heat of the day mellows into a balmy evening. Desert Mob, one of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal art festivals, is almost finished for another year.

Outside the Araluen Art Centre, Kungas Can Cook co-founder Rayleen details tonight’s Desert Mob ‘After Dark’ dinner.

“This whole menu represents central Australia and our ancient foods and stories,” she says.

“Let’s celebrate our local foods that grow here so sustainably without a drop of extra water or spray of pesticide.”

Wattleseed, or arlepe in the Arrernte language of the Traditional Owners, is the star of the evening. The ingredient is weaved into the entire menu, from the damper and hummus starters to the chocolate bites for dessert.

The next day, I jump in the front seat as we set off on a four-wheel-drive trip with Bill from Sandrifter Safaris to Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park. At Simpsons Gap, Bill beckons for me to press my ear hard to a red gum to hear the soft echo of underground water and look for resident black-footed rock wallabies napping in the heat. The water that helps make this oasis lush and green looks inviting but, as a sacred cultural site for the Arrernte people, swimming is not permitted.

Standley Chasm is next on our itinerary. The narrow passageway between towering red rock is the culmination of a short walking trail through ancient cycad palms and shady gum trees. We arrive a little after noon, missing the window when the cleft is lit by overhead sun, but also avoiding the crowds. With the place to ourselves, we relish the shade and cool breeze funnelling through.

This morning I’d dressed in anticipation of our next stop – Ellery Creek Big Hole.

A well-manicured path curves to bring into view the lofty cliffs and pale reeds fringing the glinting crocodile-free watering hole. Bathers already on, I kick off my thongs, pick my way across the sand and throw myself into water so cold it takes my breath away.

Perfection.

Tonight, the storm my weather app warned me about rolls in. From my hotel balcony, I watch as dazzling lightning illuminates the hills, followed by thrilling cracks of thunder and very welcome rain.

Hit the road, Jack

Alice Springs’ clouds follow as we make our way to Kings Canyon/Watarrka National Park. Vegetation shifts and I can scarcely believe there are so many shades of red. Kings Canyon’s mass rises to the right as I arrive at Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon.

Any notions of free-time exploration evaporate when I spy the bathtub in my Deluxe Cabin. Instead, I relax with uninterrupted outback views before tonight’s sunset experience.

Recharged, I set off, following a boardwalk over ochre ground passing signs for Light Towers by renowned artist Bruce Munro. On arrival, I’m greeted with scrumptious native-flavoured canapés and entertained by the vibrant display before me.

Against the darkening backdrop of Kings Canyon’s massive form, twinkling lights become perceptible. I wander through the immersive display’s pulsating towers of light, each optic fibre refracted through hundreds of recycled glass bottles.

The countless stars, balmy temperature and medley of colours make sunsets in Central Australia magical. Sunrises are even more beautiful. Armed with hiking boots and plenty of water, I begin the Kings Canyon Rim Walk’s steep ascent in darkness, arriving at the top breathless – but in awe – as the sun peeks over the canyon.

This 6km hike requires a good level of fitness and the effort is worth it. Bush tomatoes dot the landscape and fossils in the weathered rocks show how the canyon walls are painted with the Creation Story of the Luritja people. A Slater’s ring-tailed dragon suns itself on a rock and I see a two-toned pink rare desert rose just off the track.

The sacred centre

Ahead, after another long drive, lies the jewel in Central Australia’s crown. Uluṟu’s red form rises, clearly seen from the road in the nearby town of Yulara.

Elegant afternoon tea may not be the first thing you think of when in the desert. Ilkari Restaurant at Sails in the Desert hotel creatively weaves bush tucker flavours into pots of tea and exquisite, surprisingly filling, morsels at the Australian Native High Tea experience.

As the sun sets, cracks of thunder roar. The storm in Alice has followed us to Uluṟu.

I join a growing crowd at a hotel lookout to watch nature’s show. In the distance, brilliant lightning weaves silver threads above Uluṟu’s vibrant, red surface. Mother Nature’s light show rivals any made by man. I learn the next morning that this was but a small storm that has left little trace.

Before dawn I head into Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park for the first time since arriving. My heart skips when I see Uluṟu coming into focus. As the sun rises, Uluṟu’s midnight blue silhouette shifts to deep indigo, then dark chocolate before becoming bright, iron-red as the clusters of stars above fade from view.

Today’s helicopter flight has me excited but anxious as I’m a tad afraid of heights. I needn’t have worried; I’m too distracted to be scared. I witness the breathtaking landscape from the same view as the cockatoos, with wild camels dotting the earth below. Uluṟu rises nearly 350 metres from the flat desert, taller than Australia’s tallest building – the 323-metre tall Gold Coast Q1 Tower. Discovering Uluṟu stretches about seven times further underground is mind-bending.

The helicopter turns, and the 36 dramatic domes of Kata Tjuṯa fill my view.

Rise with the sun

Early the next morning, we arrive at Field of Light and Uluṟu can’t be seen at all. In the heavens, stars sparkle. On Earth, 50,000 solar-powered lights glow against the desert darkness – Bruce Munro’s first installation celebrating the awe-inspiring desert. As the sky lightens, the artwork dims. Uluṟu emerges while Kata Tjuṯa transforms to a gorgeous lavender. The lights shimmer one last time as they catch the first rays of the sun and then, like yesterday, Uluṟu dons its red hues for the day ahead.

When it’s time to leave, I trail behind on my return to the bus, looking over my shoulder for another final glimpse.

I imagine a magical remote control that lets me rewind and experience my journey across Australia’s core all over again – and yes, even relive all the early starts.

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From soaring waterfalls and tidal reefs to crocodile-filled mangroves and astonishing birdlife, Australia’s far north-west is packed with natural wonders that’ll surprise and delight the most discerning adventurer.

Combining a close-up tour of this vast wonderland with the comfort of a luxury cruise ship creates a truly unforgettable experience.

Not your average coral reef

Each day, huge tides that often see the ocean shift more than eight metres, shape and transform Montgomery Reef – the world’s largest in-shore reef system. As the tide falls, it creates raging ‘rivers’ and mini waterfalls, as colourful coral gardens and a giant reef appear to rise from the ocean.

Known as Yowjab by the local Dambimangari people, the reef is home to turtles, dugongs, reef sharks and humpback dolphins. Hop aboard a Zodiac and breathe in the salty sea air as the sound of rushing water washes over you – a spectacle as unique and diverse as the Kimberley itself.

Turtles, terns and tattlers

Birdwatchers and nature lovers, feast your eyes on the Lacepede Islands – a string of four low-lying sandy atolls about 120km north of Broome. Recognised by BirdLife International as an Important Bird Area, the Lacepede Islands will have you scrambling for your binoculars.

The islands are home to one of the world’s largest brown booby and frigatebird breeding colonies. Other species squawking and jostling for prime spots include eastern reef egrets, silver gulls, roseate terns, common noddies, sooty oystercatchers and grey-tailed tattlers. The islands are also Western Australia’s most significant green turtle breeding site and a hotspot for humpback whale sightings. A guided tour from a Zodiac boat is the perfect way to soak in this avian cacophony.

Mangrove marvels

Explore the Hunter River on a guided Zodiac tour, admiring the sheer beauty of this vast waterway. Towering sandstone cliffs, ancient rainforest and two waterfalls plunging 90 metres make this 16km river one of the Kimberley’s most magnificent pieces of scenery.

Winding inland from Prince Frederick Harbour, the river is also lined with pristine mangrove forests. The twisted root systems shelter thousands of fish, birds and other wildlife, including the Kimberley’s biggest population of fearsome saltwater crocodiles. For something extra special, upgrade your excursion and take a helicopter ride from Naturalist Island beach and fly over the majestic gorges, rock pools and rushing waterfalls of Mitchell Falls.

An ancient museum

The remote rocky landscapes and tranquil waters of Vansittart Bay are your entry point to age-old rock art and a slice of modern history.

The Gwion Gwion rock art on Jar Island is a true highlight, with intricate paintings thought to date back more than 17,000 years depicting human figures decorated with tassels, sashes and headdresses. A guided tour through the red rock shelters is the best way to appreciate this fascinating part of Australia’s past.

World War II history enthusiasts will be amazed by the remains of a DC-3 that crashed here in 1942 after running out of fuel on a supply mission, thankfully with no casualties. Sitting mostly intact near the shoreline, it’s a prominent reminder of Australia’s wartime past.

Two watery serpents

Ask a Kimberley explorer for a trip highlight and chances are you’ll hear about the King George River. Winding through an 80-metre gorge, the shadows drifting across weather-carved ochre cliffs create a natural palette so awe-inspiring, you won’t want to leave.

At the river’s end, two waterfalls cascade 80m over sandstone cliffs into the tidal waters below. The river holds deep cultural significance for the Balanggarra people, and the falls are known as Oomari, while the two waterfalls represent the male and female Wunkurr, or rainbow serpents.

Cruise the King George River by Zodiac and let an experienced guide bring the history and geology of this stunning wonderland to life.

Let some Ponant luxury take your Kimberley trip to the stratosphere

Spend 10 glorious nights aboard Ponant’s magnificent Le Jacques Cartier for a June 2027 voyage you’ll remember forever. With world-class food and drinks, 24-hour room service, evening entertainment, spa and fitness facilities and much more, your only responsibility will be to relax and enjoy the splendours of the Kimberley.

Choose from a range of guided tours, lectures, hiking and Zodiac tours. You won’t just observe your surroundings, you’ll absorb them to create a holiday so special that you’ll be telling your friends about it for years to come.

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A road trip from Byron Bay to Newcastle takes you past some of New South Wales’ most beautiful national parks and beaches that are waiting to be discovered.

1. Brooms Head

For those wanting to slip off the radar, Brooms Head on Yaegl Country is an old-fashioned beach hideaway in Yuraygir National Park.

Colourful fibro shacks line the foreshore. Here, life revolves around tides, fishing and lazy afternoons.

On the way, explore the stunning Red Cliff, Grey Cliff and Lake Arragan areas before getting your bearings at Cakora Point or Brooms Head Lookout. Keep watch for whales and other wildlife at this vantage point.

Back Beach is a secluded and rugged contrast to the main beach and well worth exploring. The vast national park is also home to one of Australia’s longest coastal hikes – 65km following coastal emus’ ancient trails.

2. Emerald Beach

Before you hit Coffs Harbour, take a beat at Emerald Beach – one of the coast’s most enchanting small towns and beaches. Kangaroos graze casually at Look at me Now Headland, where a loop walk offers spectacular ocean views.

The town has great cafés, like the laid-back Emerald Beach General Store. There’s also a welcoming surf culture and scenery that feels untouched compared to its busier neighbours.

3. Valla and Scotts Head

With largely empty beaches and known for its café scene, the relaxed community of Valla is a must-stop for your itinerary. Check outt Nourish Café and Grocer and Beach House Providore for breakfast then visit South Valla Beach – a standout destination which is also perfect for a hike.

South of the river mouth lies Gaagal Wanggaan (South Beach) National Park, jointly managed with the Gumbaynggirr Aboriginal people. It’s a favourite with experienced surfers and beach fishers, while the calmer waters of Warrell Creek offer ideal conditions for kayaking.

Less than 30 minutes away you’ll find Scotts Head (pictured above main) – a charming beachside town wrapped around a point break. Families can swim safely in the protected main beach and kids will love to explore the Cungee Rock pool.

4. Crowdy Bay National Park

For a real treat, take the back roads through the wild coastal vegetation and pockets of forest between Crowdy National Park and Harrington Beach State Park.

Stroll the Diamond Head Loop, keeping an eye out for wildlife in the bush and, in season, whales breaching offshore.

Stop at the picturesque Crowdy Head for the rugged cliffs, rolling surf and the historic lighthouse where you can take in the sweeping ocean views.

Sitting at the northern mouth of the Manning River, the village of Harrington offers a peaceful escape to spend your days fishing, swimming and surfing.

5. Hallidays Point

Further south, spend a few days soaking up the small but spectacular headland reserve of Saltwater National Park which has special significance for the Biripi people. This is a peaceful stretch of coastline where beaches, vegetation and wetlands meet, offering uncrowded swimming spots, fishing and walks rich in birdlife.

The Hallidays Point area, located between Taree and Forster, includes the 6km-long Diamond Beach. This largely undiscovered stretch attracts morning surfers, walkers and the occasional pod of dolphins. Tackle the rainforest walking track from the southern end of Diamond Beach onto the small but pretty Shelly Beach at Red Head and plunge into the ocean pool at Black Head.

6. Myall Lakes National Park

Take a short detour from the Pacific Highway near Bungwahl to this national park which is home of the Worimi Aboriginal people and one of the state’s largest and most pristine coastal lake systems.

Canoe, fish for bream and whiting and take the vehicle ferry at Bombah Point across the lake.

Continue to the sleepy Blueys Beach, Boomerang Beach or Elizabeth Beach. The latter feels particularly tucked away, bordered by bush and loved for its calm and sheltered swimming. If you’re after an even more secluded swim, a short trail leads to Shelly Beach – a cove with pale sand and turquoise waters. Disappear into these coastal hideaways – take on a hike, get into the surf or just sit back and relax.

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Add these unmissable Australian destinations to your travel plans.

1. Mildura, Victoria

On the banks of the Murray River, Mildura is the centre of a major horticultural region and home to citrus orchards, extensive vineyards and several cellar doors. In the evening, head to Lock Island to follow artist Bruce Munro’s ethereal Trail of Lights installation.

The weathered moonscape of Mungo National Park – a 90-minute drive north-east of town on an unsealed road – has revealed evidence of Indigenous culture dating back more than 40,000 years.

2. Atherton Tablelands, Queensland

The Atherton Tablelands in the Cairns hinterland is a region of stunning natural beauty. See picture-perfect waterfalls tumble through lush rainforest and take a refreshing dip in water-filled volcanic craters.

Soar high above the trees on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, and ride the rails from the coast to the hilltop village of Kuranda aboard the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway.

3. Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

A destination often overlooked in favour of the nearby snow country or Sydney, our nation’s capital hosts a fascinating collection of museums, galleries and public buildings.

The Australian War Memorial is both a museum and a tribute to the many men and women who gave their lives serving the country.

Visit Parliament House during question time to see democracy at its most energetic, and view more than 155,000 works of art at the National Gallery.

4. Launceston, Tasmania

Visitors to Launceston are drawn to dramatic Cataract Gorge, a mix of wilderness and gardens just a short drive from town. Take in gorge views from Alexandra Suspension Bridge or the scenic chairlift.

Foodies can dine at the top-notch eateries that helped Launceston achieve a UNESCO City of Gastronomy listing.

5. Armidale, New South Wales

Armidale in NSW’s New England region is Australia’s highest city. Renowned for its autumnal splashes of colour, the city has an abundance of parks and gardens.

Hikers can explore the mountain trails and precipitous gorges in the nearby Oxley Wild Rivers National Park, which is part of the Gondwana Rainforests UNESCO World Heritage area.

6. Tiwi Islands, Northern Territory

Rich in Indigenous culture, Bathurst and Melville islands are hotspots for art, pottery, wood carvings and colourful textiles.

Breathtaking coastal views and fiery sunsets are popular drawcards, and fishing tours keep the holiday lodges busy with anglers chasing barramundi, giant trevally and queenfish.

7. Albany, Western Australia

Picturesquely located on WA’s south coast, Albany is known for its well-preserved, 19th century architecture and spectacular coastal scenery.

Despite its unfortunate moniker, Misery Beach in nearby Torndirrup National Park was named Tourism Australia’s best beach in 2022.

The post 7 Aussie travel hotspots appeared first on samove.com.au.

We love a good celebration in South Australia, the Festival State, and we set the bar high for a good time.

We have festivals for cheese and motorsport, history and art, guitar and football. There’s a festival for everyone, but how does the rest of the world compare?

Let’s go on a journey around the world and discover 11 festivals to add to your travelling itinerary.

1. Sundance Film Festival | Utah, USA

Film aficionados should add attending the Sundance Film Festival to their bucket list. Held annually in the United States at the end of January, 2026 will be the final year the festival takes place in Utah before it moves to Colorado from 2027 onward.

See brand-new films on the big screen long before they reach mainstream audiences. You may even find yourself walking the red carpet and rubbing shoulders with your favourite independent filmmakers and celebrities.

2. Carnival | Venice, Italy and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Carnival celebrations take place worldwide in February to mark the beginning of Lent, but Venice, Italy, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (pictured at top), are the undisputed standouts – so they both deserve a spot on this list. Both festivals feature vibrant costumes and electrifying parades, yet each offers a unique flavour.

In Venice, elaborate masks are essential, echoing the tradition of nobility disguising themselves to mingle freely with the public. At Rio Carnival, energetic samba dancing, massive floats, colourful block parties and infectious music bring locals and visitors together in celebration.

Though worlds apart, both festivals share one outcome: joyful, exuberant gatherings where people from all walks of life come together.

3. Cherry blossom (Sakura) season | Japan

Beginning in Japan’s southern regions and slowly moving north, the blooming of the sakura is a spectacle that must be seen to be believed. The exact timing shifts each year, but visiting between late March and early April gives you an excellent chance of experiencing the blossoms at their peak.

Simply strolling the streets immerses you in their beauty, but many regional celebrations coincide with the bloom. Hanami (flower-viewing) festivals take place across the country, including at Kitakami Tenshochi, Osaka Castle Park, Mount Yoshino and Tsuruoka.

4. Vivid Sydney | Sydney, Australia

Closer to home, Vivid Sydney illuminates the city during May and June. Wrap up against the winter chill and explore immersive outdoor light installations and 3D projections that transform landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Experience the most relaxed – and most efficient – way to see the sights by sailing past on a Vivid Lights Cruise. Don’t forget to use your RAA membership for an exclusive discount.

Alongside the visual spectacle, enjoy performances by local and international musicians, creative workshops, talks and remarkable culinary events.

5. Matariki | New Zealand

Matariki is a relatively new addition to the festival calendar, with the occasion first celebrated across New Zealand in June 2022. The date changes each year, usually falling in late June or early July. Marking the Māori New Year, this is the first national holiday based on a First Nations celebration.

Matariki invites all New Zealanders and visitors to learn about Māori culture and traditions. It’s a time for reflection and renewal, with celebrations including art exhibitions, concerts, food festivals and cultural workshops. As it’s tied to the appearance of the Matariki star cluster, make sure to head outside and look to the skies.

6. Goodwood Festival of Speed | West Sussex, England

Imagine South Australia’s Bay to Birdwood meeting the Monaco Grand Prix, with a dash of British aristocracy, and you have the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Despite its name, it’s not held in Adelaide but at Goodwood House in West Sussex, England each July.

The festival is a mash-up of summer garden party and motorsport prestige. Expect everything from historic racing machines to the latest supercars and motorcycles making their global debut. Motorsport legends, rising stars and engineering marvels take to the iconic hill climb – the centrepiece of the event. You can even camp on-site with your travel buddies so you don’t miss any of the action.

7. Edinburgh Fringe Festival | Edinburgh, Scotland

Exactly six months after Adelaide’s Mad March, the Edinburgh Fringe takes over the historic city of Edinburgh every August. It’s the largest Fringe Festival in the world with Adelaide proudly in second place.

The event began when performers staged shows on the “fringe” of the prestigious Edinburgh International Festival after World War II, and the two festivals still run side by side today.

For three manic, sleepless weeks, Edinburgh becomes a playground of performance, featuring theatre, comedy, circus, magic, music, visual art, street shows – anything you can imagine. With more than 3000 different shows, there’s something for everyone.

8. Oktoberfest | Munich, Germany

Despite its name, Oktoberfest takes place mostly in September in Munich, Germany. Originally held in October to celebrate a royal wedding more than 200 years ago, the festival shifted forward to September as there’s better weather for the party.

Today it attracts more than six million visitors each year, making it the largest festival in the world. Locals and travellers don traditional dirndls and lederhosen to drink fine Bavarian beer, enjoy lively oompah bands, and feast on dishes like pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe) and sauerkraut.

9. Abu Simbel Sun Festival | Abu Simbel, Egypt

Held twice a year (February and October), the Abu Simbel Sun Festival in Egypt has taken place for more than 3200 years. Although the temple of Ramses II is spectacular year-round, on these two days the sun aligns perfectly to illuminate the inner sanctum and bathe the statues of Ra (the sun god) and Amun (king of the gods) in brilliant light.

Visitors and locals gather before dawn to witness this ancient spectacle, followed by Nubian dance, live music and plates of warm, comforting koshari – Egypt’s national dish.

10. Diwali | India

Diwali is one of the most exciting times to visit India, with the festival featuring a riot of colour, feasts, fireworks and thousands of glowing oil lamps. Celebrated over five days in October or November, festivities take place across the country.

The Hindu celebration marks many occasions, including the beginning of the harvest season, the triumph of light over darkness, and the welcoming of Lakshmi – the goddess of wealth. Top destinations for experiencing Diwali include Jaipur (the Pink City), bustling Mumbai and the holy city of Varanasi.

11. Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival | Harbin, China

A tribute to the magic of winter, the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival is the largest event of its kind in the world. Expect towering ice palaces, intricate sculptures, global competitions, skiing, winter swimming and glowing ice-lantern exhibitions.

Held in Harbin, China from December through February, it’s dazzling and extremely cold. Temperatures range from -16C to a frosty -35C, making it a perfect festival for cold-weather lovers.

For must-see Christmas festivals and markets, have a look at our list of the seven best for 2025.

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Next time you head off on holiday, swap the sea change for a red reset and journey to the beating heart of Australia.

There are some common misconceptions about the Red Centre. Namely that it’s stinking hot and there’s not much else to do apart from visiting Uluru.

This is far from the truth. There’s an ever-growing list of things to see, do and experience in this vast, otherworldly landscape. Sure, it’s hot in summer, but during the cooler months, visitors can expect temperatures in the low 20s (and yes, it can even get quite cold overnight).

It was a tough choice but to get you started, we’ve narrowed down eight Central Australia highlights.

1. Discover desert creativity at Araluen Arts Centre

Art is deeply woven into Aboriginal culture. Going far beyond aesthetics, it’s a language used to express deep connections to Country, to educate younger generations and to relay contemporary social commentary.

With so many galleries and studios in Central Australia, it can be hard to know where to begin. The Araluen Arts Centre in Alice Springs is the perfect place to start. The gallery is home to more than 1100 works of Central Australian art, including watercolour pieces by renowned Arrernte artist Albert Namatjira, Hermannsburg pottery and intricately woven pieces by the Tjanpi Desert Weavers women’s collective.

This gallery gives visitors a powerful introduction to the variety of art forms in the region.

2. Meet the Mala at the Alice Springs Desert Park

Think the desert is empty? Think again. The Alice Springs Desert Park proves it’s teeming with life, from hardy plants to fascinating wildlife that have all expertly adapted to the arid environment.

See the culturally significant Mala (rufous hare-wallaby), an adorable marsupial once prevalent in Central Australia, but now extinct in the wild. Learn how Traditional Owners and scientists are working together as they reintroduce the species to predator-free areas of Country.

Catch the breathtaking free-flying birds of prey show (and maybe an inquisitive willie wagtail), meet cleverly adapted reptiles  safely behind barriers, and learn how Aboriginal people identify and find important food and medicines in the desert. Book tickets with RAA and save on entry to the park with your membership.

3. Hike then cool off at Ellery Creek Big Hole

Take a scenic day trip from Alice Springs into the Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges – home to some of Central Australia’s most stunning landscapes. Start with a short walk through the red rock walls of Simpsons Gap and the dramatic gorges of Standley Chasm. Both desert oases have tempting waterholes however, they’re not suitable or culturally appropriate for swimming.

Instead, do as the locals do and take a refreshing dip at Ellery Creek Big Hole.

The area is known for its geological beauty, towering cliffs, and ancient riverbeds. Pack your bathers, a picnic, and your camera, and don’t worry – there’s no crocs here.

4. Connect to Country at the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Cultural Centre

Once inside the Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa National Park, the sight of the rust-red rock of Uluṟu rising nearly 350m from the flat desert is profound. For scale, the tallest building in Australia is the 323m Q1 Tower on the Gold Coast.

Before exploring or taking photos, visit the Cultural Centre at the base of the rock. Built using traditional methods, it offers insights into Aṉangu culture and Tjukurpa (pronounced “chook-orr-pa”) – the Aṉangu’s spiritual law, connecting people, land and ancestors.

Learn about the cursed ‘sorry rocks’ taken from Uluṟu, watch artists at work and understand why this place is such sacred Country.

5. Choose your adventure at Kings Canyon

Break up the long journey from Alice Springs to Uluṟu with a stay at Kings Canyon in Watarrka National Park. Sometimes overlooked when making a beeline for Uluṟu, Kings Canyon is a not-so-hidden gem worth visiting for a few days. Pack your hiking shoes, plenty of water and twitcher’s handbook because the area is a bird and nature lover’s delight. The easy 2.6km round-trip Kings Creek Walk follows the canyon floor through shady gullies, which are rich in birdlife. This path is open during all weather conditions, even during the midday heat

For a challenge, take the 6km Kings Canyon Rim Walk, which rewards early risers with a stunning sunrise view after the steep ascent. Allow three to four hours, and check for heat or weather closures before setting out.

6. Watch the sun rising at Field of Light at Uluṟu

Watching Uluṟu shift through a kaleidoscope of colours at sunrise is unforgettable. Add the acclaimed Field of Light Uluṟu installation, and it’s next level.

Arrive before dawn, while the Milky Way fills the sky, and wander among 50,000 solar-powered stems gently glowing against the desert darkness. As the sky lightens, the artwork dims and the silhouetted Uluṟu emerges on the horizon.

Created by artist Bruce Munro, this immersive experience is peaceful, awe-inspiring and well worth the early start. Use your RAA membership to save on your early morning experience.

7. Taste bush flavours with an Australian native high tea

Australia’s arid landscape hides an abundance of edible – and delicious – native ingredients. The elegant Australian Native High Tea at Ilkari Restaurant in Yulara showcases these in every exquisite morsel.

Sample unique sandwiches made from Central Australian damper, and delicious savoury and sweet temptations featuring flavours like highly nutritious wattleseed, lemon myrtle, bush tomatoes and quandong.

Paired with herbal teas featuring bushtucker flavours, it’s a delicious way to explore many different flavours of Country in one go.

8. Take to the skies with a helicopter flight

If you’re going to splurge on one experience, make it a scenic helicopter flight over Uluṟu and Kata Tjuta. From this perspective, you’ll understand the true scale of these sacred formations, with Uluṟu’s massive monolith on one side and Kata Tjuṯa’s36 domes stretching across the desert on the other.

Flights range from short hops to extended tours and often include commentary on the land’s geology and cultural stories. Test your eyesight and see if you can spot wild camel picking their way through the spinifex dotted red desert below. RAA offers discounts on scenic flights for members – trust us, the views will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

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Name a train journey that takes you from a Mediterranean climate, through red-painted bone-dry deserts, to the tropics, in less than a week. A trip on the legendary Ghan, you say? You’re right.

Make your 2027 truly unforgettable and join one of the world’s most iconic rail experiences with a brand-new extended itinerary. Travel from Adelaide to Darwin over four incredible days on an all-inclusive journey through the heart of the country, experiencing Australia at its dramatic best.

Life on the rails

A trip on the legendary Ghan isn’t your average rail commute. It’s nearly 3000km of rolling hills and wineries, rugged mountain peaks, vibrantly coloured deserts, and tropical forests and gorges. The steady clickety-clack provides a comforting soundtrack as you soak in your stunning surroundings.

The sun sinking in the western sky creates scenes so incredible, you’ll find yourself pressing your nose to the window to get a closer view. Cross the world’s longest fence – the Dingo Fence – pass through the Territory gold mining town of Tennant Creek, all while making new friends over a cocktail.

Along with ever-changing scenery on The Ghan, you’ll also enjoy subtle white wines and hearty reds, paired with regionally inspired dishes such as barramundi, kangaroo, and topped off with local cheeses.

Meals, fine wines and beverages are included, so forget about cooking and washing up for a few days. Your only task is to relax with a cool drink, chat with fellow travellers, and have the time of your life.

The fabulous Flinders

Step off the train and be plunged deep into the heart of Australia’s gateway to the outback, where rocky outcrops, jagged ranges, and ochre cliffs contrasted with green shrubs, await.

Fresh from its place in Lonely Planet’s 2026 Best in Travel list (the only Australian destination to be named), the Ikara-Flinders Ranges is a compelling treat for any traveller.

For hundreds of millions of years, nature has shaped and coloured this region into the stunning landscape we know today.

Home to one of the world’s most significant fossil sites, the Ikara-Flinders Ranges is an unforgettable part of South Australia that’ll have you counting the days until you can visit again.

Desert delights

Just as there’s never too much fine dining or comfort onboard, you can’t watch too many sunrises. This time, you’ll see the sun ascend at the remote outpost of Marla, 160km from the Northern Territory border and at the start of South Australia’s world-famous Oodnadatta Track.

The Ghan then makes its way to the desert town of Alice Springs, where you’ll have a selection of off train experiences to choose from.

Feeling adventurous? Maybe off-road mountain biking is for you. Perhaps you’d prefer an Alice Explorer tour, cultural experience at Standley Chasm, wildlife meet and greet at Desert Park, or the unforgettable beauty of Simpsons Gap.

And, after taking Simpsons Gap in at ground level, you can opt for a helicopter flight for a stunning bird’s-eye view.

Tropical tempos

As you travel further north, it’s clear you’ve left the desert behind. The rocky gorges and fast-flowing canyon streams introduce a delightful change of scenery.

You’re in for a remarkable surprise when you take a relaxing boat cruise among the towering sandstone cliffs on one of the Top End’s most impressive natural wonders, Nitmiluk Gorge/Katherine Gorge.

If you want to get among the people (and the working dogs and horses), check out the Katherine Outback Experience.

When you step off the legendary Ghan for the last time in Darwin, prepare to reflect. You’ve seen our magical land from south to north (in style), met people you’ll want to see again, and you’ve experienced wonders you never imagined. Another magnificent entry in your memory bank.

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Ancient rivers meander through pristine rainforest, winter snow dusts craggy mountain peaks, and blue seas wash an endless coastline. Australia’s island state is just the spot for those seeking natural wonders.

Iconic destinations like Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay, Cradle Mountain and the Gordon River have long attracted local and international travellers. Beyond these remarkable landscapes, Tasmania has a wealth of other natural delights and experiences to enjoy.

Wilderness wonders

In the state’s remote north-west, the 450,000-hectare Takayna/Tarkine region is a near-impenetrable rainforest wilderness. Much of the area is only accessible along four-wheel-drive trails, walking tracks and waterways.

Departing from Corinna Wilderness Village, the vessel Arcadia II carries passengers deep into the rainforest along the Pieman River. Built in 1939 from Tassie’s famous Huon pine, Arcadia II has had a remarkable career, including a role as a supply ship in New Guinea during World War II. At the river mouth, face the vastness of the Southern Ocean as you stroll along one of Tasmania’s most remote beaches.

Take a closer look at the Pieman River and its backwaters aboard a kayak from Corinna Wilderness Village. With the splash of the paddle and the breeze in the trees for a soundtrack, embrace fresh air, utter tranquillity – and exercise – in one of the world’s wildest frontiers.

About 10km west of Waratah, a 2km-return hike through lush forest leads to a stunning view of Philosopher Falls, which tumbles down a steep rock face into the undergrowth. Along the way, keep an eye out for colourful, alien-esque fungal growths.

South-west of Roseberry, a three-hour return hike among giant ferns and tall timber follows the alignment of an old mining tramway to the 104m-high Montezuma Falls – one of the highest waterfalls in Tasmania.

The view skyward from the base of the cascades is breathtaking, and there are sensational views of the falls and surrounding forest from a nearby suspension bridge. The thick moss, fungi and lichen growths on the wooden rail bridges add to the timeless beauty of this place, and highlight nature’s relentless effort to reclaim the forest.

Beach bliss

For beach lovers, there’s nearly 3000km of coastline to explore, plus a sprinkling of islands. On the north coast, the tiny town of Boat Harbour has an equally tiny, and picture-perfect beach. The harbour’s clear, clean waters are sheltered between two headlands and in summer, surf lifesavers keep an eye on swimmers.

Further east, between Port Sorrell and Greens Beach, Narawntapu National Park has some cracking seaside patches of sand. Badger Beach and Bakers Beach are backed by an area of coastal heath, woodland and wetlands, which are home to plenty of Tassie’s furry residents.

Not only can visitors enjoy beach life, but a stroll through the park at dusk will almost certainly include encounters with kangaroos, wallabies or pademelons.

For a remote beach escape a couple of hours from Hobart, head for Cockle Creek, the southernmost point in Australia that you can reach by car. Here, the forest tumbles down to meet the sand and sea at a place of dreamlike beauty. If you’re planning an overnight stay, there are few facilities apart from campgrounds, so be sure to carry a tent and whatever tasty Huon Valley farm produce you gather along the way.

This is also the starting point for several walking trails of varying lengths, from short, local jaunts to the 85-km long South Coast Track – a six to eight-day trek that requires a plane pickup at the other end.

For a beach adventure like no other, head for Lake Rhona. It’s a 28km, two-day to three-day return trek along a hilly trail and across a river just to get to the lake, and it’s nowhere near the sea. But if you have the energy, bushwalking experience and preparedness, you’ll find yourself camping at a pinkish, lakeside beach, hidden among towering rock spires deep in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Take that, Instagram!

An island’s island

If you’re keen on an island holiday away from your island holiday, it’s only a short ferry ride from Kettering – 30 minutes south of Hobart – to Bruny Island. Here you’ll find a mix of wildlife encounters, bushland and forest retreats, dramatic coastal scenery and fresh local produce.

A highlight of a Bruny Island motoring trip is travelling the narrow passage, anatomically named The Neck, that links the north and south parts of the island. Best viewed from atop 279 steps at Truganini Lookout, The Neck is a narrow sand isthmus flanked by a gorgeous beach and the Southern Ocean on the eastern side, and the sheltered waters of Isthmus Bay to the west.

At dusk in the warmer months, head to the viewing platform near the base of the lookout stairway to watch adorable little penguins waddle ashore to their burrows.

Wildlife enthusiasts should find wallaby spotting much easier on Bruny Island because many of the local marsupials are white. Due to a genetic hiccup, the island is home to albino Bennett’s wallabies, which are regularly seen at Adventure Bay.

While at the bay, you’ll encounter yet another of Tasmania’s wonderful beaches. This is also the departure point for spectacular cruises that take guests on a thrilling trip into sea caves and beneath mighty cliffs and towering pillars. In this wild, edge-of-the-world location, expect to see dolphins playing in the surf and seals lolling about on the rocks.

While you’re exploring Bruny Island, you might find your car slowly filling up with cheese, honey, chocolate, beer, wine, whisky, oysters and raspberries. Local producers have embraced the island’s clean environment to turn out an impressive range of goodies to fill a hamper or two.

Tasmania is famous worldwide for its pristine landscapes, fresh air and remote wilderness areas. Like a nature theme park, most of the attractions are within easy driving distance of the main centres, and you’ll discover a scenic treat around nearly every bend in the road.

Some of the locations mentioned here are within the state’s magnificent national parks, so make sure you arrange a parks pass before you head off on your motoring adventure.

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