From $6660pp

19 Days Outback & The Ghan

Premium Escorted Coach Tour from Sydney to Adelaide

Fitness: Moderate

Clare Valley - Flinders Ranges - Uluru - Kata Tjuta - Kings Canyon - Tennant Creek - Katherine Gorge - Kakadu - The Ghan

Tour Itinerary
Photo Gallery
Prices and Dates

Tour Highlights & Inclusions

Clare Valley Wine Tastings
Flinders Ranges
Explore Wilpena Pound
Tour Coober Pedy
Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset
Uluru Base Walking Tour
Kata Tjuta (the Olgas)
Climb Kings Canyon
Battery Hill at Tennant Creek
Visit Simpsons Gap
Angkerle (Standley Chasm)
Cruise on Katherine Gorge
Explore Kakadu National Park
Yellow Water Billabong Cruise
The Legendary Ghan
Tour by luxury air-conditioned coach with 2-door access, restroom, seatbelts, reclining seats, panoramic windows
Professionally Escorted Tour with an experienced, professional Tour Director & Driver on Days 1 – 15

Dining Inclusions

Full Buffet Breakfasts (18) B
Dinners on Ghan (2) D
Exciting Highlight Dinners (2) HD
Hotel Dinners (10) YOUR CHOICE

Accommodation

Twin share rooms with private facilities
in centrally located hotels
Gold Service private sleeping berth on The Ghan

Plus

All purpose travel wallet and map
Airport transfers (Day prior to tour from Sydney Airport – flights anytime; Day 19 to Adelaide Airport – flights to depart after 4.00pm)
Hotel porterage included

Day 1. Sydney – Griffith

Depart Sydney and travel along the Hume Highway via Goulburn and Wagga Wagga to Griffith. Enjoy a welcome drink and dinner this evening with your Tour Director and travelling companions. Stay: Griffith Motor Inn, Griffith (D)

Day 2. Griffith – Adelaide

Today we leave Griffith for Adelaide, travelling via vast Hay Plains and Mildura, located on the mighty Murray River. We cross the South Australian border and travel through the vineyards of the Riverland District to Adelaide. Stay: Stamford Plaza, Adelaide (BD)

Day 3. Adelaide – Flinders Ranges

See the sights of Adelaide on an orientation tour before we make our way north and sample some local wines at Sevenhill Cellars, the oldest existing winery in the beautiful Clare Valley. Later, travel through the picturesque Flinders Ranges and into Wilpena Pound, a remarkable natural amphitheatre covering nearly 8,000 hectares. Stay: Wilpena Pound Resort, Flinders Ranges (BD)

Day 4. Flinders Ranges

Enjoy time to explore Wilpena Pound. This afternoon travel through Pichi Richi Pass to Port Augusta and visit the Wadlata Outback Centre. Stay: Majestic Oasis Apartments, Port Augusta (B/D)

Day 5. Coober Pedy

After breakfast at Wadlata Outback Centre visit Woomera, before travelling to isolated Coober Pedy, the opal capital! Visit an underground church and home. Stay: Desert Cave Hotel, Coober Pedy (BD)

Day 6. Coober Pedy – Uluru (Ayers Rock)

Leaving the opal capital of Coober Pedy behind, we cross the border into Northern Territory and continue to Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park. This evening enjoy a glass of wine and nibbles as you watch sunset over Uluru. There is the option to join the famous Sounds of Silence dinner tonight. Upgrade to a guaranteed Rock View Room at Desert Gardens Hotel AU $96 per person twin share for two nights. Book early – limited space – strictly subject to availabilty. Stay: Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock Resort (2 nights) (B)

Day 7. Uluru (Ayers Rock) – Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)

This morning you may wish to join an early tour to view sunrise over Uluru. Enjoy a guided walk into Mutitjulu Waterhole and stop at the informative Uluru – Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre. This afternoon visit Kata Tjuta and walk into Walpa Gorge. Enjoy sunset with a glass of sparkling wine, followed by a delicious barbecue dinner under the stars. (B) (HD)

Day 8. Kings Canyon

Travel to Kings Canyon today. For the energetic, a guided climb to the Canyon rim will be rewarded with magnificent views of Watarrka National Park. Alternatively, you may prefer to explore the boulder-strewn Canyon floor, an easier walk. Stay: Kings Canyon Resort (BD)

Day 9. Alice Springs

Leaving Watarrka National Park behind, we travel through to Alice Springs. See the sights of Alice Springs, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service, School of the Air and the Telegraph Station. We stop for panoramic views of Alice Springs from Anzac Hill. Stay: Alice Springs Resort (2 nights) (BD)

Day 10. Aboriginal Culture – Alice Springs Desert Park

This morning spend time with a local Aboriginal guide. You will learn of life and survival of the Arrente People, including bush food, the search for water and Kinship. This will be followed by a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park. Learn about Australia’s unique desert marsupials and reptiles. Visit the Nocturnal House and Nature Theatre. This afternoon we travel to Angkerle (Standley Chasm) and Simpsons Gap. (B)

Day 11. Alice Springs – Tennant Creek

Travelling north we arrive at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). There is time to walk around these precariously balanced boulders. On arrival in Tennant Creek we join a local guide for a tour of the historic Battery Hill Precinct. Tour an underground mine and experience the life of an early miner. Tonight, enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner at the Battery Mine Centre. Stay: Eldorado Motor Inn, Tennant Creek. (B) (HD)

Day 12. Mataranka Thermal Springs – Katherine

Travel across vast outback stations. Visit the historic Daly Waters Hotel, before continuing into 'Never Never' country. Stop at the tropical oasis of Mataranka for a relaxing dip in the thermal springs or stroll through the Elsey Homestead replica. Stay: Paraway Motel, Katherine (BD)

Day 13. Katherine Gorge – Kakadu

We join our local guide on an early morning cruise through Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park. Visit the Nitmiluk Visitor Centre and then continue deep into Kakadu National Park. Join an afternoon cruise on the famous Yellow Water Billabong. We should see a variety of bird life and with luck, we may also see the feared estuarine crocodile basking in the muddy shallows. Stay: Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn (BD)

Day 14. Kakadu National Park – Darwin

Travel to Ubirr and climb to the top of this rocky outcrop for rewarding views. We stop at Bowali Visitor Centre. The displays here will take you on a journey through Kakadu's varied habitats and landscapes. This afternoon travel to Darwin and enjoy a sightseeing tour of this tropical city on arrival. Stay: Saville Pandanas, Darwin (3 nights) (B)

Day 15. Litchfield National Park

This morning we travel to Litchfield National Park to see beautiful Florence Falls and the mysterious Magnetic Termite Mounds. Return to Darwin this afternoon. (BD)

Indpendent Touring Days 16-19.

Day 16. Darwin ‘Free Time’

Enjoy a full day at leisure in the tropical city of Darwin. Take a stroll along the Esplanade or simply sit back and relax by the hotel pool. (B)

Day 17. Darwin – The Ghan

Board The Legendary Ghan this morning in Darwin. Upon arrival in Katherine you may like to join an optional town tour including the School of the Air, Katherine Museum and historic Springvale Homestead. Return to The Ghan. Stay: Gold Kangaroo Service, The Ghan, 2 nights. (BD)

Day 18. The Ghan

Arrive in Alice Springs this morning and enjoy a guided tour of the Alice Springs Desert Park. Continue to Adelaide. (BD)

Day 19. Depart Adelaide

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on The Ghan, before arriving at Keswick Station in Adelaide. You will be transferred to Adelaide Airport to connect with your onward flight. (B)

Photo Gallery

Kings Canyon, Northern Territory

Prices and Dates

2009
Departs	Returns
$6,660
Mon 12 Jan	Fri 30 Jan
Mon 09 Feb	Fri 27 Feb
Mon 09 Mar	Fri 27 Mar
$6,995
Mon 06 Apr	Fri 24 Apr
Mon 04 May	Fri 22 May
Mon 01 Jun	Fri 19 Jun
Mon 22 Jun	Fri 10 Jul
$7,295
Mon 13 Jul	Fri 31 Jul
Mon 03 Aug	Fri 21 Aug
Mon 31 Aug	Fri 18 Sep
Mon 21 Sep	Fri 09 Oct
Mon 28 Sep	Fri 16 Oct
Mon 12 Oct	Fri 30 Oct
Mon 02 Nov	Fri 20 Nov
Mon 30 Nov	Fri 18 Dec
$6,995
Mon 28 Dec	Fri 15 Jan
Dec-2008 to Mar-2009
Adult Single Supp		A$1420
Triple Discount	Save	A$255
Child Discount	Save	A$1615
Concession Card Holders	Save	A$680
Friendly Fours	Save	A$255
Frequent Traveller	Save	A$255
Meal Discount	Save	A$300
Apr-2009 to Jun-2009
Adult Single Supp		A$1420
Triple Discount	Save	A$255
Child Discount	Save	A$1645
Concession Card Holders	Save	A$710
Friendly Fours	Save	A$255
Frequent Traveller	Save	A$255
Meal Discount	Save	A$300
Jul-2009 to Nov-2009
Adult Single Supp		A$1645
Triple Discount	Save	A$255
Child Discount	Save	A$1645
Concession Card Holders	Save	A$710
Friendly Fours	Save	A$255
Frequent Traveller	Save	A$255
Meal Discount	Save	A$300
Dec-2009 to Mar-2010
Adult Single Supp		A$1420
Triple Discount	Save	A$255
Child Discount	Save	A$1645
Concession Card Holders	Save	A$710
Friendly Fours	Save	A$255
Frequent Traveller	Save	A$255
Meal Discount	Save	A$300

Itinerary & departure dates may change from 01/04/09
Price is guaranteed upon payment of deposit.

Terms and Conditions

Bookings and Conditions
To confirm your reservation, a deposit of $200 per person is required. Reservations will be held for 7 days only without deposit. All airfares# are subject to strict ticketing deadlines, to be advised at the time of booking. Balance of payment for your holiday is to be paid 42 days prior to departure. The operator reserves the right to accept waitlist clients in place of applicants failing to finalise within the prescribed time.

Prices and Concessions
Prices are quoted in Australian Currency, include GST and supersede all prices previously advertised. Please check the exact price of your tour at the time of paying balance. Airfares are based on the most direct route and are subject to class availability and any new Government taxes. Group concessions for ten or more adults are available. Rail prices are subject to change from time to time. All prices are valid subject to Government and hotel surcharges.

Children 15 years of age and under are entitled to the child price on 1/2 day and 1 day sightseeing tours as well as on short break/independent tours that include overnight accommodation (tent/hotel) when sharing with at least one adult (unless stipulated otherwise). Escorted touring: Children 6-15 years, are entitled to the child price off the adult coach content price plus relevant air, rail or sea price (unless stipulated otherwise).

Concession Card Holders: Prices apply to all Australian and New Zealand pensioners (refer to each price box for discount amount) however discounted rail prices are only available where Australian Centrelink Pensioner Card is produced. 'Seniors Card' holders are also eligible for the concession discounts on any price for a tour operated solely by AAT Kings.

Solo Travellers
If you are travelling alone on an Escorted Tour and do not wish to pay the single supplement, AAT Kings will ensure that you share a room with a person of the same gender. If we fail to match you, we'll provide the single room at no extra cost. Please request at time of booking.

Triple Rooms
fIn triple share rooms, the third bed may be a 'foldaway', 'sofa bed' or 'rollaway'.

Cancellations and Amendments
Cancellation fees will be levied relative to the amount of notice given:

42 days or more before departure - Loss of Deposit
7-41 days before departure - 20% Plus your Deposit
1-6 days before departure - 50% Plus your Deposit
Day of departure - 100%

Modification to a confirmed booking may incur a $55 per person amendment fee. #Airfares: Tickets are issued on your airfares on receipt of full payment. Once ticketed, these airfares are non-refundable as per airline conditions. Any amendments to these flights may incur a fee. These airfares are not available outside Australia and New Zealand.

Illness or Absenteeism:
In the event of your withdrawal from a tour after commencement for reasons of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to missed meals or sightseeing. AAT Kings make no representation or guarantees concerning reimbursements of funds paid by you under any insurance claim.

Internet Airfares
Please note that AAT Kings does not incur any liability for airfares purchased by travel agents or clients online via the internet. In the unlikely event that a tour is cancelled, AAT Kings cannot be held responsible for airfare conditions when the airfare is purchased via the internet with companies other than AAT Kings. All such risk, loss and expense must be borne by the travel agent or client.

Tour Participation
Children 5 years of age and under are ineligible. Children under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Clients with disabilities are welcome on AAT Kings tours providing they are accompanied by an able-bodied companion and do not require special assistance from AAT Kings personnel. AAT Kings reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone if it is felt the individual cannot cope with the requirements of coach tour travel and who may require services and facilities that AAT Kings cannot guarantee will be available. You agree to not hold AAT Kings responsible for any decision made by AAT Kings or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you.

Travel Insurance
Clients are strongly advised to take out travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances (eg. cancellation or curtailment expenses, loss of luggage etc). Your licensed travel agent will be pleased to assist with your requirements.

Holiday Inclusions
Transportation, entrance fees and boat cruise prices as per itinerary, services of a Tour Director and Tour Driver, meals as specified, travel kit, map and bag. Accommodation on a share twin room basis (unless otherwise specified). Subject to a minimum number of clients, AAT Kings reserves the right to operate this touring on a smaller vehicle with a Driver/Guide.

In addition to the complimentary airport transfers, free travel pack and map, and our discount airfares, only one AAT Kings Discount is available per booking.

Luggage Allowance
One medium size suitcase per person, the sum of its length/width and depth not to exceed 140cm (56”) plus an overnight bag (airline bag size) which may be carried on-board the coach. Maximum weight of all luggage not to exceed 20kg (44lbs). We are required by strict Government vehicle weight regulations to enforce and adhere to this limit. If your luggage exceeds this limit, we ask th