Australian Wildlife Panorama

Your Australian wildlife tour begins in Darwin, the capital city and tropical hub of the Northern Territory. Walking trails will plunge you into the beating heart of the country’s wilderness, surrounding you with ancient rock art, epic gorges and flocks of native birds.

In the city itself there’s captivating history to unearth, from its Aboriginal origins to European settlement, all the way through to WWII. Recently rejuvenated, the city waterfront has become a big part of local life.

In the evening, enjoy a sunset adventure from the wharf to remote Njulbitjlk (Bare Sand Island), where you might be lucky enough to witness turtle hatchlings racing down to the sea for the first time.

Darwin is the gateway to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks; discover secluded waterfalls and plunge pools, roam through forests and wetlands, and marvel at panoramic vistas. Kakadu’s Yellow River is the best place to safely spot basks of fearsome crocodiles, particularly at the end of the dry season between August and November. The waterway is also one of the country’s most bountiful for fishing.

Litchfield National Park is the place to take a refreshing dip in the plunge pools. Set in a monsoon forest, Florence Falls sees water tumbling into the clear waters of the pool below. Pack a picnic and stop for a breather at Florence Creek, watching the stream meander through rainforest-filled gorges.

Named after the Afghan cameleers who first ventured into the Red Centre of Australia over 150 years ago, the Ghan train slices through the heart of the country, taking you from north to south. Gazing out of the window, you’ll notice the scenery on the 2979km trail between Darwin and Adelaide is ever-changing. Upgrading to a platinum cabin for extra space, and a chance to try freshly made saltwater barramundi and grilled kangaroo fillet.

The journey includes a number of off train experiences. Learn to throw spears and play the Didgeridoo on the towering sandstone cliffs overlooking the Katherine River. Take to the air and add a scenic flight over the national parks in the Top End or Red Centre.

The state capital of South Australia, Adelaide offers a wealth of charming cosmopolitan experiences. There’s something for every type of traveller here; relax on long stretches of sandy beaches, shop on the tree-lined streets of the city centre, rummage around markets, or become a wine buff in the Barossa Valley.

The Barossa is one of Australia’s oldest and most iconic wine regions, and is best known for producing world class red wines like Riesling, Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. With 150 wineries and cellar doors in the area, there’s ample opportunity to sample wine, as well as wood-fired breads and local hams. Next, head off the beaten track to the cragged slopes of the Flinders Ranges.

After driving south through the rolling green countryside of Adelaide to Cape Jervis, catch a ferry to Kangaroo Island.

Pick a clear day to climb the wooden steps up Prospect Hill. From here you’ll get a sense of what the island’s size. Stroll along the beach at Vivonne Bay or opt for the north coast to avoid the crowds of tourists. You’re also likely to be the only visitors treading the boardwalks at Snelling Beach.

Seal Bay Conservation Park is home to sea lions basking in the sun, while Hanson Bay is where you’ll find koalas amongst the wild eucalypts. Spot wild wombats and kangaroos and view the signature geological rock formations. Admiral’s Arch and the Remarkable Rocks have been shaped by wind and water over millions of years.

The final leg of your Australian Wildlife tour is a long, leisurely self drive around the country’s only island state, Tasmania. Start at the historical city of Hobart where wharf side warehouses now house coffee shops and sweet boutiques. History buffs should head east to the convict settlement of Port Arthur, where a precarious past is brought to life. Stay to spot pods of dolphins, and albatross soar above the imposing sea cliffs.

Explore the great outdoors in north Tasmania. The national parks are perfect for intrepid explorers. The Dove Lake Walk is particularly spectacular, taking you to the peak of Cradle Mountain. Pick up a cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan before heading back to Hobart.