11 Day Rock n' Top

DAY 1 ALICE SPRINGS TO AYERS ROCK RESORT
Our outback journey begins in Alice Springs as we cross some of the oldest river systems in the world on our way to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park home of mighty Uluru (Ayers Rock). After meeting those passengers joining the tour at Ayers Rock Airport, we make tracks to the Cultural Centre. Next a short drive to the Sunset viewing area to see the fascinating change of colours as an outback sun sets on Australia’s largest sandstone monolith.
Overnight: lodge with shared facilities
Meals Included: Lunch & Dinner

DAY 2 ULURU – KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK
An early morning start as we head to Uluru, (Ayers Rock) to experience the dawn, before we undertake a walking tour of the base of the Rock to learn the importance of the area to the Aboriginal people. Time is available for those who choose to climb to the summit of Uluru. From here we journey to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) and then to Watarrka National Park and King's Canyon. Tonight settle into our private campsite at Kings Creek Station to sleep under the stars.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 3 KINGS CANYON
We take a walk through soaring sandstone cliffs which surround the Garden of Eden and the Lost City which provide some amazing examples of nature’s handy work. Then we climb the track that takes us to the top of the cliffs. Tonight we stay at nearby Kings Creek Station, with time to experience an optional quad bike ride, helicopter flight or an outback camel ride.
Overnight: bush camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 4 KINGS CANYON TO ALICE SPRINGS
This morning there is time to experience an optional quad bike ride or an outback camel ride. On our return to Alice Springs we’ll visit Anzac Hill and check out the Royal Flying Doctor Base for a fascinating insight into the provision of medical services in the Outback. Tonight we go out for an evening meal and the chance to learn about and meet at close quarters, some Australian reptiles!! (Meal at own expense).
Overnight: Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 5 ALICE SPRINGS
The chance this morning for a breath –taking hot air balloon ride. Then we venture out amongst the Western MacDonnell Ranges. We stop at Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm. This afternoon there is time to explore the Alice, before we re-group at dinner.
Overnight: Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 6 ALICE SPRINGS TO BANKA BANKA STATION
Northwards via the Stuart Highway. We cross the Tropic of Capricorn soon after leaving Alice Springs before continuing on to the amazing rock formation known as the Devils Marbles. The Aboriginals believe this natural phenomenon to be the sacred eggs of the Great Rainbow Serpent of the Dreamtime. Travelling through Tennant Creek, a township that owes its prosperity to gold and copper deposits, we arrive at Banka Banka, an outback cattle station.
Overnight: Swag (Australian bedroll)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 7 BANKA BANKA STATION TO KATHERINE
This morning we roll up our swags and rejoin the Stuart Highway. Our first stop is the famous outback pub at Daly Waters, then to Larrimah and Mataranka, an oasis for weary travellers. Here, swim in the clear thermal waters before our short drive to Katherine.
Overnight: Motel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

DAY 8 KATHERINE TO KAKADU(via Nitmiluk National Park)
A short distance away is Nitmiluk National Park and the impressive Katherine Gorge. You can choose between a cruise on the Gorge or share a canoe and paddle yourself. Next is a visit to Edith Falls and on to Kakadu National Park, stopping at the rock art site of Nourlangie.
Overnight: Lodge, with shared facilities
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

DAY 9 KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
Free time today to partake in some special seasonal optional activities that will enhance your experience here. These include a 4 wheel drive full day excursion to Jim Jim and Twin Falls, an Aboriginal Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River, or a scenic flight over the Park to view its immensity and raw beauty. A visit to the Bowali Visitors Centre is a must.
Overnight: Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

DAY 10 KAKADU NATIONAL PARK TO DARWIN
An early morning wildlife cruise on Yellow Water Billabong to see the large “salt water” crocodiles. Our next stop is at Ubirr, which also has many fine examples of indigenous art and a stunnin view over the surroundingKakadu wetlands. Then to Darwin where you have a free evening to hit the town. Overnight at hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 11 DARWIN TO LITCHFIELD
To Litchfield National Park just south of Darwin waterfalls cascade from the sandstone plateau to create beautiful pools and pockets of rainforests. Highlights include the giant termite mounds and the Florence and Wangi Falls which allow for a refreshing swim in the natural pools. Then we return to Darwin and say goodbye to our new friends.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Departure Dates 2007: April 2*,9*,15,22,30*, May 7*,13,20,28*, June 4*,10,17,25*, July 2*,8,15,23*,30*, Aug. 5,12,20*,27*, Sept. 2,9,17*,24*,30, Oct. 7,15*,22*,28, Nov. 4,12*,19*,25, Dec. 2,10*,17*,23,30
2008 - Jan. 7*,14*,20,27, Feb. 4*,11*,17,24, March 3*,10*,16,23,31*, April 7*,13,20, 28*, May 5*,11,18,26*, June 2*,8,15,23*,30*, July 6,13,21*,28* , Aug. 3,10,18*,25*,31, Sept. 7,15*,22*,28
*departure dates marked with an asterisk operate in reverse

Tour terminates: 515pm

Price for departures:
till end of 2007 = US$1035
Jan. 1-March 31 2008 = US$1015
(add US$180 for twin share)

optional tours available at extra cost

WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Entrance fees to Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks
Explore Uluru- Kata Tjuta National Park (Ayers Rock and the Olgas)
See Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise and sunset
Explore Kings Canyon
Experience Katherine Gorge by canoe safari or cruise boat
Explore Kakadu National Park
Cruise on Yellow Water Billabong
See Aboriginal paintings at Ubirr and Nourlangie Rocks
Explore Litchfield National Park
Sightseeing in Darwin
The use of an "Aussie Swag" and sleeping sheet
All accommodation on a 4 share basis (couples supplement available). Plus 1 night in 'swags' (Aussie bedroll)
An experienced Driver/Tour Leader
Services of a Host/Cook
All transportation in a modern air-conditioned coach
All touring as per our itinerary
All meals as follows: - 10 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 8 Dinners