9 Unique Ways to Explore Outback Australia

Dreaming of exploring Australia’s outback but unsure where to start?

The outback is defined by its majesty and magnificence. Just as there is great diversity in its terrain, there are myriad ways to explore it. Be it a road trip, cruise or hike, here are nine amazing ways to experience the outback.

1. Flinders Ranges road trip, SA

Experience the ancient essence of a landscape that’s more than a million years old. Beauty reveals itself at every turn on the Flinders Ranges self-drive loop, as you weave through relics of SA’s pastoral past between the charming townships of Saltia and Hawker. Continue up Flinders Ranges Way, where the road skirts the iconic Ikara/Wilpena Pound. The killer views of this mountainous amphitheatre truly bring enchantment to this outback drive.

a 4WD traversing the Flinders Ranges Way — Push on until you arrive at Wilpena Pound Resort within SA’s Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Walking the Jatbula Trail, NT

Lace up your hiking boots and connect to Country on one of Australia’s most spectacular walking trails. You’ll start this multi-day epic adventure at Nitmiluk Gorge before traversing through Jawoyn Land and skirting past waterfalls steeped in cultural significance.

an aerial shot of the Nitmiluk Gorge — Nitmiluk is the Jawoyn name for Katherine Gorge and it means ‘cicada place. (Image: Tourism NT/Natalie Sum)

Here, the Jawoyn people have been the Traditional Owners for more than 40,000 years. Traces of their storied history is evident in the fascinating rock art that’s peppered along the trail.

a group of hikers traversing NT's Jatbula Trail — Lace-up your hiking boots for the NT’s Jatbula Trail. (Image: Tourism NT/Peter Eve)

3. A camel ride in Uluru, NT

Sunrise and sunset are when you’ll catch Uluru at its most magnificent, so saddle up and coast along on a camel tour to watch the magic surrounds of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park unfold. You’ll feel truly immersed in the desert landscape atop your friendly steed, as you convoy through the dunes headed by a knowledgeable cameleer.

You’ll arrive in time to watch dusk or dawn break over Uluru – an incredible light show that you won’t want to miss. Uluru Camel Tours is one of the country’s largest camel farms, complete with its own saddlery, which makes saddles and harnesses from scratch.

a man riding a camel before sunset in Uluru — Experience the outback with Uluru Camel Tours. (Image: Tourism NT/Jess Caldwell & Luke
Riddle)

4. Motorcycle from Cairns to Darwin

Sitting astride a motorbike and accelerating down a dusty desert highway is the stuff of folk songs and ballads. Cape York Motorcycle Adventures will show you exactly why, with an epic 2500-kilometre guided journey spanning from Cairns to Darwin via The Great Savannah Way.

Watch the verdant landscapes redden on an unforgettable ride into the outback that stops at some of the country’s most beloved gems, including Nitmiluk Gorge and quaint, historic Cooktown.

5. Mountain bike in Mungo National Park, NSW

Get amongst it on a mountain bike at Mungo National Park. The 70-kilometre Mungo Track circuit connects some of the park’s best features – from breathtaking lookouts to fascinating heritage sites. You’ll cycle over gentle hills and through easy plateaus flanked by native flora before stopping for the night at the peaceful Belah campground.

Weather permitting, a star-spangled sky will be your evening’s entertainment. For those seeking something shorter, the Lakebed Loop is a cruisey substitute that can easily be completed in a day.

a grassy landscape at Mungo National Park — Navigate the rich aboriginal history at the world heritage Mungo National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

6. Air Safari, Birdsville to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre

Take to the skies for a bird’s-eye view of the Simpson Desert and survey mesmerising waves of windswept sands en route to Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre. The shimmering oasis is the largest salt lake in Australia, glistening with salt crystals and stretching as far as the eye can see.

a scenic flight over Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre — Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre National Park in SA is transformed into an oasis after a downpour. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Scenic flights are operated by Australian Air Safaris , with the middle leg of its four-day. Taste of the Outback tour stopping off at the quintessential outback town of Birdsville before taking in a panorama of Kati Thanda- Lake Eyre. If you’re a lover of wild, lonely places, you’ll be partial to the town’s country charms.

the exterior of Birdsville Hotel, Qld. — Make a pit stop at the iconic Birdsville Hotel, Qld. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

7. Cruise the Kimberley Coast, WA

Experience the pristine wilderness of the Kimberley from the water. You’ll glide down topaz inlets and pass through an otherworldly labyrinth of gorges, cliffs and canyons on a Kimberley cruise. There’s a cruise to suit every travel style, whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or prefer to be cosseted in total luxury.

Discovery One Cruises cater to small groups, with a maximum of 22 passengers and six crew. Relax onboard as you trace the rugged coast of the Kimberley and soak up the romance of Western Australia’s pièce de résistance.

an aerial shot of the pristine Kimberley coast — Explore the Kimberley with Discovery One Cruises. (Image: Discovery One)

8. Ride the Indian Pacific train

There are few rail journeys that traverse an entire continent. That’s why the Indian Pacific route between Sydney and Perth tops the bucket lists of rail enthusiasts around the world. You’ll watch the vast desert plains whizz by onboard the Indian Pacific, which stops at some of the country’s most iconic outback townships.

A highlight includes Broken Hill, the historic mining town that’s been transformed into an epicentre for regional arts and crafts. Peruse the galleries and the Living Desert Sculpture site, set against a breathtaking backdrop of the rugged NSW outback.

Marvel at the desert sculptures in Broken Hill, NSW. (Image: Destination NSW)

9. 4WD the Kingsford Smith Mail Run, WA

Get off the beaten track on this historic mail route, where you’ll follow the wheel ruts of transport pioneer Charles Kingsford Smith. Take a step back in time as you ramble through pastoral plains that give way to dusty outback roads.

The highlight of this journey is the section that passes through the remote Mt Augustus National Park, which is ripe with an abundance of rock formations and Indigenous rock art to discover.

a 4WD navigating the rugged landscape in Mt Augustus National Park, WA — Embark on a 4WD adventure in Mt Augustus National Park, WA. (Image: Western Australia)

Feast your way through Sun Country on the Murray – a beautiful and bountiful region in northern Victoria with gourmet delights galore.

Nestled on the lands of the Yorta Yorta People along the mighty Murray River, Sun Country is a truly extraordinary place. The northern Victorian enclave is a tapestry of meandering waterways, ancient forests, sandy beaches, enchanting country towns and an easy way of life.

Beyond its landscapes and bucolic charm, Sun Country on the Murray is a culinary paradise: think farm-fresh produce, family-run wineries and no shortage of places to feast.

If you’re a serious foodie or simply epicurious, here’s your ultimate guide to a gourmand Murray River getaway.

The Murray Farm Gate Trail

The self-guided Murray Gate Farm Trail lets you sample the area’s best produce while immersing yourself in the lush Goulburn and Murray Valleys. The trail has something to suit every palate and pace, but there are a few notable highlights.

1. Rich Glen

Rich Glen Provedore and Rich Glen Skin & Beauty — Stock up at Rich Glen. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Rich Glen is renowned for its award-winning olive oils. Everything is grown and created on the family farm in Yarrawonga, the results of which you can visit at Rich Glen Provedore – a treasure trove of gourmet foods, including that signature olive oil. Or explore Rich Glen Skin & Beauty, which stocks lush handmade skincare and wellness products.

2. How Now Dairy

A charming micro-farm producing ethical dairy, How Now Dairy , lets its baby calves remain with their mothers and its cows roam on rolling pesticide-free pastures. Try a selection of cheeses that do good and taste good, including a fantastic punchy blue, and velvety milk with a thick, creamy top.

3. Cactus Country

Cactus Country in the murray — Stop into Cactus Country. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Cactus Country is a 12-acre stretch of desert-like garden containing cacti of all shapes, sizes and colours. Naturally, it makes the most of its bounty at the on-site bar and restaurant, with a cactus-infused dessert menu alongside a vibrant line-up of Mexican snacks and mains.

4. The Olde Creamery

The Olde Creamery is a local icon, a former hobby farm that has flourished into a thriving purveyor of flowers and foods. The elderflower cordial and bramble gin and tonic jam are must-tries, and make for tasty mementoes of your trip.

Wineries, breweries and distilleries

The region’s sunny climate and rich soils make it a prime place for viticulture. If wine isn’t your thing, you’ll also find boutique breweries and distilleries producing top-notch beers and spirits.

1. Squires Winery

a couple sitting at the bar at squire's winery, sun country on the murray — Pop in for a tasting. (Image: Visit Victoria)

With its idyllic positioning on the Ovens River, Squires Winery is a lovely setting for a long, leisurely lunch or tasting. Enjoy a riverside sip of prosecco, rosé or cab sauv, complemented by seasonal bites and a backdrop of towering gum trees.

2. Cape Horn Vineyard

Cape Horn is one of the region’s most established vineyards. Its sparkling durif/shiraz is a crowd favourite and well worth trying on your foodie tour, especially if it’s served with one of the winery’s delicious wood-fired pizzas.

3. Byramine Homestead & Brewery

A top pick among beer, cider and history enthusiasts, Byramine serves a rotation of brews made on-site in the historic homestead. Wander through the venue and learn about its colonial past before sitting down to a freshly made Ploughman’s and cold local ale.

4. Monichino Wines

Monichino is a slice of la dolce vita in northern Victoria, producing classic Italian varietals like pinot grigio and aromatica. Drop by for a tasting at the cellar door (open weekends or by appointment) and explore everything from crisp whites to robust fortified wines, or pack a picnic and savour your glass in the picturesque gardens.

5. Corowa Distilling Co

Corowa Distilling Co crafts an incredible variety of single-malt and blended whiskies, and is a beloved spot among locals and visitors alike. Stop in for a tasting flight in the whisky room, or a hearty breakfast or lunch paired with a wee dram.

Farm-to-table dining

If you’ve got the time to linger over a gourmet spread, Sun Country on the Murray has an abundance of outstanding restaurants and cafes.

1. O’Reilly’s Food and Wine

O’Reilly’s feels much like stepping into a good friend’s home, albeit with a refined twist. The menu changes weekly and rotates through a selection of comforting yet elevated dishes – think lamb cottage pie, French-style moussaka, a perennially popular open steak sandwich and cakes that change flavours weekly.

2. Stock and Barrel

a couple eating at Stock and Barrel victoria — Soak in views of Lake Mulwala. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Tucked inside The Sebel Yarrawonga hotel, overlooking sparkling Lake Mulwala, Stock and Barrel does pub classics with a Sun Country spin. Order a perfectly seared steak and triple-cooked potatoes alongside a freshly poured pint, or try a regional highlight: local produce features abundantly across Stock and Barrel’s dishes.

3. The Bend

With spacious decks and panoramic views of the Murray, The Bend is ideal for a sun-soaked long lunch. Order a round of moreish share plates (like baja fish tacos and a warm-from-the-oven brioche loaf stuffed with cream cheese and herbs) or a signature cocktail and indulgent main – we can’t go past the slow-braised wagyu brisket.

4. Blacksmith Provedore

If you’re after a slick yet relaxed dining destination, head to Blacksmith Provedore . Perched right next to Lake Mulwala, the venue is airy and elegant, with a minimalist-chic design. The pizzas are seriously good too, made with 72-hour fermented dough and toppings sourced from Italy’s finest producers.

5. Broken Willow

As soon as you enter Broken Willow ’s front doors, you’re greeted with genuine hospitality and a classic bistro menu that has something for everyone: succulent grilled meats, parmas and schnitzels, juicy burgers, and international dishes ranging from weekly curry and stir-fry specials to zippy banh mi.

While you’re there

Thompson Beach in sun country on the murray — Discover plenty to do between meals. (Image: Chloe Smith Photography)

Got a few hours to spare? Make the most of your trip by exploring the natural wonders and rich cultural heritage of your riverside surroundings.

Barmah National Park is a sanctuary of walks through majestic river red gums and serene wetlands. Here, a seat on board a Kingfisher River Cruise offers a different Murray experience, letting you see the vast river from the perspective of the Yorta Yorta peoples.

If you’re a watersport enthusiast, Lake Mulwala in Yarrawonga is a favourite for canoeing, cruising, fishing, kayaking and water skiing. While the silo murals at Katamatite, St James, Tungamah and more recently Waaia are essential stops in Victoria’s famed Silo Art Trail .

In Cobram Barooga, make sure to visit Thompson’s Beach, the largest inland beach in the southern hemisphere. Nearby, the Bullanginya Dreaming project is an award-winning 1.8km immersive art experience that immerses you in light and sound to tell a rich story of country, culture and connection.

Start planning a tasty getaway to Sun Country on The Murray at suncountryonthemurray.com.au.

9 amazing journeys to take in outback Australia