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)

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

9 amazing journeys to take in outback Australia