10 Under-The-Radar Outback Destinations To Visit

Draw your attention to this new wave of outback icons that you’ll want to add to your bucket list.

You’ve heard of the big ticket outback destinations but there are a variety of places that have managed to fly under the radar of most Aussie’s bucket lists. It’s time to put the spotlight firmly on these incredible outback places.

1. Karijini National Park, WA

An oasis deep in the Pilbara, some 1400 kilometres from Perth, Karijini’s ancient landscape was carved out over billions of years. Covering more than half a million hectares, this natural wonderland comprises layered ochre-coloured rocks and sheer gorges, interspersed by fern-fringed, emerald-hued waterholes and cascading waterfalls. Hike to the summit of Punurrunha (Mt Bruce) for views of mulga flats or go gorge-hopping to see sunken gardens and deep, cold pools. During the winter months, wildflowers add bursts of colour to the rugged landscape.

a red and dusty road in Pilbara Karijin National Park — Drive to the red, dusty road in Karijini National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

2. Purnululu National Park, WA

At the end of the remote Gibb River Road (and then another five hours’ drive), this UNESCO-listed park is worth the detour for the enigmatic Bungle Bungle Ranges, a maze of 250-million-year-old orange-and-black-striped sandstone domes that rise 300 metres out of grassy plains. The supporting acts are just as wondrous, however, including Cathedral Gorge, a natural amphitheatre with euphonious acoustics, and Echidna Chasm, a narrow and steep gorge that you can walk through. It’s best seen at noon when light floods in and illuminates the rocks red and orange.

the Bungle Bungle Ranges in Purnululu National Park — Marvel at the enigmatic Bungle Bungle Ranges. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Northeast Arnhem Land, NT

At the tip of the Northern Territory, Northeast Arnhem Land is a vast and isolated region located on Yolu Country. The region has entered the national psyche, thanks to the annual Garma Festival that is attended by movers and shakers such as current and former PMs. But just off the coast, tropical Bremer Island flies under the radar. Home to a small Indigenous community, the island is fringed by empty white-sand beaches where sea turtles nest. Visit on a day tour via fast boat from Nhulunbuy or stay overnight at eco-resort Banubanu Beach Retreat . When in Nhulunbuy, art collectors should make the pilgrimage to Buku-Larrnggay Mulka Centre for the opportunity to purchase Yolu art.

Garma Festival in Northeast Arnhem Land — Garma Festival celebrates Yolngu life and culture in Northeast Arnhem Land. (Image: Tourism Australia)

4. Mary River, NT

Twitchers and fishermen are in on this secret. One of eight rivers in the Top End with seemingly endless floodplains, the Mary River comprises billabongs, woodlands, paperbark and monsoon forests and is teeming with wildlife, such as brolgas, egrets, sea eagles, monstrous saltwater crocs and wild buffalo. Visitors can explore this lush wetland system by scenic cruise, take a fishing charter in search of barramundi, or amp up the adventure on an airboat.

An air-boat adventure in Mary River National Park — Hop on an airboat adventure in Mary River National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

5. Wilpena Pound/Ikara, SA

Known as Ikara to the local Adnyamathanha people, Wilpena Pound covers eight times the area of Uluru yet is still relatively unknown to many Aussies.

clouds covering Wilpena Pound Flinders Ranges National Park — The stratified rim of Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre of mountains. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

This massive crater is a remnant valley floor from an ancient mountain range that eroded away over millennia; a lush carpet of native flora is cradled within its jagged peaks. Tie up your laces and hit one of the trails from Wilpena Pound Resort , such as a leisurely walk along Wilpena Creek into the Pound or a challenging hike to St Mary’s Peak.

a family relaxing at Wilpena Pound Resort — Relax around a fire at Wilpena Pound Resort, SA. (Image: Julie Fletcher)

6. Arkaroola, SA

In the northern Flinders Ranges, 600 kilometres from Adelaide, Arkaroola was established as a private wildlife sanctuary in 1968. The 60,000-hectare property has extreme topographical diversity and rich geological significance. The jagged granite peaks, deep gorges and open woodlands cradle a plethora of native wildlife, notably the elusive yellow-footed rock wallaby.

the night sky filled with stars at Lake Mungo — Arkaroola is an International Dark Sky Reserve. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Experiences here include a four-wheel-drive Ridgetop Tour along steep mountainous terrain, where you can camp under the stars. Speaking of which, Arkaroola is one of four International Dark Sky Reserves in the country and has three astronomical observatories where you can learn more about the cosmos.

7. Mungo National Park, NSW

Outback NSW or the surface of the moon? Squint your eyes and it’s hard to tell at Mungo. This surreal landscape, some 10 hours from Sydney and six hours from Melbourne, has been a place of mind-blowing archaeological discovery, including the oldest collection of fossilised footprints in the world, fossils of megafauna such as the giant short-faced kangaroo, and the remains of Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, which at 40,000 to 42,000 years old are the planet’s oldest ritual burials.

the stratified rim of Wilpena Pound — Lake Mungo’s lunar-like landscape. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

Now a dry bed, Lake Mungo is fringed by the ethereal Walls of China, a 30-kilometre-long sand and clay lunette that is particularly spectacular to view at sunrise or sunset.

a desert landscape in Mungo National Park — Mungo National Park is home to some of the world’s oldest fossils. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

8. Lightning Ridge, NSW

Sure, Lightning Ridge is no secret. Its claim to fame is the elusive black opal, which has been mined here since the 1800s. But there’s more than these precious rainbow-hued gemstones under the surface (quite literally).

a hand holding opal stone from Lightning Ridge — Lightning Ridge is an opal mecca, where the rare black opal is mined. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Lightning Ridge sits on the Great Artesian Basin, which contains mineral-rich waters that are naturally heated at a toasty 41.5 degrees year-round. Soak in the therapeutic waters at the local bore bath, an idyllic experience under a star-filled outback sky.

rustic vehicles in Lightening Ridge — The town is full of rustic character. (Image: Tourism Australia)

9. Winton, Qld

Waltzing Matilda was written and first performed by Banjo Paterson in this outback Queensland town. Now Australia’s unofficial anthem, the poem is celebrated at the Waltzing Matilda Centre alongside other Australiana: the origins of Qantas, opal mining, the 1891 Shearers’ Strike, Australia’s war history and local Indigenous culture.

fossils inside the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum, Winton — Fossils and footprints can be seen at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum. (Image: Tourism Australia)

Winton is also the only place in the world that has evidence of a dinosaur stampede, with more than 3000 footprints discovered. See them and other fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum .

a dinosaur display at Winton — Winton is famous for its dinosaur discoveries. (Image: Tourism Australia)

10. Boodjamulla National Park, Qld

Like a mirage on the epic Savannah Way, this national park is abound in lush vegetation and emerald waters, spectacular gorge country, rugged sandstone ranges and World Heritage fossil sites. The Traditional Owners are the Waanyi people who know this country as Boodjamulla – Rainbow Serpent Country.

a vehicle driving along the Savannah Way toward Boodjamulla National Park — The park is accessed via the Savannah Way. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Paddle along creeks framed by sheer red sandstone cliffs, hike to see ancient rock carvings and visit the Riversleigh Fossil Site, which David Attenborough described as ‘extraordinary’.

a spectacular gorge in Boodjamulla National Park — Boodjamulla National Park possesses spectacular gorges. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

10 under-the-radar outback destinations to visit