The only Aussie destination on Lonely Planet's Top Places Hotlist

If there could only be one, this under-the-radar region deserves it.

Lonely Planet ’s annual Top Places Hotlist has just dropped, officially naming the 25 destinations set to dominate every traveller’s bucket list in the year ahead. The 2026 global round-up includes a variety of countries and continents, but only one Aussie location made the cut – and it’s a worthy winner.

Which Aussie destination made the list?

So, who snagged Australia’s golden ticket onto the global stage? It may not be where you’d expect – unless you’ve been there yourself. In which case, it makes perfect sense.

Tucked away in the heart of South Australia, Ikara-Flinders Ranges was named on the Top Places Hotlist for 2026. Not only that, it made the top five, coming in fourth place after Botswana, Peru and Jeju Island in South Korea.

Ikara-Flinders Ranges, South Australia — Ikara-Flinders Ranges stole fifth place on Lonely Planet’s hotlist. (Image: Emile Ristevski)

“I’m ecstatic to see the epic Ikara-Flinders Ranges and wider South Australian outback on our prestigious list. It’s one of the world’s most breathtaking environments, perfectly primed for the world to discover in 2026," says Chris Zeiher, Lonely Planet’s senior director of trade sales and marketing.

The ancient landscape has long flown under the radar, often overshadowed by other Aussie outback icons like Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Watarrka national parks. But its beauty is just as astounding, its history just as rich and its cultural significance just as deep – all shaped by a geological landscape entirely its own.

How to experience Ikara–Flinders Ranges

Around a five-hour drive from Adelaide, Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park spans 934 square kilometres across the South Australian outback. While its terrain is vast and remote, it’s a place of natural wonder and ancient culture.

Arkaba Homestead, South Australia — Arkaba Homestead is a Luxury Lodge of Australia (Image: Isaac Forman)

One of the best ways to experience the Ikara-Flinders Ranges is the three-day Arkaba Walk, one of the Great Walks of Australia. Guests will be led by an experienced guide, learning about the region’s wildlife, conservation efforts and cultural heritage. Along the way, you’ll sleep in bush camps and enjoy chef-prepared meals before spending the final night at Arkaba Homestead – a Luxury Lodge of Australia .

Another great option is a stay at Discovery Resorts – Wilpena Pound , the only accommodation within the national park itself. The site includes 15 glamping tents, 60 resort-style rooms and a large campground, as well as plenty of dining options, a general store and a swimming pool.

The best part? As its name suggests, the resort is located near Wilpena Pound, a grand natural amphitheatre that has to be seen to be believed. Join a hike led by a local Adnyamathanha guide to explore the region on foot or take a scenic helicopter ride over the 800-million-year-old crater.

If you’re just visiting for the day, there are four walks and 14 hikes within the park, all self-guided. The one-kilometre Living with Land Walk is a great option for beginners, taking just two hours to complete. Looking for something a little more in-depth? Try the eight-kilometre Trezona Hike, which is a four-hour return trip.

For those chasing a real challenge, tackle the Heysen Trail , a 1200-kilometre trek from Ikara-Flinders Ranges to the Fleurieu Peninsula.

What to remember when visiting

Long before it became a national park, the Ikara-Flinders Ranges was – and remains – home to the Adnyamathanha people, the land’s Traditional Owners. Their connection to Country stretches back tens of thousands of years, with ancient rock paintings, engravings and middens still present across the landscape.

Today, the park is co-managed by a board of Adnyamathanha and Department for Environment and Water representatives to ensure its history is preserved and its future conserved. Traditional Owners still care for Country here, and the state government manage water and energy resources, as well as maintains natural and built heritage.

While the entire park holds deep cultural significance, certain sites are considered especially sacred. In these areas, access may be restricted or special protocols may be in place to protect them. Visitors are asked to respect the wishes of Traditional Owners and to treat the land with care and reverence.

Lonely Planet’s best experiences list

But wait – there’s more! Alongside its Top Places Hotlist, Lonely Planet also released its Top Experiences Hotlist for 2026 – and it features not one, but two Aussie mentions.

The list, which highlights 25 must-have experiences for travellers in the upcoming year, includes Victoria’s Bathing Trail in 10th place and Melbourne’s foodie scene in 17th place – worthy additions indeed.

Be invigorated by the sights, sounds and landscapes of the Northern Territory.

If your 2026 travel goals focus on visiting inspiring and meaningful destinations, look no further than the Northern Territory. Rich in Indigenous culture, national parks and unique local cuisine, a journey deep into the Red Centre and Top End will awaken all your senses and leave you with lifelong memories. But you don’t need to do it on your own, as AAT Kings’ Small Group tours offer expertly led itineraries. They’re designed to take the guesswork out of travel planning and help you access remote regions in comfort while connecting with fellow guests, allowing you to delve deeper into destinations with insights from knowledgeable Travel Directors and local Indigenous guides.

As Small Group tours with AAT Kings have an average of just 16 guests, there’s ample opportunity to ask questions and make meaningful connections on every visit. Here are just a few of the experiences on offer, with adventures designed to invigorate every sense.

1. Under a Desert Moon dinner

Under a Desert Moon dinner in northern territory — Watch the stars come out over five courses.

Over five courses, dine under the stars during an unforgettable Outback dining experience. As day fades to night, lit only by the moon and the crackling fire, this outdoor dinner features locally sourced seasonal produce, matched with Australian wines.

It’s an intimate experience, showcasing the quiet grandeur of the Outback after nightfall. As you dine, feel connected to the land and its unique flavours, introduced by your impeccable waitstaff.

Part of the Northern Territory Dreaming tour, the Under a Desert Moon dinner is the ideal way to connect with your small group of fellow travellers after an invigorating day in the Red Centre.

2. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience

The best way to learn the stories of the Red Centre is by connecting with the land’s Traditional Owners. At the Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience, visited on AAT Kings Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, you’ll meet with members of the local Wanmarra community in Kings Canyon.

On this immersive AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience you’ll walk on Country to learn firsthand about bush tucker, Indigenous medicine, wooden artefacts and the art of dot painting. Passionate guides will share stories that have been passed down for generations.

3. Kungkas Can Cook

Kungkas Can Cook set up at Simpson's Gap — Taste local bush delicacies. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Mel Brautigam)

The powerful senses of smell and taste are awakened on this exclusive experience led by Indigenous chef Rayleen Brown. Included in the Northern Territory Dreaming and Outback Contrasts tours, this is a unique opportunity to savour local bush delicacies and learn about Indigenous culture through the lens of food.

Brown, a recipe author and guest judge for MasterChef Australia, works solely with native ingredients directly harvested by women from the Alice Springs community. It’s a 100 per cent Indigenous owned and run business.

4. Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles)

woman walking by Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) — See striking Karlu Karlu. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Appearing out of nowhere, the huge granite boulders of Karlu Karlu seem to precariously balance on the barren Outback landscape. You’ll come across these geological formations as you cruise the Stuart Highway on the Northern Territory Explorer tour.

Your AAT Kings Travel Director will share expert insight on the history and culture of Karlu Karlu, recognised as a sacred site of the Warumungu people. As you walk in awe amongst these stunning formations, formed many millennia ago, you’ll hear some of the stories behind why this place is so important to Indigenous storytelling and culture.

5. Pudakul

Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours — Experience this family-owned Indigenous experience. (Images: Tourism & Events NT/ Helen Orr)

Make authentic cultural connections when you visit Pudakul, a family-owned Indigenous experience on the Adelaide River Flood Plains. On your Small Group Northern Territory Explorer tour your senses will be inspired by the sounds of First Nations music, the taste of local bush tucker and the beauty of art.

This AAT Kings MAKE TRAVEL MATTER^® Experience is designed to take you deeper into the destination, helping guests learn from the people of the Limilngan-Wulna Land.

6. Corroboree Billabong Wetland Cruise

Observing the unique wildlife of the Northern Territory – from formidable crocs to hearing gentle melodies from the many endemic bird species – is always one of the most memorable parts of your Northern Territory Dreaming tour.

Travel in the comfort of your premium coach, taking in the stunning landscapes, before arriving at Corroboree Billabong. This special place is part of the Mary River Wetlands and is home to the world’s largest concentration of saltwater crocodiles. Your comfortable boat is designed to maximise wildlife viewing, giving you a front row seat to this spectacular ecosystem.

7. Aboriginal Bush Traders

artist at Aboriginal Bush Traders in darwin — Visit for the art, stay for a bite. (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ Shaana McNaught)

A visit to Aboriginal Bush Traders is the ideal introduction to the vibrant city of Darwin. This non-profit gallery, cafe and retail space supports Indigenous employment and is the perfect place to find a curated selection of ethical Indigenous gifts, including artwork and organic skincare.

Your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming tours include an exclusive native flavour tasting, offering cultural insight before travelling deeper into the Top End.

8. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

woman swimming in Leliyn (Edith Falls) — Cool off at Leliyn (Edith Falls). (Image: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

There’s something about a mighty waterfall that invigorates the soul like nothing else, with the picturesque Leliyn (Edith Falls) the perfect place to refresh on a hot day.

On your Northern Territory Top End National Parks and Northern Territory Dreaming visit to Nitmiluk National Park, known for its epic sandstone gorges, you’ll pay a visit to the oasis that is Leliyn. It’s the ideal place for a swim, but it’s also home to ancient Indigenous rock art. And as your Travel Director will explain, it’s an impressive place of cultural significance, too.

Make 2026 the year to discover the flavours, culture and beauty of the Northern Territory at aatkings.com.

The only Aussie destination on Lonely Planet’s Top Places Hotlist 2026