12 Day Bound for Birdsville

After breakfast, we depart Mildura and head further into the outback, crossing into New South Wales on our way to the iconic mining town of Broken Hill. Upon arrival, we begin with a town tour, uncovering the history, heritage buildings, that have shaped this remote community. We then enjoy a hearty lunch at the Broken Hill Pub, a local favourite known for its welcoming atmosphere and country-style hospitality. In the afternoon, we visit the heritage-listed Picnic Train, offering a glimpse into the region’s fascinating railway history. Next, we make our way to the White Rocks Historic Site, where we learn about its connection to the area's mining past and take in the dramatic outback landscape. We finish the day at the Living Desert Sculpture Symposium, perched high above the plains. Here, we admire the impressive sandstone sculptures and soak up the panoramic views stretching across the horizon. As the sun sets, we check in to the Desert Sand Motor Inn for a comfortable overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we leave Broken Hill behind and head toward the historic township of Silverton, a once-thriving mining settlement now known for its preserved heritage and outback charm. Our first stop is the Silverton Gaol Museum, where we explore a fascinating collection of artefacts and exhibits that bring the region’s rugged past to life. After time to wander through the quiet streets and soak up the character of Silverton, we continue on to the remote outpost of Milparinka. Here, we take part in a guided town tour, discovering the history of this small but significant settlement, once a vital centre during the gold rush era. With its restored buildings and engaging local stories, Milparinka offers a rare glimpse into life in the Australian outback during the 19th century. As evening approaches, we settle in for a unique overnight experience at the iconic Family Hotel, a classic outback pub full of personality and rich in local history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

As we venture further into the remote heart of the outback. Our first stop is at Cameron Corner, where the borders of New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia meet. Here, we pause for morning tea and enjoy the novelty of standing in three states at once, surrounded by the vast, open landscape. From Cameron Corner, we travel along part of the legendary Strzelecki Track, a historic outback route once used by cattle drovers. The journey offers a true taste of isolation and wide-open country, with endless views across the arid terrain. As we continue, we make a stop at the Moomba gas field lookout, where we gain insight into one of Australia’s major energy production sites and its significance in powering the nation. By late afternoon, we arrive in the remote township of Innamincka, nestled along Cooper Creek. We settle in for a two-night stay at the Innamincka Hotel, a well-known outback stop offering comfort, character, and a warm country welcome after a big day of exploration.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we explore the rich history and natural beauty surrounding Innamincka. Our morning begins with a visit to Cullyamurra Waterhole, the largest permanent waterhole in South Australia. This tranquil spot along Cooper Creek is surrounded by red river gums and offers a peaceful setting to take in the remote outback landscape. Next, we pay a visit to Burke’s Grave, the final resting place of explorer Robert O’Hara Burke, part of the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition. It’s a moving site that offers insight into the challenges faced by early explorers as they attempted to cross the continent. We then head to the causeway over Cooper Creek, where we can view the water system that has sustained life in this region for thousands of years. In the afternoon, we step aboard for a Discovery Cruise on Cooper Creek. As we glide along the calm waters, we learn about the area’s Aboriginal heritage, birdlife, and the role the creek has played in the story of inland Australia. We return to the Innamincka Hotel for a second overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, we leave Innamincka behind and make our way to one of Australia’s most significant exploration landmarks — the Burke and Wills Dig Tree. Set beside Cooper Creek, this historic site marks a pivotal moment in the journey of the Burke and Wills expedition. As we visit the tree and learn about the events that unfolded here, we gain a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by early explorers in such remote and unforgiving terrain. Continuing north, we travel through the striking landscape of the Channel Country, where winding river systems and wide floodplains stretch across the horizon. Along the way, we stop at Deon’s Lookout, a stunning vantage point offering panoramic views of the surrounding outback. By late afternoon, we arrive in the iconic town of Birdsville and check in for a two-night stay at the famous Birdsville Hotel — a true outback institution, rich in history and renowned for its warm hospitality.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today brings a truly unforgettable experience as we take to the skies for a scenic flight over some of Australia’s most remote and awe-inspiring landscapes. Departing from Birdsville, we begin by soaring over the town itself, catching a bird’s-eye view of the iconic Birdsville Racecourse — home to the legendary outback races held each year. Our flight continues over the striking red dunes of Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert, before tracing the winding path of the Diamantina River and Eyre Creek as they weave through the vast Channel Country. The sheer scale and beauty of this braided river system are only fully appreciated from above. We then fly over the Goyder Lagoon, a vast inland wetland that becomes a haven for birdlife when in flood, before taking in the dramatic contrasts of two very different desert regions — the rolling sand hills of the Simpson Desert and the rocky, moon-like terrain of the Sturt Stony Desert. This breathtaking aerial journey offers a unique perspective of the outback’s raw beauty and immense scale, capturing landscapes few ever get the chance to see. The afternoon is yours to relax or explore Birdsville at your leisure before returning to the Birdsville Hotel for the evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, we farewell Birdsville and begin our journey east along the Diamantina Development Road. This remote stretch takes us through the heart of Queensland’s outback, with wide open landscapes, ever-changing scenery, and glimpses of wildlife along the way. We pass through the town of Quilpie before continuing on to our destination — Toogunna Plains, a working outback station where we’ll enjoy an authentic farm stay experience for the next two nights. After settling in and soaking up the peaceful surroundings, we head out in the late afternoon for the Sand Hill Sunset Tour. As the sun dips below the horizon, we watch the landscape come alive with golden light, casting long shadows across the red dunes. It’s a stunning and serene experience, offering the perfect end to a day spent travelling through the vast and beautiful outback. We return to the homestead for a hearty country dinner and a relaxing evening under the stars.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today offers a deeper look into outback life with a relaxed and engaging station tour at Toogunna Plains. After breakfast, we set out to explore the property with our hosts, learning about the history of the station, its operations, and the challenges of living and working on the land in such a remote part of Australia. Along the way, we’ll see the vast paddocks, stockyards, and water systems that keep the station running, and gain insight into the daily routines that shape life here. Late morning, we make our way to the shearing shed — a classic symbol of the Australian bush — where a long table lunch awaits. Set in a rustic, atmospheric setting, this shared meal features hearty, home-style fare and local flavours, offering the perfect opportunity to relax, connect, and enjoy a true taste of station hospitality. The afternoon is yours to unwind, take in the peaceful surroundings, or chat with your hosts before another tranquil evening on the property.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, we farewell Toogunna Plains and continue our journey through Queensland’s outback, heading toward the small but remarkable town of Eromanga. Known as the furthest town from the sea in Australia, Eromanga is also home to one of the country’s most significant fossil discoveries. Our main stop today is the Eromanga Natural History Museum, where we step back in time to learn about Australia’s prehistoric past. The museum showcases an impressive collection of fossils, including some of the largest dinosaurs ever found in the country. A guided tour gives us fascinating insights into the region’s ancient landscapes, and the ongoing work of paleontologists uncovering its hidden treasures. After our visit, we travel on through more of the channel country, arriving by late afternoon in Thargomindah. Here, we check in at the Oasis Thargomindah, where we spend the night in comfort.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our journey southeast toward Bourke, travelling through more vast outback country as we make our way back into New South Wales. By late morning, we arrive in the historic river town of Bourke, once a vital inland port during the paddle-steamer era. Our first stop is the Back O' Bourke Exhibition Centre, where interactive displays and engaging storytelling bring to life the region’s rich history — from Indigenous heritage and early exploration to pastoral life and river trade. It’s a fascinating insight into how Bourke became known as the gateway to the outback. In the afternoon, we step aboard the PV Jandra, an authentic paddle vessel that cruises along the Darling River. As we glide through the calm waters, we enjoy commentary on the river's importance to the town and its role in shaping the surrounding landscape. After a full day of exploring Bourke’s past and present, we check in for the night at the Copper City Motel.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, we begin our journey home, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the tour. From ancient landscapes and iconic outback towns to historic sites, station stays, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Australia, this adventure has taken us deep into the spirit of the outback. With memories made, stories shared, and new friendships formed, we return home with a true appreciation for the beauty, history, and character of Australia’s inland.

Meals Included: Breakfast