RED EARTH TO BLUE SEAS

The Red Earth to Blue Seas Tour offers an extraordinary journey from Australia’s heartland to its tropical coast, blending breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and iconic locations. Starting in Alice Springs, we will experience the unique charm of this desert oasis. Often referred to as the "heart of Australia," it is a fascinating destination known for its vibrant culture, unique geography and rich history. Highlights include the MacDonnell Ranges, Simpsons Gap and the cultural insights at the Alice Springs Desert Park and Royal Flying Doctor Service. We will learn about Indigenous traditions and art that reflect the deep connection to this red-earth country.

Heading north, we will stop at Tennant Creek, a historic gold-mining town. Tennant Creek rose to prominence during a gold rush in the 1930s and is often referred to as the "Heart of Gold". The town became one of Australia's last gold-rush frontiers, and remnants of this golden era can still be explored at the Battery Hill Mining Centre. 

Continuing through the rugged terrain of the Barkly Tablelands, we arrive in Mount Isa, the bustling heart of the Queensland Outback. Known for its mining heritage, Mount Isa is often referred to as the "Rodeo Capital of the World" and the "Mining Capital of Australia". It is home to one of the largest and richest deposits of copper, zinc, lead, and silver. The Mount Isa Mines, owned by Glencore, dominate the city's economy and skyline. We will explore the town’s mining heritage at the Outback at Isa complex, which offers interactive exhibits and a glimpse into the life of a miner.

Our journey then winds towards the coastline, offering a change of scenery at the Gulf of Carpentaria. This coastal region boasts incredible fishing, rich marine life, and unforgettable sunsets. Stops include charming towns like Karumba, where we can enjoy the serene coastal vistas and sample fresh seafood. The lush landscapes of Georgetown, with its sprawling savannas and rivers, further enrich the experience, providing opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with nature.

Cairns is a modern vibrant city with a delightful blend of colonial architecture from grand public buildings to rambling country pubs. As the gateway to the world heritage listed Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests, Cairns is one of our most popular destinations and during our stay we will take in some of the areas iconic attractions including the Atherton Tableland, Palm Cove and Kuranda.

Highlights include:

·  Anzac Hill & Telegraph Station Historic Reserve

·  The award winning Alice Springs Desert Park & Birds of Prey Show

·  Standley Chasm & Simpsons Gap

·  School of the Air & the Royal Flying Doctor Service

·  Devil’s Marbles

·  Battery Hill Mining Centre

·  Barkley Homestead

·  Guided tour of Mount Isa & Outback Isa Complex

·  Barra Farm Tour

·  Norman River Cruise

·  TerrEstrial Centre

·  Cobbold Gorge 4WD Tour and Cruise

·  Undara Volcanic National Park & Lava Tubes

·  Atherton Tableland & Millaa Millaa Falls

·  Kuranda Village, Railway & Skyrail

Our accommodation is at:

*        Doubletree Hilton, Alice Springs           -  5 Star      -        3 Nights

*        Bluestone Motor Inn, Tennant Creek    -  3 Star      -        1 Night

*        Isa Hotel, Mt Isa                                    -  4Star       -        2 Nights

*        Karumba Lodge, Gulf of Carpentaria    -  3.5 Star   -        2 Nights

*        Latara Resort, Georgetown                   -  3.5 Star   -        2 Nights

*        Crystalbrook Riely, Cairns                      -  5 Star    -         3 Nights

Includes 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 12 dinners, all tours and admissions (unless otherwise specified), luxury air conditioned coach, flights Sydney to Alice Springs and Cairns to Sydney.